Advocacy Efforts to Support Homeless Population Rewarded as Key Legal Measures Pass in Springfield
The Night Ministry and partner organizations have been busy urging state lawmakers to back funding and legislation supporting Illinois residents experiencing homelessness and poverty. These efforts have paid off with Governor Pritzker signing a budget for the fiscal year 2022 that includes over $1 billion for housing assistance and homelessness programs and with legislators approving a slate of bills which promise relief for many individuals and families struggling with economic insecurity and homelessness.
Of the more than $1 billion for housing and homelessness services, $8.27 million is set aside for the Homeless Youth Programs funding line, including $1 million from the American Rescue Plan, while $33.1 million goes to the Illinois State Board of Education to support homeless students. Funding is also allocated for eviction mitigation and emergency rental and homeowner assistance to help prevent further households from losing their homes as the state recovers from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Along with the increased funding, legislation passed by the Illinois General Assembly and signed by Governor Pritzker will have beneficial impact on the populations served by The Night Ministry. The new laws affect health care, housing, and financial aid for individuals experiencing poverty or homelessness across the state.
One law requires hospitals to screen patients referred for non-emergency services by free and charitable clinics such as The Night Ministry for public benefits, like Medicaid, or help them apply for charity care, a form of free or discounted health care for low-income patients. When financial assistance is offered after medical procedures occur instead of beforehand, patients are at risk of being sent to collections.
"If patients know that their medical bills will be covered by charity care in advance, then they're more likely to follow-through with the referrals provided by our medical staff at The Night Ministry and receive the needed medical care," shared Tedd Peso, Director of Strategic Partnerships.
Another notable law permits the donation of unused, unopened prescription medicine to those who need it. Individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty are often unable to afford medication. By allowing safe donations through the creation of a Prescription Drug Repository Program overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health, the law increases access to prescription medications, which will positively impact clients' health outcomes.
A new law will likely decrease opioid overdoses, a danger faced by many of the individuals served by The Night Ministry. Individuals who receive medical assistance for an overdose, and those that seek medical aid on their behalf, are now protected from possession charges when specific conditions are met. The law removes legal concerns during this health emergency and could therefore save lives.
Additionally, more pregnant and parenting clients may be eligible for state support. Illinois has removed restrictions preventing individuals with felony drug convictions from applying and qualifying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), a program which offers financial aid to pregnant women and families with children. TANF funds can be put towards food, housing, utilities, and basic needs. Services like GED training, childcare assistance, and referrals for mental health treatment are also offered. Because a criminal record is often a contributing factor in homelessness and housing instability, removing the restriction could potentially help many struggling families receive needed assistance..
Finally, there is new assistance for college students experiencing homelessness. Colleges and universities in Illinois must give unhoused students priority when applying for on-campus housing and create a campus homeless liaison. Students experiencing homelessness will also be eligible to remain in housing during breaks, if schools offer the same option to athletes and international students.
"This really focuses on making sure that students experiencing homelessness are seen on campus and have access to housing and other support, especially during breaks, so that homelessness and housing instability don't negatively impact their educational success," said Peso.