Migrants sleeping outside in cold so they don't miss opportunity to get NYC shelter bed

EAST VILLAGE, Manhattan (PIX11) -- In Tompkins Square Park in Manhattan’s East Village, a group of predominantly West African men stood in a holding pattern of sorts on a cold Thursday afternoon, waiting for a chance to sign up again for a shelter bed.

Single migrant adults often sleep outside on the sidewalk – afraid if they head to one of the city’s emergency bed sites, they will lose their place in line.

Ahmad, one of the many men who did not want their face shown on camera, said he is just looking for the opportunity to work legally.

"We need a job. We need to work. If we get working permits, we get a job," said Ahmad.

"I came here only to save my life because I'm intimidated in my country," said Barry, another migrant.

Mina, a local migrant advocate, said the neighborhood has rallied behind the men.

"I've brought turkey sandwiches. I've helped people bring soup," said Mina.

A spokesperson for Mayor Eric Adams pointed out that the St. Brigid site is not a shelter, but rather the location where single adult migrants can sign up for a bed, and that it’s their prerogative if they want to sleep outside of the site to wait for their number to be called.

The spokesperson went on to say, “Anytime New York City’s temperatures dip below freezing, we redouble our efforts to bring people inside, offering a place to stay warm, in accordance with the law. But let’s be clear…it’s imperative, now more than ever, that the federal government provide meaningful support to municipalities.”

Ultimately, Barry and the other migrants PIX11 News met in Tomkins Square Park said that while they are eager for the chance to legally work and support themselves, right now, they just need help.

"Maybe we will not be forgotten by them. But we need, always, their help," said Barry.

The City Hall spokesperson said that there is roughly a two-day wait at St. Brigid for an assigned bed in one of the city's shelters. Here's the process: they receive a numbered wristband and are sent a message on their phone on their scheduled return date, or it's up to the migrants to return on their own scheduled return date. If they miss that appointment, they lose their spot, which is why so many migrants choose to sleep outside overnight.