“What’s needed for communities is to not just sweep people away like trash, but to show up for those who are unhoused with grace and compassion through outreach, advocacy, and volunteering.” – Amy Shea, The Progressive Magazine
For several months, Housing First Upper Valley has been discussing the potential harmful effects of the July 24 Executive Order, “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets.” We strongly oppose the view that people who are homeless should be blamed, criminalized, and have their rights removed when shelter resources are insufficient, affordable housing is scarce, and housing costs continue to rise. Many people who are unhoused are also people with disabilities, including those with physical, sensory, developmental, mental health, or chronic medical disabilities. Criminalizing homelessness places these individuals at even greater risk of harm, institutionalization, and creates barriers to the care and accommodations they need.
If the federal administration wants to keep people off the street and reduce substance use disorder, it should embrace Housing First, the model rejected in the Executive Order. Research has consistently demonstrated that Housing First is both the most effective model for addressing homelessness and the most cost-effective. Housing First also aligns with long- standing disability principles of autonomy, person-centered support, and the right of every individual to live included in the community. These values are essential when responding to homelessness among people with disabilities.
In the new year, our group will work on promoting awareness and educating on the Housing First Model. We call upon our government and elected officials, business leaders, and community members to advocate for more affordable and accessible housing, improvements to healthcare and transportation, and expanded social services – the measures that have been shown to actually solve homelessness.
Resources
Statement from the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, July 25, 2025.
Statement from Mental Health America, July 26, 2025.
Statement from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, July 25, 2025.
Statement from the National Alliance to End Homelessness, August 2, 2025.