Project HOME Commends Introduction of Shelter First Act and Focus on Compassionate, Effective Solutions to Homelessness

Project HOME applauds the introduction of the Shelter First Act introduced by Sen. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia). The bill requires that municipalities provide adequate indoor spaces for people experiencing homelessness before the municipality can enforce any ordinance that would criminalize living outside.  

The legislation, along with House Bill 2028 introduced by Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El (D-Lancaster), serves as an inspiring and vital response to a growing movement to criminalize homelessness and punish individuals for basic survival activities like sleeping.  

The 2024 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson held that it is not cruel and unusual to impose a fine on an unhoused person who is sleeping outside, even when they have no other place to go. In the wake of this devastating decision, many communities nationwide have considered policies that effectively criminalize homelessness and create additional barriers for individuals seeking stable, permanent housing.  

But the Grants Pass Decision isn’t a mandate, it’s a choice. With the Shelter First Act, we can choose to reject inhumane and ineffective policies. Project HOME commends Sen. Saval and Rep. Smith-Wade for their leadership and for taking an important stand to affirm the rights of all Pennsylvanians and embrace proven solutions to the homelessness crisis.  

For three decades, Project HOME has been on the frontlines fighting to end and prevent chronic street homelessness. As the housing crisis evolves and federal activities further threaten the safety and dignity of individuals at risk of experiencing homelessness, leadership in Harrisburg and at the local level are more important than ever.  

Project HOME launched the Homelessness is NOT a Crime campaign to advocate for solutions like the Shelter First Act.