Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Tim Pugmire

Officials: Minnesota sees success in fight against homelessness

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

State officials say there are significantly fewer people sleeping on the streets and in shelters this year thanks to an improving economy and state policies to aid people in need.

This year's count put the total homeless in Minnesota at just over 7,500, down 10 percent from 2014, members of the Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness said Friday.

It was the first decrease in Minnesota since 2011, said Cathy ten Broeke who directs the state's Office to Prevent and End Homelessness.

Homelessness among families with children dropped by 17 percent, she added, although 942 people under age 25 were homeless, including 145 minors who were on their own.

"We have a long way to go before we will have the results we want for all people experiencing homelessness across this state. But I am very happy to report that due to the incredible work of many there are over 800 fewer people sleeping on our streets and in our shelters than one year ago," ten Broeke said.

Targeted programs, such as those that help homeless people find jobs, are making a difference together with the improving economy, said Minnesota Housing Commissioner Mary Tingerthal.