Unhoused Living with Serious Mental Health Challanges in Alameda Co.
Roughly 15,000 unhoused in Alameda County
32% of unhoused living with a serious mental health illness
3,840 unsheltered homeless in Alameda County
People of color are overrepresented among those experiencing homelessness in Alameda County.
47% of those experiencing homelessness identify as Black/African American compared to 11% of the county’s overall population.
The need for affordable housing for individuals with severe mental health challenges continues to increase due to a housing crisis that significantly affects this vulnerable population
In the Bay Area, fair market rents for one-bedroom apartments grew by 71% between 2013 - 2015.
Households living on fixed incomes face the most significant challenges in maintaining a home in this environment.
In 2024, a monthly SSI payment for disabled individuals covered less than half the monthly rent of a one-bedroom apartment in Alameda Co.
Alameda County experienced significant declines in the number of affordable rooms in facilities frequently used by low-income individuals with serious mental health challenges
Between 2004 and 2014, Oakland experienced a 55% decline in the number of available residential hotel units.
Fifty independent living facilities used by people living with serious mental health challenges had been sold or closed during that time, displacing an estimated 500 residents.
Alameda County lost 80 licensed board and care homes representing 1,600 beds
“I’ve seen people put out when they’re at their most vulnerable.”