Federal data shows a significant difference in the estimated number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the United States, according to figures released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Education. While HUD reports approximately 750,000 homeless individuals, the Department of Education estimates the figure to be in the millions.
Dr. Margot Kushel, director of the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, and Dr. Molly Richard of the University of Rhode Island, addressed these discrepancies in a recent discussion. The researchers noted that different federal agencies employ varying criteria to define homelessness, which affects data collection and the distribution of resources.
The Department of Education's larger figure includes families and individuals in temporary living situations, such as those staying with others due to economic hardship, a category that HUD's primary count often excludes. The experts stated that these differing methodologies impact public perception and the implementation of housing policy.