ISSUE
We are very concerned that the Homeless Prevention program will be eliminated in Governor Pat Quinn’s budget proposal for next year. The proposal will be introduced on February 22.
BACKGROUND
The Homeless Prevention Program provides one-time rental assistance grants, utility assistance grants, and supportive services directly related to the prevention of homelessness.
State budget cutbacks have already decimated the program, leaving just $1.5 million available this year — $9.5 million (87%) less than was funded in 2008. Last year, with $2.4 million in funding statewide, over 9,000 families were turned away.
Meanwhile, federal stimulus funds that temporarily have offset state funding cutbacks are also running out, with 56% of agencies saying those federal funds are depleted.
On November 21, 2011 we released survey results reporting that 55% of showing of agencies administering homeless prevention grants across Illinois would run out of funds by the end of the year leaving no help for families facing homelessness this winter.
In 11 years, the state's homeless prevention grant program has helped 96,231 Illinois households avoid homelessness. The average grant in fiscal year 2010 was $916, and 88% of recipients reported they remained housed four months after getting the one-time grant.
Providing $5 million in funding will prevent homelessness for more than 5,000 households. This additional funding will stabilize individuals and families in their existing homes, keeping households out of an already overburdened shelter and emergency service system. Disruptions to the education of children often caused by homelessness will also be avoided.
Please contact Governor Pat Quinn and implore him to provide $5 million for homeless prevention in his fiscal year 2013 budget proposal.
Please visit "Housing Matters" for more information on how to help:
http://housingmatters.net/default.asp
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