Philly homeless count shows 40% jump in unsheltered population

Philadelphia's annual Point-in-Time count has revealed a dramatic 40% increase in the unsheltered homeless population, with a total of 976 individuals reported living on the streets. This figure represents a significant rise from 706 last year and reflects a 16% increase compared to the last pre-pandemic count in 2020. The overnight survey, conducted by over 360 volunteers in January, focused on known hotspots across the city, including Center City and Kensington. The findings are particularly alarming in Kensington, where the opioid epidemic has led to a 23% rise in homelessness, with the area now housing over a third of the city's unsheltered individuals. City officials, including Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, have raised concerns and called for more comprehensive measures to tackle homelessness and provide affordable housing options.

The data collected is essential for informing how the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development allocates funding to address these issues. Despite the flaws inherent in the Point-in-Time count, its results underscore the urgent need for action to assist those experiencing homelessness in Philadelphia. The city’s Office of Homeless Services is tasked with addressing these challenges and developing strategies to combat housing insecurity.