Homelessness has remained a pervasive issue in the U.S. in 2024, especially in the state of California, which contains ⅓ of the nation’s homeless population.

What do the numbers say?

On any given night, there are over 160,000 people who experience homelessness in California. Approximately 70% of homeless individuals do not live in shelters for lack of availability, and instead sleep in tents, vehicles, or in public areas.

California has invested several billions of dollars into homelessness initiatives over the past decade, but the issue remains pervasive. 

Instead of throwing money at the problem, the state should work to create permanent housing solutions, increase space in shelters, and integrate services in shelters to address the needs of the homeless population struggling with addiction and mental illness.

How does mental health play in?

Many homeless individuals suffer from severe mental health conditions, which often precede long-term substance use disorders. This is seen in the cases of individuals with bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other contitions. 

These mental health issues, as well as the deinstitutionalization of mental health facilities, have contributed to the worsening cycles of homelessness and incarceration.

Solutions

Recovery for homeless individuals suffering with substance abuse are often hindered by a lack of access to proper care and support systems, including daily or healthcare access. This makes the cycle of homelessness and addiction near impossible to break. 

Especially with the court case Grants Pass v. Johnson influencing policy making in 2025, solutions to the homelessness crisis must place emphasis on integration of healthcare, social services, and housing support in shelters. 

There must be space in shelters to prevent homeless individuals, many of whom are already struggling from mental illness and susbtance abuse, from facing legal penalties with Grants Pass now on the books.