The recently completed state plan required by Governor Pritzker’s executive order, Home Illinois , creates a framework for achieving functional zero homelessness. The shortage of affordable housing compounded by losing employment, chronic physical and/or mental health problems, domestic violence, or a family turning away a child are just some of the circumstances that result in homelessness.
State-funded programs to prevent and end homelessness receive deeply inadequate funding to achieve the goals of the plan. Providers have continuously stepped up to serve more people in crisis during the pandemic. Providers continue to struggle with:
- Increasing rents in the private market, making it harder to help people maintain or find a home.
- Agencies unable to pay competitive wages to retain and recruit qualified staff.
- Shelters losing donated spaces and volunteers due to COVID-19 concerns.
This legislation will increase the housing and homeless service line items. These funds will help support the development of new housing opportunities, keep people on the brink of homelessness to maintain their housing, provide supportive services and make sure that staff in these programs are provided with a living wage.
Supportive Housing Services
- Current Funding: $42.59 million
- Total Increased Funding Need: $17.9 million
The Homeless Youth Program
- Current Funding: $7.28 million
- Total Increased Funding Need: $5 million
The Homelessness Prevention Program
- Current Funding: $10 million
- Increased Funding Need: $5 million
The Emergency and Transitional Housing Program
- Current Funding: $10.38 million
- Increased Funding Need: $51 million
Sponsors: Rep. Mussman and Sen. Johnson
Community Comments:
As organizers gather in Springfield and Witness Slips are submitted we will keep you up to date with community comments and opportunities to take action.
