Study Shows Florida Failing in Homeless Support – Among the Worst in the Nation

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Homelessness in Florida isn’t exactly a fresh topic—it’s been a pressing issue for years, and it’s only becoming more visible. From people seeking refuge at airports to the growing number of homeless baby boomers, the situation is unfolding right before our eyes in the Sunshine State. And if you think that’s bad, a recent study might just make you realize how far Florida still has to go in supporting its homeless population.

So, how does Florida stack up against other states when it comes to supporting its homeless community? Well, according to a study by SmileHub—a website that digs into various social issues—the answer is: not great. In fact, out of all 50 states, Florida ranked 43rd. That’s right, only Nevada, North Carolina, Alabama, Arizona, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee scored worse. It’s not exactly a trophy we’d want to bring home, is it?

Let’s break down some numbers to understand just how severe the homelessness problem is in Florida. The Florida Coalition to End Homelessness estimates that on any given night, about 31,462 individuals are without a home. And this isn’t just a “young person” problem. A staggering 27% of these individuals are 55 years and older, showing that even older adults are struggling to find stable housing.

And it gets more disheartening: 6.9% of Florida's homeless population are veterans. Yes, these are people who’ve served our country, and now they’re left without a place to call home. It’s clear that homelessness doesn’t discriminate—it affects people from every corner of society, including those who’ve dedicated their lives to serving others.

Recognizing that something needs to be done, Florida is taking steps to address the issue. One of the biggest moves is the introduction of HB 1365, a law set to take effect on October 1, 2024. This law will ban homeless individuals from camping or sleeping on public property, but it’s more than just a simple "no camping" rule.

For one, the bill mandates that shelters offer substance abuse and mental health treatments, which is a big step since many people experiencing homelessness also face challenges with addiction and mental health issues. Moreover, the Florida Department of Children and Families is working to set up temporary campsites equipped with clean restrooms and running water. It’s not a perfect solution, but it’s a start.

Now, let’s talk about the area where Florida’s really falling short: shelter and housing support. This was the state’s lowest-ranking category in the SmileHub study, suggesting that even though there’s some effort to tackle homelessness, there’s still a major gap in providing adequate shelter and long-term housing solutions for those who need them the most.

Is This Enough to Make a Difference?

With all these efforts in play, it begs the question: Are we really doing enough? Sure, providing shelters, mental health treatments, and substance abuse programs is essential. But addressing the root causes—like the lack of affordable housing and the need for better mental health support—requires much more than just quick fixes.

Florida’s low ranking in the recent study makes one thing clear: there’s still a long road ahead. So, the question that hangs in the air is, will these efforts be enough to truly make a difference? Or will Florida continue to struggle in supporting its homeless population?

Where Do We Go from Here?

Homelessness is a complex issue that can’t be solved overnight. While it’s encouraging to see Florida taking steps, it’s also obvious that more needs to be done. Tackling this crisis means more than just setting up temporary campsites or passing laws; it requires a deeper, more comprehensive approach to provide the help that our homeless population desperately needs.