LAHSA Addresses RAND Research on Declining Homelessness Counts

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has responded to comments made by RAND scientist Louis Abramson regarding the upcoming 2025 Homeless Count. In an article titled “LAHSA’s Homeless Count Undercounts the Most Vulnerable,” published on October 21, Abramson highlighted critical points that merit discussion while emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of the Homeless Count within the broader context of homelessness in Los Angeles.

LAHSA oversees the Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, which encompasses over 3,000 census tracts across Los Angeles County. The methodology used for this count has been approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ensuring that it aligns with national standards. This consistency is crucial for tracking trends and changes over time.

Despite the concerns raised, both LAHSA and RAND’s findings indicate a significant trend: homelessness in Los Angeles County is on the decline. According to LAHSA, while the Homeless Count serves as a standardized measuring tool, it should not be seen as the definitive source of information.

Instead, LAHSA points to its Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) as the primary resource for effective systems planning. The HMIS collects real-time data on individuals’ situations and service needs throughout the year. This continuous data gathering allows LAHSA to monitor specific needs and make informed adjustments to service delivery, even when funding is limited. The data collected is made available to funders and can influence funding decisions.

In his commentary, Abramson’s analysis provides an opportunity for critical engagement and comparison of findings. LAHSA encourages collaboration and invites RAND’s experts to participate in future counts, similar to the involvement of other organizations. Furthermore, LAHSA plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for technical partners for the 2027-2029 period, seeking expertise that can enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of future counts.

Paul Rubenstein, Deputy Chief of External Relations at LAHSA, expressed a commitment to transparency and collaboration in addressing homelessness. He noted that utilizing comprehensive data is essential for making informed decisions and improving service delivery.

The dialogue between LAHSA and RAND illustrates the importance of ongoing research and analysis in addressing the complexities of homelessness in Los Angeles. By leveraging various data sources and engaging with experts, LAHSA aims to continue its efforts in reducing homelessness and effectively serving the community.