New York state officials are offering new legal services to immigrants who arrived in New York City over the last year, with $3 million planned for the next three years for the New York State Office for New Americans.

Gov. Kathy Hochul's office on Wednesday announced the funding amid the ongoing arrival of migrants and asylum seekers in New York City, many of whom face ongoing immigration and legal status questions. 

"New York State has always been a beacon of hope, welcoming newly arrived immigrants with the promise of opportunity," Hochul said. "By providing them with the legal tools and resources they need to thrive, New York State will continue to uplift those who are trying to build better lives for themselves and their families."

The money will go toward free immigration-related legal services and assistance. Community-based organizations are set to receive the money: Catholic Charities Community Services, New York Legal Assistance Group and Immigration Advocates Response Collaborative. 

All of those organizations are non-profit entities who are already part of an existing network of providers. 

New York officials have struggled with the influx of newly arrived immigrants in recent months, a challenge that has led to a crisis over housing in parts of the city. Members of the New York National Guard have also been deployed to provide assistance. 

"The safety and well-being of migrants coming to our state is a priority as individuals and families find themselves in unfamiliar territory trying to acclimate to an entirely new world," New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said. "This additional funding for legal services will assist our partners in helping the incoming migrant population understand and navigate the various government programs aimed at helping them. New York has always been a welcoming place for people from all over the world. It's what makes our state such a vibrant and cultural place to be."