Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Homelessness Surges, Yet Shelter Use Plummets Nationwide

4/19/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

In Ithaca, New York, the "Code Blue" homeless shelter program saw a surprising drop in users this year, even as homelessness surged, due to shifts in management and available facilities. Meanwhile, Portland, Oregon, faces a troubling decline in permanent housing placements from shelters, hampered by dwindling rental assistance funds amid an escalating homelessness crisis.

1 of 1

Story summary

In Ithaca, New York, the "Code Blue" homeless shelter program saw a surprising drop in users this year, even as homelessness surged, due to shifts in management and available facilities. Meanwhile, Portland, Oregon, faces a troubling decline in permanent housing placements from shelters, hampered by dwindling rental assistance funds amid an escalating homelessness crisis.