Shining a Light on Homelessness in Puerto Vallarta PVAngels
February 16, 2024

Homelessness is a complex issue in Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination in Mexico. While the exact number is unknown, estimates suggest there are around 250 people living on the streets, with many more uncounted. This number has been reported to be on the rise in recent years.

There are several factors contributing to homelessness in Puerto Vallarta, including:

• Lack of Affordable Housing: The cost of housing in Puerto Vallarta has been rising in recent years, making it difficult for low-income residents to keep up. This is especially true in the tourist areas, where rents are often much higher.


• Poverty: Puerto Vallarta is a relatively poor city, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line. This makes it difficult for people to afford basic necessities, such as food and shelter.


• Unemployment: The tourism industry is the main source of income for many people in Puerto Vallarta. However, this industry is seasonal, and many people find themselves unemployed during the off-season. This can lead to financial hardship and homelessness.


• Mental Health and Addiction: Mental health issues and addiction are also common among people experiencing homelessness in Puerto Vallarta. These issues can make it difficult for people to find and keep housing and employment.

The impact of homelessness in Puerto Vallarta is felt by both the homeless population and the wider community. Homeless people often face challenges such as:

• Lack of Access to Basic Necessities: This includes food, water, shelter, and healthcare.


• Violence and Crime: Homeless people are more likely to be victims of violence and crime than the general population.


• Social Stigma: Homeless people are often stigmatized and discriminated against.

The wider community is also affected by homelessness, as it can lead to:

• Increased Crime: Some people believe that homelessness is associated with increased crime rates, although this is not always the case.


• Public Health Concerns: Homeless people may not have access to proper sanitation and hygiene facilities, which can lead to the spread of diseases.


• Negative Impact on Tourism: Homelessness can create a negative perception of a city, which can deter tourists from visiting.

There are a number of organizations working to address homelessness in Puerto Vallarta, including:

• DIF Municipal: The DIF Municipal is a government agency that provides social services to people in need, including homeless people.


• Red Cross: The Red Cross provides emergency assistance to people in need, including homeless people.


• CAM: Centro de Atención a Migrantes: CAM provides assistance to migrants, including homeless migrants.

These organizations are working to provide essential services to homeless people and to advocate for policies that will help to prevent and reduce homelessness. However, more resources and support are needed to address this complex issue.

If you are interested in learning more about homelessness in Puerto Vallarta or getting involved in efforts to address it, you can contact one of the organizations listed.

Related: Homeless Colonies Continue to Grow Along Vallarta’s Canals (Tribuna de la Bahia)

Related: Indigents, True Owners of Park Benches and Bus Shelters; Authorities Overwhelmed (Tribuna de la Bahia)

Related: DIF Vallarta Moves Forward With Shelter for the Homeless (Noticias PV)

Related: Homeless People Take Over Unidad Deportiva (Tribuna de la Bahia)

  Learn about DIF System for Development of Family Vallarta

  Learn about Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter

  Learn about Casa Esperanza - Compassion for the Family

  Learn about Casa Hogar Childrens Shelter

  Learn about Casa de las Mercedes Girls’ Shelter

  Learn about Corazon de Nina Shelter for Girls & Boys

  Learn about Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (R.I.S.E.)

  Learn about Childrens Shelter of Hope Foundation

  Learn about Canadian Children’s Shelter of Hope Foundation