Long Beach witnesses a decrease while Orange County experiences a surge in homelessness.

Long Beach Reports Decrease

In Long Beach, California, a positive shift is noted in the homeless population for the first time since 2017. The latest data from the 2024 Homeless Point in Time Count unveils a decrease in homelessness, marking a significant milestone for the city. With 3,376 individuals identified as homeless in January 2024, Long Beach saw a slight decline compared to the 3,447 individuals reported in 2023.

Mayor’s Statement

Mayor Rex Richardson expresses optimism regarding the downward trend, citing it as evidence of effective interventions. He highlights a notable reduction in youth homelessness, signaling progress in the city’s efforts. Richardson’s statement emphasizes the importance of continued dedication to addressing homelessness.

Demographic Breakdown

The recent count reveals intriguing shifts within different demographic groups:

• Youth: A remarkable decrease of 49.7% among individuals aged 18-24.
• Minors: A decrease of 37% among those under 18.
• Older Adults: Decreases are observed in various age brackets, including 25-34 (1.4%), 55-64 (9.4%), and 65+ (3%).
• Middle-Aged Adults: Increases are noted among individuals aged 35-54, indicating challenges in this demographic.

Gender and Ethnicity Dynamics

The data also unveils disparities in homelessness based on gender and ethnicity:

• Gender Identity: While the number of homeless women decreased by 13%, there was a significant increase in homelessness among transgender (39.6%) and gender-nonconforming (38%) individuals.
• Ethnicity: Homelessness decreased among Asians/Pacific Islanders (35%) and Latinx individuals (22%). However, there were notable increases among multiracial individuals (283%) and Native American/Alaska Native populations (95%). Increases were also recorded among white individuals (7.5%), while black individuals experienced a slight decrease (0.7%).

Veteran Homelessness

Though the overall number of veterans experiencing homelessness increased by 5%, efforts are underway to provide housing solutions. New developments at Heritage Gardens and the Cove aim to house 78 more homeless veterans in the coming months, reflecting a commitment to support those who have served their country.

Root Causes of Homelessness

The report identifies various factors contributing to homelessness, including:

• Unemployment and financial issues (38%)
• Family problems (29%)
• Mental health issues (17%)
• Eviction (17%)
• Disability (13%)
• Substance use (12%)

Conclusion

As Long Beach celebrates a decrease in homelessness, the data underscores the need for targeted interventions to address specific demographic challenges. While progress is evident, sustained efforts and innovative solutions remain imperative in the fight against homelessness. Download The Local News App to stay updated on this evolving issue.

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