The Illinois Shelter Alliance has released data showing that homelessness within the state has increased by 116% in the last year. Both urban and rural areas are feeling the burden, advocates say a common thread runs through the crisis: the high cost of living.

In just six years, the Governor has significantly expanded state spending to more than $55 billion, a nearly 40% increase. This represents the fastest and most dramatic growth in Illinois state spending in history.

Furthermore, while homelessness was increasing last year, Illinois Democrats prioritized funding for non-citizens, spending nearly a billion dollars on services and programs. Meanwhile, the state only allocated $290 million for housing and homelessness in last year’s budget.

While Chicago experienced issues from asylum-seeking people, working-class families across downstate Illinois are struggling to keep up with rising housing costs. The Illinois Shelter Alliance estimates that housing-related homelessness is up between 40 and 50 percent due to inflation, rent increases, and overall lack of affordability.

Senate Republicans say the state’s misplaced priorities have made life harder for families and communities across Illinois and that Democratic lawmakers should focus on addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing relief for those who need it most.