Originally published in The Orlando Sentinel on February 11, 2026.
Over the last several years housing advocates, politicians, and researchers have tried to address the challenges faced by homeless (unhoused) individuals and families. It is a complex issue that requires cooperation from each group to solve an ongoing problem. Americans that are impacted by short- and long-term housing issues are seeking solutions to ensure that can feed their families, contribute to society, and work.
Often individuals fighting for access to housing are seen and unseen in our society. For example, there are people from different backgrounds that you walk by in the gas station, mall, playground or supermarket who are worried about where they will sleep. This is a serious problem that needs policies that address the current barriers. Recently, states throughout the country including Florida are choosing different steps to solve a problem that has existed for years.