You’ve Been Asking

We have been getting a lot of questions these last months about how recent governmental actions impact Bethany House. Here is a brief list of the most common FAQs:

Question: How will the Government Shutdown and specifically the loss of SNAP (food stamps) benefits affect Bethany House?

Answer: More than 75% of the families we serve in our housing programs are in receipt of SNAP benefits. Without SNAP benefits, families already struggling to stretch their limited cash resources to pay for rent, transportation, and other essentials will now have to make even more difficult decisions about how to put food on the table as well.

Question: On July 24th, the White House issued an Executive Order titled “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets.” What does this mean for Bethany House and its families?

Answer: The short answer is “we don’t really know yet.” This Executive Order is more focused on individuals living on the streets with mental illness and addiction, as opposed to families experiencing homelessness. However, there are elements that could affect Bethany House’s emergency shelter and families served, and we will be monitoring any possible changes in the months ahead. Criminalizing homelessness creates more problems than solutions to getting someone housed.

Question: There has been a lot of news about government funding cuts for nonprofits. Has Bethany House had government contracts canceled?

Answer: Yes and there is more coming. Our annual grant from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (~$30,000) was indefinitely paused in February. Just last month, BHS and 11 other agencies annual $100,000 contract with Hamilton County Job & Family Services (JFS) for prevention services was not renewed for 2026 because JFS needs to repurpose these local tax levy funds due to its own federal budget cuts. Bethany House anticipates that more cuts—especially for our housing programs—could occur after the passage of the federal government’s FY26 budget. The Hamilton County Children’s Tax Levy is needed more than ever for Preschool Promise, foster care homes, and child welfare support.

Question: On July 4th, Congress passed H.R. 1, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill. What does this mean for Bethany House and its families?

Answer: The direct impact on Bethany House current operations will be minimal. However, cuts to Medicaid and SNAP (food stamps) benefits could significantly impact the families Bethany House serves who rely on these forms of assistance. And again, policy changes inserted into new contracts and budget bills could dramatically change what solutions are available for families. We will keep you updated!