AgdaPkt 2016-12-12 Closed and Joint SA PFA

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6.3.A. - Page 40 Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness In 2009, San Mateo County conducted a "Hidden Homeless Next Day Study" for the purpose of analyzing (1) the numbers of "hidden" homeless people who meet U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) definitions who might have been missed on the night of the count; and (2) the number of homeless people who might be staying temporarily with family and friends who, although they do not meet HUD homeless definitions, could be considered to be homeless. Persons who showed up at homeless "drop-in" centers on the morning after the point -in -time count were asked several questions regarding where they slept the night before. A total of 237 persons responded. Based on the responses gathered, • 90 percent were single adults. • 10 percent said they had their children living with them. • 47 percent of respondents met the HUD definition of homeless.94 percent of these persons were either living on the streets or in cars, encampments, emergency shelters, transitional housing, motels, jail, hospitals, and treatment programs.6 percent slept in other places not meant for human habitation including garages, unfinished attics or basements, and bus stations.20 percent of respondents were living temporarily with family and friends.71 percent of these persons considered themselves to be homeless.29 percent told interviewers they were "not homeless."19 percent said they had their children living with them. The report did not state where the other one-third of respondents slept the night before other than they were not homeless or temporarily housed. These findings suggest a substantial number of people in San Mateo County who seek out services from homeless service providers are staying temporarily in another person's home or apartment; or are in places not typically counted and thus could be considered to be homeless. The report also supports the anecdotal evidence from service providers that families without a permanent residence are more likely than single adults to stay temporarily in the homes of family members or friends. This reinforces the difficulty for policy -makers in deciding whether people who move around from one residence to another and lack a permanent home should be categorized as homeless or rather as unstably housed or at risk of homelessness. Consolidated Plan REDWOOD CITY 37 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)