Annual Snapshot Estimate of Spokane County's Homeless Population Shows Overall Decrease for Second Year in a Row

Spokane County's annual Point-in-Time Count shows a second consecutive decrease in homelessness, with the number of people in emergency shelters dropping from 1,578 to 1,189. The count, conducted on January 22, surveyed 1,806 individuals across the county using enhanced outreach methodologies. This year’s approach aimed to reduce overlooked individuals by deploying volunteers directly to known encampments. Despite the drop in sheltered homelessness, the count recorded an increase in unsheltered individuals, rising from 443 to 617. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasized the importance of ongoing engagement and navigation to treatment and housing.

The city has successfully transitioned individuals to permanent housing at a rate of 40 percent through its new navigation center model. Spokane's investment in the Encampment Resolution Program has led to the closure of four encampments with an 80 percent success rate in housing referrals. The city remains committed to expanding shelter capacity and ensuring safe accommodations for those in need.