Nearly 800,000 People Homeless in the United States

International Desk

Despite being one of the world’s most powerful nations, approximately 800,000 Americans are living under open skies on sidewalks, in tents, or makeshift shelters.

A report released Friday, December 27, by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development highlights a record 18% increase in homelessness over the past year. Factors contributing to this surge include high housing costs, inflation, systemic racism, natural disasters, and increased immigration.

The report states that 771,480 people in the U.S. are currently experiencing homelessness, with many relying on emergency shelters, transitional housing, or simply living without shelter. This equates to about 23 people per 10,000 in the population.

Criticism against the government intensified after the report’s release, with citizens and analysts highlighting unnecessary federal projects, military expenditures, and so-called “black budgets” as contributing factors. Black budgets are classified funds allocated for national security or sensitive projects, often hidden from public scrutiny.

The number of homeless individuals under the age of 18 has seen a sharp rise, increasing by 33% to 150,000. Additionally, Black Americans make up 32% of the homeless population, despite representing only 12% of the total U.S. population and 21% of those living in poverty.

The report underscores the growing visibility of homelessness in cities across the U.S., where makeshift shelters on sidewalks and public spaces have become a common sight. Federal and state governments continue to explore solutions, but the issue remains pressing.

The rise in homelessness comes after a 12% increase reported in 2022, signaling an ongoing crisis that shows no signs of slowing.