Homelessness was once a silent and underrepresented problem in the United States. With each passing year, however, research provides policymakers and communities with increasing amounts of information, allowing America to gain ground in the fight against homelessness.
In a broad sense, the most frequently cited cause of homelessness is the widening gap between income and cost of housing; a problem that is perpetuated by limited amounts of housing assistance. Other more specific factors, such as mental illness, chronic health conditions, substance abuse, and the debilitating effects of trauma also contribute to create a constellation of factors that are responsible for the presence of homelessness in America.
Facts about Homelessness in Southern Nevada
On any given night there are more than 6,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in Southern Nevada. This includes people residing on the streets, in parks, in shelters, and transitional housing programs. It is estimated that 16,641 Southern Nevadans, including families with children, couples, youth, and individuals of all ages, will experience homelessness at some point this year, according to the 2018 Southern Nevada Homeless Census and Survey.
Based on 2019 surveys of people experiencing homelessness in Southern Nevada:
- 68% were living here at the time they lost their housing
- 45% were experiencing homelessness for the first time
- 82% of homeless unaccompanied youth are unsheltered on any given night
- 44% were experiencing one or more disabling conditions
There are currently more than 100 service providers, including government entities, nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups and corporate partners, that are working together to provide homeless prevention and assistance programs to bring an end to homelessness in our community.
