The homeless population in Pima County is on a steady decline, according to the latest data from the dedicated volunteer group that counts them.

Every year, volunteers with the Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness (TPCH)take to the streets to tally up the that the total number of “persons experiencing homelessness.” This year, that number came in at 1,380, as determined by 244 volunteers for the 2018 street count that took place on the evening of January 23, 2018.

This annual Point-in-Time count aims to raise awareness of those going through homelessness and how to best help them. This includes taking a closer look at what services these citizens need, as well as plans to improve housing and support services.

During this year’s count, volunteers interviewed and took note of 363 individuals who were unsheltered, or spending the night sleeping in a spot not meant for human habitation. Volunteers also noted 1,017 people going through sheltered homelessness, which includes staying in safe havens, emergency shelters or transitional housing projects.

These numbers mark the lowest amount of homeless people counted in the past six years. Advocates are dedicated to finding solutions to the problems that put these people on the streets in the first place, such as domestic violence or mental illness. The more support and services there are for homeless people, the better chance there is of returning them to a productive role in society.

The homeless count also plays a valuable role in determining how much federal funding Pima County receives to put an end to homelessness. TPCH uses the data throughout the year to determine significant trends, gaps and services in the homeless population.

For more information or to have a look at the data yourself, please visit the official website here: https://www.tpch.net/