The number of homeless veterans in the United States has surged by over 7% from 2022 to 2023, representing the largest annual increase in more than a decade, as reported by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The annual point-in-time count conducted in January revealed that more than 2,400 veterans lacked stable housing, bringing the total number of homeless veterans to 35,574 on that night. Advocates stress that this count likely underestimates the true extent of veteran homelessness. While the increase in homeless veterans is less severe than the overall rise in homelessness (12%), it still reflects a concerning trend, partly attributed to rising housing costs and the expiration of pandemic-related support programs. To address the issue, the White House plans to enhance grant programs aimed at preventing housing problems among veterans.

Best Coverage: https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2023/12/15/homelessness-among-veterans-jumps-more-than-7/