Wichita Homeless Population Down, But Many Doubt The Numbers Are Accurate

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At least 691 Wichita residents were experiencing homelessness, according to a new report in January 2024. Wichita Journalism reports that number is down 1.5% from 2023, 702 to 691.

Of the 691 homeless individuals, 111 of them were chronically homeless. That means they have been homeless for more than a year in the past three years.

There are two categories of homeless people: sheltered and unsheltered. The report stated that 503 (of the 691) were sheltered. They live in temporary housing, shelters, and living with relatives. That leaves 188 unsheltered people likely living on the streets or in their vehicles.

PIT (Point in Time) data reports the rate of homelessness in Wichita, Kansas. It gives lawmakers a snapshot of the problem in the city and the steps to take to overcome the issue.

They have to abide by HUD's definition of homelessness. For example, if a person spends a night in a motel and is paid by a family member, they don't count as a homeless number.

"The U.S. Housing of Urban Development requires continuums of care to complete a PIT count at least every other year to remain eligible for HUD funds. Wichita does its PIT annually, and it is coordinated by United Way, the lead agency for the Coalition to End Homelessness in Wichita/Sedgwick County, the continuum of care for that area," Wichita Journalism reports.

The United Way reports that the average homeless person experiences 37 days without a home. That number is down six days (43) from 2023 data.

Many people believe that there are more homeless people than reported. The Coalition acknowledges that, assuming that there could be as many as 900 homeless individuals living in the Wichita area.

Do you think 2024 has less homelessness than 2023? Do you think it's a problem Wichita can solve? Please share your thoughts with me in the comments section below. Remember to follow me to read more of my content.