Austin's City Council is facing a pressing challenge as recent data reveals a staggering 70% increase in homelessness among adults aged 55 and older, rising from 376 individuals in 2023 to 538 in 2025. This alarming trend was highlighted during a budget work session on July 23, 2025, where community leaders emphasized the urgent need for action to support older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Family Elder Care, a local organization dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations, expressed gratitude to the city for its ongoing partnership and specifically acknowledged Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes for her leadership in sponsoring a recent resolution focused on older adults. The organization underscored the importance of not only addressing homelessness but also preventing it through proactive measures.

The organization advocates for early emergency rental assistance, utility aid, and proactive case management to prevent long-term displacement. They argue that these strategies are not only life-saving but also represent an effective use of public resources. The call to action included a push for the council to consider a substantial tax rate election to meet the community's growing needs.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to housing justice, with community leaders urging the council to take bold steps to ensure that no older adult has to face aging without a home. As discussions continue, the focus remains on implementing strategies that will provide stability and dignity for Austin's most vulnerable residents.