Homelessness is at a historic high in the United States. Between 2022 and 2023, there was a 12 percent increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness. To make matters worse, the House Appropriations Committee has sizably cut funding to programs covered by the House Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (T-HUD) subcommittee. Maintained or decreased T-HUD funding rates are not sufficient to keep up with rising housing costs, driven by the housing market and inflation. Not only does homelessness represent an unfulfilled human need, it also could lead to criminalization, as policies like those in Grants Pass, Oregon demonstrate. And those who experience homelessness on average die thirty years earlier than their housed American counterparts.
The coronavirus pandemic emphasized the vital connection between housing and health, as well as the disparities in access to essential resources. Yet much of the aid available during that time no longer exists. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), only one in four households eligible for rental assistance receives it. NLIHC also states that an estimated one in four renters spend more than half of their income on rent. While shelter is classified as a basic human need, it is not a practical reality for many in the U.S. today. Additionally, individuals in other historically marginalized groups are disproportionately affected by these housing disparities, such as those with disabilities and people of color. Housing is certainly not accessible to all. Members of Congress have the responsibility to advocate for their constituents' needs. Housing is a clear need, and Congress must respond to this crisis.
The current FY25 budget is open for revisions. Funding T-HUD supports the work of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Homeless Assistance Grants (HAG) program, Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP), Fair Housing Assistance Program (FHAP), Eviction Protection Grant Program (EPGP), and various tribal housing programs. Congressional commitment to these efforts is essential in making housing more accessible to vulnerable individuals.
Matthew 25 shares that Jesus identified as a stranger and unhoused person and reminds his followers that when we tend to the needs of those among us, we tend to the beloved of Christ. Our faith calls us to advocate for those suffering, and people experiencing homelessness need support from Congress now!
Please urge your policymakers to maximize T-HUD funding in FY25!