NW Riverside News

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert reintroduced the Treatment and Homelessness Housing Integration Act, H.R. 577. The bill aims to connect homeless Americans who receive federal housing assistance with treatment for substance abuse and behavioral health disorders.

“A significant number of homeless individuals are suffering from drug abuse and/or mental health issues, and require more help than housing,” said Rep. Calvert. “The Treatment and Homelessness Housing Integration Act aims to address this problem by synchronizing federally funded housing programs together with federally funded behavioral health services. I simply don’t believe we can adequately address our homeless crisis unless we address the mental health or drug abuse challenges present in so many of these individuals.”

Currently, a substantial portion of the homeless population has untreated mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The lack of appropriate treatment often leads to deterioration on the streets without hope for proper care.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Continuum of Care Program promotes subsidized housing but does not require participation in mental health or substance abuse treatment programs. This approach can lead to continued illness among the homeless population.

The proposed bill would establish a five-year demonstration program directing HUD to refer participants within the Continuum of Care Program to Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC). It also mandates HUD to report on the effectiveness of this program, including data on individuals served who receive SSI and SSDI benefits.

Previously authorized by Congress, CCBHCs operate across all fifty states providing comprehensive physical and behavioral healthcare services, including 24/7 crisis intervention. This integrated approach aims at addressing homelessness alongside addiction and mental illness challenges effectively.