The number of homeless families in Pierce County has increased since last year, according to the results of the 2009 Homeless Survey.

The survey, organized by the Pierce County Department of Community Services and the Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness, was conducted in late January by hundreds of volunteers. While not an absolute count, the survey provides detailed data about people in emergency shelters, transitional housing and — to the extent possible — those living on the streets.

The annual count of homeless individuals and families has been conducted since 1996. It provides information for federal Housing and Urban Development applications for funding and is also required by the state.

While this year’s survey showed a higher number of homeless overall, it also found that a majority of families and individuals were in emergency shelter or transitional housing programs with services. Other key findings include:

— There were 2,083 homeless men, women and children in Pierce County, an increase of 19 percent compared to the 2008 survey;

— The number of homeless families increased by 39 percent;

— The number of homeless people who are single decreased by 12 percent;

— The chronic homeless population decreased by 30 percent compared to 2008 and represents 11 percent of the total homeless population;

— 21 percent reported alcohol and substance abuse as issues;

— 7.5 percent reported mental health as an issue.

The full report can be found online at http://www.co.pierce.wa.us/pc/abtus/ourorg/comsvcs/homeless.htm .