A Look Into the Homeless Epidemic In Washington State

Washington Sate has the third highest rate of homeless in the United States.

According to a federal report, Washington state had an 18.1% increase in homelessness in 2024. Shocking? No, and yes, at the same time. According to the HUD report, Washington had the third largest homeless population in the country in 2024, with 31,554 people experiencing homelessness.

Not long ago, I attended a concert in Tacoma, and was shocked at the amount of tents I saw along the roadways.

Sadly, every time I visit Seattle, I'm amazed at the amount of homeless I encounter to and from various venues. I've literally walked over people sleeping on the sidewalk.

According to USAfacts.org New York has the highest population of homeless followed by Los Angeles. Seattle, San Diego, and Denver round out the top 5. In the King County area, certain neighborhoods are known for their homeless populations.

Why are there so many homeless people in Washington state?

Rising rental rates, and lack of publicly owned affordable housing are to blame for this tragedy. I see people walking along streets in Tri-Cities who are homeless.

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What are the causes of homelessness?

Job loss, foreclosure, grief, addiction...you name it. Any one of us could be homeless tomorrow. I see a woman every morning on my street, living in her car with her dog. I wonder, "Does she work? How does she make it?"

The City of Spokane is opening a respite facility to treat homeless people.

It will be located downtown, at the Westminster United Church of Christ. People suffering chronic and acute illnesses will be treated, with the goal of getting them off the streets. The facility will have 30 beds.