Trump administration moves away from housing-first approach to combat homelessness

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner, a pastor and former Texas state lawmaker, has signaled a shift in federal policy toward homelessness. His appointment marks a departure from the long-standing “housing-first” model, which has been supported by both parties for decades. This approach prioritizes placing individuals in stable housing before addressing mental health or substance abuse issues, a strategy that gained traction during George W. Bush’s presidency and was endorsed by the Trump administration in its first term.

The housing-first model has shown success in cities like Salt Lake City, where it helped reduce homelessness through a combination of shelter, support services, and permanent housing. Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson publicly praised the model, and it was backed by bipartisan efforts. However, as homelessness has increased due to the nation’s housing affordability crisis, some conservative groups have begun to criticize the model, arguing it has failed to address root causes.

Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s policy blueprint, calls for ending housing-first policies, reflecting a growing conservative push to replace them with mandatory treatment programs and faith-based models. Turner’s confirmation hearing revealed his skepticism of government welfare programs and his belief that local organizations, including religious groups, should play a larger role in addressing homelessness.

Turner’s legislative record shows a consistent opposition to expanding affordable housing and protecting low-income tenants. He has blamed government welfare for harming American families, a stance that aligns with the broader conservative critique of housing-first policies. His leadership at HUD suggests a policy shift that may prioritize faith-based solutions and local initiatives over the evidence-backed approach that has historically been effective.

The housing crisis in the United States has deepened, with rising rents and limited affordable options contributing to increased homelessness. While the housing-first model has been a cornerstone of efforts to address this issue, the Trump administration’s move away from it raises concerns about the effectiveness of new approaches. Advocates for the model argue that it remains the most viable path to long-term solutions, emphasizing the need for stable housing as a foundation for recovery and community support.

The shift in federal policy may have significant implications for nonprofits and service providers that have long supported the housing-first model. These organizations have played a critical role in providing shelter, mental health services, and job training to individuals experiencing homelessness. As the administration moves toward a different strategy, the future of these programs and the communities they serve remains uncertain.

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