Snapshot Estimate of Homeless Population Reveals Overall Decrease

The 2024 Point-in-Time Count in Spokane County revealed a decrease in the homeless population compared to 2023, marking the first year-to-year decrease since 2016. The total count was 2,021 individuals, with an increase in sheltered individuals and a decrease in unsheltered ones. Various statistics were highlighted, including an increase in chronic homelessness but a decrease in homeless veterans. Factors contributing to the overall decrease included the dissolution of Camp Hope and an increase in local housing units. Efforts to address homelessness included opening emergency shelters and increasing emergency shelter beds. Lack of affordable housing remained a significant issue for those surveyed. Recommendations were made for a more cost-effective shelter system, transitioning from large shelters to smaller sites and navigation centers. The City issued requests for proposals for housing navigation centers, affordable housing development, and housing-related services projects. Homelessness is a complex nationwide issue, with HUD reporting an increase in the national homeless population over the past six years.

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