This article was writen with AI assistance.
As of the 2024 edition of the State of Homelessness report, South Carolina is grappling with a growing homelessness crisis. In January 2023, approximately 4053 people were living unsheltered on any given night in the state–that is 8 of every 10,000. It should be noted that this number, according to the report, is likely underreported.
The report indicates that 70% of those experiencing homelessness are individuals, while 30% are in families with children. A significant portion of the homeless population is entering the system for the first time, reflecting a national trend where over 970,000 people experienced homelessness for the first time across the U.S. in 2023.
Housing affordability is a critical issue, with many low-income renters in South Carolina spending over 50% of their income on rent, contributing to the risk of homelessness. The state’s homeless response system is underfunded, with a shortage of shelter beds exacerbating the situation.