Topeka releases results of new homeless population count

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The City of Topeka released the results of its summer Point in Time Homeless Count Thursday.

City spokesman Daniel Garrett issued a press release on Aug. 1, 2024 containing the results of this year's second count of the homeless population in Topeka. As a result, city officials found nine additional homeless people living in the city since January 2024's count.

This second count of the homeless took place on July 17 and is meant to give a snapshot of conditions and circumstances surrounding the local homeless population. More than 40 people helped conduct this count.

Garrett said 546 people and 433 households are experiencing homelessness in Topeka and Shawnee County. Of these, 59% are male while 40% are female and 216 are considered unsheltered or not living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing.

“With the rising numbers of those experiencing homelessness nationwide, we believe it's crucial to collect data more regularly,” said Carrie Higgins, housing services division director. “Given the warmer weather and anticipated increase, we are encouraged to see only a modest rise since January. The count also provides a valuable opportunity to connect individuals experiencing homelessness to services and resources in the community.”

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