At least 63,706 people are currently homeless in Los Angeles County. That’s according to a count by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) where they noticed a 20% increase in homelessness compared to 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic has only brought more challenges, with housing affordability and decreased capacity in shelters further contributing to encampments throughout the city.
Sheltersuit is looking forward to producing and distributing 530 Shelterbags in partnership with local organisations. This is a portable sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and pillow that rolls up into a bag. It’s been specially designed for people living on the street and helps ease some of the symptoms of homelessness.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made homelessness far more prominent and visible. At the onset of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that people living outdoors should be sheltered in one place because forcing them to relocate could lead to disease spread. They also advised shelters to decrease their capacity by 50% to ensure social distancing among residents. This resulted in massive street encampments that have spread from skid row to almost all parts of Los Angeles.