Los Angeles, CA – Homelessness in Los Angeles County has spiked by 12% since this time last year, according to an update provided by the Los Angeles Homelessness Services Authority (LAHSA) during a press conference this morning. The City of LA saw a 16% increase, with the largest increase in homelessness being Californians living in tents, evident in almost every corner of the region.
Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Los Angeles County Homelessness who also represents Skid Row, released the following statement:
“The consequences of California’s deep income inequality are evident in today’s homelessness count,” said Assemblymember Santiago. “The dramatic spike in homelessness we’re seeing across California is jaw dropping, unacceptable and no doubt the greatest challenge of our generation. Families are living on the streets with no food, and no shelter or protection from the cold winter or the summer heat. While the LA region has been working harder than ever to house more people, by passing Measures H and HHH, our efforts must quicker, bolder, and braver than ever before.
“The legislature has doubled down on its response to this humanitarian crisis by providing significant funds to build emergency shelters and supportive housing through HEAP dollars, and passing the No Place Like Home Act. However, revenues and budget line items alone will not heal the deep impacts of income inequality unless we push harder for policies that develop more affordable housing, address the high cost of rent and deliver mental healthcare and substance abuse services to those who need it.
“As chair of the Select Committee on LA County Homelessness – I will hold hearings in the coming months to determine what works and what does not, and use that information to broker solutions in the legislature that work for Angelenos - and all Californians."
Assemblymember Miguel Santiago is the Chair of the Assembly’s Communications and Conveyance Committee, and a member of both the Assembly Public Safety Committee and the California Latino Legislative Caucus. He represents the 53rd District composed of the cities of Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Vernon.