File photo. (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Aaron Schulze

Point-in-Time Count

Latest Point-in-Time Count shows big jump in population of those experiencing homelessness in Kamloops

Feb 20, 2026 | 11:43 AM

KAMLOOPS — The number of people experiencing homelessness in Kamloops has gone up by more than 100 over the last year. 

According to the City of Kamloops’ Point-in-Time Count report in Tuesday’s (Feb. 24) council agenda, at least 419 people were experiencing homelessness in Kamloops over a 24-hour period from Oct. 15 to 16, 2025. That’s up from 313 on the night of Oct. 17, 2024. 

Overall, the report notes there’s been a 341 per cent increase in Kamloops’ homeless population since 2014. 

The 419 individuals in 2025 include 274 people who were counted in shelters on the night of Oct. 15 and 136 people who were identified as experiencing unsheltered homelessness on Oct. 16. 

Additionally, nine individuals were identified as hidden homeless, meaning they’re usually staying with family, friends or strangers and do not have the security of continued residency. 

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“Women and youth are more likely to experience hidden homelessness. Families are also more likely to intentionally hide or not use regular homeless-serving agencies due to fear of losing their children,” the report states. 

While the number of available beds in Kamloops shelters increased from 234 in 2024 to 287 in 2025, the report says the occupancy rate increased from 87 per cent (204/234) to 95 per cent (274/287) during that time. The occupancy rate in 2025 is substantially higher than the 65 per cent (117/180) figure in 2021. 

The report mentions there are limitations to the Point-in-Time Count and the 419 figure is an estimate of the minimum number of Kamloops’ homeless population. 

“The number of people experiencing homelessness is likely much higher,” the report states. “The information within this report should not be taken in isolation. Other data sources should be used to add to a more comprehensive understanding of homelessness.

The latest Point-in-Time Count report for 2025 can be found here.