Across American cities, a shared understanding emerges: supporting our most vulnerable isn’t a partisan issue—it’s a community responsibility.

No matter if you’re liberal or conservative, urban or suburban, there’s a collective moral duty to prevent our most vulnerable citizens, especially seniors and veterans, from facing homelessness. This sentiment has united a California Democrat and an Arizona Republican in urging President Trump and congressional leaders to prioritize funding for the extension of the Emergency Housing Voucher program.

This program stands as one of the most impactful and effective federal initiatives in recent times, aimed at providing stability for at-risk seniors, veterans, and families. It was designed to prevent homelessness among those facing significant and unforeseen challenges, including elderly individuals, veterans, and families with children.

Since its inception, the Emergency Housing Voucher program has enabled San Diego to offer rental assistance to over 900 people, focusing on some of the most vulnerable groups. More than half of these households consist of elderly or disabled individuals, and 34 percent are families with children. The provision of these vouchers has led to tangible improvements, with a 72 percent decrease in family instability and a 25 percent reduction in veteran housing insecurity.

Similarly, in Mesa, 82 emergency housing vouchers are aiding older residents and veterans, reinforcing the city’s strength by ensuring those who contributed to its development are not neglected. Our dedication to veterans and seniors is at the heart of our approach to housing stability. Each voucher provides a secure living environment for individuals who might otherwise face homelessness. These are not mere statistics; they represent real men and women who have worked, served, and raised families. Without emergency housing vouchers, we risk losing a crucial means to help people avoid homelessness.

Earlier this year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced it was accelerating the end of the voucher program at least five years sooner than anticipated. Public housing authorities expected funding to continue at least through 2030 and be available through 2035 for families still in the program. Without congressional action, up to 1.4 million additional Americans could become homeless, undoing the progress our communities have made.  

By fully funding the voucher program through the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process, The president and Congress can prevent this disruption and continue to help Americans who have given so much to our nation. This investment would reduce pressure on emergency services, strengthen families, and help residents remain connected to jobs, schools and healthcare. 

Supporting programs like emergency housing vouchers is a practical way to strengthen our communities. Stable housing for seniors, veterans and families reflects a commonsense principle: when we give people security, they contribute back to the neighborhoods they call home. Washington should see this not as a partisan issue but as an opportunity to preserve the strength of families and honor those who have given so much. 

Funding emergency housing is both compassionate and pragmatic. Trump and Congress can come together to ensure that veterans, seniors and families remain in stable housing — our residents and communities are counting on it. 

Todd Gloria is the mayor of San Diego, Calif., and vice president of the United States Conference of Mayors. Mark Freeman is the mayor of Mesa, Ariz.