Homelessness in Cincinnati is on the decline but there are areas of concern
Please note: Our 2019 system data will be released in the May 2020 timeframe: sign up here to be notified when it is released.
In 2018 our local homeless services system served more than 12,000 people. Now released, our annual impact report “Home” gives an overview of homelessness in Greater Cincinnati. And the strides we are making with our supporters to end homelessness.
But, before we can talk about data, we must first define what homelessness means.
In our report, we discuss data and trends regarding people who are: sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation (such as on the streets, under a bridge, in a car), residing in an emergency shelter, or fleeing domestic violence.
From 2017 to 2018 homelessness has declined 2.2% from 7,197 people to 7,036 people
And overall, homelessness has declined by 4% since 2013. Such declines in homelessness, however modest, are positive. The data indicates there was much more happening within the homeless services system than this small decline might indicate.
Regarding people unsheltered on the streets
The issue of people experiencing homelessness sleeping unsheltered received a great deal of attention in Cincinnati in 2018. This, understandably, might give the impression that there are an increasing number of people sleeping on the streets. However, the data does not support these impressions.
From 2013-2018, Hamilton County has seen a 43% decline in the number of people sleeping on the streets.
In fact, 13.7% of Hamilton County’s homeless population spent at least part of the year sleeping unsheltered on the streets. The national average is 34%.
And 92.5% of our homeless population (who normally sleep unsheltered or in an emergency shelter) were safely in shelter for at least part of 2018. This is critical as studies show homeless adults who live and sleep outside are 3x more likely to die than those who live in an emergency shelter. And 10x more likely to die than the general population.
However, our data indicate that there are also areas of significant concern.
Including, not enough funding for homelessness prevention services. Prevention programs are a perfect example of how the resources available don’t necessarily align with what can have the greatest impact. These temporary assistance programs to prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless are the most cost-effective intervention available for reducing homelessness.
It costs $1,250 to keep someone from becoming homeless compared to $3,900 to assist them after they become homeless.
Still, much of our funding cannot be spent on prevention programs and families are unable to access needed services. Families at risk or in need of shelter call our Central Access Point (CAP) Helpline. Callers are screened for placement into an emergency shelter or into vital Shelter Diversion services.
In 2018, 544 families were provided with emergency shelter by Hamilton County’s four family shelter operators. An additional 243 families with Shelter Diversion services.
We know that these numbers don’t tell the full story of the need among at-risk families in our community. Many at-risk families with young children.
In fact, 25% of our homeless population are school-aged children under the age of 18.
Please give “Home” a read and let us know what you think – we’d love your feedback. Learn how your generosity makes a direct impact in the lives of the people we serve, and more.
Including: Why Homelessness Knows No Season, 5 Easy Ways You Can Help. And our 2018 Financials showing 97% of all our expenses go back into the programs we offer; only 3% spent on operating costs.
Your support makes a true impact in the lives of people and families experiencing homelessness. Thank you for your commitment to ending homelessness in Greater Cincinnati and thank you for trusting us to be your partners in the fight.
