The Journal reviewed data from 150 entities that count homeless people in areas ranging from cities to entire states. The continuum there last year had its smallest homeless numbers since it began counting about a decade-and-a-half ago, which Hewitt credited in part to rental assistance and a halt on evictions. But homelessness rose 24% this year, even as adult homeless numbers fell, driven by a 79% surge in homeless families. Some places reported decreases, including Sonoma County, Calif., where the homeless count dropped 22%, and the region including Colorado Springs, Colo. which reported its lowest homeless count since 2016. Officials and advocates in both areas—as well as Indianapolis—said additional housing units helped reduce homeless numbers.

Source: Wall Street Journal June 19, 2023 10:56 UTC