Commemoration honors those who died while experiencing homelessness in 2021

There is a significant increase in the number of known individuals in Indianapolis who died while experiencing homelessness in 2021.

The Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention (CHIP) reported 166 deaths this year. Last year, the number was 87.

CHIP’s executive director Chelsea Haring-Cozzi said the continued pandemic, an increase in violence and compounded trauma affected those experiencing homelessness.

“Chronic health issues, unsafe and unstable living conditions, mental and behavior health challenges, and violence are disproportionately experienced by those living unhoused. For far too many, the lack of safe, adequate housing and quality care can be a matter of life or death," Haring-Cozzi said. "The toll homelessness takes on a person is real and heartbreaking, and this year we gather to remember and mourn too many lives lost and to show love and support to those left behind."  

The annual Homeless Persons’ Memorial Service took place Tuesday on Monument Circle to remember those impacted by homelessness in Marion County.

Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Taylor Bennett at tbennett@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @TaylorB2213.