Long Beach Takes Strides in Reducing Homelessness
The City of Long Beach has taken a significant step forward in its fight against homelessness, with the release of its 2024 Homeless Point in Time Count revealing a 2.1% decrease in its unhoused population.
Encouraging Signs of Progress
This marks the first decline since 2017, offering a glimmer of hope in Long Beach’s ongoing battle against homelessness. Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his encouragement, particularly in the area of youth homelessness, which saw an impressive 50% reduction.
Key Demographic Trends
Young adults and minors experienced the most significant declines in homelessness, while the number of unhoused women dropped by around 13%. The number of homeless men remained relatively stable, highlighting the need for targeted outreach and services for this population.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and City Response
Similar to many major metropolitan areas, Long Beach witnessed a surge in homelessness during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, the City declared a local emergency in January 2023, joining a growing number of communities in Southern California taking urgent action.
That emergency declaration has since expired, but new policies and programs have been implemented to provide immediate assistance to those experiencing homelessness. These initiatives have included:
- Increased outreach to encampments, with over 2,400 visits and services provided to 85% of those contacted.
- Establishment of a real-time text information line to disseminate knowledge about available services.
- Purchase of a new year-round shelter with 85 beds.
- Provision of additional shelter capacity during recent storms, offering relief to 60 individuals.
- Rental assistance programs, with 582 emergency housing vouchers issued and thousands of individuals enrolled in housing programs.
- Creation of over 670 affordable housing units, with priority given to veterans, older adults, and previously homeless individuals.
Building on Success and Future Plans
As the emergency declaration ends, Long Beach aims to continue building on its progress and move more people off the streets and into permanent housing. Temporary housing projects are underway, including the conversion of a former motel into a 78-unit facility and the renovation of a building for homeless youth. Additionally, the City is developing 33 tiny homes to provide safe and stable accommodations.
By fostering partnerships and leveraging innovative approaches, Long Beach is dedicated to creating a future where homelessness is a thing of the past. With every interaction between homeless individuals and service providers, the City moves closer to its goal of providing stable and dignified housing for all.
For more information and updates on Long Beach’s initiatives to combat homelessness, visit the city’s dedicated webpage.
