Fullerton is still facing a homelessness crisis, with estimates indicating that between 300 and 400 individuals are without stable housing. This issue is part of a larger trend in Orange County, which has approximately 7,300 homeless individuals. As the 2025 Point-In-Time Count approaches, there is a recognized need to implement effective strategies to address this crisis, particularly by establishing low-barrier shelters and affordable housing.
In Fullerton, it is reported that around half of those experiencing homelessness are unsheltered, living in cars or on the streets. This suggests a critical lack of accessible services for this population. Low-barrier shelters are proposed as essential resources that provide immediate relief without requiring sobriety or extensive documentation, thereby reducing barriers to seeking assistance.
Demographic trends indicate an increase in the number of older adults (ages 50 and above) within the homeless population, representing the fastest-growing group. Additionally, there is a significant presence of single adults (ages 25 and older) and youth/young adults (ages 13 to 24) experiencing homelessness. The average age of homeless individuals has risen, pointing to an aging population that encounters economic and health challenges contributing to housing instability…