It's time to go: All-In to End homelessness

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act – the first major federal law to address homelessness in the United States. But, with more than 3.5 million Americans still homeless each year, we need to finish what we started. Now is the time to take your stand with us – it’s time to go All-In to End Homelessness:

I, _____________________________, pledge to:

• Commit myself to ending homelessness in America;
Of the more than 3.5 million Americans without a home, 1.6 million are children, 1.1 million are families made homeless within the last 3 years, 1.4 million are people with disabilities, and 100,000 are veterans who became homeless after serving their country. The United States is the wealthiest nation in the world, yet we do not protect the basic human right to housing.

• Support affordable housing for all Americans;
Homelessness is a visible manifestation of the severe shortage of safe, affordable housing. Continued budget cuts, high unemployment, and the foreclosure crisis are causing increases in family homelessness right now.

• Strive for adequate healthcare for all who need it;
Existing “safety net” health systems are gravely inadequate for homeless people and the very poor who are not likely to receive Medicaid in most states. Comprehensive, affordable healthcare is essential to ending homelessness in America.

• Ensure an education for every homeless child;
Although the McKinney-Vento Act requires public schools to keep homeless students enrolled in their last district of residence; many districts still refuse to educate homeless children. Without access to school, America’s 1.6 million homeless children cannot hope to escape the cycles of poverty.

• And treat with dignity every homeless person I meet.
Many people who are not homeless avoid interacting with people who are – because of fear, inability to give money, or just not knowing what to do. But, simply making a single, human connection can be the most important action for both individuals.

Here, I pledge to remember my commitment to ending homelessness in America and I pledge to treat homeless people as I would treat any other person. I confirm that we are all human, we are all fighting poverty together, and we are: All-In to End Homelessness!

Signed: _____________________________________ Date: ___________________