USICH Faces Potential Reduction Under New Executive Order
Citygate Network Urges Advocacy
On March 14, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing the size of the federal bureaucracy. Among the agencies listed for potential reduction is the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH), a federal body established under President Ronald Reagan to coordinate the nation’s response to homelessness across federal, state, and local levels.
At the 2025 Citygate Network DC Forum, Jeff Olivet, the most recent executive director of USICH, addressed the implications of this action and emphasized the vital role that the Council plays in preventing and reducing homelessness. He appealed to Citygate Network members to take swift advocacy action in support of the agency.
On March 20, Citygate Network leadership also received a request from Maxwell Cavas, staff member for Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), who, along with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), expressed concern over the potential elimination or reduction of USICH and its anticipated impact on national homeless policy.
Under the terms of the executive order, USICH has been given seven days to submit a compliance plan to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The situation remains fluid and could have wide-reaching consequences for the agencies and individuals working to end homelessness.
Citygate Network is calling on members to follow up with the congressional offices they engaged with during their recent visits to Washington, D.C., and to express support for USICH’s continued existence. Members are encouraged to communicate the following key points:
- Eliminating USICH would make homeless assistance policy less effective and increase the risk of misused public funds.
- USICH was created to reduce program duplication and improve the effectiveness of services through interagency collaboration.
- The Council has played a proven role in reducing homelessness nationwide, including a 50% drop in veteran homelessness over a ten-year period.
- USICH operates efficiently, with a $4 million budget and a staff of just 10.
Even brief messages of support to lawmakers can strengthen the case for preserving USICH’s mission and impact. Citygate Network affirms the power of collective advocacy and urges its members to act swiftly as federal decisions unfold.
Questions regarding the situation or communication efforts can be directed to Citygate Network leadership, who are available to connect members with relevant contacts, including Jeff Olivet and Maxwell Cavas.