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.
Category: Policy
WIOA State Planning Recommendations
Based on the Information Collection Request (ICR) for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) State Unified and Combined Plans, plan strategies must prioritize high-vulnerability populations including 'public assistance recipients, other low-income individuals, or individuals who are basic-skills deficient.
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.
SSVF Grant Funding Brings New Opportunities
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently announced that it will make $300 million in competitive grant funding available for nonprofits renewing their SSVF grants to work with homeless and at-risk Veterans and their families. Several pieces of the announcement highlight opportunities for providers to improve the services they offer to program participants, and ways to enhance their program's effectiveness and reach.
New Budget Bill Supports Youth
The eleventh hour budget bill passed at the end of 2015 does more than increase funding for homeless assistance. It makes specific investments to end youth homelessness.