About Homelessness

2006 Point-in-Time study information coming soon. Please check back.

The incidence and look of homelessness has changed dramatically in the metro Denver area in the past fifteen years. Not only have the numbers increased, up from 1,985 in 1990 to 10,268 in 2005 (Denver Point in Time survey), but the composition of the homeless community has changed from one of predominantly single, adult males with a substance abuse or mental health issue, to one in which 60% of the total is made up of families with children. Many of these families are homeless for the first time and do not know what resources are available or where to find them.

Other Facts

• Metro Denver area Service Providers conducted a “point in time” study and as of January 24, 2005, there were 10,268 persons who were homeless. It showed that 60% were parents and children in families and singles represented 40%.
• 60% of families in need are homeless for the first time while 38% of singles are first-time homeless.
• The per-person cost of an adult shelter annually runs $9,125. The cost to house one person in his/her own apartment for a year is $15,050. Compare those costs to $25,550 for a one year stay in jail, or $800-1200 per day for detox or hospitalization.
• Families with children and the elderly have been hardest hit by tough economic times and cutbacks in a variety of assistance programs.
• View 2005 Full Point-in-Time Study (pdf). You will need Acrobat Reader to open this document.