Three federal policy priorities to get behind

Many of our public policies create and prolong homelessness. Regardless of the political party in office, each of us has the power and responsibility to make our values known.

In response to the changing political environment in 2025, our federal advocacy partners at the National Health Care for the Homeless Council encourage these three focus areas to rally behind:

Preserve Medicaid

Medicaid provides comprehensive health insurance to 55% of patients receiving care at Health Care for the Homeless programs (48% in Baltimore). Medicaid lowers overall system costs, improves health, and increases quality of life. Examples: Oppose Medicaid block grants and government inefficiencies like Medicaid work requirements.

Defend access to Substance Use Treatment

Providing comprehensive, coordinated treatment for behavioral health conditions (including mental health and opioid use disorder) is essential to addressing homelessness. Examples: Promote overdose prevention sites, expand access to medication, support Housing First policies.

Protect the health and rights of people without homes

Encampment sweeps, fines or arrests do nothing to end homelessness. A decent society provides access to basics human needs – including health care services – without stigma, harassment or threats against patients or providers. Examples: Oppose “tent cities” and promote street outreach/medicine.

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