California Struggles to Solve Growing Homelessness Crisis
A two-decade-old strategy to end chronic homelessness in San Francisco has failed to make a significant impact, and the problem has only worsened in the state of California. The announcement of the 10-year plan, which involved federal funding to create supportive housing units, was made in the past, but the situation remains dire.
Homelessness Crisis Becomes Central Issue in California Politics
The growing homeless population has become a major topic of debate in California’s political landscape. Jessica Millan Patterson, chairwoman of the California GOP, pointed out that the problem has not been solved and has even spread to other communities across the state.
Patterson stated, “Instead of focusing on bashing red states or seeking personal promotion, Governor Newsom should prioritize his elected responsibilities and work with Republicans to find real solutions for the Golden State.”
California Bears the Brunt of Homelessness in the US
A report by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) revealed that as of 2022, 30% of homeless individuals in the United States resided in California. This includes a staggering 115,491 unsheltered people in the state.
PPIC also highlighted that since 2020, California’s overall homeless population has increased by approximately 6%, compared to just 0.4% in the rest of the country. The visible unsheltered population in California has risen by 2%, while the sheltered population has shrunk by 2%.
Governor Newsom’s Promises and Challenges
During his gubernatorial campaign, Governor Newsom pledged to develop 3.5 million new housing units by 2025. However, a Department of Housing and Urban Development report discovered that 67% of California’s homeless population remains unsheltered.
Furthermore, a study revealed that the state has spent a staggering $20 billion on fighting homelessness over the past five years.
Criticism and Efforts to Address the Crisis
Newsom faced criticism earlier this year when San Francisco cleared out homeless encampments before the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He defended the action, stating that conversations about the issue had been ongoing for months.
During an interview with Fox News, Newsom expressed his pride in his initial 10-year plan to tackle homelessness in San Francisco but also referred to the crisis as “disgraceful.” However, Newsom’s office did not respond to requests for comment on the current situation.
