In a positive development for the ongoing crisis of homelessness in Los Angeles County and City, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) announced the results of its 2024 Homeless Point-In-Time Count on Friday. The numbers reveal a decrease in the homeless population, indicating progress towards finding solutions.

According to the count, the total number of unhoused individuals in L.A. County stands at 75,312, while in the city, it is 45,252. These figures represent a decline of 0.3% and 2.2% respectively compared to last year's count. While these decreases may not appear significant at first glance, they bring a glimmer of hope to a region grappling with homelessness.

"The numbers in this year's homeless count give us cause to feel optimistic about the direction of our homeless work across L.A. County," expressed Va Lecia Adams Kellum, the CEO of LAHSA.

Of particular note in this year's count is the significant decrease in the street homeless population in the city of L.A., which saw a 10% drop. This decline is the largest decrease in nine years, indicating positive strides towards addressing the issue. Additionally, the city experienced a 38% decrease in makeshift shelters, further reinforcing the progress made.

"For so many years, the count has shown increases in homelessness, and we have all felt that in our neighborhoods. But we leaned into change. And we have changed the trajectory of this crisis and have moved L.A. in a new direction," stated Mayor Karen Bass, emphasizing the determination to combat homelessness.

The homeless count data covers a three-day period in January when individuals living on the streets or in vehicles, tents, and makeshift shelters were enumerated. It is noteworthy that, for the first time in years, the number of people sleeping on the streets has declined while the number of individuals seeking shelter has increased.

"We have focused on shelters and we are doing a better job convincing people to come inside. The next step is building more permanent supportive housing and investing in long-term solutions to this crisis," affirmed Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, who represents District 4.

However, this news coincides with the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on the rights of homeless people, allowing local governments to enforce bans on unhoused individuals sleeping in outdoor spaces. The response to this ruling has been mixed, with California Governor Gavin Newsom stating that it "removes the legal ambiguities" and empowers lawmakers to address safety concerns related to encampments.

As optimism grows for improving the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, the focus now shifts towards building more permanent supportive housing and implementing long-term solutions. The collaborative effort between government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community members remains crucial in continuing the progress made in reducing homelessness and providing sustainable support for those in need.