SNOHOMISH COUNTY – The homeless are either going elsewhere or being served better locally because this year’s Point in Time count was down 27 percent from last year.
However, officials want to emphasize the PIT count fluctuates each year, and the overall trend since 2013 is up about 9.9 percent.
The annual PIT count conducted by over 250 volunteers and county staff on Jan. 23, surveyed 378 people in 331 households who were unsheltered.
The number of chronically homeless individuals fell from 313 to 270. Chronically homeless individuals make up 71.4 percent of those unsheltered. The chronically homeless are individuals with a disability who have been homeless continuously for at least 12 months. The count also shows a high number of individuals who had two or three disabling conditions, including mental health and substance abuse disorders and/or chronic medical conditions.
“We are encouraged that our efforts to eliminate homelessness seem to be making progress in one critical area, but there is still much work to do,” said Dave Somers, Snohomish County executive. He added that housing costs make it tougher to get homes.
“With our housing prices booming, some are left out and end up on our streets and in camps. To relieve human suffering, we are finding innovative ways to help our fellow residents find a place to call home and get the services they need. I applaud all of those who have selflessly worked to stem the tide of homelessness and give our neighbors hope.”
The PIT count is a key measure used to inform priorities for federal, state and local funding and helps gauge progress toward ending homelessness. The overall trends are utilized by the Snohomish County Partnership to End Homelessness to address needs and track progress toward goals to prevent, reduce and end homelessness.
“We know that people become homeless due to a variety of circumstances. Regardless of cause, we must work to reduce human suffering and provide a path forward for men, women and children experiencing homelessness,” said Mary Jane Brell-Vujovic, Human Services director. “Our network of dedicated partner agencies have implemented numerous evidence-based strategies that are increasing the number of individuals who obtain permanent housing through our system.” Outreach workers and navigators were able to assist a number of people during the count to begin accessing services, shelter and/or housing. The Snohomish County Human Services Department helps all people meet their basic needs and develop their potential. The Housing & Community Services Division administers programs that provide affordable housing, community development, and related services to low-income and homeless people.
These PIT numbers are preliminary. A full report, which also will include the sheltered count, will be released later this year.
