Community Action Agencies Respond to Supreme Court Ruling on Homelessness
In a deeply disappointing decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the U.S. Constitution does not protect homeless individuals from cruel and unusual punishment, even when they have no choice but to sleep in public spaces. This ruling permits cities to criminalize homelessness by arresting or fining people for trying to survive.
The Impact of the Ruling
From the perspective of Community Action Agencies (CAAs), this ruling is both inhumane and counterproductive. Criminalizing homelessness is an expensive and ineffective approach that exacerbates the issue rather than addressing its root causes. It empowers cities to ignore proven, housing-based solutions in favor of punitive measures, worsening the situation for homeless individuals across the country.
The Community's Response
Despite this setback, CAAs find hope in Justice Sotomayor’s powerful dissent, which echoes our long-standing belief that no one should be punished for sleeping outside when they have no other options. While we are disheartened by the ruling, we are more committed than ever to ensuring that everyone has a safe place to call home.
Statements from CAA Leaders
Statement from Megan Shreve, CEO at South Central Community Action Programs
"Criminalizing homelessness victimizes individuals who are at their lowest point. It increases barriers for housing in the future and adds trauma. This attempt to make homelessness less visible comes at a time when communities have less funding for homeless supports and services, and there is less affordable housing - rents have increased by 38% in our area. It is a perfect storm and once again, our most vulnerable citizens pay the price, as we, instead of seeing this a system and community problem, put the blame and consequences on those who are most impacted."
Statement from Erin Lukoss, CEO at Bucks County Opportunity Council
"As a provider of housing and supportive services for families and individuals who are unhoused, I am saddened by the recent supreme court ruling. Criminalizing homelessness will only further hurt people who are already suffering. Housing is a basic human right and we should put our resources and efforts to helping people obtain and maintain a home.
I heard something at a National Alliance to End Homelessness conference that was pretty profound. A speaker said we just spent $5 billion dollars on fireworks in this country but it would take much less than that to house our homeless population."
Moving Forward
Despite the Supreme Court ruling, CAAs remain steadfast in their belief that housing, not handcuffs, is the solution to homelessness. We will continue our work to ensure that everyone has the housing they need to thrive. Our neighbors living outside cannot wait any longer, and we are committed to advocating for their rights and well-being.
Community Action Agencies across the nation will continue to advocate for housing solutions that prioritize dignity and humanity. We call on all stakeholders to join us in this crucial effort to create a society where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing.
In the wake of this U.S. Supreme Court decision, PolicyMap’s U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Homelessness data update comes at a crucial time. This refreshed dataset provides essential insights into homelessness, helping communities and policymakers better understand and respond to the ever evolving challenges faced by homeless populations.
Click here to learn more.