Florida Ranks Among The Worst States For Providing Help To The Homeless, Per Recent Study

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From writing articles about homelessness in Florida, I've come to believe that this is an issue about which many Floridians are concerned. I've written articles about homeless individuals seeking refuge in Florida's airports, the growing trend of baby boomers becoming homeless, and how Florida is one of the three states with the largest increase in homelessness. And now, a new study asserts that Florida is one of the worst states for helping the homeless.

About The Study And What It Measured: The website SmileHub recently ranked what it felt were the states that "help homeless people the most." In order to do so, the site looked at metrics like shelters and housing support, homeless youth support, and food and health support.

How Did Florida Fare?: Florida ranked 43rd, coming only before Nevada, North Carolina, Alabama, Arizona, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. Florida got its lowest ranking for shelter and housing support.

Statistics About Homelessness In Florida: According to the Florida Coalition to End Homelessness, there are around 31,462 homeless individuals in Florida on any given night. 27% of people experiencing homelessness in Florida are 55 and older and 6.9% are veterans.

What Does Florida Do To Address Homelessness?: Beginning on October 1, 2024, HB 1365 will ban homeless individuals from camping or sleeping on public property. Part of this bill requires that shelters include substance abuse and mental health treatments. As part of the bill, the state has directed the Florida Department of Children and Families to authorize temporary campsites and maintain clean and operable restrooms and running water.