In a recent government meeting, officials presented the findings from the 2024 Point in Time Count, revealing a complex landscape of homelessness in Clark County. The total number of individuals counted reached 1,366, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. This uptick comes after a notable 9% rise in 2023 and a staggering 31% increase in 2022, indicating a potential slowing in the rate of growth.

The count highlighted a significant shift in the demographics of those experiencing homelessness. While the number of unsheltered individuals decreased slightly to 669—a 0.4% drop from 672 in 2023—there was a notable increase in the number of families experiencing homelessness. Specifically, 19 more families with children were counted this year, primarily through safe parking programs and school liaison initiatives.

Emergency shelters saw a 13% increase in occupancy, with 483 individuals counted, attributed to the addition of new shelter beds. The report also noted a concerning rise in the percentage of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness within shelters, which increased by 47%. Conversely, the number of unsheltered chronic homeless individuals decreased by 33%, suggesting that new shelter options may be effectively addressing this demographic.

The meeting underscored the disproportionate impact of homelessness on people of color, who represented 39% of those counted, a significant increase from 31% in 2023. This statistic highlights ongoing systemic issues within the community, as people of color make up only 19% of Clark County's population.

Additionally, the count revealed a 29% reduction in the number of unsheltered veterans, with 18 veterans counted this year compared to 32 last year. This trend aligns with broader data indicating a decline in veteran homelessness in the region.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the inclusion of specific demographic questions in future surveys, aiming to better understand the needs of individuals with disabilities within the homeless population. Overall, the findings from the 2024 Point in Time Count reflect both progress and ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in Clark County.