Annual Report Highlights Alarming Increase in Homelessness
New data released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reveals a concerning trend: homelessness has reached its highest level since 2007. The annual Homeless Assessment Report with point-in-time (PIT) estimates shows that over 653,100 people experienced homelessness in January 2023, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
Sharp Rise in First-Time Homelessness
One key finding in the report is the sharp rise in the number of people experiencing homelessness for the first time. In the fiscal years 2021 and 2022, the number of newly homeless individuals rose by 25%, while the number of people exiting homelessness increased by 8%. This upward trend is attributed to changes in the rental housing market and the winding down of pandemic protections and eviction prevention programs.
Implications for Families and Individuals
The report also highlights the impact on families and individuals. Homelessness among families with children rose by 16%, reversing a downward trend that began in 2012. Additionally, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness increased by 11%. Notably, 72% of people experiencing homelessness did not have children present, emphasizing the broader societal issue.
Geographical Disparities
The cities with the highest population of people experiencing homelessness were New York City and Los Angeles, followed by Seattle, San Diego, and Denver. New York City saw the largest increase, with a staggering 42% rise from 2022 to 2023. California accounted for nearly half of all unsheltered individuals in the country, while states like New York, Vermont, Oregon, and California had high rates of overall homelessness per capita.
Addressing the Crisis
HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge expressed concern over the state of homelessness in the United States, emphasizing that it is a solvable problem. The Biden administration has been working with various levels of government to address homelessness but acknowledges that more work needs to be done. Fudge called for support for proven solutions and strategies to quickly exit homelessness and prevent it from occurring in the first place.