This project explores homelessness data across the United States using 2018 Point-in-Time count figures. By analyzing trends at the state and local (CoC) level, the project aims to uncover patterns in shelter access, identify regions with high or low unsheltered rates, and support data driven strategies for improving homelessness policies and interventions.
Details
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Overview
This project investigates homelessness trends across the United States using data from the merit-america-data-project-ew.Exploration_Project.homelessness table. By analyzing 2018 Point-in-Time counts, the project identifies key geographic areas with high homeless populations, sheltering effectiveness, and youth homelessness trends. The goal is to uncover data-driven insights that inform housing policies and targeted interventions.
Key Features
Comparative Analysis: Identified overrepresentation of homelessness by comparing state population ranks with homelessness ranks.
Youth Homelessness Focus: Highlighted top CoC regions with the highest number of unaccompanied homeless youth under 18.
Shelter Effectiveness: Pinpointed areas with high homeless populations but very low unsheltered counts, signaling strong sheltering programs.
Safe Haven Analysis: Evaluated the remaining usage and geographical spread of Safe Haven housing following funding cuts.
Trend Evaluation: Assessed year-over-year changes in unsheltered homelessness for states like Delaware to validate policy concerns.
Mission
The mission of this project is to leverage homelessness data to support evidence-based decision-making in housing and social services policy. By examining patterns across different states and Continuum of Care (CoC) areas, the project aims to identify successful sheltering strategies, spotlight under-supported populations such as unaccompanied youth and veterans, and help direct resources toward areas with the greatest need. The overarching goal is to use data as a tool to inform more effective, equitable, and sustainable solutions to homelessness.
Impact
This project has surfaced critical insights that can shape policy and programmatic decisions. It identified several Continuum of Care regions that are successfully sheltering nearly all of their homeless populations, highlighting models worth replicating. Additionally, the analysis uncovered areas where unsheltered homelessness is increasing year over year, validating concerns about declining housing accessibility. By comparing state population sizes with homelessness rankings, the project also revealed disparities that suggest homelessness is not solely driven by population size but by a range of structural and economic factors. These findings offer actionable intelligence for policymakers, advocates, and housing organizations working to address homelessness more effectively.
