the Stewart B. McKinney Act

The Stewart B. McKinney Act, enacted in 1987, was a key U.S. law aimed at addressing homelessness and improving services for people without stable housing. It provided federal funds to support emergency shelters, transitional housing, and programs that help individuals find permanent housing. The law also promoted coordination between government agencies and nonprofit organizations to better address homelessness. Named after Congressman Stewart McKinney, the act laid the foundation for the Continuum of Care system, ensuring comprehensive, ongoing support to reduce homelessness and assist vulnerable populations across the country.