Homeless Student Crisis in Monterey County: A 16% Surge Exposes Urgent Need for Affordable Housing

Monterey County Faces Housing Crisis as Homeless Student Population Soars Monterey County, CA – A recent report reveals a sharp increase in the number of homeless students in Monterey County, underscoring the critical need for affordable housing in the region. The California Department of Education released data in October 2024, showing a staggering 16% rise in the number of K-12 students experiencing homelessness compared to the previous school year. This brings the total to a concerning 13,500 students, representing approximately 18% of the county's total student population. The Monterey County Office of Education attributes this alarming trend primarily to the lack of affordable housing options. Dr. Deneen Guss, the County's Schools Superintendent, stated, "We're seeing school districts like MPUSD creating parking programs for families living in cars, providing a safe place to park and access basic necessities like showers and laundry facilities." This initiative, while helpful, only addresses a small part of the larger problem. The situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the housing crisis and its impact on the educational well-being of vulnerable students. The county is actively seeking ways to increase affordable housing options and support services for families in need.