U.S. homelessness surges 18% in 2024 due to housing and immigration crises

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Homelessness in the United States has increased by a heartbreaking 18.1% this year, with more than 770,000 people homeless on a single night in January 2024. The alarming growth has been attributed to a surge in asylum seekers and a lack of affordable housing, among other factors. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently released its 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, showing that the number of domestic homeless people will surge 39% between 2023 and 2024, with immigrants contributing significantly to this increase contribute. In some communities, the number of homeless families has more than doubled, leaving countless families vulnerable and homeless. The distressing trend also comes amid a period of sharp rent increases due to the pandemic and years of underconstruction, although rents have stabilized in some cities. Natural disasters like the devastating Maui fires only exacerbate the crisis, forcing thousands into emergency shelters. Despite some positive news, such as a decrease in veteran homelessness and a commitment to more affordable housing, the overall picture remains grim. HUD officials emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue with effective, evidence-based solutions. HUD Director Adrianne Todman said “no American should have to face homelessness,” but for many people whose lives are filled with instability and hopelessness, the sentiment rings a bell. It sounds hollow. As the Biden-Harris administration grapples with the crisis, it's clear there's a long road ahead and the most vulnerable will continue to suffer. Like this: Like Loading… Discover more from Baller Alert Subscribe to get the latest posts delivered to your inbox Email.

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