Trump’s shift from 'Housing First' causing upheaval for homelessness programs
Summary
The Trump administration is changing federal homelessness policy by moving away from the “Housing First” approach, which provides permanent housing before other help. Instead, it supports “Treatment First” and short-term housing programs, causing concern among shelters and groups who say this may put vulnerable homeless people at greater risk.Key Facts
- “Housing First” policy focused on giving people stable homes first to improve their lives.
- The new policy under President Donald Trump favors treatment and short-term housing before permanent homes.
- Many homelessness programs across the country are adjusting or cutting permanent housing plans because of this change.
- Nearly 750,000 people were homeless in the U.S. last year, with 31% more than in 2019.
- About 25% of homeless people are chronically homeless, meaning they have long-term disabilities and repeated homelessness.
- Half of homeless adults have disabilities, up to two-thirds have mental illness, and 40% struggle with substance use.
- Leaders and outreach workers warn the policy shift could worsen health and living conditions for homeless people.
- Examples of affected places include Louisville, Kentucky, where shelters and housing programs are reconsidering their plans.
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