Tulsa reports increased homelessness among youth and those with disabilities

The Tulsa Council Public Works Committee meeting on June 25, 2025, focused on the rising numbers of homelessness in the city, particularly among youth and individuals with chronic conditions. The discussion highlighted the complexities of counting homeless individuals, which includes both sheltered and unsheltered populations.

Committee members clarified that the recent count reflects only those identified this year, emphasizing that it encompasses various living situations, including encampments and individuals in temporary housing. The count is conducted during the day to avoid disturbing those who may be sleeping at night, which may lead to underreporting of individuals in less visible situations, such as those living in cars or "couch surfing."

Significant increases were noted in the statistics, with an 18% rise in youth homelessness and an 11% increase in overall shelter use, attributed mainly to emergency shelters rather than an expansion of shelter capacity. Additionally, a concerning 19% increase in chronic homelessness was reported, particularly among individuals who have been homeless for over a year and are now facing disabilities. The meeting revealed that 55% of those surveyed reported having a disabling condition, which complicates their path to stable housing.

The committee acknowledged the lengthy wait times for housing assistance, with an average of over 200 days from application to placement. This delay contributes to the ongoing challenges faced by the homeless population in Tulsa, underscoring the need for more effective solutions and resources to address the growing crisis.