On April 22, 2024, the Supreme Court heard a landmark case on homelessness, potentially allowing fines or jail for public camping.
Homelessness in the U.S. increased by 12% in 2023, the highest since reporting began 16 years earlier, as per HUD data.
Nine states saw a decrease in homelessness rates in 2023, notably Delaware and Louisiana, amid a nationwide rise.
The pandemic exacerbated homelessness challenges, turning shelters into infection hotspots and contributing to increased deaths among unhoused populations.
Major cities faced reduced shelter capacity during the pandemic, exacerbating homelessness challenges.
Cities like New York and San Francisco saw significant increases in deaths among people experiencing homelessness during the pandemic.
Despite overall homelessness increases, sheltered homeless populations decreased by nearly 8% nationwide, influenced by government interventions and health concerns.
A national deficit of 7 million affordable homes persists, contributing to the ongoing homelessness crisis, exacerbated in rural areas with service deserts.