Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Proposed federal budget cuts to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have raised concerns among local agencies about their potential impact on homeless individuals. Jennifer Clark, CEO of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP), highlighted that the government's discretionary funding request for the 2026 fiscal year could result in a 44 percent reduction in HUD's funding. This cut would affect emergency shelters and programs like rental assistance.

"People don’t realize what these dollars do," said Clark. "There are a lot of conversations right now about people on the streets. If you think it’s bad now, it’ll get so much worse."

Clark emphasized that SVDP provides outcome-driven services aimed at moving individuals into permanent housing and offering necessary support for recovery and stability. She warned that losing rental assistance typically leads to homelessness, making it difficult for individuals to maintain daily activities such as paying bills or attending job interviews.

"They are no longer paying bills, buying groceries... If you take away all that, it costs the community," she explained.

Clark noted that homelessness can lead to increased emergency room visits, arrests, and deeper issues with addiction and depression. "Social issues get worse. Ultimately, it’ll be worse for the community... It’s more expensive to have them on the street than in a shelter," she added.

To mitigate these challenges, Clark urged individuals to contact their U.S. representatives or donate to St. Vincent de Paul’s Housing Preservation Fund through their website.

"We’re putting funds aside in case the cuts happen," Clark stated.