MACKINAC ISLAND — Michigan leaders spoke last week at the Mackinac Policy Conference about the links between housing access and health outcomes, encouraging lawmakers to view the two issues as more closely connected.
The speakers linked health and the ability of someone to take care of themselves or others, and how not properly investing in health access can it harder for other initiatives to succeed.
Panelists say that regardless of the support someone is receiving, homelessness can further complicate health concerns or recovery from other struggles.
“You can be doing so well. But then, if you are living in your car, even with gainful employment, are you going to go back?,” said Kelli Dobner, chief growth officer of the social services nonprofit Samaritas. “Because that creates that stressor. And so if we’re looking at housing as health care, that is just so significant.”
The panelists said that proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and housing support would likely complicate the picture for those seeking assistance on the state level.
Amy Hovey, head of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, says that the agency would likely need to turn to the state budget or philanthropy to maintain its current functions.
“MSHDA is almost 100% funded by the federal government,” Hovey said. “It may look a little bit different and there might be some cuts, but we’re going to be there. We’re going to figure it out. We’re smart people.”