A new survey shows Oklahoma City residents view homelessness as the city's biggest problem. The latest data shows homelessness in the city has increased compared to last year.

Meghan Mueller took over the leadership of the Homeless Alliance in April. She says corporations offer an opportunity to expand on the work they do every day.

“We see people suffering,” said Müller. “This is difficult. Nobody likes to see another person suffer.”

The OKC point-in-time count shows more than 1,800 people living without shelter — a 28% increase from last year.

“It was a drastic jump,” said Müller. “As the pandemic ends and many of these resources become scarcer, we fully anticipated an increase in homelessness.”

Müller also pointed to the development and growing pedestrian traffic in the city center.

“It makes homelessness more visible,” Mueller said.

OKC residents and business owners have taken note.

“I have compassion for business owners who are struggling to deal with this issue,” Mueller said.

An annual OKC survey shows homelessness is people's top concern – more than road quality and traffic problems. Mueller said problem solving begins with recognition.

“It gives us some momentum to do the work,” Mueller said. “The only thing that solves this problem is a home.”

Mueller's organization and city efforts to invest in affordable housing, like Key to Home, have changed the lives of hundreds of people.

“That gives me hope,” said Müller.

Mueller sees signs of progress and people behind the numbers.

“People can change, and we firmly believe that people deserve a place to call home and that we are all stronger as a community when all of our friends and neighbors have this place,” Mueller said.

Mueller said a grant from United Way will help them start a diversion pilot program. This program will help people before problems become too big to handle. The Homeless Alliance plans to open its winter shelter next week.