Carlsbad reports 87% rise in homelessness driven by vehicle living crisis

The City of Carlsbad's Community-Police Engagement Commission meeting on January 27, 2025, spotlighted the growing challenge of homelessness in the area, revealing a staggering 87% increase in unsheltered individuals compared to previous years. This alarming statistic has raised concerns among city officials about the effectiveness of current outreach and support programs.

During the meeting, officials discussed various strategies to track and assist the homeless population, including follow-ups with service providers and the use of a Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). The HMIS helps identify individuals who may have returned to homelessness after initially securing housing. However, officials acknowledged the difficulty in reaching some individuals, leading to gaps in data and support.

A significant focus was placed on the city's proactive "street medicine" program, which aims to provide medical care directly to homeless individuals in their environments. This initiative, in partnership with Whole Person Care Clinic, seeks to reduce reliance on emergency services and improve overall health outcomes. The program allows for direct referrals from the fire department to ensure those in need receive timely medical attention.

Commissioners expressed concern over the high number of police calls related to homelessness, with nearly 7,000 calls recorded, yet only 601 unique individuals identified as experiencing homelessness. This discrepancy raises questions about the nature of these calls and whether they indicate a subpopulation that remains unreachable by services.

The meeting also highlighted the complexities of funding and managing homelessness services, with calls for clearer communication regarding the various funding sources involved. As the city prepares for its annual point-in-time count of homeless individuals, officials emphasized the importance of multiple data points to understand the issue better, rather than relying solely on annual counts that can fluctuate significantly.

In conclusion, the discussions underscored the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address homelessness in Carlsbad, as officials grapple with rising numbers and the challenges of effectively reaching and assisting those in need. The city is committed to refining its approach, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in developing solutions that cater to the diverse needs of the community.