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

Spokane County's latest Point-in-Time Count indicates a second consecutive year of decline in homelessness, with 1,806 individuals surveyed on January 22. The number of sheltered individuals fell from 1,578 to 1,189, reflecting improved coordination in transitioning people to stable housing. The new methodology deployed outreach teams to known encampments, improving data accuracy. A slight increase in unsheltered individuals, from 443 to 617, resulted from this focused approach. Mayor Lisa Brown stated that consistent engagement is crucial for navigating individuals toward treatment and housing.

The city has also closed four encampments with an 80 percent success rate in housing referrals. Other data points show 106 veterans counted and a significant percentage of adults reporting mental illness and substance use disorders. Spokane's strategy emphasizes expanding shelter capacity and investing in programs like the Encampment Resolution Program.