The problem of homelessness has worsened in the United States, according to a government report that attributes the causes to unaffordable housing, high inflation, systemic racism, natural disasters and increased immigration.
The number of homeless people in the United States increased 18% in the last year, due to factors such as unaffordable housing, high inflation, systemic racism, natural disasters and increased immigration, the Department of Homelessness reported Friday. Housing and Urban Development.
The problem of homeless people has worsened in the United States, where it is common to see homeless people living outdoors in many cities, with tents set up on the sidewalks. Federal and state governments have promoted divergent strategies to confront the crisis.
A total of 771,480 people, about 23 of every 10,000 people in the United States, experienced homelessness in an emergency shelter, safe place, transitional housing program or in unsheltered locations, according to data released Friday.
Overall, the number of homeless people increased 18% between 2023 and 2024, the data showed. Previous annual data, released last year, showed a 12% increase.
Between 2023 and 2024, those under 18 were the age group that experienced the largest increase in homelessness, marking a 33% increase with 150,000 children experiencing the crisis, according to the data.
Black people, who made up 12% of the total U.S. population and 21% of the U.S. population living in poverty, accounted for 32% of all homeless people, the data showed.
“The worsening of our national affordable housing crisis, rising inflation, wage stagnation among low- and middle-income households, and the lingering effects of systemic racism have pushed homeless services systems to the brink. “stated the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
He also noted “other public health crises, natural disasters that displaced people from their homes, the increase in the number of people immigrating to the United States and the end of homelessness prevention programs launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.” COVID-19″.