New Numbers for the Portland Metro Area

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Multnomah County has begun to track homelessness numbers month by month. What they show is sobering. In just one year, the number of homeless people in Multnomah County jumped from 11,430 in January 2024 to 14,361 in January 2025. This is a 26% increase in just a year. This isn't just a statistical quirk. It's a sharp reminder that the crisis on our streets is growing and growing fast. This is also a more accurate number, as the monthly count helps ensure the count is on target

The city is attempting to take further action to combat the increasing problem of homelessness. Demand for shelters currently outweighs the supply. A new initiative is in the works to add shelter space for 2,700 more people. But this won't be easy with a 100 million dollar budget shortfall. Progress has been made, as between July 2023 and June 2024, 5,500 homeless individuals were placed into permanent housing. That is real progress, but unfortunately, it seems like more challenges keep coming.

If the city cannot keep pace with the growing need, the situation will only worsen, and the human cost will be even greater. Moving forward, addressing homelessness will require not just more shelter beds, but long-term investments in affordable housing, mental health services, and economic opportunity.

There are many ways individuals can make a difference with these issues. To learn how you can help support local shelter efforts, click here. Contributions to help expand shelter and housing services can be made here.

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