Illegal Immigration Contributing to Record High Homeless Numbers in the US
A recent report has highlighted how illegal migrants flooding into the US are playing a significant role in what could potentially be the highest number of homeless individuals in the country since data recording began. Cities are struggling to fund shelters as they face a growing homeless crisis.
In January, at least 550,000 people were reported homeless, coinciding with the highest number of border crossings in US history during the same month, according to an analysis by the Wall Street Journal.
This figure marks a 10% increase from January 2023, a year that already recorded the highest annual homeless tally since 2007 when the government began reporting official figures.
The final tally for January is expected to be even higher as not all cities, including New York City with a significant homeless population, have reported their data to the government yet.
If the current trend continues, the US is on track to surpass the record-breaking 653,000 homeless individuals reported in 2023.
Impact of Migrant Influx on Homelessness
The surge in homelessness is closely tied to the unprecedented number of migrants crossing the border illegally and seeking asylum. These migrants are being bussed to cities like New York, Chicago, Boston, and Denver, straining public resources and leading to increased crime and gang violence.
In Massachusetts, migrants make up nearly half of the families residing in family shelters, with the state projected to spend over $1 billion on housing migrants this fiscal year.
Reports indicate that migrants account for more than 70% of the homeless population in Chicago, where the number of homeless individuals tripled to over 18,800 in one month. Denver also experienced a 42% increase in its homeless population due to the influx of migrants.
While migrant border crossings have decreased since their peak earlier this year, other factors such as rising fentanyl use, soaring housing costs, and the end of pandemic-related tax credits are also contributing to the homelessness crisis.
California, with the largest homeless population in the US, is struggling to provide shelter to its unhoused residents. Governor Gavin Newsom has been pressuring cities to clear out homeless encampments, but the state continues to face challenges in addressing the homelessness issue.
Challenges in Counting Homeless Population
The official counts of homeless individuals by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are often considered to be undercounts. The Wall Street Journal, conducting its own counts with the help of 250 organizations nationwide, expects its figures to be more accurate and comprehensive.
HUD has not yet released its official report for 2024, but the Journal anticipates that its counts will provide a better understanding of the true extent of homelessness in the country.
