New count shows 5% rise in homelessness in King County
About 11,751 people were found to be experiencing homelessness in King County during the 2020 Point-in-Time count, representing about a 5% increase from last year.
According to the report released Wednesday, 6,173 people or 53% of people counted were sheltered and 5,578 people were living unsheltered. The count, required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, represents a snapshot of homelessness on a given night, but experts have said it is imprecise and likely an undercount of the true scope of homelessness.
"As a region, we have worked hard to create more 24/7 shelters that are connected to onsite services to help people regain health and stability," King County Executive Dow Constantine said in a news release.
"Looking ahead, we must continue to strengthen our response to homelessness beyond merely a place to sleep, but also providing the safety, dignity, and supports people need to build permanent pathways out of homelessness. That work must also ensure that we serve Black, indigenous and other communities of color who are disproportionately represented in the homeless population. We must always do better."
The report found 35% of people were living in emergency shelters and 18% were in transitional housing. About 10% of people were living in tents or unsanctioned encampments and just 1% were living in sanctioned encampments or villages. More than 20% of people counted were living in vehicles, according to the report.
The most common self-reported answer for homelessness was the loss of a job, followed by alcohol or drug use, mental health issues and being unable to afford a rent increase.
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