New Mexico has a big problem with homelessness. In 2019, it had 3,200 homeless people, the highest increase in the country, according to the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.
Most of these homeless people are in Albuquerque, the biggest city in the state. In fact, nearly half a percent of the city’s population lives on the streets or in shelters, which is more than twice the national average.
The Causes of Homelessness in Albuquerque
Homelessness happens for various reasons, involving both personal and structural factors. Some common causes are not having affordable housing, unemployment, poverty, low wages, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and discrimination.
Different groups, like single adults, families, veterans, youth, and those who are homeless for a long time, are impacted differently.
In Albuquerque, specific factors contribute to high homelessness rates:
1. There’s not enough affordable housing, especially for low-income households. Rent is high at $1,050, above the national average, and the vacancy rate is only 4.5%, meaning there’s more demand than supply.
2. Albuquerque’s unemployment rate is low at 4.8%, but the poverty rate is high at 18.7%, and the median household income is lower than the national average.
3. A 2018 study found that 42% of homeless individuals in the city had a mental health condition, and 38% had a substance use disorder. Homeless people’s hospitalization costs were $2,414 more on average than those who aren’t homeless.
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How is Albuquerque Handling Homelessness?
Albuquerque is actively working to solve its homelessness issue with different programs and initiatives. Here are a few examples:
1. Albuquerque Heading Home Initiative: Launched in 2011, this program provides permanent housing to the most vulnerable and chronically homeless individuals in the city. They identify these individuals through a survey and have housed over 800 people since the program started.
2. Albuquerque Homeless Coordinated Assessment System: Started in 2014, this program helps prevent homelessness by offering a centralized intake and assessment process. It quickly refers people to the most suitable housing and services based on their needs. So far, it has assisted over 10,000 individuals.
3. Albuquerque Homeless Advisory Council: Established in 2013, this collaboration involves representatives from different sectors, including government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based groups, businesses, and homeless individuals. The council plays a crucial role in developing and implementing the city’s plan to end homelessness.
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A Few Facts About New Mexico’s Homelessness Issue
Here are some points about the homelessness issue in New Mexico:
1. Nearly half a percent of people in Albuquerque are homeless, which is more than double the national average.
2. The average rent in New Mexico is $1,050, higher than the national average of $1,023. There’s a shortage of housing with only a 4.5% vacancy rate.
3. The poverty rate in New Mexico is 18.7%, higher than the national average of 12.3%. The average household income is $51,099, lower than the national average of $62,843.
4. In 2018, the cost of homelessness in New Mexico was about $86.7 million. This included $52.9 million for emergency shelter and transitional housing, $13.4 million for supportive housing, $9.5 million for healthcare, $7.9 million for criminal justice, and $3 million for other services.
5. In 2023, the state has committed $84 million to address homelessness and improve affordable housing. Albuquerque is also constructing a new $30 million shelter and adopting a housing-first approach.
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Conclusion
Homelessness is a big issue in New Mexico, especially in Albuquerque. It affects many people and the city as a whole. There are various reasons why people become homeless, and it has negative effects on individuals and the community.
Solving homelessness requires well-planned solutions, like providing housing first, preventing homelessness, and coordinating efforts. Albuquerque acknowledges the issue and has initiatives based on these approaches.
While the city is working on the problem, there’s still work to be done. It’s essential to support and expand existing efforts and explore new ideas to ensure everyone in Albuquerque has a home.
