DC Council Member Jim Graham Worried Proposed Budget Cuts Could Affect Homeless

WASHINGTON - D.C. Council Member Jim Graham is sounding the alarm about proposed cuts to the budget that could leave hundreds of families out on the street.

Graham says it all comes down to about $19 million that is typically used to provide homeless services. Graham says if that funding is cut, all shelters in the District will be closed, except for when it is freezing outside.

The cuts according to Graham would also do away with critical services including hypothermia vans. Those vans are dispatched on cold nights to deliver blankets, sleeping bags and hot coffee. The van operators also offer the homeless free rides to shelters on cold nights.

Graham says currently, about 1,200 people receive emergency shelter with the help of District dollars. If that funding is slashed, he worries families will be forced to live on the street.