Yes, Boise, Idaho, does have a homeless population. Data indicates that individuals experiencing homelessness are present within Boise and the broader Ada County area.
Understanding Homelessness in Ada County (Boise)
Boise, as the largest city in Ada County, is home to a portion of the region's homeless population. A recent Point-in-Time Count, a census of people experiencing homelessness, provides specific figures for Ada County.
Key Statistics from Recent Counts:
- Current Count: There are 687 people experiencing "literal" homelessness in Ada County. This number reflects those who are unsheltered or in emergency shelters/transitional housing.
- Year-over-Year Change: This count is 67 more individuals than the previous year's assessment.
- Recent Trends:
- Since 2020, the number of people experiencing homelessness in Ada County has increased by 6%.
- Compared to 2012, the figure shows an 8% decrease.
This data highlights the dynamic nature of homelessness, with recent increases following a longer-term decline.
Addressing Homelessness in the Community
Local organizations and government initiatives in Boise and Ada County are actively working to address the challenges of homelessness. These efforts often include:
- Emergency Shelters: Providing immediate, safe places for individuals and families to stay.
- Support Services: Offering resources such as food assistance, healthcare, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
- Transitional Housing: Programs designed to help individuals move from homelessness to stable, permanent housing.
- Outreach Programs: Teams working directly with unsheltered individuals to connect them with available services.
For more detailed information on homelessness statistics and community efforts in the region, you can refer to local news and official reports, such as those covered by KTVB.
