Down 6 percent: Homelessness in WI has declined by more than double the national rate

MADISON — Homelessness in Wisconsin declined by more than double the national rate this year according to figures from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Wisconsin Public Radio reports that homelessness across the state was down about 6 percent this year compared to 2015.

Department spokeswoman Gina Rodriguez says the number of people in Wisconsin who are chronically homeless has dropped by about 62 percent since 2010. She says the overall decline shows government efforts across the state focused on reducing chronic homelessness are paying off.

Wisconsin Coalition Against Homelessness executive director Joseph Volk says he continues to worry about homeless youth in the state. He says families with children need more attention even though helping groups is more challenging than individuals.