Homelessness Down for Vets and Chronically Homeless, but Budget Cuts Threaten Investments that Led to Declines

Major findings from The State of Homelessness in America 2013

WASHINGTON, D.C. – April 8, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — In spite of declines in incomes and affordable housing, federal investments in smart strategies have led to significant declines in chronic and veteran homelessness. However, worsening economic and housing indicators threaten progress. And recent budget cuts could mean less investment in solutions that have led to declines in homelessness, like permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals and homeless assistance funding for communities.

Between 2011 and 2012, the number of people experiencing homelessness nationally remained flat despite a stagnant economy, declining 0.4 percent. Homelessness among veterans, however, declined 7.2 percent, and homelessness among chronically homeless individuals declined 6.8 percent following significant federal investments in initiatives to prevent and end homelessness, according to an annual report released by the National Alliance to End Homelessness on Tuesday April 9.

Officially released at the National Press Club with Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, D-MO, The State of Homelessness in America 2013 analyzes national as well as state-by-state trends and the economic, housing, and demographic factors that impact homelessness.

Report Highlights:

At a point in time in January 2012, 633,782 people were experiencing homelessness. While the overall homeless population decreased nationally from 2011 to 2012, 28 states and the District of Columbia saw increases.
The national rate of homelessness was 20 homeless people per 10,000 people. The rate for veterans was 29 homeless veterans per 10,000 veterans.
Household income decreased 1.3 percent from 2010 to 2011 and 8.3 percent from 2007 to 2011.
Rents increase 1.5 percent from 2010 to 2011 and 15.1 percent from 2007 to 2011.
The multi-year trend of increases in housing instability among poor households continued in 2011, going up 9.4 percent from 2010 to 2011.

Findings are based on the most recently available national data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the National Association of State Budget Officers. Also provided in the report is detailed, state-level information on all homelessness data and contextual factors, including the rates of homelessness.

Contact:
Emanuel Cavallaro
Office: 202-942-8297