Asheville reports 755 homeless individuals in annual point in time count amid storm aftermath

In the heart of Asheville's city hall, council members gathered to address pressing issues that resonate deeply within the community. Among the topics discussed was the ongoing challenge of homelessness, highlighted by the recent annual point-in-time count, which serves as a critical measure of the city's homeless population.

Emily Ball, representing the Asheville Buncombe Continuum of Care, presented the findings from this year's count, revealing a stark reality: 755 individuals were identified as experiencing homelessness in January 2025. This figure marks a slight increase from the previous year, but the composition of those counted has shifted significantly. Notably, 328 individuals were unsheltered, a rise of 109 from last year, with 35% attributing their situation to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene.

The count, conducted on January 28, involved 35 volunteers and aimed to provide a comprehensive snapshot of homelessness in the area. It included not only those in emergency shelters and transitional housing but also individuals in hotels funded by agencies, a change prompted by FEMA's transitional sheltering assistance program. This year, 1,548 people were enrolled in this program in Buncombe County, complicating the overall picture of homelessness.

Ball emphasized the importance of the Continuum of Care's strategic plan, which is set to be adopted soon. This plan aims to enhance the community's response to homelessness, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the loss of shelter capacity, such as the veterans' restoration quarters that were destroyed by the storm.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed their commitment to supporting affordable housing initiatives, recognizing that addressing homelessness requires a multifaceted approach. The discussions underscored the urgency of developing effective systems of care and the need for ongoing community engagement.

With the data from the point-in-time count now in hand, Asheville's leaders are poised to take action, striving to create a more supportive environment for those facing homelessness. The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as council members prepared to tackle the next steps in addressing this critical issue, leaving the community hopeful for meaningful change.