The Obama Administration just released its last federal budget proposal, for fiscal year 2017 (which starts October 1, 2016). Among other things, this budget request, more than any in recent years, articulates a broad and aggressive federal response to poverty and inequality in the United States. It puts housing at the center of that response, recognizing and remedying how housing crises, especially homelessness, make it nearly impossible for people to move ahead.
Author: NAEH
Thousands of Homeless Individuals Could Face Cuts to Food Assistance
SNAP helps reduce hunger for millions of struggling Americans, including many who are homeless. This vital assistance to keep food on the table will begin to dry up for over half a million of the nation’s most vulnerable people. This year, 23 states around the country are reinstating a strict time limit on how long unemployed individuals between the ages of 18-49, who are not disabled and not caring for children, are able to receive SNAP.
The Facts Around State WIOA Planning
In a previous post, we encouraged everyone to start thinking about/take a closer look at their WIOA State Plans. But with an April 1 deadline looming, there's more you need to know.
What’s In Your WIOA State Plan?
In 2014, the Obama Administration signed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to transform the public workforce system, and the process of implementation of the Act has begun. States are currently in the process of creating and revising their required WIOA State Plans and the Alliance has recommends that providers, local governments and other interested stakeholders take this opportunity to ensure that State Plans include strategic language for serving high-need or high-barrier individuals, specifically those who are at risk for or currently experiencing homelessness.
A Year in Review: 2015 Advocacy Highlights
Last year was a challenging year for homeless assistance and affordable housing advocates. Despite plenty of uphill battles against budget restraints, congressional gridlock, and competing policy priorities they persevered and achieved some very impressive gains in 2015.