This California City Has The Most Homeless People in the Entire State
Within its sunny embrace lies a grim reality: a severe homelessness issue that befalls Los Angeles. More than 75,000 people—a number that is increasing annually—do not have a place to call home. They move around the streets of the city, using the open sky or their temporary tents for cover.
Inflationary housing prices, mental health issues, and a shortage of affordable housing are the main causes of this dire circumstance. Although supportive services and transitional housing might be a lifesaver, there is still a great demand for long-term housing and all-encompassing solutions.
Current Stat. of Homeless People in LA
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority recorded a 10% increase in the homeless population in the city of Los Angeles. This report was released in June 2023. The officials said that the numbers are disheartening.
Homeless people roam the streets of LA in day and night. They dwell in different types. Some make the sky their roof. While others make a tin or metal sheet their roof. A staggering number of people live in makeshift shelters.
People who are chronically homeless are without a job for a prolonged length of time and suffer from a debilitating illness. 41,980 unhoused people live in the city of Angeles. This number is far higher than the number during the pandemic. The county itself is suffering from the crisis.
Why Are People Homeless?
Well, the answer to this question is not complicated. It is rather simple. Many factors contribute to the homelessness crisis. Factors can be systematic as well as individual, or it can be a mix of both.
- LACK OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING
One of the main causes of the homelessness problem is the absence of affordable homes. People and families who are unable to pay for accommodation may find themselves living on the streets or in makeshift shelters.
The demand for affordable housing is greater than the supply of available units. It is more difficult for people with low or moderate salaries to find inexpensive and stable housing because of this scarcity, which also puts further pressure on the housing market.
- POVERTY AND INCOME INEQUALITY
Many people in Los Angeles find it challenging to afford safe and secure housing due to the city’s sharp rise in housing expenses.
The disparity in affordability is a result of differences in income levels. It can be difficult for many people and families, particularly those with lower earnings, to keep up with the rising cost of housing, which can result in homelessness and unstable housing.
- MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION
Almost 80 percent of the homeless people face addiction issues. For those struggling with mental health and addiction disorders, keeping a steady job can be difficult, which makes it harder to find and keep accommodation. Addicted people end up spending all their money on their drugs and end up homeless.
- MEDICAL ISSUES AND DISABILITIES
A chronic illness or impairment can make finding and keeping a stable place to live challenging.
People who are homeless and have a chronic condition have more difficulties because of the complicated interaction between the two.
What is the Government Doing?
Local and national governments are aware of this crisis. They are also taking steps to mitigate the issue. But, it is not a one-day feat. Here are some of the programs to look out for:
- ALL INSIDE INITIATIVE
The Biden-Harris administration launched the All Inside initiative, which offers Los Angeles and six additional cities customized support to expedite efforts to eradicate unsheltered homelessness.
- INSIDE SAFE PROGRAM
This program was launched by the LA Mayor Karen Bass just after joining the office. The program aims to bring people out of tents and encampments and keep them inside so they don’t go back. The program and the Mayor received backlash from the public due to certain actions and results.
- HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
This program is funded by Measure H. The initiative helps people and families who are facing eviction to remain in their homes by offering short-term rentals and legal support.
Conclusion
Homelessness is not a personal choice; it’s a complex issue with systemic roots.
To address this catastrophe, all hands must pull together, combining resources, support networks, and a shared desire to break the cycle of homelessness that affects so many Angelenos.
Homeless people endure particular difficulties and come from a variety of backgrounds. A multifaceted strategy that addresses both systemic problems and individual needs is needed to address homelessness.
References: LA Times, Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority.
