The United States is seeing a sharp rise in homelessness, with preliminary data suggesting that 2024 could set new records. The Wall Street Journal reports that the number of homeless individuals is up by 10% from last year, with approximately 550,000 people already counted. The final number could surpass the 653,000 homeless people recorded in 2023, the highest since comparable records began in 2007.
Major cities like Chicago, New York and Denver are struggling to manage an influx of migrants bused from border states, especially Texas. These migrants have filled shelters and contributed to the growing homelessness crisis. New York, in particular, has faced significant pressure as it is legally required to provide shelter to all who need it.
The arrival of migrants has also sparked concerns about rising crime and gang violence, which has been reported in cities overwhelmed by the surge. Critics of the Biden administration argue that its pro-migration policies are exacerbating the homelessness problem, while the broader economic climate is pushing more working Americans into homelessness.
As the crisis worsens, many cities are struggling to provide enough resources, and there are growing calls for action to address the root causes of homelessness and migration.
