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recent report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reveals a stark increase in homelessness across the country. The total number of people experiencing homelessness reached 771,480 on one night in January, marking an 18% year-over-year rise. This translates to approximately 23 out of every 10,000 people in the United States.

    Homelessness among families with children has seen an even sharper increase, rising by 39%. Children make up a significant portion of this count, with over 150,000 individuals under the age of 18 experiencing homelessness. People identifying as Black or African American are disproportionately represented, accounting for 32% of the homeless population despite making up only 12% of the U.S. population.

    Researchers point to several factors contributing to the rise in homelessness, including high housing costs, inflation, sluggish wage growth, natural disasters, and immigration. Cities like Chicago and New York have been particularly affected by an influx of migrants.

    However, there are some glimmers of hope. Veterans experiencing homelessness saw a decline of 8% from last year, with their numbers down 55% since HUD began tracking this demographic in 2009. Shaun Donovan, CEO of Enterprise Community Partners, notes that the progress made in reducing veteran homelessness demonstrates that addressing homelessness is possible and could serve as a blueprint for policymakers.

    HUD has issued grants totaling over $6 billion to combat homelessness and bolster affordable housing. The Continuum of Care program, which funds state and local initiatives aimed at assistance and support for those experiencing homelessness, received an additional $3.5 billion grant in July.