State sees nine percent drop in homeless population
Posted on May 10, 2017 in Capitol Connection, FeaturedThe homeless count across the state dipped for the first time in eight years. The drop is significant – a nine percent decrease for 2017 over the same period last year.
The annual Point in Time Count (link to summary)– a census of people experiencing homelessness – found 7,220 homeless individuals across the state, compared to 7,921 in 2016. FULL REPORT HERE 
“We have been working very hard to get federal, state and county officials along with service providers and the private sector to work together to reduce homelessness all across the state. So this is terrific news,” said Gov. David Ige.
While the island of O‘ahu saw an increase of less than half percent in the number of homeless individuals, there were double digit decreases on the neighbor islands.
- Hawai‘i County saw the biggest decline with a 32 percent drop over 2016.
- Maui County saw a 22 percent decrease and
- Kaua‘i County a seven percent drop.
“Certainly, we are beginning to get traction in the many programs that we have. As you know, we’ve restructured all of the contracts to the service providers and are really focused on placement into permanent housing, which we know is what works,” Ige said.
“I commend the many partners who have gotten out of their silos, come to the table and rolled up their sleeves. Together, we are finding more efficient ways to move people off the streets and into homes. This report is proof that our collective efforts are working. While today’s news indicates that the tide has turned, there is more to do. My administration remains focused on increasing affordable housing and reducing homelessness in the State of Hawai‘i.”
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NEWS RELEASES:
Governor Ige announces nine percent decrease in state’s homeless population
Governor Ige announces 32 percent decrease in Hawai‘i County’s homeless count