Mecklenburg County reports 12% increase in unsheltered homelessness, reaching 499 people living outside

Mecklenburg County has seen a 12% rise in unsheltered homelessness, setting another record. The 2024 Point-In-Time count revealed 499 individuals living outside, surpassing last year’s figure of 444. This marks the second consecutive year of new highs in unsheltered homelessness, with the county experiencing a steady increase since 2022.

Unsheltered homelessness is defined as living in places not intended for human habitation, such as outdoor encampments, vehicles, and abandoned buildings. The Point-In-Time count, a nationwide survey conducted annually in January, provides a snapshot of homelessness, though it is not an absolute measure. Volunteers surveyed individuals in both sheltered and unsheltered settings, with this year’s count including additional efforts to reach people sleeping in vehicles.

The county has expanded its outreach efforts, including new areas like Pineville and Steele Creek. These efforts have led to increased contact with individuals experiencing homelessness, creating more opportunities for service. However, the rising numbers highlight ongoing challenges, including limited emergency shelter space and increasing housing costs and evictions.

While the sheltered homeless population decreased by 8% to 1,519 people, this decline is partly due to fewer shelter beds. Two small shelter programs have closed, and one has reduced capacity due to funding constraints. The county reports that nearly 71% of those experiencing homelessness in the 2024 fiscal year did so for the first time, indicating a growing number of people facing housing instability.

Housing instability remains a critical issue, with half of Mecklenburg County renters considered at risk of eviction. This underscores the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of homelessness and provide stable housing options. The situation calls for compassion, policy reform, and community support to care for the vulnerable.

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