A recent statewide count of people sleeping rough conducted by the NSW Government has revealed that there was an increase in Port Stephens of seven from last year.
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Hume Community Housing's options manager Jenna Nadiotis said that Hume's data had also shown an increase in the need for temporary accommodation.
"Hume's data highlights the need for temporary accommodation has increased by 24 per cent," she said.
"On average Hume receives around 1000 enquiries per month from customers seeking assistance for temporary accommodation because they are either experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. On average there are 20 households per night provided with temporary accommodation through Hume.
"In Raymond Terrace the vacancy rate for February 2021 dropped to 0.4 per cent, while the average weekly rental price increased to more than $327 for all units, over $410/week for all houses."
Despite the local Hunter variances, the number of people that were counted sleeping rough across NSW has reduced by 14 per cent in the last year, mainly due to the NSW Government's strong focus on empowering people to break the cycle of homelessness.
More than 150 local organisations - including Hume Community Housing and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services - partnered with the NSW Government to complete street counts in more than 280 towns.
Hume is also providing head leased properties to support women and children forced into homelessness.
