We need a plan for the homeless in LA, yet we still do not have one…
2020 Homelessness in Los Angeles: We still don’t have a plan and here’s why:
The homeless numbers for 2020 came out prior to the Covid-19 pandemic wave and the count reflected a double-digit increase for the second consecutive year. Prior to Covid-19, it was estimated to grow another 20% for 2021. A count which now will not happen for 2021!!! Because of the current surge in unemployment and future evictions, it will undoubtedly increase much more than 20%. Though predicting how much of an increase is difficult.
LA County just announced that the Federal Government granted LA permission to call off the homeless count for 2021 due to safety reasons. Now, more than ever this city, state, and country needs to be held accountable. Failing to conduct the count is giving LA a one-year pass and doing a great disservice to so many. Here are four (4) additional primary factors affecting LA’s ability to execute on Mayor Garcetti’s 2015 promise to eliminate homelessness in LA:
- Covid-19 impact — There is no way at this time to quantify this impact. The numbers are expected to rise as millions still remain unemployed. Rent evictions have been delayed and LA County and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority has extended the ‘Project Room Key’ initiative that provides temporary housing for the homeless at hotels. This is a short-term…