Lincoln homeless advocates speak out against Trump’s executive order

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A proposal from President Donald Trump is sparking concern nationwide, including in Lincoln.

Trump said he’s tired of seeing homeless people in streets and parks and argued that federal funding to end homelessness isn’t working.

The president recently signed an executive order prioritizing funding for cities that take a tough stance on homelessness.

The order calls for people living on the streets to be placed in mental health or drug treatment facilities, a proposal that draws back to an era of mass institutionalization.

Inside the walls of the People’s City Mission in Lincoln, it’s a constant battle to provide food, shelter and stability to hundreds without homes.

“I think our biggest problem here in Lincoln is we don’t have enough shelter space,” said Pastor Tom Barber, CEO of the mission.

Opponents said the executive order is counterproductive.

“What are you going to do if you don’t have a place to stay and you say, ‘Get off the streets’?” Barber said. “We’re going to what, put them out in the sticks somewhere?”

Local advocates said not everyone is homeless because of drugs or mental health; some have simply fallen on hard times.

“It’s a very nuanced thing.” Barber said. “It’s a lot of reasons people are homeless, and I think before we solve it, they need to understand it better.”

While no changes have been made locally, shelter staff are bracing for the shift in national priorities and the impact that could have on people they serve every day.

“Without having a basic housing and stability and having the ability to know where you’re going to lay your head at night, that is safe and secure, it’s really hard to look forward.” said Leanne Pelser, director of housing outreach for Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach.

She said this isn’t about politics; this is about community.

“These type of issues are not a one-side-or-the other issue,” Pelser said. “We’re here to help everybody that’s in need of it.”