Department
Statistics and Analytical Sciences
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 2011
Abstract
Objective: Using inferential statistics, we develop estimates of the homeless population of a geographically large and economically diverse state -- Georgia.
Methods: Multiple independent data sources (2000 U.S. Census, the 2006 Georgia County Guide, Georgia Chamber of Commerce) were used to develop Clusters of the 150 Georgia Counties. These clusters were used as "strata" to then execute traified sampling. Homeless counts were conducted within the sample counties, allowing for multiple regression models to be developed to generate predictions of homeless persons by county.
Results: In response to a mandate from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the State of Georgia provided an estimate of its unsheltered homeless population of 12,058 utilizing mathematically validated estimation techniques.
Conclusions: Utilization of statistical estimation techniques allowed the State of Georgia to meet the mandate of HUD, while saving the taxpayers of Georgia millions of dollars over a complete state homeless census.
Journal Title
Journal of Public Management & Social Policy
Journal ISSN
1080-8523
Volume
17
Issue
1
First Page
85
Last Page
106
Included in
Applied Statistics Commons, Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons