Austin’s Harm Reduction Fund Under Threat | Austin News

Austin’s homeless community is bracing for a major blow as the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance faces a proposed 52K funding cut — an 8.5% reduction from Austin Public Health — just as demand for their lifesaving services surges. This nonprofit, which offers street outreach, harm reduction supplies, and housing connections, has already weathered a 10% cut and now stands on the brink of losing critical support amid citywide budget shortfalls driven by state-imposed tax limits. While city leaders tout investments in police and fire, advocates warn these cuts could devastate those who rely on the alliance daily — like Michael Evans, who’s been homeless for a decade, and Laura Chesnut, who credits the group with helping her get ID and housing. With a vote looming in mid-August, city officials face a stark choice: prioritize emergency services or risk deepening the crisis for Austin’s most vulnerable. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/185c22b7f434b2ef