As rents continue to rise and federal support disappears, additional funding is needed to ensure even more Illinoisans aren’t pushed into homelessness. We are glad the Governor acknowledges how hard it is for people across the state to get by, but the proposed budget reductions run counter to his stated desire to address the housing affordability crisis.  

“Illinoisans, like Americans everywhere, are still paying too much for groceries, too much for housing, too much for electricity, too much to live,” Governor Pritzker said in his address. “Everything is just too damned expensive.” 

Given these sentiments, we are particularly concerned by Governor’s proposed additional cuts to HOME Illinois, the state’s comprehensive strategy to address homelessness by expanding affordable housing and strengthening the safety net. This initiative brings together residents, community organizations, and state agencies to help people experiencing homelessness achieve financial stability. Our understanding is that this cut is based on funding usage over the last fiscal year, but we know that delays in getting funding to providers often hinder their ability to spend these funds before the end of the year.  

This would mark the second consecutive year of cuts to HOME Illinois following several years of increased investment. With this years’ budget decrease, the proposed cut would mark a $17.3 million (6%) decrease over two years, at a time when additional resources are urgently needed to address homelessness across the state.  

We are asking the Governor and our state legislators to include the following increases in Illinois’ FY27 Budget: 

We recognize that the State of Illinois is facing a challenging fiscal reality that has forced our leaders to make difficult choices. With additional funding gaps and uncertainty created by harmful federal policy changes and cuts, the Governor and General Assembly need to advance progressive revenue solutions that would ensure the rich pay their fair share and people living on the margins are not overburdened with taxes. 

While we’re seeing the federal government turn to ineffective and irresponsible responses to homelessness like the directives outlined in Trump’s Executive Order last July, we are also seeing similar actions taken by municipalities across the state, choosing punitive measures like fining and arresting people for living outdoors rather than investing in real, lasting solutions. Some municipalities, like Rock Island, are even taking steps to force much needed shelters and service providers out of their communities. Our state leaders have a responsibility to elevate proven, effective responses and ensure these programs remain available to individuals and families across the state.  

CCH urges Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly to include the funding necessary in the FY27 budget to ensure more Illinois households have a safe, stable place to call home. With a myriad of challenges on the horizon, progressive revenue is necessary to meet the needs of the most vulnerable residents across our state. We will continue to fight alongside our grassroots leaders who have experienced homelessness for solutions that will make a difference.