The Catholic Church views the lack of stable housing as a profound violation of human dignity, rooted in a denial of fundamental rights. This perspective stems from core Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the inherent worth of every individual and their right to basic necessities, including shelter. This stance is articulated through numerous papal encyclicals, statements from bishops’ conferences worldwide, and the actions of Catholic charities and organizations. The Church considers addressing this societal challenge a moral imperative, reflecting the Gospel call to care for the poor and marginalized.
The Church’s engagement with this issue is not a recent development. Historically, Catholic religious orders have founded and operated shelters, soup kitchens, and other services for those lacking housing. This long-standing commitment reflects a belief that providing practical assistance is essential, coupled with advocating for systemic change to address the root causes of instability and deprivation. Benefits of the Church’s approach include direct aid to those experiencing housing insecurity and a voice for policy changes that promote justice and equitable access to resources.
