Public housing programs are government initiatives designed to provide affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families. These programs aim to ensure that everyone has access to safe and decent living conditions, often through subsidized rent or the construction of new housing units. In the United States, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversees many of these programs, which include Section 8 vouchers and public housing developments. By offering financial assistance and support, public housing programs help reduce homelessness and improve the quality of life for those in need.