HUD publishes final rule on new Definition of Homeless
On December 5, 2012, HUD published the final rule on the Definition of Homelss in the Federal Register. This definition went into effect on January 4, 2012. The final rule establishes four categories under which an individual or family may qualify as homeless, including:
- Literally Homeless
- Imminent Risk of Homelessness
- Homeless under other Federal Statutes
- Fleeing/Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence
Click here for more details on the new definition.
Homelessness in Collier County
Much like the national trend, the number of families and children experiencing homelessness is on the rise in Collier County.
According to the 2011 Point in Time count, the number of children identified as homeless by Collier County Public Schools has gone up 55% from 2010-2011. 993 children have been reported this year compared to 641 the same time last year. Initial survey results show 390 overal homeless, as defined by HUD’s existing definition*, a slight decrease compared to 401 the same time last year. Collecting data on the number and characteristics of individuals and families experiencing homelessness is a critical part of local planning and program development. Access more detailed information from local reports utilizing data from the Point-in-Time homeless counts conducted annually throughout Collier County from the links below:
- 2010 Report on Homeless Conditions in Collier County
- 2010 State Report on Homeless Conditions
- 2011 Report on Homeless Conditions in Collier County (in preparation)
Homelessness Resources
- Opening Doors, the National Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness
- HPRP Evalution Report for Collier County
- Visit the National Alliance to End Homelessness website to learn more about research-backed solutions to prevent and end homelessness.
- HUD’s Homeless Resource Exchange provides information and resources for providers who are assisting persons who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
*HUD’s existing definition - A person sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation or in an emergency shelter, and a person in transitional housing for homeless persons who originally came from the street or an emergency shelter, is being amended because the majority of homeless children and youth are not covered since it excludes people staying with others temporarilybecause they have nowhere else to go (“doubled-up”), and people staying in motels due to lack ofadequate alternatives. The current Department of Education’s homeless definition does include these very common living situations for families with children and youth on their own. In the April 20, 2010 Federal Register, HUD released its proposed rule modifying the definition of homelessness in response to the HEARTH Act enacted last May. The new HEARTH Act definition includes: people who are losing their primary nighttime residence, which may include a motel or hotel or a doubled up situation, within 14 days and lack resources or support networks to remain in housing; and families with children or unaccompanied youth who are unstably housed and likely to continue in that state.
Homelessness in the News
The links below bring homelessness to national attention.
60 Minutes: The Hidden America Originally aired on CBS March 6, 2011
60 Minutes: Hard time generation: Homelessness kids Originally aired on CBS March 6, 2011
60 Minutes: Hitting hard times Web extra to accompany broadcast on CBS March 6, 2011
60 Minutes: Finding strength while homeless Web extra to accompany broadcast on CBS March 6, 2011
