HONOLULU (KHON2) — Oahu’s 2024 Point In Time (PIT) count increased by 11.6% from the year prior. Officials are looking at housing as a major solution.
Governor Josh Green and Mayor Honolulu Rick Blangiardi spoke alongside city and state partners to discuss the state’s response to homelessness on Wednesday, May 15. In 2024, the PIT found 4,494 homeless individuals compared to 4,028 in 2023.
“This number is statistically flat for where we were pre-COVID. That in and of itself is a win,” stated Mayor Blangiardi.
According to officials, the state’s basic approach is to provide as many beds as possible for those in need through Kauhale. Governor Green said the state expects to build 25 Kauhale for a total of 1,400 to 1,700 units by December 31, 2025. It would help save the state about $485 million by 2033, per Governor Green.
“Monthly health care costs for an individual who’s on the street is $8,192. Their cost drop $6,000 per month as soon as they get into some form of housing,” stated Governor Green.
The governor’s office, in partnership with Mayor Blangiardi, also lobbied and succeeded in convincing the legislature to “do what is the largest tax cut in the history of the state of Hawaii,” per Governor Green. Working families making $88,000 or less will have an average of about $4,000 more in their bank accounts every year.
“That’s the difference between having a month or two buffer when things are tough,” said Governor Green.
Officials are continuing to build and fund programs for those experiencing homelessness including transitional job training, detox and mental health centers, and more.
“We have a specific process for that person to help take away the layers of trauma that homelessness created for them. When they exit this program, their chances of being successful in housing is much greater,” said Anton Krucky, Honolulu Dept. of Community Services Director.