Homeless Services

Despite its affluence, Howard County is not immune to the challenge of homelessness. In 2009, a point in time survey found

174 homeless individuals living in the County. Of these:

• 127 (including 27 families with children) resided in emergency shelters; and

• 47 (including one family with children) had no shelter. These individuals lived outdoors, in cars, or in other places unsuitable for human habitation.

The Department of Citizen Services is the public agency responsible for planning and coordinating homeless services in Howard County, and administers the Federal and State grants which fund homeless services. A continuum of services is available, including

• Outreach, assessment, and prevention;

• Emergency shelter;

• Transitional housing;

• Permanent housing with supportive services;

• Permanent housing; and

• Supportive services.