Homelessness in LA

    Homelessness in LA has been an ongoing issue since the start of the great depression when people migrated to LA in search for jobs. A recent count by LAHSA which, " is the regional planning body that coordinates housing and services for homeless families and individuals in Los Angeles County." states there is currently at least 63,706 people in LA experiencing homelessness. It is important to understand the many reasons an individual might find themselves struggling to find permanent housing such as:

• poverty
• lack of affordable housing
• employment discrimination
• substance abuse 
• mental health challenges
• domestic violence
• rising housing prices

Gentrification is the reason for the rising housing prices and the fact that wages remain the same is forcing people to relocate. Substance abuse can lead to incarsaration and being incarseradted will lead to employment discrimination making it hard for people to become financially stable. Therefore homelessness is a result of many issues, and if we don't begin addressing these issues we will continue to see a rise in individuals affected.

Why this issue is important to me?

     As a resident of LA I have seen how common this issue is and I've seen how much worse it has gotten in recent years. There are people asking for change at every other red light, people asking for change at every drive through, people asking for change at the entrance of convenience stores. It's easy for people to dismiss those in these unfortunate situations but I know how easy it is for someone to lose everything. For some losing their job is all it takes, growing up I shared homes with other families (relatives) because they had nowhere else to go and sometimes all someone needs is a little bit of help but for those with a lack of familial ties it might not be so simple. I also had a friend in high school who would sleep in her car or couch surf when possible and knew of schoolmates who were kicked out of their homes for whatever reason. People who struggle with substance abuse and have no family support often times also become homeless because of the criminalization of substance abuse. I believe this is an issue that needs more attention because homelessness is a result of many other issues and without addressing those homelessness will continue to be an issue. 

How to help?

    There a few things we can all do to help those struggling with housing.

• Donate, online there are many organizations dedicating to helping the homeless
• You can donate directly, giving the homeless things like clothing can be a huge help or blankets to help them keep warm. Often times I buy shirts, socks, and benies to hand out because cold nights can actually be deadly for those not properly sheltered. 
• Advocate for affordable housing and renters rights
• Volunteer, there are plenty of shelters and kitchens that could use your help

Sources

“2020 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count Results.” Go to Main LAHSA Website, https://www.lahsa.org/news?article=726-2020-greater-los-angeles-homeless-count-results. 

“Homelessness in Los Angeles County 2020.” Homeless in Los Angeles County, California, http://www.laalmanac.com/social/so14.php. 

“Understanding LA's Homelessness Issues.” LAist, 24 Sept. 2021, https://laist.com/news/housing-homelessness/understanding-homelessness-city-los-angeles.