BUFFALO, N.Y. -- It's been more than nine months since migrants from New York City began arriving by bus to several Erie County hotels.

State Sen. Sean Ryan, D-Buffalo, said 539 individuals continue living in those suboptimal conditions today.

"No one benefits from the uncertainty of people living in hotels. What we can benefit from is allowing these 500 people to be part of our various communities throughout Western New York," Ryan said.

Last month, New York City ended its contract with DocGo. The company was responsible for, among other things, coordinating the relocation of asylum seekers to upstate New York, their housing and services.

DocGo has remained upstate while New York City Mayor Eric Adams' administration sought new options for those communities.

"We had countless meetings," Ryan said. "This didn't come easy."

Jewish Family Services of WNY is announcing its intent to enter into a $22.4 million contract with New York City to lead a "coordinated entry program." Chief Executive Officer Molly Carr said the organization will use the money to provide supportive services, housing and case management specifically for the people living in hotels.

"What we're proposing is based on already existing time proven models of work with refugee populations so we're utilizing our expertise in this area," Carr said.

She said DocGo will continue to provide supportive services to people who remain in hotels but Jewish Family Services plans to transition into its role as primary contractor this summer.

"We do have a target," Carr said. "Our goal is to have everyone moved within nine months but it could take up to a year depending on individual situations."

The funding will continue to come from New York City, not local or country taxes, but Ryan said Adams' administration will be saving money because apartments are much cheaper than hotel rooms. He said people will see a stark contrast between DocGo and JFS.

"One was a chaotic program that was really designed to provide minimal housing services and not much else and this is going to be a complete program that offers a full range of services," Ryan said.

He hopes it will be a model for other upstate communities once its off the ground. The state senator said there is a handshake agreement and lawyers are currently reviewing the contract.