Biloxi experiencing a surge in homelessness

BILOXI, Miss. (WXXV) – Back in 2018, Back Bay Mission served around 230 people experiencing homelessness.

Fast forward to 2025, with a few months still left in the year, that number has already tripled, surpassing 700.

Staff at the nonprofit say rising inflation and the overall cost of living may be key factors behind the surge.

Currently, there are no designated homeless shelter on the Coast that offers overnight stays for an extended period. Back Bay Mission calls for local leaders to consider opening one as part of the solution.

Back Bay Mission and other Biloxi residents regularly attend town hall meetings and share their concerns directly with local leaders. They believe it will take a collective effort to create long-term, sustainable solutions.