The North Dakota Human Services Committee meeting on September 4, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for improved data collection and understanding of homelessness and housing instability across the state. Key discussions revealed that housing crises affect every county in North Dakota, with a significant portion of the population facing various levels of housing insecurity.

Jessica Thomason from the Department of Health and Human Services emphasized the complexity of the housing crisis, which encompasses not only homelessness but also housing instability. She noted that many individuals and families are on the brink of losing their homes due to factors like job loss, divorce, or health issues. The committee is keen to dissect the root causes of these crises, with a focus on gathering more precise data to inform legislative actions.

A striking statistic shared during the meeting indicated that approximately 31,000 households applied for assistance through the North Dakota Rent Help program, with nearly 13,000 of those households experiencing homelessness at the time of application. Thomason highlighted that families with children represent a significant portion of those affected, underscoring the critical need for targeted support.

The committee also discussed the importance of understanding the different categories of homelessness, including episodic, long-term, and chronic cases, and how these require varied interventions. The conversation pointed to a pressing need for a comprehensive approach to data collection, which could enhance the state's ability to respond effectively to housing crises.

As the committee moves forward, they aim to create a framework for addressing these issues, with a commitment to exploring potential recommendations for legislative action. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the multifaceted nature of housing instability and the necessity for a coordinated response to support vulnerable populations in North Dakota.