Trump's Budget Cuts Threaten Nevada's Homeless Safety Net

Strategic Insights -

Nevada's fragile social safety net for the homeless is under threat as President Donald Trump's administration proposes to slash the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) budget by over 40% amid a national housing and homeless crisis. This proposal includes a $33 billion cut to HUD's budget, which would have a devastating impact on Nevada, social services providers, and local officials warn.

Key Takeaways:

  • The proposed cuts would reduce HUD's budget by over 40% and affect programs such as homeless assistance, public housing, and housing choice vouchers (formerly known as Section 8).
  • The cuts would also impact Medicaid and food assistance programs, which are critical for people receiving housing and homeless assistance.
  • Many social service agencies and nonprofits, including HELP of Southern Nevada, rely on federal funding to supplement their budget and provide needed services.
  • The organization receives roughly $10 million of its $30 million budget from HUD, with half of the individuals in its program funded by federal funds.
  • The cuts would result in a "potential unraveling" of the social safety net, with a significant impact on people experiencing homelessness and a "huge influx" in the number of people without homes.

*Clark County directed funding from the Continuum of Care program to support permanent supportive housing programs, rapid rehousing programs, and transitional housing beds provided by the Clark County Social Service Dept. as well as nonprofits.

*Cuts to federal funding for nonprofits would be devastating, with HELP of Southern Nevada CEO Fuilala Riley stating that the organization relies on federal funds to provide permanent supportive housing and case management services.

*The proposed federal cuts come amid projections of a slowing economy, with Nevada budget analysts reducing the state's revenue outlook over the next two fiscal years by $191 million.

Statistics:

  • Over 10,100 people experienced homelessness in Nevada in 2024, a 17% increase statewide.
  • The proposed cuts would reduce HUD's budget by $33 billion.
  • HELP of Southern Nevada receives roughly $10 million of its $30 million budget from HUD, with half of the individuals in its program funded by federal funds.
  • Clark County allocated about $9 million in HOME funds it received last year to "support the development or rehab 1,018 affordable housing units across the county."
  • The proposed cuts to HUD funding nationally include a $532 million decrease in homeless assistance programs and a consolidation of several grants.

Sources:

  • "President Trump's Fiscal Year 2026 Discretionary Budget Request" (https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Fiscal-Year-2026-Discretionary-Budget-Request.pdf)
  • "Republican Debt Hawks Vote Present to Let Trump's Big Bill Move Forward" (https://nevadacurrent.com/2025/05/19/repub/republican-debt-hawks-vote-present-to-let-trumps-big-bill-move-forward/)
  • "Need for Eviction Assistance 'is Only Going to Get Greater,' State Lawmaker Warns" (https://nevadacurrent.com/2025/04/08/need-for-eviction-assistance-is-only-going-to-get-greater-state-lawmaker-warns/)