An alarming statewide trend when it comes to homelessness in New York state is now detailed in a new report by the Comptroller’s Office.

The report reveals that homelessness has recently doubled, including in Westchester County and other parts of the Hudson Valley. (https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/reports/pdf/new-yorkers-in-need-homelessness-nys.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery)

It also says that homelessness has increased in New York between 2022 to 2024 by more than 53%, which it claims is more than four times the rest of the nation.

Westchester saw one of the largest spikes outside of New York City and so did Poughkeepsie, in Dutchess County.

Advocates with “Safe Options Support” are among multiple agencies statewide that are aiming to help people find housing and receive other services, such as substance abuse or mental health treatment.

“I have a robust team, clinicians, peer supporters and case managers, involved with this effort so we can find a way to engage these individuals and hopefully get them out of the cold and into housing,” says Evan Wilson, Safe Options Support Team director.

The nonprofit partnered with police in the City of Middletown on Thursday to help by offering resources and services at shelters and other places where those experiencing homelessness are known to go, as part of a nationwide effort called a “shelter point-in-time count,” led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

During the effort, representatives also obtained data on the number of people experiencing homelessness in the area.

Advocates tell News 12 the rise in homelessness is due to a number of factors, including the increased cost of rent and groceries, creating more “working homeless” – people who have jobs but can’t afford the cost of living.

They say the crisis is especially concerning during the winter months.

“We are finding an influx no matter the time of year,” says Wilson. “It’s getting more rampant, and individuals are unsheltered for many factors. We try to combat that by meeting them where they are and pointing them toward the direction that they’re going to get the help they need.”

The comptroller’s report cites several other reasons for the spike in homelessness, including an influx in asylum seekers and the end of eviction freezes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in the Hudson Valley help is available by calling HONOR at 845-343-7115 or emailing them at sosinfo@HONORehg.org. More information on their programs can be found at www.honorhelpingothers.org.

Assistance nationwide is also available through HUD by dialing 211 or visiting https://www.usa.gov/emergency-housing.