SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Homelessness is on the rise across the U.S. with Massachusetts seeing a 75% increase in families without a home. The 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shares the latest numbers. Local organizations are sharing their mission with the community when it comes to reducing the number of people on the streets. Catholic Charities with the Catholic Diocese of Springfield provides shelter and resources for those in need. Their year-round mission helps reduce the strain on the system. In 2024, the Greater Springfield Area had nearly 3,000 families experiencing homelessness, according to Catholic Charities with the Catholic Diocese of Springfield. That number is up from 2,600 in 2023. "So for example Massachusetts is a 'Right to Shelter' state and we have right at this time 7,5000 unsheltered families that need to be in immediate shelter," shared Joan Paris, Interim Executive Director, Catholic Charities Diocese of Springfield.The Commonwealth is under pressure to support those in need. Local organizations like Catholic Charities work with the local and federal government, "We have a mandate right now to move 10 families by March," shared Joan Paris, Interim Executive Director, of Catholic Charities Diocese of Springfield. A new partnership with the city of Springfield will soon provide an overflow winter shelter for homeless families set to open in the coming weeks. The shelter will be open for 15 evenings this winter at the Wesley United Methodist Church on State Street.Catholic Charities welcomes support from the community as their services are offered 365 days a year, 24/7. Landlords play a large role in housing homeless families, and there are incentives and support. To get involved visit here. Local News Headlines Cold weather may cause battery and tire issues Revenge porn law implemented in West Springfield Family homelessness on the rise in Massachusetts Springfield City Council sets goals for 2025 legislative year WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.