Students in the social work program at the University of Oklahoma recently participated in an assignment where they composed letters focusing on challenges affecting residents across the state. One prominent issue highlighted was the escalating homelessness situation.
Addressing Core Issues Through Legislation
One student emphasized the need for Oklahoma to intensify efforts to tackle homelessness with empathy-driven solutions rather than punitive measures. The letter argues that homelessness leads to public health risks and community strain, often prompting poorly conceived policies. A key factor is the lack of affordable housing and wages insufficient to cover rent, leading to evictions and worsening the crisis. Shelters are described as over capacity and under-resourced.
Data from the National Alliance to End Homelessness indicates 10,220 Oklahomans entered homelessness in 2024, with 5,467 experiencing it on any given night—a 44.7% rise from 2015 to 2024.
The student urges legislators to oppose Senate Bill 1205, the Oklahoma Safe Neighborhoods Act of 2026, and instead create legislation targeting root causes. Proposed measures include funding for more shelter beds, increased shelter support, and long-term reduction strategies.
― Jordan Scott, Sayre
Systemic Inequities and Policy Critique
Another letter criticizes the state's approach, stating that criminalizing homelessness is unacceptable given systemic economic disparities and class conflicts. It notes that economic inequity, defined as unfair resource access based on marginalized identities, exacerbates homelessness, particularly in minority communities.
Oklahoma's poverty rate is 14.9% as of 2024, ranking it eighth poorest nationally, with many residents financially precarious. The letter accuses the upper class of framing inequity as a lack of ambition, diverting blame from wealth holders.
It warns against SB 1205, which allows property owners to claim compensation for damages related to public camping or panhandling if cities don't enforce bans, potentially leading to more arrests. The writer encourages public advocacy and awareness.
— Emme K. Love
Calls for Practical Solutions and Housing Programs
A third contributor stresses the urgency of addressing homelessness, criticizing societal indifference and individualistic culture. The letter advocates for real policy changes and funded programs instead of merely clearing encampments.
It promotes housing-first models, which provide permanent housing without preconditions like employment or sobriety, arguing stable housing is essential for self-sufficiency. Studies show 75-91% of households remain housed a year after such programs.
The writer notes the catch-22 where housing is needed for a job, and a job for housing, highlighting how stable housing can jumpstart progress.
― Blake Shockley, Tulsa
Economic and Health Impacts of Wage Stagnation
Another letter links homelessness to Oklahoma's $7.25 minimum wage, unchanged since 2009, while rents have surged 60%. It cites that 93 hours of weekly work at this wage are needed to afford a one-bedroom apartment.
Based on experience with homeless youth, the writer observes that housing affordability has drastically declined over a decade. A policy analysis forecasts that raising the wage to $15 hourly could prevent 400 deaths annually, including 240 infant deaths, and 6,000 emergency room visits, saving $6.3 billion in social benefits and $5 million in healthcare costs.
The letter urges a "yes" vote on State Question 832, the $15 minimum wage initiative on June 16, 2026.
― Hanna Tacha, MSW student, OU Tulsa
Youth Homelessness and Systemic Failures
A student highlights a 61% increase in homeless youth from 2021 to 2024, with over 85% "doubled up," often ineligible for aid. Limited housing options force children into precarious situations, correlating with higher recidivism and detention costs of $390 daily per youth.
The letter argues for reallocating funds from youth arrests to housing and education, emphasizing prevention and policy changes to reduce barriers.
― Gretchen Bush, Oklahoma City
Eviction Prevention and Housing Stability
As a case manager, another writer notes that nearly half of U.S. renters are rent-burdened, spending over 30% of income on housing. Unexpected expenses can jeopardize stability, affecting health and well-being.
The letter calls for stronger eviction prevention, including rental assistance and case management, plus policies ensuring full-time workers can afford housing. It frames housing as a foundation for safety and dignity.
— Vanayshia Gordon, Broken Arrow
Foster Care and Homelessness Link
A contributor points out that 43% of 19-year-olds and 56% of 21-year-olds experience homelessness after foster care, straining shelters and the economy. Only 20 of Oklahoma's 77 counties have emergency youth shelters, leading to long stays.
The letter suggests redirecting funds from projects like a $4.3 million arch to temporary housing and volunteer programs.
— Grace A. Kelly
Critique of Criminalization and Alternative Approaches
Referencing a January 23, 2025, Point-In-Time count in Oklahoma City, a letter notes 1,882 homeless individuals, a 2.4% increase from 2024, with disproportionate impacts on Black individuals and those with mental health or substance issues.
It criticizes Operation SAFE, which removes encampments, as inhumane and contradictory to Governor Kevin Stitt's stated goal of safety. While Key to Home aims to house 500 unsheltered people by end-2025, it ignores sheltered individuals at risk.
The writer advocates for housing-first initiatives without sobriety requirements, arguing for taxpayer investment in such solutions over enforcement.
— Brenna Giannini, Edmond
Comprehensive Data and Prevention Strategies
Another letter details the 2025 PIT count, finding nearly 2,000 homeless in Oklahoma City, with causes including financial issues, family conflicts, and job loss. It notes health risks like depression and infections.
While homelessness growth slowed from 28% to 2.4%, the writer insists on decrease-focused strategies, advocating for rental subsidies and targeted aid, especially during transitions from foster care or correctional facilities. Housing-first programs are recommended for existing homelessness.
― Andrea Alton, Norman
Education and Youth Homelessness
The final letter highlights over 26,600 homeless public school students in 2024, many "doubled up," which hinders education access. Without stable addresses, students face enrollment issues, absenteeism, and lower graduation rates.
Citing a student named Michael, it shows how supportive housing enables ordinary activities and future planning. The writer notes Oklahoma's high child poverty rate and declining youth housing beds, with most homeless students "hidden."
It concludes that housing teens is an investment in their success through education.
― Samantha Grace McComb, OU student
