
A Growing Crisis: More Unhoused People in Santa Clara County
The latest count reveals an alarming increase in the unhoused population in Santa Clara County, marking a distressing milestone. Preliminary results from the 2025 Point-in-Time count show that the number of unhoused individuals has surged by 8.2%, jumping from 9,900 in 2023 to 10,700 in 2025, despite significant financial efforts to tackle homelessness.
Funding vs. Reality: Where is the Money Going?
In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Santa Clara County is allocating over $440 million towards homelessness solutions, trying to address the growing issue. While KJ Kaminski, acting Director of the Office of Supportive Housing, reported that more than 8,000 people found shelter since the last count, the reality clings to troubling statistics: for every household housed, an estimated 1.8 people fall into homelessness. This statistic starkly highlights the systemic challenges plaguing efforts to resolve this crisis.
Addressing Root Causes: The Need for Affordable Housing
Mayor Matt Mahan has emphasized a multi-faceted strategy involving not only more temporary beds but also the development of long-term affordable housing solutions. For instance, efforts are underway to convert over 1,000 motels into safe places and constructing modular units to offer immediate relief to those in need. Yet, the underlying issue— insufficient affordable housing—remains a critical barrier to permanent solutions for the unhoused.
Community Commitments: Can Goals Be Met?
Addressing this complex crisis is crucial, as highlighted in Santa Clara County’s Community Plan to End Homelessness. Initially setting a goal to house 20,000 individuals by 2023, the county claims to have housed 18,000 so far. However, Kaminski asserts that true progress is determined by housing stability. More emphasis is necessary on ensuring those housed do not slip back into homelessness, particularly as the report suggests that systemic failures continue to undermine these efforts.
A Call to Action for Local Residents
As the county grapples with these increasing numbers, it’s vital for community members to get engaged. Understanding the complexities of homelessness is the first step toward fostering empathy and advocating for more sustainable solutions. Communities across California, including those in and around Bakersfield, can challenge local governments to prioritize affordable housing initiatives and support local shelters and services tailored to those experiencing homelessness.
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