YWCA Columbus Reacts to Executive Orders on Homelessness

YWCA Columbus unequivocally condemns the recent Executive Order that directs federal agencies to find ways to more easily criminalize homelessness through punitive measures such as forced removal from public spaces and involuntary institutionalization.

We believe that homelessness is a complex social justice issue rooted in systemic barriers like lack of affordable housing, economic inequity, and insufficient supportive services. Policies that prioritize criminalization over compassion and proven supportive housing solutions undermine the dignity and rights of vulnerable individuals and families.

We remain committed to advocating for housing justice, equitable access to safe and supportive housing, and community-based solutions that respect the humanity of all people. We call on policymakers to shift away from punitive approaches and instead fully invest in affordable housing, permanent supportive housing, harm reduction, and comprehensive mental health and social services that provide real pathways out of homelessness.

Our community deserves policies grounded in empathy, inclusion, and long-term stability—not criminalization and institutionalization.