Statement on the HUD Continuum of Care Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

The following statement can be attributed to Jessica Kubicki, Chief Initiative Officer at the Opening Doors Initiative.

“Across Connecticut and the nation, communities rely on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Continuum of Care Program to sustain proven, life-saving supportive housing. These programs are the backbone of our homelessness response and keep thousands of people safely housed each night. HUD’s newly released Notice of Funding Opportunity jeopardizes that progress.

By capping permanent housing funding at 30%, delaying the next funding cycle until mid-2026, and tying awards to ideological criteria, HUD is destabilizing the infrastructure that prevents homelessness. Programs will run out of funds months before renewals are approved, forcing providers to cut staff, end services, and leave residents without rent support, causing spikes in individuals experiencing homelessness. 

In Connecticut, where housing costs are among the highest in the nation, the impact will be especially severe. Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Re-Housing programs are lifelines for older adults, veterans, families and individuals working to rebuild stability. Permanent Supportive Housing is one of our most effective tools for ending chronic homelessness while strengthening communities and saving taxpayer money – these programs exceed retention rates of 90% and save 50-60% while prioritizing stability and dignity. Undermining these programs in favor of transitional housing and outreach-only models endangers our most vulnerable neighbors.

The Housing Collective joins partners across Connecticut and the country in calling on HUD and Congress to reverse these changes and reaffirm their commitment to supportive housing. Federal homelessness policies must be grounded in compassion and evidence and we will continue to work with all levels of government to protect and strengthen the systems that keep people safely housed.”