Homelessness in NWA Increases by 20 percent
By: Rebecca Jeffrey
Updated: February 14, 2013
Homelessness is up by 20 percent in Northwest Arkansas in only 2 years.
The results of a point-in-time homeless census conducted a couple weeks ago finds more than 2,400 people in Benton and Washington Counties are homeless.
Specifically more women and children are becoming homeless.
Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick at the University of Arkansas who conducted the survey said the number of new homeless is decreasing. Meaning more homeless are staying homeless.
The best way to solve this issue is to not let it start.
"We can get people off the street but we could probably do a much better job of identifying those that are in need and make sure that it doesn't happen," Dr. Fitzpatrick said.
With the increased numbers, local organizations who help the needy in NWA will receive a slight increase in funds from the government.
The results of a point-in-time homeless census conducted a couple weeks ago finds more than 2,400 people in Benton and Washington Counties are homeless.
Specifically more women and children are becoming homeless.
Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick at the University of Arkansas who conducted the survey said the number of new homeless is decreasing. Meaning more homeless are staying homeless.
The best way to solve this issue is to not let it start.
"We can get people off the street but we could probably do a much better job of identifying those that are in need and make sure that it doesn't happen," Dr. Fitzpatrick said.
With the increased numbers, local organizations who help the needy in NWA will receive a slight increase in funds from the government.
