This year’s Point in Time count of the unsheltered homeless in Taney County saw volunteers locate seven people living outdoors.  Michelle Harllee of Church Army Branson says that is about half the number counted a year ago.  She says that while the rain that day may have had some finding temporary shelter, she hopes some of those counted last year are no longer homeless.  Harllee says that for those who live outdoors, the resources available in the area can make a difference…

Homeless Counted in Branson – Sally Kaucher

Harllee says “unsheltered homeless” defines a person living in something not meant for habitation, such as a tent or shed.  She says homeless camps off the Highway 76 strip, or Business 65, are inhabited mainly by men living alone, and while some were happy to talk with the volunteers, others are fearful when approached.  Harllee says each was given a backpack filled with supplies, courtesy of Our Lady Cares, an outreach of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Branson.  The organization forwards data from the Point in Time Count to the Missouri Housing Development Commission to help gauge the need for housing and services for the homeless in Taney County.