Reflecting on a year since the launch of PHX350, it's evident the program has had a substantial impact on the lives of unhoused young adults in Maricopa County. ABC15 reported on the journey of Alexus and her boyfriend Angel, who found solace in the security the program offers. Angel expressed relief in knowing that, "When you’re on the streets, there’s always that idea of 'where is she,' the security aspect like we’re not always safe,” reflecting the precarious nature of street life. PHX350, backed by a $2 million grant from the Department of Housing to the Valley of the Sun YMCA, aims to provide a temporary home and job opportunities to young adults in need.
Despite the program's progress, the struggles continue. While PHX350 is aiding individuals like Alexus and Angel, the broader landscape reveals a persistent challenge. The latest Point in Time count shows a change in the dynamics of homelessness in Maricopa County. A steady number of 9,435 people were encountered this year, a slight dip from last year's 9,642. The percentage of those in transitional housing or emergency shelters rose to 57% in 2022, from 49% in 2023. Articulated by Mayor Kate Gallego, the Mayor noted, "Although the number of those living unsheltered in our community is still too high, and we certainly have more work to do to get people into permanent, stable housing, it’s reassuring to know that we are making steady progress getting residents off the streets and into safer situations.”
PHX350 represents just one piece of a broader strategy to address homelessness, one that is increasingly finding traction. The Department of Housing’s investment in the program signifies a recognition of the need for comprehensive solutions that span temporary to more permanent forms of assistance. According to Artemisa Martinez, the Executive Director of PHX350, "There are gaps of service for that age range," underscoring the specific needs of young adults that programs like PHX350 aim to fill.
The redoubled efforts of the city in handling homelessness are yielding results, with a 19% decrease in unsheltered individuals in Phoenix, dropping from 3,333 in 2023 to 2,701 in 2024. Meanwhile, the sheltered population saw a 15% increase, from 3,569 to 4,115. Rachel Milne, the City of Phoenix's Homeless Solutions Director, captured this sentiment saying, "While we know shelter alone does not solve homelessness, it is a crucial first step for many people to connect with the right resources and support to end their homelessness.” This data suggests that while challenges remain, efforts and funds directed toward housing and support services are making a tangible difference.
