homelessness

County staff and over 200 volunteers are expected to fan out across Mecklenburg County Thursday to survey residents experiencing homelessness.

The number of people struggling with homelessness continues to rise in Mecklenburg County, according to an annual report released late last week.

Homelessness nationwide rose by about 18% last year, according to federal data released last week, with officials citing the migrant crisis in major cities and the end of pandemic aid as key reasons why.

The burst of new laws follows a landmark Supreme Court ruling and reflects public frustration with record-high homelessness. But advocates say fines and jail time will only make the problem worse.

An apartment complex in southeast Charlotte will soon offer permanent housing to homeless veterans. It may be the first project of its kind in Mecklenburg County.

Over the past few years, the population of homeless people has grown — and become more visible — in Charlotte, and helping to solve the problem won’t be quick, simple or cheap. But local experts say the costs of action should be weighed against the cost of doing nothing.

"We don't want anyone to freeze out in this weather, and that has happened in the past," said Melinda Wilshire of Roof Above men's shelter and day services center.

Mecklenburg County has chosen United Way of Central Carolinas to oversee the development and execution of a long-term plan to reduce and prevent homelessness in the Charlotte area.

Gastonia’s police department is bringing on a person to help those experiencing homelessness when police are involved.

Mecklenburg County and a coalition of businesses and nonprofits have released the first draft of a plan focused on preventing and reducing homelessness in the Charlotte area.