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Hello, I'm Jane Vincent, Regional Administrator of HUD's Mid-Atlantic region.
In my August video message, you learned how we are working to end homelessness in the
Mid-Atlantic region. Now, I'd like to share the 2013 point-in-time count findings.
HUD released this data in November. It reveals the number of homeless persons in our shelters
and on our streets on a given night. In the Mid-Atlantic states, we have seen a steady
decrease in homeless populations since the 2010 launch of the federal strategic plan
to end homelessness. The regional rates of homelessness have decreased in Delaware, the
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The most significant decline has been in Maryland, where the count fell for the fourth consecutive
year. Since 2010, the homeless count has declined by 2,640. Our Continuum of Care partners are
on the front lines and are doing an excellent job.
In Pennsylvania, we have seen an increase in homelessness. The data reveals that the
total number of homeless persons has grown by 570 people since 2010. In some cases, counting
methodology and data collection process has improved. Outreach workers are better equipped
to find more homeless individuals and families. There has also been a funding decrease in
general assistance in the state which may have also contributed to the increase. So,
we still have a lot of work to do.
Through initiatives like Dedicating Opportunities to End Homelessness in Philadelphia, real
progress can be made in getting the numbers to zero. In January, you can expect to hear
more about efforts to get veterans and the chronically homeless off the streets. Watch
for news on the initiative by visiting the Pennsylvania state page.
Also, you might want to consider getting involved personally in the fight to end homelessness.
Contact your local Continuum of Care agency to find out how you can support ongoing efforts.