The homeless population in Atlantic County increased by 60% this year compared to last year, according to data from Monarch Housing Associates' annual point-in-time count.

The count, which was conducted Jan. 28, found 682 people were homeless compared with 427 last year. Of the 682, 407 were sheltered and 275 were unsheltered, the organization said.

Additionally, 50% were homeless for more than a year, 73% reported having disabilities, 42% said they were chronically homeless, 11% were victims of domestic violence and 8% were veterans, the organization said.

“The PIT Count is one of the most effective tools that we have to assess the trends in homelessness in New Jersey. Increasing rates of homelessness in New Jersey, and across the country, are concerning,” Melanie R. Walter, executive

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