Since 1991, Wilder Research has conducted a triennial statewide homelessness study to better understand the causes, circumstances and effects of homelessness, and to promote efforts toward permanent, affordable housing for all Minnesotans.

The study is an independent initiative of Wilder Research in partnership with public and private funders and in-kind support from service providers throughout the state. More than 1,000 volunteers conduct interviews throughout the state in shelters, transitional housing programs, drop-in service locations, and non-shelter locations such as encampments and abandoned buildings. All of those included in the study are in circumstances that meet the federal definition of homelessness.

Documentary on Youth Homelessness

2009 study

New video! Homeless children in Minnesota and their famlies

Takes an in-depth look at trends and issues of homelesss children and their families, who now make up more than one-third of homeless people in Minnesota.

More from the 2009 Homeless Study

Full report, Key findings report, fact sheets and data tables
View videos of presentations and panelist remarks from the May 25, 2010 Perspectives Breakfast on homelessness
Study director Greg Owen on Almanac

Previous Studies
2006 homeless study reports and data tables 
2003 homeless study reports and data tables

Special thanks to the following organizations for providing funding for the 2009 study:
Amherst H. Wilder Foundation
Corporation for Supportive Housing
Greater Minnesota Housing Fund
Greater Twin Cities United Way
Hennepin County
Integrated Community Solutions, Inc.
The McKnight Foundation
Metropolitan Council
B.C. Gamble and P.W. Skogmo Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation
Minnesota Department of Human Services
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency

We also thank the many organizations across Minnesota who provided in-kind support.