The homeless population in Los Angeles County has seen a concerning rise, increasing by 9% overall and 10% within the city of Los Angeles. This surge comes despite significant financial investments aimed at addressing the issue and providing housing for those living on the streets. A January point-in-time count conducted by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority revealed a stark reality: approximately 75,518 individuals were experiencing homelessness countywide, with 46,260 within the city itself. These numbers represent a substantial increase from the previous year's figures of 69,144 and 41,980, respectively. Local officials expressed disappointment at the findings, emphasizing the frustration of witnessing a rise in homelessness despite substantial resource allocation. The persistent increase in homelessness has been a long-standing challenge for the region, prompting concerns from residents and businesses alike. The expansion of encampments and associated quality-of-life issues continue to be pressing matters for elected officials. The January count involved volunteers canvassing Los Angeles County to assess the number of individuals residing in tents, vehicles, and makeshift shelters. This year's count reflects a continuation of a concerning trend. The 2022 count showed 41,980 unhoused individuals in Los Angeles, a slight increase from 2020, while the countywide figure reached 69,144, also marking an upward trend. Leaders have expressed their disappointment at the persistent issue, having dedicated substantial funds to address the homeless crisis. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has highlighted the City Council's approval of $7.8 million for in-patient substance abuse treatment, emphasizing the crucial link between addressing addiction and mental health challenges and effectively combating homelessness. In April, Mayor Bass pledged to recommend a record $1.3 billion in spending for the following year to provide shelter and treatment programs for those experiencing homelessness. The escalating homeless population underscores the complexity of the issue and the need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to address its root causes.