Ecopol Project - Portland State University

Addressing Disparities: A brief look into the demographics of the unsheltered in Portland

                                                 (AP Photo/Paula Bronstein, File)

        Homelessness is a complex issue that is affecting nearly every community across the United States, understanding the demographics of those experiencing homelessness is crucial for effective intervention and support. Data from the 2019 Point-in-Time Count that was conducted and sponsored by the city of Portland, Home Forward, A Home for Everyone, Multnomah County, and the City of Gresham revealed that there are significant disparities among various communities. The count showed that people of color, especially those who identify as American Indian, Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and Black or African American, were overrepresented in the HUD homeless population. 

     However, some communities, like the Latinx community, did not seem to be overrepresented based on the count, yet organizations working in these communities point to cultural and political factors that likely led to significant undercounting in the PIT Count. This underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to accurately capture homelessness within diverse communities. 

  ( Source: 2019 PIT COUNT )

Understanding the racial demographics of homeless folks is paramount for developing effective solutions and allocating resources equitably. This data provides crucial insights into the specific challenges faced by various communities, allowing policymakers and social service organizations to tailor interventions to address the unique needs of diverse populations. Racial data can help in identifying systematic issues that are contributing to the housing crisis and guide the development toward dismantling those barriers. By recognizing these disparities, we can work towards dismantling structural inequalities that disproportionately affect specific racial groups. Furthermore, accurate demographics are crucial in ensuring that marginalized communities can receive the support they need. Without a more nuanced understanding of the racial dynamics of homelessness, there is a risk of implementing a one-size-fits-all approach that will not adequately address the root causes or provide effective assistance to those in need.

I urge you to read the full PIT Count report as there is critical information that further dives into the intersectionalities of race and gender and how marginalized folks are experiencing homelessness in our city. Understanding these complexities is essential for fostering empathy, driving informed discussions, and collectively working toward comprehensive solutions that address the diverse needs of our community.