At Community Action Services and Food Bank, we see the realities of poverty and homelessness in Utah County every day. These issues are complex and often misunderstood. To help shed light on the growing crisis, we’ve gathered some of the most common questions we hear, along with insights and resources that can guide us toward solutions.
Why is homelessness rising in Utah County?
Homelessness is not the result of a single issue. It’s a combination of challenges. A shortage of affordable housing, rising rent prices, wages that don’t match the cost of living, and limited access to healthcare and mental health services are all contributing factors.
Seniors are among the most vulnerable. In fact, across Utah, homelessness among adults age 65+ rose 42% from 2024 to 2025.
Who experiences homelessness in our community?
Homelessness doesn’t affect just one group. In Utah County, it includes:
- Families with children
- Seniors on fixed incomes
- Veterans
- Individuals facing medical debt or mental health struggles
- People working full-time jobs who still cannot afford rent
- Individuals/families fleeing domestic violence.
- Individuals experiencing addiction
What resources are available for people experiencing homelessness?
A variety of organizations provide resources for those in our community experiencing homelessness: CASFB, Food & Care Coalition, The Genesis Project, United Way, and many others work together to provide meals, shelter, case management, job training, and housing assistance. The Refuge specifically supports those who are homeless due to domestic violence.
But the truth is, the demand for help far outweighs the resources currently available. That’s where the community plays a vital role.
How can I make an impact?
- Volunteer: Offer your time to volunteer at our warming centers this winter season.
- Donate: Financially support organizations that provide housing assistance, addiction recovery, mental health support, and employment training.
- Provide essentials: During the winter season, the winter task force partnership will begin the warming centers from November to April. You can donate essentials like socks, blankets, and personal hygiene products to help those experiencing homelessness.
- Connect individuals with resources: Inform people experiencing homelessness about available services.
- Contact your elected officials: Advocate for policies and funding that support affordable housing, job training, addiction recovery and mental health services.
- Educate yourself and others: Learn about the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness, such as lack of affordable housing, mental health care and substance abuse treatment.
- Share your story: Personal experiences with the housing crisis or stories of those affected can be powerful in raising awareness and fostering empathy.
- Participate in campaigns and events: Lend your voice to local or statewide campaigns aimed at increasing affordable housing and support services.
By actively engaging in these ways, individuals can contribute meaningfully to the movement of affordable housing and supportive services in Utah county and help create a more equitable and stable housing landscape for all residents.
