More than 250 volunteers roamed the streets of Boston overnight, canvassing neighborhoods, transit hubs, and parks to document the city’s homeless population. Led by Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon, the 45th annual homelessness census kicked off at midnight on Thursday, with volunteers engaging with people sleeping on the streets, providing safety information, and distributing items to help keep them warm. This annual event is not merely a headcount; it serves as a critical tool in understanding the challenges faced by Boston’s most vulnerable residents and shaping strategies to address their needs.
Anticipated results from the 2025 census are expected to reveal a rise in homelessness, following a national trend that saw a 10.6 percent increase in Boston from 5,202 individuals in 2023 to 5,756 in 2024. While this uptick marks a setback after years of progress in reducing homelessness, it is important to note that the 2024 numbers were still 11.3 percent lower than the city’s peak in 2015 when 6,492 individuals were experiencing homelessness. Nationally, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported an 18 percent increase in homelessness in 2024, with more than 770,000 individuals affected.
Reflecting on the significance of the annual census, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized its role in evaluating the needs of the city’s unsheltered population and connecting individuals with necessary services. As the city grapples with the rising homelessness crisis, the data collected from this initiative is crucial in guiding urgent and compassionate action to ensure that Boston remains a city for everyone.
Volunteers Making a Difference in Boston
Among the volunteers participating in this year’s homeless census was Beckie Tachick, a nurse from the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, and Jim Greene, Assistant Director for Street Homelessness Initiatives in the Mayor’s Office of Housing. These dedicated individuals, along with countless others, braved the late-night hours to engage with unhoused individuals, offering not just a headcount but a human touch in their interactions.
Implications of Rising Homelessness
The increase in homelessness observed in Boston and across the country underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address this crisis. While the annual census provides valuable data for policymakers and service providers, it also highlights the human toll of homelessness and the importance of supporting vulnerable populations. As cities like Boston navigate the complexities of homelessness, it is essential to recognize the interconnected social, economic, and health factors that contribute to this issue.
As the results of the 2025 homelessness census are analyzed in the coming months, they will offer valuable insights into the current state of homelessness in Boston and inform future strategies to combat this pressing challenge. By coming together as a community to address the root causes of homelessness and support those in need, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive city for all residents.
