NYPOST] An embattled shelter and services provider that has been repeatedly lit up for failing to address the homeless situation at Penn Station blew city money on a booze cruise, fast food, and movie tickets for its staff, according to an audit.Bowery Residents’ Committee charged the city at least $2,653 for the $36,510 catered boat ride, along with $1.4 million in other expenses that were either unsupported or not allowed, the audit by state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s office found.
"It’s a cause for concern when the non-profit hired to address the growing homeless crisis has so many red flags on the expenses it bills to the city. Charging taxpayers for a booze cruise is inappropriate at best," DiNapoli said in a statement.
BRC’s work at MTA hubs including Penn Station was previously called "very expensive" and "minimally effective" by the MTA Inspector General.
The non-profit held $527 million in city homeless service contracts as of 2019. DiNapoli’s audit covered its contract to operate the 200-bed Jack Ryan Residence on West 25th Street for mentally ill and chemically-addicted homeless adults.