San Jose, Calif. (KCBS) -- Newly released figures show there were 88 deaths involving homeless people last year in Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties.
In Santa Cruz County, the number of homeless deaths soared from 29 to 42 this year.
In Santa Clara County there were 46 deaths.
"The life expectancy living on the streets as you can imagine, is much lower than your typical adult. Folks are struggling with their basic hygiene needs and basic needs for warmth and a good night's sleep," Stephanie Schaaf of EHC Lifebuilders told KCBS reporter Mike Colgan.
She said there just are not enough shelters in the South Bay to meet the demand.
"In our last count is 2004, the people living on the streets number 1,600 every night," she said with just 300-500 beds available each night.
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