Local cities report 21% drop in homelessness

Homelessness declined by 21% across Southeast Los Angeles County between 2024 and 2025, according to newly released data from the Gateway Cities Council of Governments.

The figures, based on annual homeless counts conducted by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, show the number of people experiencing homelessness in the Gateway Cities region fell from 6,282 in 2024 to 4,964 in 2025, a decrease of 1,318 individuals.

Gateway Cities officials credited the reduction to a coordinated regional strategy that combines street outreach, shelter access, housing navigation, mental health services and employment assistance.

“These strong outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of Gateway Cities’ balanced strategy integrating street outreach, shelter access, housing navigation, mental health services, and training/employment assistance,” said Frank Garcia, president of the Gateway Cities Board of Directors and a Maywood city councilmember.

“By working collaboratively and creatively, we help individuals transition from homelessness toward stability and self-sufficiency.”

Additional findings from the 2025 homeless count showed improvements among several vulnerable populations. The number of transitional-aged youth, including former foster youth experiencing homelessness, declined by 52 individuals.

The region also recorded 45 fewer homeless individuals experiencing mental health challenges and 471 fewer individuals identified as substance users.

Gateway Cities reported that its housing, outreach, shelter and employment programs served 950 unduplicated individuals experiencing homelessness between January 2025 and April 2026.

Of those served, 179 people were successfully placed into permanent housing and secured lease agreements, while 530 individuals entered shelter programs. Another 74 participants obtained employment through the agency’s Home-to-Employment Program.

Gateway Cities officials said the results underscore the importance of regional collaboration in addressing homelessness and helping people move toward long-term stability.

The homelessness figures include both sheltered and unsheltered individuals, as well as people living in vehicles, tents and makeshift dwellings. Data from Long Beach and Montebello were not included in the analysis.

The Gateway Cities Council of Governments is a joint powers authority representing 27 cities and 11 unincorporated communities in Southeast Los Angeles County.

The organization serves more than 2 million residents and works with member jurisdictions on issues including transportation, housing and homelessness, economic development, environmental initiatives, and health and wellness.