Brief
Trump administration moves to end Housing First homelessness program
The shift replaces the decade‑old Housing First model with a two‑year transitional housing plan, according to the Associated Press.
By Felo News Desk · Published
President Donald Trump’s administration is planning to replace the long‑standing “Housing First” approach to homelessness with a temporary‑housing model that limits stays to two years, the Independent reports, citing an Associated Press story.
The change would redirect federal dollars away from permanent‑housing programs toward short‑term shelters that require participants to complete substance‑use and job‑readiness programs. The administration argues the new model will better address addiction and employment, while critics warn it could leave chronically homeless individuals on the streets.
Data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development show roughly 750,000 people were homeless last year, a slight decline from the previous year but a 31% increase since 2019. About a quarter of that population is considered chronically homeless, and research indicates half of homeless adults have a disability, up to two‑thirds have mental illness, and two‑fifths struggle with substance use.
Studies cited in the report say Housing First programs reliably keep people housed, though health outcomes are mixed. Service providers say transitional housing can help those facing eviction, but most chronically homeless individuals may not achieve lasting stability within a two‑year window.
Key facts
- The Trump administration plans to end federal support for the Housing First approach. (independent.co.uk)
- The new policy would limit shelter stays to a maximum of two years and require participation in treatment programs. (independent.co.uk)
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates 750,000 people were homeless last year. (independent.co.uk)
- About 25% of the homeless population is classified as chronically homeless. (independent.co.uk)
- Research shows Housing First programs keep people stably housed, but health outcomes are mixed. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Takeaways from the AP's story about the Trump administration's effort to end 'Housing First'”
