Homelessness has been a persistent issue in the U.S., and the problem is expected to worsen in the coming years. Wildfires, high rents, and a lack of affordable housing have left thousands of people, like Rosie Garrison from California, struggling to find shelter.
With Donald Trump re-entering the White House, many experts fear that federal policies aimed at tackling homelessness could be reversed, making it harder for local governments and non-profits to provide necessary support.
The Rising Homeless Population in the U.S.
The number of homeless people in the U.S. has increased dramatically over the past few years. In 2017, there were around 550,000 homeless individuals, but by 2023, that number had surged to 770,000—a 40% increase. The primary reason for this rise is the increasing cost of rent, which has made it difficult for low-income individuals to afford housing.
How High Rents Contribute to Homelessness
Ann Oliva, CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, explains that when people spend more than 50% of their income on rent, they become highly vulnerable to homelessness. Research has shown that when a community spends over 30% of their income on housing, the homeless population rises significantly.
Trump’s Stance on Housing Policies
During his second term, Trump has not indicated any plans to increase affordable housing. Instead, he has focused on housing deregulation, which could make it more challenging for cities to build low-cost housing.
One of Trump’s proposals is to house homeless individuals on federal lands. While this may seem like a creative solution, experts warn that it could separate people from their communities and support systems, making it harder for them to access essential services.
Impact on Local Communities and Organizations
Local leaders and non-profit organizations continue to help homeless populations despite federal challenges. Some cities, like Grants Pass, Oregon, have expanded their resources for the homeless.
They have found creative solutions, such as using Medicaid funds to help cover rent costs. However, there is concern that Trump’s administration could cut funding for these programs, making it harder for local communities to address the crisis effectively.
Concerns Over Proposition 1 in California
In California, a new law called Proposition 1 gives the state more authority to place homeless individuals with mental health issues into treatment facilities. While some see this as a necessary step, others, like Rosie Garrison, worry that it could lead to individuals being forced into systems that may not truly help them.
The Role of Migrants in the Homelessness Crisis
Another factor contributing to homelessness is the rise in migrant populations. Cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles have seen an influx of migrants arriving from the southern border, which has increased demand for shelter services. However, Trump’s stricter immigration policies, including potential deportations, could reduce the number of new migrants entering these cities.
Housing First: A Proven Solution Under Threat
Experts agree that the most effective way to reduce homelessness is through the Housing First model. This approach prioritizes getting people into permanent housing before addressing other issues like mental health and joblessness. Research has shown that this method reduces costs for taxpayers by lowering the need for emergency services, jails, and shelters.
However, there is concern that Trump’s administration might cut funding for Housing First programs, as critics often target them for failing to curb the rising homelessness rates. Philip Mangano, a long-time advocate for homeless solutions, warns that removing Housing First policies would be a serious setback in the fight against homelessness.
Lessons from Veteran Homelessness Programs
One area where the federal government has successfully reduced homelessness is among veterans. Collaborative efforts between HUD and the Department of Veterans Affairs have led to a significant drop in veteran homelessness since 2009. Experts suggest that applying the same strategies to the general homeless population could yield similar results.
The homelessness crisis in the U.S. is at a critical point. With rising rents, natural disasters, and economic struggles, more people are at risk of losing their homes.
As Trump begins his second term, local governments and non-profits will need to find ways to continue supporting the homeless despite possible federal cutbacks. The most effective solutions—such as affordable housing construction and Housing First policies—must be protected to prevent the crisis from worsening.
