County Working to Enlarge Safety Net as Annual Homelessness Count is Next Week

The upcoming Snohomish County Point-in-Time Count on January 23, 2025, follows a successful survey last year that reported a 9. 6% decrease in homelessness, with 1,161 individuals counted. This year's count is vital for shaping local policy and funding decisions, as it informs the county's approach to addressing homelessness. Demographic shifts were noted in the last count, including an increase in individuals identifying as American Indian, Black, Asian, and Pacific Islander. The county has secured $16.

1 million in HUD funding for initiatives that include converting hotels into emergency housing, anticipated to open in Summer 2025. Additionally, expanded efforts involve enhancing navigation services and adding emergency beds at local missions. Volunteers, essential for the count's accuracy, received training to effectively engage with the homeless community. Challenges remain in reaching unsheltered individuals due to distrust in the system and their transient lifestyles. The community is encouraged to participate actively in local initiatives to foster understanding and empathy towards those experiencing homelessness.