Homelessness: Fragmentation and Overlap in Programs Highlight the Need to Identify, Assess, and Reduce Inefficiencies

Congress established the Interagency Council in 1987 under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act as an independent establishment to provide federal leadership for activities to assist homeless families and individuals.7 Initially the main functions of the council revolved around using public resources and programs in a more coordinated manner to meet the needs of those experiencing homelessness.