Homeless numbers released

The results of a street census of 1,127 homeless people in Butte County conducted in January have been published by the Butte Countywide Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC).

The group collects the information every other year to compile a “point-in-time” snapshot of the homeless community. The previous two surveys had more respondents (1,772 in 2011 and 1,553 in 2013), but an executive summary of the information explains that doesn't necessarily mean the overall homeless population has decreased, as volunteers sometimes have difficulty locating unsheltered homeless individuals.

“Data quantifies commonalities,” the summary reads. “All 1,127 people who completed the survey lack fixed, regular and adequate nighttime shelter. They need affordable housing; effective and efficient supportive services; and a permanent, healthy support system.”

Full results of the survey can be found at buttehomelesscoc.com.