If they live on the street, move around how are they supposed to be counted ? Combine that with a distrust of authority figures in part due to mental health problems, and drug addiction , and the problem is compounded. Once we do identify some of them, what's the plan ? You cant force those in treatment for mental or drug problems, and many of them refuse to got to shelters. People mean well and yes many people need help,but many just want to be left alone. We are obsessed at times with tabulating every aspect of our lives, as if it will make a difference. Sometimes gathering data, is nothing more then gathering data, just another government make work project.