With a median income of more than $80,000, Collin County is one of the wealthiest counties in Texas. Yet homelessness has risen by a surprising 44% in the last year within the county. Surveys and polls conducted by organizations such as the Collin County Homeless Coalition have found that there are an estimated 531 homeless people in the county.

“Single parent families with long term unemployment are the highest number in the homeless population in Collin County,” Executive Director of the Samaritan Inn, Lynne Sipiora said.

The Inn, which is Collin County’s largest homeless shelter, offers more than just a safe place to stay.

 “We offer a residential program for men, women, and children, providing a bed, three meals, counseling, and case management, all aimed at helping people regain their independence,” Sipiora said.

According to the organization’s website, there are currently 159 people seeking shelter at the Samaritan Inn. There is no more space available at the shelter, and they have had to refer some people to other homeless shelters in the Dallas area.

The homeless population of Dallas County, at 3,000, is significantly larger than that of Plano.

“The recession in America is affecting everyone, and just because we live in Plano does not mean that we are immune to job loss,” senior Holly Hogan said.

Hogan is the president of the Plano West chapter of Habitat for Humanity, a nationwide organization that provides affordable housing for those in need. The South Collin County branch of Habitat specifically helps people within the area.

“By joining Habitat, students can help out with fundraisers and actually participate in building a house,” Hogan said. “Students will feel so proud to know that their hard work is going to help someone right in their community,”

 “It’s our responsibility to help make a difference,” senior and vice president Dhwani Shah added. “No one deserves to be homeless.”