'It's not simple:' Homelessness groups weigh in on rising numbers in Tulsa

Housing Solutions says the number of people experiencing homelessness in Tulsa is up four percent over last year. They did a count one day in January and said there were 1,449. That's 60 more than last year.

Related: Homelessness in Tulsa: Can we reach 'functional zero' by 2030?

A Way Home for Tulsa

50 organizations are part of "A Way Home For Tulsa," and they're working to come up with ways to stop the problem altogether.

"It really does require a collaborative effort of a lot of different partners," said Beth Edwards Svetlic.

She is with Youth Services of Tulsa and says she's optimistic to see so many groups working together.

"Solving homelessness is complex and it's not simple, and it's not an issue that any one organization or individual can address or solve on their own," she said.

Ginny Hensley with Tulsa Housing Authority says it's all about making sure the city has enough places for people to live.

"The primary cause of homelessness that's been found through the Point in Time Count is lack of affordable housing. The number one need that's been demonstrated is housing placement. And so Tulsa really is at an inflection point where we have to get serious about the affordable housing issue," she said.

Their plan

The groups reviewed their Strategic Plan Update, which focuses on three main areas: to prevent homelessness in the first place, improve the shelters, and make housing more accessible.

"It helps keep us really focused on some key pieces so that we can hold ourselves accountable," said Edwards Svetlic.

Even though the numbers are up this year, these groups believe they are making a difference for those living on the streets.

"If the work of A Way Home for Tulsa wasn't in place, we would have seen an even more significant increase in homelessness," said Hensley.

They say one in 10 of Tulsa's homeless are under 18 years old.

You can read the full report by Housing Solutions here.