New report from UCSF: Toward Equity: Latine Experiences of Homelessness
Over the past ten years, the number of Latine individuals and families experiencing homelessness has risen sharply in the United States. California has seen a similar trend. Yet their experiences are often overlooked in policy, data, and service design.
The UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative released a new report examining their experiences:
Toward Equity: Latine Experiences of Homelessness.
Drawing from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH), this report explores how anti-Latine racism, a shortage of affordable housing, and exclusion from key safety net programs contribute to homelessness among Latine Californians—and what can change that.
Key findings:
- 35% of California's homeless population identifies as Latine.
- 52% entered homelessness from informal housing (doubled up, no lease)—70% among those born outside the U.S.
- 60% named lacking documents (ID, proof of income, etc.) as a major barrier to housing.
- 79% were unsheltered; 33% had minor children not staying with them.
- 1 in 3 had minor children not with them; 24% were separated due to homelessness.
- Nearly all (93%) lost their last housing in California, and most (78%) were still in the same county where they lost housing.
What’s needed?
- Expand affordable and stable housing options accessible to Latine Californians.
- Ensure equitable access to homelessness prevention and response programs by removing enrollment and eligibility barriers.
- Invest in culturally and linguistically responsive services, including those delivered by Latine-led and community-based organizations.
- Remove administrative, legal, and policy barriers that block Latine Californians from vital supports, including key safety net programs.
- Invest in family-centered services that support reunification and prevent unnecessary separation of Latine families due to homelessness.
You can Read the report here.