WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden-Harris Administration is taking aim at one of America’s most persistent challenges—homelessness. With a sweeping set of actions announced last week, the administration reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring no American goes without safe, stable housing. From revitalizing unused federal properties to providing targeted assistance for veterans and underserved communities, these measures offer a fresh, innovative approach to ending the homelessness crisis.
“These announcements reflect HUD’s unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness and advancing innovative solutions,” said Adrianne Todman, Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “By expanding partnerships, repurposing federal properties, and investing in programs like HUD-VASH, we are making meaningful progress toward our shared goal of ending homelessness and building stronger, more equitable communities.”
Repurposing Federal Properties for Housing—A Game-Changer
A centerpiece of the new plan involves the transformation of surplus federal properties into life-saving housing solutions. Partnering with the General Services Administration (GSA) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), HUD has already converted over 140 previously unutilized federal properties into affordable housing or homeless service centers. But these efforts are just the beginning. The administration’s modernization of Title V regulations—part of this historic announcement—will make it faster and easier for state and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, to claim these properties for homeless assistance programs.
“This rule streamlines the assessment of federal properties for potential use in addressing homelessness,” stated GSA Deputy Administrator Katy Kale. “It makes it easier for these properties to get into the hands of those on the frontlines of this challenge, ensuring they are used to connect people experiencing homelessness with housing.”
From vacant office buildings to unused military facilities, formerly overlooked properties could soon shelter thousands of individuals and families. This effort underscores a clear message from the administration—empty buildings should never overshadow empty lives.
Tailored Assistance for Vulnerable Communities
Recognizing that homelessness requires more than housing to solve, the administration is also expanding the Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator. This targeted program offers crucial technical assistance to states. The goal? Helping underserved populations, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities, connect with resources that go beyond just putting a roof over their heads. This includes healthcare services, accessibility modifications, and long-term support systems designed to stabilize lives.
“Homeless people need more than temporary shelter. They must have access to a comprehensive set of services that connects them to housing they can afford and maintain over the long term,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “The Accelerator will share lessons learned and best practices to ensure these services are seamless and truly life-changing.”
The Biden-Harris Administration is encouraging states to join this groundbreaking program to better integrate housing and health initiatives. By aligning state and local policies, the Accelerator will empower agencies to close resource gaps and help more individuals secure and maintain stable housing for the long haul.
Veteran Homelessness in the Spotlight
The new measures also include a significant boost in funding for the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program. With an additional $39.8 million allocated to provide rental assistance and supportive services, the administration is doubling down on its efforts to ensure every veteran has a home.
The HUD-VASH program, which partners HUD with Veterans Affairs health centers, isn’t just about housing; it’s about giving back to those who have served the nation. Currently, nearly 90,000 veteran households have been connected to stable, affordable housing and supportive services. This targeted assistance has already contributed to a historic milestone—veteran homelessness is at its lowest recorded level in U.S. history. But the administration is far from complacent, with its eyes firmly set on eradicating veteran homelessness entirely.
Why Does It Matter? Housing as a Foundation for Stability
Homelessness is more than a housing issue—it destabilizes entire communities. Without stable housing, individuals often struggle to maintain employment, access healthcare, or provide their children with a stable education. The administration’s multi-pronged approach to homelessness recognizes this complexity and addresses it head-on by integrating services that go beyond physical shelter.
Affordable housing initiatives, such as Title V modernization, attack the homelessness crisis from its roots. Converting neglected properties into homes for those in need isn’t just efficient—it’s transformational. Meanwhile, programs like the Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator integrate health and social services, ensuring vulnerable populations don’t just survive but thrive.
Veterans, who have sacrificed so much for the country, deserve targeted support. By expanding resources for HUD-VASH, the administration is tackling this moral obligation while also promoting community resilience. Stable housing for veterans translates into stronger neighborhoods and a reinvestment in social trust.
The Road Ahead
The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to homelessness. But with these strategic initiatives, it is rewriting the playbook on what housing stability can look like in America. By leveraging existing resources, integrating health and housing services, and prioritizing equity and inclusivity, the administration is delivering not just safer housing but also stronger communities.
While challenges remain, one thing is clear—the administration is sending an unequivocal message to every American experiencing homelessness. Help is not just coming; it’s already here. These measures mark a pivotal step forward in a national effort to ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has a place to call home.
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