The Coalition of Homeless Services Providers, in partnership with local governments, community-based organizations, and volunteers, has completed the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count for 2024, says a press release from the coalition. The results indicate an increase in the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in San Benito County, highlighting the growing challenges faced by the community.
On Jan. 31, the 2024 PIT Count was conducted and identified 621 individuals experiencing homelessness, representing a 73.9% increase from 2022, the coalition said. This count includes individuals staying in shelters and transitional housing, as well as those unsheltered on the streets or in other places not meant for human habitation.
The San Benito County Health & Human Services Agency led the PIT survey as the local continuum of care lead agency.
Some insights into the information gathered by survey volunteers from 74 individuals surveyed experiencing homelessness:
• 84% were San Benito County residents when they fell into homelessness
• 9% began experiencing homelessness at ages 50 and up
• 67% say that the main obstacle for obtaining permanent housing is their inability to afford rent
• 9% have been in the foster care system.
The survey also allowed residents to self-report health conditions:
• 50% have at least one disabling condition
• 29% have a physical disability
• 37% have a substance use disorder
• 36% have post-traumatic stress disorder.
The key factors in the increase of homelessness are linked to ongoing post-pandemic economic pressures, including rising housing costs and inflation, which have made it increasingly difficult for many individuals to maintain stable housing, says the press release. In addition, the PIT count had a wider coverage of all census tracts including along the San Benito River which may have contributed to a higher count.
The lack of affordable housing options has pushed more individuals and families into homelessness, the release adds.
