2015 Point-In-Time Count Shows Homelessness Numbers Remain

WASHINGTON, D.C. – June 17, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Idaho Housing and Finance Association releases its 2015 findings from the annual Idaho homeless Point-in-Time Count, which took place this past January 28, 2015. The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires an annual count of sheltered individuals and a biennial count of unsheltered individuals in order to receive federal funding to aid the homeless. Idaho Housing and Finance Association works with service providers and volunteers around the state to coordinate and conduct the annual count. The data collected is used to help with future planning, and to gain a better understanding of community homeless needs across the state. The data from the count helps partners track changes among the homeless population, impacts the amount of funding awarded for homeless programs statewide, and raises public awareness of homelessness issues in Idaho.

Efforts to conduct a count such as this would not be possible without the hard work of our service providers and the coordination of 300 volunteers who physically go out into the cold of winter to conduct this annual one-night count. “We appreciate all the providers and community volunteers who participated and helped in the collection of data for the 2015 Point-in-Time Count,” said Julie Williams, IHFA executive vice president.

Idaho’s 2015 homeless population count shows approximately 2,000 people are homeless and these numbers have remained consistent for the past five years. The count also demonstrates that most housing programs continue to operate at or near capacity as well. Although the count shows a 17% decrease in unsheltered homeless and a 2% increase in the sheltered population, those experiencing homelessness for the “first time” remains consistent as in prior years at 20%. This continues to show that even though programs are able to move more people into stable housing, there are still high numbers of newly homeless people who need help.

This one-night “snapshot” offers insight into Idaho’s homeless population, however, it is only one component used in helping communities understand and gauge the bigger picture of homelessness. It is also helpful to assess the current and ongoing needs and scope of Idaho’s homeless through our continued communication, collaboration, and partnerships with both service providers and their communities. “IHFA’s goal is to collectively understand the state’s homeless and how we can work together to better serve this population. Identifying needs, understanding the current services available, and working to develop future resources and services with our partners is critical in continuing to combat homelessness in Idaho,” said Gerald M. Hunter, IHFA president and executive director.

For a complete copy of the report, visit:http://bit.ly/IdahoPointInTimeCount2015

###

Idaho Housing and Finance Association, a financial services and housing business organization, improves lives and strengthens Idaho communities by expanding housing opportunities, building self-sufficiency, and fostering economic development.

Contact:
Kevin Harper
Media Relations Officer
Idaho Housing and Finance Assoc.
208 331-4858
kevinh (at) ihfa (dot) org