For the second consecutive month, San Diego County has experienced a decline in its homeless population, marking the longest contraction since officials began tracking these statistics. While cautious optimism prevails, authorities emphasize the need for sustained investment in shelter and affordable housing to address the ongoing crisis.
December marked the second consecutive month of decline in San Diego County 's homeless population, representing the longest contraction since officials began tracking these statistics in late 2021. According to the Regional Task Force on Homelessness , 920 homeless individuals found housing last month, while 903 individuals lost a place to stay for the first time.
This trend has sparked cautious optimism among leaders who for over two and a half years witnessed a continuous increase in homelessness. 'The recent trend is encouraging,' said Mayor Todd Gloria in a statement. 'To ensure we keep it heading in the right direction, I will continue to prioritize getting people off the streets, into care and on a path to housing.'The task force utilizes the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), a database regularly updated by over 140 organizations, to generate its monthly reports. While these HMIS numbers are likely still an undercount, offering a more accurate representation of those seeking help compared to other methods like the county's annual point-in-time count, which relies on volunteers and provides a single-day snapshot. Tamera Kohler, the task force's CEO, expressed surprise at the positive figures, leading to a review of the last two months' data to ensure accuracy. This review confirmed the decline in new homelessness across various demographics, including families and older adults. Kohler attributed the decline to several factors, including the holiday season potentially influencing landlords to be less likely to evict tenants and families offering temporary housing to relatives. Additionally, the current rental market, while still experiencing rent increases, is less aggressive than in previous periods. While the improving numbers offer hope, authorities caution against complacency. Bob McElroy, CEO of Alpha Project, noted a decrease in undocumented residents in their shelters from a high of 220 to around 80. Deacon Jim Vargas, head of Father Joe's Villages, stressed the need for increased investment in shelter and affordable housing, emphasizing the importance of preventative and diversion strategies. San Diego City Council President Joe LaCava and county Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe echoed similar sentiments, urging continued efforts to address the persisting issue of homelessness.
HOMELESSNESS SAN DIEGO COUNTY POPULATION DECLINE HOUSING SHELTER AFFORDABLE HOUSING
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