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Caseworkers Coax Homeless People out of Las Vegas’ Tunnels for Treatment - KFF Health News

KFF Health News
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Homeless outreach workers say 1,200 to 1,500 people live in tunnels beneath Las Vegas Strip .

People unable to afford housing are retreating into caves and earthen tunnels, often dug into flood control berms.

Some tunnel dwellers say they hide to avoid constant encampment sweeps.

Others say they go down to escape the unbearable weather.

The market rent for southern Nevada rose 20% from 2022 to 2023 , according to a Clark County homelessness report.

Outreach workers say it’s not just locals who can’t afford the rising cost of living who wind up homeless, but also out-of-towners.

Las Vegas ’ scorching heat and monsoons pose a major threat to those living underground.