From the National Alliance to End Homelessness (http://www.endhomelessness.org):
As the year draws to a close, Congress is still working on the Fiscal Year 2023 spending bill that includes homelessness and housing funding. Two months have passed since the original deadline for legislative action. A stopgap extension is set to expire on December 16, with billions at stake for people experiencing homelessness. Getting people off the streets is a matter of life or death – and funding from Congress is imperative.
No one is sure what will happen next. Maybe Congress will combine its incomplete spending bills into one legislative package (either by December 16, or a week or two later, or after the new Congress takes over in the new year). Or maybe Congress will approve a yearlong continuation of last year’s funding levels (called a “continuing resolution”), levels that will be inadequate to address rising rents. Budgeting by brinkmanship has become the norm in Washington, despite so many unmet needs in our communities.
This year’s budget standoff has little to do with homelessness or housing funding, but we have a tremendous amount riding on its outcome. Whatever Congress does to break the political deadlock is almost certain to be a last-minute deal. With so little time remaining, homeless advocates need to make sure our programs are given adequate attention in the legislative process – and more funding in the final bill.
Please help us communicate this urgency before Congress adjourns for the year at https://endhomelessness.org/actions/take-action-now-homelessness-funding-is-at-stake/.
Our message is clear – the worsening housing crisis across America requires a greater federal response. At a minimum, Congress must include $3.6 billion in overall funding for HUD’s homeless assistance grants and $32.1 billion for the Tenant Based Rental Assistance account. These investments are achievable, but only if we add our voices to the debate that is happening now on Capitol Hill.
Safe, decent, and affordable housing is the solution to homelessness. By clicking the link below, you can email your Representative and customize your message with details about how these funds will help your community.
Time is growing short. With so much hanging in the balance, please take action today.
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