2026: Partnering with organizations to eliminate homelessness, food insecurity, and basic health care access in the United States

In 2026, Sheela Murthy & the MurthyNAYAK Foundation are continuing to focus supporting agencies and organizations working to eliminate homelessness, combat food insecurity, and expand basic health care access in the United States—three urgent, interconnected needs that affect millions of lower-income Americans. On any given night, more than 770,000 people in the U.S. experience homelessness, reflecting an 18% increase in recent years and a growing housing affordability crisis that deeply harms families and communities. (Reuters)

Food insecurity remains widespread as well: in 2023, over 33 million Americans lived in food-insecure households, including 13.8 million children who struggled to access sufficient, nutritious food.  (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities)

In addition to lacking reliable access to food or shelter, many individuals also lack basic health care, worsening chronic illness, mental health crises, and preventable disease. Supporting these areas can stabilize lives, reduce emergency health costs, improve childhood development and education outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. By investing in proven solutions and compassionate service, the MurthyNAYAK Foundation aims to improve families access to basic needs and help build a more just and healthy society.

The MurthyNAYAK Foundation has long been engaged with these issues (Ms. Murthy had co-chaired the fundraising gala, The Journey Home, years ago and worked closely with the then Mayor of Baltimore City with the goal to combat homelessness in Baltimore, also has also supported the United Way of Central Maryland and the United Way of Northeast Florida on these issues).

No one person or organization can address every issue alone, but when many contribute even modest efforts, the cumulative effect can be transformative. We are privileged to deepen our commitment in 2026, and beyond, partnering with leaders and local organizations to create lasting impact.