Recently, Los Angeles’ Skid Row has become the symbol of a deepening US housing crisis. Tucked away downtown, this rough patch – crammed with tents and makeshift shacks – is home to one of the largest unhoused communities in the country.
According to a 2024 report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the unhoused population in the US jumped by 18.1% last year, topping 770,000 for the first time since records began in 2007. That’s over three-quarters of a million people without a safe place to sleep.
In response, many US cities have taken a hard line. In August 2025, Washington, D.C., ordered the removal of street encampments. Today, dozens of states and municipalities ban sleeping outdoors, punishable by fines or even jail time. 🚫🏕️
But clearing out tents doesn’t solve the root issues. Experts warn that up to two-thirds of unhoused individuals face mental health challenges or substance struggles. Forced displacement can strip away vital support networks and make recovery even harder.
During a recent field visit, reporters spoke with several residents of Skid Row and staff from local NGOs. Their stories highlight everyday hurdles: finding clean water, accessing medical care, or simply feeling seen. It’s a reminder that home is more than a roof – it’s safety, dignity, and community.
While LA wrestles with this crisis, the tension echoes from Manila’s morning commute to Mumbai’s crowded lanes and Jakarta’s booming skyline. Many of us know the squeeze of skyrocketing rents and long waiting lists. LA’s story is a wake-up call: without bold policy shifts and compassionate support, the dream of a stable home slips further away. 🌏✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
