Subcommittee hears calls to boost supportive‑housing services as federal funding faces cuts

The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Human Services heard presentations from the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Avalon Housing and Marquette’s Room at the Inn urging state support for services that keep people housed and reduce downstream public costs.

Catherine DeSlerath of CSH told members that supportive housing pairs affordable units with case management and other services and that Michigan faces affordability pressures: she said a two‑bedroom rental in Michigan now requires nearly $24.50 per hour to afford. DeSlerath outlined recent state appropriations for supportive services — noting FY23 funding of $6,000,000, a FY24 supplemental originally $20,000,000 (the transcript indicates $10,000,000 ultimately distributed) and a $5,000,000 FY26 renewal — and asked the committee to consider a $20,000,000 request for FY27 to expand and sustain services.

DeSlerath also warned that recent U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) changes to Continuum of Care (CoC) funding could reduce awards for permanent…