On July 16, 2025, the Housing and Homelessness Committee of the Municipality of Anchorage convened to discuss the results of the recent Point in Time Count, a critical assessment of homelessness in the community. This annual survey, conducted on January 27, 2025, revealed a significant increase in the number of unsheltered individuals, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in Anchorage.

The Point in Time Count, which aims to capture the total number of people experiencing homelessness on a single night, reported 402 individuals living unsheltered, a 60% increase from the previous year’s count of 346. This rise underscores the growing urgency for effective housing solutions and support services in the city. The committee noted that the count included individuals in shelters and transitional housing, with a total of 1,748 people engaged in various forms of housing assistance on that night.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the methodology behind the count, which involved collaboration with local outreach teams and community partners. The process included surveying individuals about their living situations and reasons for being unsheltered. Notably, 27% of respondents cited a lack of available beds as the primary reason for not accessing shelters, while others mentioned safety concerns and personal preferences for staying outdoors.

The committee also highlighted the utilization rates of available shelter beds, which were reported at 92% for year-round shelters and 100% for permanent supportive housing. Despite these high occupancy rates, the ongoing demand for shelter services indicates a persistent gap in resources for those experiencing homelessness.

In addition to the quantitative data, the meeting addressed the complexities of homelessness, including the challenges faced by specific demographics. The count revealed that 311 adults reported serious mental illness, and there were 67 veteran households among those surveyed. The committee emphasized the need for tailored support services to address the unique needs of these populations.

As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the discrepancies between the Point in Time Count and broader homelessness data, which indicated nearly 3,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in Anchorage. This difference was attributed to the inactive policy regarding individuals who exit shelters without clear destinations, highlighting the fluid nature of homelessness.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a critical moment for Anchorage as it grapples with rising homelessness rates and the need for comprehensive strategies to provide adequate housing and support services. The committee plans to continue monitoring these trends and exploring solutions to enhance the effectiveness of the city’s response to homelessness.