How Does the U.S. Government Help Homeless People?
The U.S. government provides assistance to homeless individuals primarily through funding initiatives at the state and local level as well as some non-profit organizations. These initiatives address housing, rehabilitation, domestic violence and employment.
The Office of Special Needs Assistance Programs, as explained by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, funnels dollars to civic and non-profit organizations across the country that help the homeless. These organizations may focus on a specific group within the homeless community, such as youth, veterans or those fleeing domestic violence, and offer both therapeutic services and housing. Some of these organizations provide support to those on the verge of homelessness, such as individuals living under the threat of foreclosure. HUD also funnels funds toward state and local initiatives that provide public housing or privately-owned subsidized housing.
