Marshall Homeless Shelter and Services President Myra Riley gave an update on the homeless situation in Marshall during the city council meeting this week.

Riley said volunteers conducted a Point-In-Time (PIT) Count in February to see how many homeless persons there are in Marshall. She said volunteers were divided up between the four wards in the city. Riley explained the definition of unsheltered persons, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Riley pointed out they located more than a dozen individuals who are considered unsheltered and nearly three dozen who are considered homeless that night.

Riley said this is just a snapshot for that night. She said they knew there were others they did not locate who were sleeping in their cars and some sleeping in an abandoned building.

Riley says this PIT Count will be taking place annually.

Riley points out there are nearly 400 individuals who are couch surfing and staying with relatives for the time being.

Riley said they have a grant that is specifically meant to work with the homeless. However, finding housing is an issue. It was pointed out there is a waiting list of 150 individuals for housing in the city.

In other news, Riley said there will be cooling centers available for those who need them throughout the summer when the temperature warrants: A House for Stories Bookshop; Bud’s Cafe; the Salt Fork YMCA; and the Marshall Public Library.

YOU CAN LISTEN TO RILEY’S ENTIRE PRESENTATION BY CLICKING PLAY ON THE AUDIO LINK BELOW.