Frequently Asked Questions about Homelessness in Knox County 1. Who are the homeless?
• The Knox County homeless population includes families and individuals representing every race, age group and community in Knox County. Often, persons that experience homelessness are negatively portrayed as panhandlers asking for money. On the contrary, Knox County’s homeless population consists of working families and individuals. Many live in cars, parks, motels, homeless shelters and under bridges trying to maintain their dignity while they struggle to survive. As a result, most homeless remain hidden. • There are approximately 1,700 homeless persons in our area in any given month. • The percentage of the homeless population suffering from some form of mental illness or emotional problem is estimated to be 50%. • Drug use among homeless women has increased 35% over last year. • Currently, about 75% of the homeless are male and about 25% are female. • 40% of the homeless in Knox County are part of a family unit and approximately 15% of the homeless are under the age of 18. This is
