Judge Blocks Mandated Addiction Treatment for Homeless

Addiction Treatment and Homelessness in the U.S.

An estimated 771,480 people in the U.S. were without a home in 2024. Programs are in place to assist this population, but the issue continues to grow. This 770,000+ total represents an 18% increase in the homeless population from 2023 to 2024. 

The solution? The jury is still out, so to speak but one federal judge decided the current administration’s most recent proposal wasn’t the answer. 

The Continuum of Care program emphasizes on work and drug treatment. While those resources may be helpful, Judge Mary S. McElroy of the U.S. District Court in Rhode Island saw some flaws in the plan. Her preliminary injunction put a hold on Continuum of Care, and the plan will be reviewed and revisited. 

Housing First vs. Treatment Mandates

The problem? The new approach would differ from Congress’s Housing First plan. Housing First allocates 90% of funds to renew existing programs. Many of these programs provide long-term housing to individuals but without requirements for treatment. 

The new plan would redistribute funds under new rules and requirements, with a focus on the root causes of homelessness: mental illness and substance abuse. But these alterations to funding could reduce housing support and opponents fear this could send thousands to the streets in the short term.

They argue that making assistance contingent upon mental health and addiction treatment for homeless individuals imposes an unnecessary and dangerous burden on already vulnerable populations.

The Connection Between Substance Abuse and Homelessness

Homeless individuals are at a much higher risk of developing substance use disorder than the general population. Overdose is also a significant threat: Roughly 25% of deaths among those who are homeless are attributed to drug overdose, according to Rehab.com’s Drug Statistics Report.

California continues to face one of the nation’s largest overlaps between homelessness and substance use disorders. This makes access to high quality, evidence based drug rehab programs especially critical for long term recovery.

Here are Rehab.com’s 10 Best Drug Rehabs in California.

With these stats in mind, a plan to aid the homeless that focuses on addressing these root issues could make sense. But those opposed to Continuum of Care are concerned that too many restrictions will be included that create barriers to housing services for those who need it.

What Addiction Treatment Resources Are Available?

For those currently seeking support for housing challenges or substance use disorder, resources are available.

Individuals can call 211 to locate shelters, food and other services. SAMHSA offers PATH and other various programs that address mental health and homelessness. And many rehab programs offer inpatient, outpatient and medication assisted treatment options designed to meet people where they are.

What Comes Next?

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) withdrew the proposed plan to make revisions. Meanwhile, funding decisions are falling behind schedule and politicians, organizations and lobbyists continue maneuvering for their favored outcomes. 

For people seeking addiction treatment, understanding available options and how housing stability impacts recovery remains critical.

Finding Addiction Treatment Near You

If you’re ready to start your own recovery journey, help is available. Explore top rated treatment providers on Rehab.com, including inpatient and outpatient options.

For immediate support, call 800-985-8516 ( Sponsored Helpline ) today.