Orange County
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Homelessness

Key Metric

Homeless Population
5,718

Chronic and recurring homelessness create unique challenges for the community to engage and offer support.

Many factors contribute to individuals or families experiencing homelessness. Whether due to fragile socio-economic conditions or more acute issues like mental illness or substance abuse, there is no one-size-fits-all experience of homelessness. Chronically homeless individuals are often trapped in cycles of substance abuse and may face severe mental health challenges that create barriers to personal stability and growth. Conversely, many people experiencing recurring homelessness move in and out of consistent and safe shelter due to job loss, income disruption, or unexpected expenses.

The broader community context also plays a crucial role. When adequate housing is unavailable, rising rents can turn once-stable homes into financial burdens that push individuals or families into homelessness. Supporting and caring for a city’s most vulnerable residents ultimately enhances the well-being of the entire community.


By The Numbers

Helpful insight into some of the factors that affect the key metric and have an impact on this reality.

People Experiencing Homeless for Every 1,000,000 people
Sheltered Per Capita
Unsheltered Per Capita
Total Homeless Per Capita
Beds to People
People to Shelter Beds Ratio
People to Permanent Housing Beds Ratio
Chronic Homelessness
Percent chronically homeless
Recurring Homelessness
Percent returns in 24 months

Stories and Local Context

Listen to and learn from the stories of people, churches and/or organizations experiencing or engaging this reality first hand.

Scripture Reflection

Scriptures we’ve collected to help you consider this reality through the lens of Christianity.

Isaiah 58:7

Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.

Prayer Topics

Suggestions to help you connect this reality to your prayers.

Pray for those without shelter

Pray for safety, opportunity and hope for those experiencing homelessness. Pray that they would seek and find opportunities for help. Pray for their health, for food and shelter.

Get Involved

Links to Books, Resources, Organizations and/or Opportunities that are engaging this topic well.