As homeless rates rise, Greenville leaders and nonprofits are working to close gaps [Video]

Nationally, 39 percent more families were homeless in 2024 compared to 2023. That’s according to new data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In Greenville County, numbers have been steadily on the rise. The Greenville County School System reached record homeless student highs, with more than 1900 kids attending class without a home. Leaders are working to address challenges and close gaps. One way they do that: severe weather shelters. “It literally prevents people from dying on the streets,” said Susan McLarty, Director of the Greenville Homeless Alliance.These shelters are often a first step toward stability.Greenville County only has one warming shelter focused on women and women with children under the age of 10. Leaders say that’s enough for the demand. “We’re not hearing that they’re reaching the maximum capacity,” said McLarty. “And the other really good thing about Miracle Hill, as a nonprofit is they do …