Lake County Gazette

Lake County has released the latest results from its annual January count of both sheltered and unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness.

According to Lake County, the Point-in-Time Count provides essential data to measure homelessness and inform response efforts, with 561 individuals identified as experiencing homelessness in Lake County this year. Homelessness is complex and requires combining data systems to understand and address it effectively. The county’s strategic plan focuses on creating healthy, inclusive communities by increasing affordable housing. To support this, Lake County is partnering with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning to form a Coalition for Housing, which will bring together diverse stakeholders to explore solutions and resources aimed at expanding affordable housing and reducing homelessness in the region.

The report, based on a full count of service providers and a volunteer event on January 29, 2025, found 561 people experiencing homelessness in Lake County, including 58 unsheltered individuals. Data from the Coordinated Entry System for the year ending September 30, 2024, showed that 71 percent of households linked their homelessness to abuse or trauma, and 59 percent had used emergency healthcare since becoming homeless.

Additional data from the Homeless Management Information System for fiscal year 2024 indicated a 33 percent increase in households assessed for housing, with significant rises in families, youth, and parenting youth. The average shelter stay increased from 110 to 132 nights, and 1,600 people experienced homelessness during the year, up from 1,327 the previous year, with 84 percent being homeless for the first time.

The Lake County Board consists of 19 elected members representing different districts and is responsible for approving the county budget, financial matters, and ordinances affecting government departments. Meetings are held in person at the County Administrative Tower in Waukegan or remotely via Zoom. Schedules and agendas are available online. The board convenes monthly for regular sessions along with additional committee meetings; all can be viewed live on LCTV.