Caritas accompanied 44,475 homeless individuals in 2025, reflecting a 3.8% increase from the previous year.

Caritas accompanied 44,475 homeless individuals in 2025, marking a 3.8% increase from the previous year. The NGO attributes this rise to a “deep and persistent social and residential crisis,” citing factors such as job loss, high housing costs, evictions, and forced migration as primary causes of homelessness.

The organization highlighted the growing impact of these challenges on individuals and families, emphasizing the need for urgent attention to address the root causes of homelessness. Caritas has made this announcement in observance of Homeless Day, which is celebrated on October 25.

Loss of employment, the inability to afford or maintain housing, and forced migration processes have been identified as key contributors to the increasing number of homeless individuals. These factors reflect a broader societal struggle, with many people facing barriers to accessing basic rights such as housing, health care, employment, and social protection.

This year, Caritas launched the campaign “A Home, a Place to Be a Member Of,” in which individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing homelessness participate. The initiative aims to highlight the personal stories behind the statistics, emphasizing that each person has a unique journey marked by pain, struggle, and resilience.

María Santos, responsible for the campaign and program of Homeless People of Spanish Caritas, stressed that repeated violations of fundamental rights push many into extreme situations of social exclusion. She noted that while Caritas continues to support recovery processes, significant challenges remain in ensuring access to essential rights.

Santos emphasized that behind the numbers are individuals with stories of loss and hope, who are often reduced to stereotypes such as “homeless” or “poor.” She called for society to recognize their humanity and treat them with dignity and respect.

Libertad, who is accompanied by Caritas Córdoba, urged society to see homeless individuals as human beings rather than as objects of pity or stereotypes. This perspective aligns with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable and to treat all people with compassion and justice.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)