San Francisco's Homeless Crisis: Shelters Rejected, Rents Soar

According to data released by San Francisco's Department of Emergency Management, 54% of the city's homeless population, or 1,278 people, have refused offers for shelter services. Additionally, 153 individuals who had some form of shelter or housing were still living in encampments. The city is facing criticism for its handling of the homeless population, with residents complaining about warming fires set by homeless individuals. Mayor London Breed acknowledged the challenges faced by outreach teams and the limitations in forcing people to accept shelter. San Francisco is currently under a federal injunction that prevents the city from enforcing laws against camping, sitting, or sleeping in public spaces as long as there are more homeless individuals than available shelter beds. The mayor stated that the city will continue expanding shelter services.