In the U.S., housing is often treated as a luxury rather than a fundamental human right, evident from the 653,104 people identified as unhoused in HUD’s one-day census in January of 2023. Despite existing shelters and support programs, chronic homelessness remains unsolved. The Supreme Court decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson could worsen the marginalization of the unhoused by increasing criminalization and displacement. Although much research exists on homelessness, little progress has been made toward a universal housing program. This study aims to explore the prevalence of automatic housing rejections based on factors like credit score, criminal history, and evictions. It will investigate whether eliminating these barriers, combined with wrap-around services, can create long-term, stable housing. The study seeks to understand rejection rates and the potential for collaboration with housing organizations by interviewing property managers, local politicians, and other key stakeholders. The findings will support advocacy for individual-centered solutions and community partnerships, contributing evidence to shape policies that address homelessness across diverse communities.
