Saratoga Springs shelter closure sparks discussion on homelessness trends and housing solutions

Saratoga Springs community members gathered to discuss the growing challenge of homelessness in the county, with a particular focus on the city’s only year-round low-barrier shelter, which is set to close at the end of October. The discussion, hosted by Finding Common Ground at the Saratoga Springs Public Library, brought together officials and residents to address the concerning numbers of people experiencing homelessness.

The Adelphi Street shelter, operated by RISE Housing and Support Services, has provided housing with few restrictions, such as sobriety or background checks, for 10 months. The city restored funding for 2026, but the shelter’s closure marks a significant shift in the county’s approach to addressing homelessness. At the same time, Shelters of Saratoga Inc. is preparing to open the first permanent Code Blue shelter on Ballston Avenue, which will operate from November through April.

Lindsey Gonzalez, co-chair of the Saratoga-North Country Continuum of Care (SNC CoC), shared recent statistics on homelessness in the area. In January 2026, there were 348 people in emergency shelters, 9 in temporary housing, and zero unsheltered individuals in Saratoga County. This marked a notable increase compared to 2025, when 196 people were in emergency shelters. Gonzalez noted that the drop in unsheltered individuals was attributed to the presence of both the Adelphi and Code Blue shelters.

Gonzalez also highlighted the growing issue of youth homelessness, defined as individuals aged 24 or younger. From January to August 2026, the SNC CoC recorded 130 youth experiencing homelessness on their own, 190 with adults, and 14 as heads of households. These figures reflect the complex realities faced by young people, including single mothers and older siblings caring for younger children.

The SNC CoC also reported that 406 individuals aged 55 and older experienced homelessness during the same period. Gonzalez emphasized that older adults are the fastest-growing population facing homelessness in the county. She explained that many are becoming homeless later in life due to rising costs and fixed incomes that no longer keep pace with expenses.

The discussion underscored the need for continued support and innovative solutions to address homelessness in Saratoga County. As the Adelphi Street shelter prepares to close and the Code Blue shelter begins operations, community leaders and residents are working together to find ways to care for vulnerable neighbors. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, a call that resonates deeply in the ongoing efforts to provide shelter and support.

Source: Read the original report