The United States has witnessed a staggering rise in homelessness, with the 2024 count showing an 18.1% increase from the previous year, totaling more than 770,000 homeless individuals, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This figure marks the highest level on record since the agency began tracking such statistics in 2007.

The increase is attributed to a combination of affordable housing shortages, rising natural disasters, and a surge of migrants seeking shelter in urban areas. Notably, family homelessness saw a dramatic rise of 39% from the previous year, with communities such as Denver, Chicago, and New York City experiencing family homelessness more than doubling in regions impacted by migration (BBC).

Adrianne Todman, the HUD Secretary, stated, “No American should face homelessness, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring every family has access to affordable, safe, and quality housing.” However, critics argue that the report may not fully capture the current situation, as many individuals remain uncounted, such as those temporarily staying with family or friends (NPR).

Among the concerning trends in 2024 is the significant increase in child homelessness, which saw nearly 150,000 children affected, reflecting a 33% increase from the previous count. Additionally, homelessness among veterans decreased by 8%, marking progress in efforts to support this community (The Hill).

The report underscores the dire consequences of decades of underbuilding and economic challenges. A shortage of approximately 7.3 million homes affordable to low-income individuals exacerbates the crisis, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC). The latest emergencies, such as California's wildfires and natural disasters, have added to the plight of many, pushing more families into homelessness.

As the crisis deepens, some communities are increasingly enforcing bans on outdoor camping, aiming to tackle visible homelessness, while advocates raise concerns that such measures could criminalize those who are already vulnerable (CNN).

In response, there have been glimmers of hope in some cities, including a reported 16% decrease in homelessness in Dallas and a 5% decline in Los Angeles, highlighting that coordinated efforts and initiatives can make a difference in addressing this ongoing crisis (CBS News).