FOX CITIES, WI (WTAQ) – We now have a better idea of the extent of homelessness in the Fox Cities.
Housing Coalition President Tara Prahl says their Wednesday night count showed there were 12 people staying in places not meant for human habitation.
“That’s pretty on target for the past few years. We’ve been right around the 12 number. Sometimes our July count does go a little bit higher, because it’s warmer.”
The semi-annual count is done across the nation, in connection with the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“It gives us an opportunity to learn what our numbers are and what our need for resources is and mostly, get them connected to all the resources that our community does offer.”
Prahl says there are multiple resources available for the homeless.
“For most immediate needs, we do have the warming shelters – Homeless Connections and Harbor House. Ongoing, we do have various housing programs with Salvation Army, Housing Partnership of the Fox Cities, Advocate, and COTS.”
She notes Homeless Connections plans to open a ‘day resource center.’
“Where people can come for resources, so they can come to be connected toward housing or they can be connected with someone to help navigate a social security claim or work through employment pieces.”
Prahl says counts of those in emergency shelters or housing programs will be released in the coming weeks.
