On January 29, 2009, Marin County, along with community partners participating in Project Homeless Connect including Ritter Center, conducted the federally mandated One Day Homeless Count which takes place every other year. Statistics from the 2009 count were just released and the results are staggering. The number of unsheltered homeless living on the streets, in parks, or in vehicles increased 257% from the 2007 One Day Count (up to 1,147 in 2009 from 321 in 2007). And even more shocking, the number of people in Marin who are precariously housed - crashing with friends or relatives on a couch or living in an overcrowded dwelling - increased 1,207% (up to 3,058 from 234 in 2007).

While a portion of these sharp increases from the previous One Day Count are in part due to better methodology in reaching more homeless/precariously housed to be counted, the Marin Department of Health and Human Services acknowledges that Marin has experienced a very significant increase in the number of homeless and precariously housed individuals over the past two years due to the economic recession. This matches Ritter Center's experience and statistics as well, as our food pantry has seen a 37% increase in pantry visits from two years ago.

The need is greater than ever before, and all of us can be a part of the solution. Find out how to Get Involved, Organize A Food Drive, or Donate Now!