Everyone deserves access to a safe, stable, and affordable home. At a time when rents are rising, evictions are increasing, and a record number of people are experiencing homelessness, federal investments in affordable housing and homelessness are critical. Housing assistance referrals through the 211 network continue to increase, nearly doubling since before the pandemic.   

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) housing assistance programs help families pay rent and connect people experiencing homelessness to housing and services for long-term stability. Homeless Assistance Grants provide the backbone of local homelessness response systems by funding the Continuum of Care and Emergency Solutions Grants programs. These resources help communities identify people experiencing homelessness, provide emergency shelter and essential services, and—critically—support permanent housing and long-term stability through supportive services. At a time when homelessness is rising nationwide, these grants give local partners the tools needed to prevent and end homelessness effectively. 

Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, including Housing Choice Vouchers, helps very low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford safe, stable housing in the private market. As rents rise faster than wages and eviction rates increase, Tenant-Based Rental Assistance remains one of the most effective tools to prevent homelessness and promote long-term stability. 

The enacted FY26 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Bill provided slight increases in funding for Homeless Assistance Grants and Tenant-Based Rental Assistance. Ask your Member of Congress to at least maintain enacted funding levels for HUD’s rental and homelessness assistance programs in FY27.