HANCOCK – The local community has seen a steady rate of homeless since the COVID-19 pandemic, says Salvation Army Site Director Pete Mackin. “I mean, it started during COVID,” he said, “but for the last five years we’ve seen persistent and steady homelessness.”

Homelessness is not limited to the Copper Country. According to a Radio Results Network (RRN) report, in Nov. 2024, while overall homeless numbers increased by only 2% statewide, the Upper Peninsula experienced an 18% increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness in 2023.

The lack of affordable housing is the primary cause of homelessness, the National Alliance to End Homelessness reported in Sept. 2025. For many, rising costs create an impossible choice between paying for housing and other necessities such as healthc

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