U.S. Homelessness Up 12% As Rents Soar

The US experienced a dramatic 12% rise in homelessness to its highest reported level as soaring rents and a decline in coronavirus pandemic assistance combined to put housing out of reach for more Americans, according to Kefvin Freking's report for the Associated Press (AP).

About 653,000 people were homeless, the most since the country began using the yearly point-in-time survey in 2007.

About 653,000 people were homeless, the most since the country began using the yearly point-in-time survey in 2007.

The total in the January count represents an increase of about 70,650 from a year earlier. The latest estimate indicates that people becoming homeless for the first time were behind much of the increase.

A rise in family homelessness ended a downward trend that began in 2012.

It's an issue that nonprofits also try to address. Last month, The AP looked at the progress groups were making for veterans who lack housing.

“For those on the frontlines of this crisis, it’s not surprising,” said Ann Oliva, chief executive officer at the National Alliance to End Homelessness, an advocacy group. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge said the data underscored an “urgent need” to support proven solutions that help people quickly exit homelessness and that prevent homelessness in the first place.

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