The Unseen Faces of 2023 – Homelessness Beyond the Streets

homeless man wearing his hoodie jacket
upset aged bearded black man

The year 2023 paints a picture of technological advancements, societal progress, and economic growth. Yet, beneath this facade lies an issue that has persisted through the ages – homelessness. Today, the definition of homelessness extends beyond the conventional image of individuals on the streets. It encompasses those living out of their vehicles, those who don’t fit the stereotypical image, and many who are just one paycheck away from losing their homes.

Homeless In 2023 – Is The Biden Administration To Blame?

  • Changing Dynamics: The number of homeless individuals counted on streets and in shelters across the U.S. has seen a significant rise this year. Major urban areas, including Chicago, Miami, Boston, and Phoenix, have reported increases. This surge is attributed to high housing costs and the termination of temporary pandemic-era protections like eviction moratoriums.
  • The Invisible Homeless: Many of those affected by homelessness in 2023 don’t necessarily “look” homeless. They might be your coworker, a student in your child’s class, or even a neighbor. The rise in people living out of their vehicles, especially in Walmart parking lots, is a testament to the changing face of this issue.
  • Economic Factors: With housing costs skyrocketing in areas like Phoenix, where apartment rents rose by 68% between 2017 and 2022, many are finding it challenging to keep a roof over their heads. The end of pandemic aid, such as eviction bans, has further exacerbated the situation.
person sleeping on a wooden bench
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.com
  • High Housing Costs: A significant contributor to the rise in homelessness.
  • End of Pandemic-Era Protections: Eviction moratoriums and other aids have come to an end, pushing many to the brink.
  • Invisible Homelessness: Many homeless individuals don’t fit the stereotypical image.
  • Living Out of Vehicles: A rising trend, especially in urban areas.
  • Economic Strain: Many are just one paycheck away from losing their homes.
photo of couple sitting in the back of car
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels.com

U.S. Estimate On Homelessness

The final U.S. estimate on homelessness will heavily depend on data from major cities like New York City and Los Angeles County. Rising housing costs and a limited supply of affordable apartments are significant contributors to the issue. Mental health challenges and opioid dependence further complicate the situation for many.

In Closing

As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember that every individual we encounter has a story. The person living out of their car or the one who doesn’t “look” homeless might be fighting battles we know nothing about. Let’s approach this issue with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to making a difference. After all, the essence of community lies in looking out for one another.

Source Citation:

“Homeless Numbers Rise in U.S. Cities.” LiveMint, 2023. https://www.livemint.com/news/homeless-numbers-rise-in-u-s-cities-11687171923240.html.

This article from LiveMint provides a comprehensive overview of the rise in homelessness across various U.S. cities in 2023. It discusses the contributing factors, such as the end of pandemic-era protections and the surge in housing costs, which have led to an increase in people living on the streets and in shelters. The piece also highlights the economic strains faced by many individuals, making it a valuable resource for understanding the current homelessness scenario in the United States.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is based on available data and aims to shed light on the issue of homelessness in 2023. The views expressed are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as definitive statements on the subject. FCFVA.com does not intend to defame or harm any individual or organization and recommends treating everyone with respect and empathy.