Addiction.
The 2022 Point-in-Time Count identified 1,184 people in 953 households residing in shelter, transitional housing, or living without shelter in Snohomish County the night of February 21, 2022, the highest number since 2012.
Of those counted, 584 were living unsheltered, an increase of 13.2% from 2020.
The majority of people experiencing homelessness in Snohomish County are adults between the ages of 25 and 54.
The leading causes of homelessness in Snohomish County are lack of affordable housing, unemployment, and mental illness.
The average length of time someone experiences homelessness in Snohomish County is 27 months.
Homelessness has a significant impact on people's health, well-being, and ability to participate in society.
We have the resources to solve the problem, however…
We are not spending our resources wisely and we are not taking public safety seriously.
Homelessness is not a new problem. It has been around for centuries, and we have made progress in addressing it. In the recent past, homelessness was seen solely as a moral failing, and people were often left to fend for themselves. Today, we understand that homelessness is often caused by complex factors , including poverty, lack of affordable housing, and mental illness.
We need to invest in programs that have been proven to be effective, and we need those in charge to be selected with care. While there are many successful programs and initiatives that have helped to reduce homelessness, there are an equal, or even greater amount of unsuccessful programs with disproportionate and often misused funding. The key to any successful program is to ensure that those in charge are experts in their field.
We should not give up on finding solutions to homelessness. It is a solvable issue, and by working together, we can make a difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness.
The specifics:
Increase the availability of affordable housing. This is the most important thing that we can do to address homelessness. When people can afford to pay rent, they are less likely to become homeless.
Provide actual support services for people experiencing homelessness. These services can help people to get back on their feet.
Work to prevent people from becoming homeless in the first place. Homelessness can be prevented through the way we educate in our homes and in our schools.