ND study: More homeless on streets

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (AP) -- A study set to be released this week shows that the number of homeless people on the streets in North Dakota has exceeded the number of homeless people in the state's emergency shelters.

The North Dakota Coalition for Homeless People report says the number of unsheltered people as of July 2011 was 966, and the shelters were at full capacity with 807 people.

The study cites an increasing number of people who have been drawn to the state's oil patch. Officials say that has created a housing shortage in western North Dakota that has spilled over into other parts of the state.

Michael Carbone, director of the North Dakota Homeless Coalition, says service providers are receiving calls from people around the country seeking shelter while they try to find jobs.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.