New York struggles with rise in homeless population

VIDEO CNN's Maria Hinojosa looks at some workers trying to get winter shelter for the homeless Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media)     ALSO Volunteers distribute winter coats to New York homeless

NEW YORK (CNN) -- After a decade in which the number of homeless people declined in New York City, officials say the trend is reversing.

On an average day, 25,000 homeless men, women and children seek emergency shelter in the city, officials say.

Partly to blame is a strong economy that has driven up the price of housing.

Facing the prospect of a particularly cold winter, the city this month added 500 beds for single homeless adults and created another 800 spaces for families with children.

Some families complain about conditions in the facilities. One father called them "disgusting."

The city says conditions are improving and the facilities are ready for the rising numbers of homeless.

NYC.GOV - The Official New York City Web Site

Note: Pages will open in a new browser window

External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.