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- U.S. homelessness surged by 18% in 2024, reaching a record high.
- The number of people in families with children experiencing homelessness increased by nearly 40%.
- Children under 18 saw a 33% increase in homelessness.
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Essential Context
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, revealing a stark increase in homelessness across the country. This surge is attributed to several key factors, including the national affordable housing crisis, rising inflation, stagnant wages, and systemic racism.
Core Players
- HUD – U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Biden-Harris Administration – Committed to addressing homelessness through affordable housing initiatives
- National Low Income Housing Coalition – Advocates for affordable housing solutions
Key Numbers
- 771,480 – Total people experiencing homelessness in 2024
- 18.1% – Increase in homelessness from 2023 to 2024
- 39% – Increase in homelessness among families with children
- 150,000 – Children under 18 experiencing homelessness, a 33% increase from 2023
- 32% – Percentage of homeless population that is Black, despite Black people making up 12% of the U.S. population
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The Catalyst
The significant rise in homelessness is largely driven by the worsening national affordable housing crisis, rising inflation, and stagnant wages. Additionally, systemic racism, public health crises, natural disasters, and the expiration of Covid-19-era homelessness prevention programs have contributed to this surge.
“Our worsening national affordable housing crisis, rising inflation, stagnating wages among middle- and lower-income households, and the persisting effects of systemic racism have stretched homelessness services systems to their limits,” said the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Inside Forces
The HUD report highlights internal dynamics such as the lack of affordable housing options and the impact of economic factors. For instance, cities like Denver, Chicago, and New York City saw larger waves of migrants, exacerbating family homelessness.
Despite these challenges, there was progress in reducing homelessness among veterans, with an 8% decline from 2023 to 2024.
Power Dynamics
The Biden-Harris Administration has emphasized its commitment to addressing homelessness through evidence-based efforts. HUD Secretary Adrianne Todman stated, “No American should face homelessness, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring every family has access to the affordable, safe, and quality housing they deserve.”
However, the upcoming term may see changes in policy, with President-elect Trump having floated ideas like institutionalizing the homeless population.
Outside Impact
The surge in homelessness has broader implications for communities across the U.S., particularly in urban areas. Cities are struggling to balance the need to address homelessness with the desire to maintain public spaces. For example, the Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to ban sleeping outside has led to the clearing of homeless encampments in cities like San Francisco and Portland.
Advocacy groups, such as the National Low Income Housing Coalition, are critical of these measures, arguing they do not address the root causes of homelessness. Renee Willis, incoming interim CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, noted, “Increased homelessness is the tragic, yet predictable, consequence of underinvesting in the resources and protections that help people find and maintain safe, affordable housing.”
Future Forces
Looking ahead, addressing the affordable housing crisis and economic instability will be crucial. The continued impact of systemic racism and public health crises also needs to be addressed. Policy changes, including the potential reinstatement or expansion of homelessness prevention programs, could play a significant role in mitigating these issues.
Additionally, community and organizational efforts to provide more affordable housing options and support services will be essential in combating the rising tide of homelessness.
Data Points
- January 2024: HUD conducted its annual homelessness assessment.
- 2023-2024: 18.1% increase in overall homelessness.
- 2023-2024: 39% increase in homelessness among families with children.
- 2023-2024: 33% increase in homelessness among children under 18.
- 2023: 35,574 veterans experienced homelessness; 2024: 32,882 veterans experienced homelessness.
The alarming rise in U.S. homelessness underscores the need for comprehensive and evidence-based solutions. As the country moves forward, it is crucial to address the underlying causes and work towards providing affordable, safe, and quality housing for all Americans.
