According to the Institute for the Study of Homelessness and Poverty at the Weingart Center, an estimated 254,000 men, women and children experience homelessness in Los Angeles County during some part of the year.

And approximately 82,000 people are homeless on any given night.

Unaccompanied youth, especially in the Hollywood area, are estimated to make up from 4,800 to 10,000 of these.

Other Facts About the Homeless Population in Los Angeles:

• The average age is 40 - women tend to be younger.
• 33% to 50% are female. 
• Men make up about 75% of the single population.
• About 42% to 77% do not receive public benefits to which they are entitled.
• 20% to 43% are in families, typically headed by a single mother.
• An estimated 20% are physically disabled.
• About 25% are mentally ill.
• As children, 27% lived in foster care or group homes; 25% were physically or sexually abused
• 33%-66% of single individuals have substance abuse issues.

Source: Institute for the Study of Homelessness & Poverty at the Weingart Center

February, 2010