menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Commentary: Amid federal threats, supportive housing needs state's full support

5 0
yesterday

Credit: Getty Images.

After nearly four decades of proven success in reducing homelessness, supportive housing faces an existential threat.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has made clear its intention to drastically reduce funding for this time-tested model, which pairs deeply affordable housing with voluntary services — like mental health and substance use counseling — to combat barriers to housing stability.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

Though a federal judge recently granted a temporary reprieve to providers by blocking HUD from making changes to the Continuum of Care program, uncertainty about future eligibility requirements and funding levels remains. As U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy noted, the confusion and instability surrounding HUD’s actions appear designed to destabilize supportive housing itself.

Amid this federal chaos, New York must ensure it is doing everything within its own control to keep vulnerable New Yorkers stably housed and off the streets.

Last year, Gov. Kathy Hochul........

© Times Union