Approximately 60,000 Americans are at risk of losing their homes as the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program is about to run out of funds.

Established in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan, the EHV program was designed to assist people escaping homelessness, domestic violence, and human trafficking.

Daniris Espinal and her two daughters, aged 4 and 19, escaped her abusive husband and are now living on one of those vouchers in a three-bedroom apartment with an over $3,000 monthly rent — an amount extremely difficult to cover without the voucher.

Like others in her situations, they thought the program would allow them to get on their feet.

However, rising rental costs have accelerated the exhaustion of its $5 billion budget, now projected to run out by the end of 2025.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has advised grantees to prepare for the end of funding, while advocates warn this could lead to a surge in homelessness and reverse crucial progress for vulnerable populations.

Representative Maxine Waters is advocating for an $8 billion extension to the program, but faces opposition from budget-cutting Republican lawmakers.

We, the undersigned, call upon Congress to approve additional funding to sustain the Emergency Housing Voucher program beyond 2025.

Recognize the critical role this program plays in preventing homelessness and supporting survivors of domestic violence. We call you to act swiftly to ensure that thousands of families and individuals do not lose their homes due to funding lapses.

The EHV program has been a lifeline for many, providing not just shelter, but a foundation upon which individuals can rebuild their lives. 

Photo: Daniris Espinal - Richard Drew / AP