INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) – The latest survey of Riverside County’s homeless is a study in contrast. While the number of sheltered homeless is down by 19 percent, those living on the streets took a 3 percent jump.

Results of January’s ‘point in time’ count released Monday was 2,310 adults and children or about 96 fewer than in 2017.

Of the county’s 28 cities, 15 had increases in their unsheltered homeless count, while 13 showed a decrease or no change.

Those showing the biggest increases were in Southwest Riverside County where the count tripled in Perris (+227%), Murrieta (+171%), Wildomar (+151%) and Menifee (+57%).

The cities with the most homeless were Riverside (366) and Jurupa Valley (148).

San Jacinto led all Riverside County cities with the biggest decrease at 71 percent. Other cities with double digit decreases were Beaumomnt, Hemet, Indio and Temecula.

Those who were unsheltered reported they were chronically homeless as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To meet that definition, people must have a disability and have been homeless continuously for one year.

The annual count is federally mandated and is used to understand the extent and scope of homelessness in Riverside County. It is a tool to help the community plan and adjust its response.

Story Date: April 23, 2018