Despite high unemployment rates, homelessness dropped by about 5 percent this year, according to the county-wide One Night Count.

In Renton about 75 volunteers counted 84 homeless, six fewer than last year.

Volunteers found homeless sleeping in cars, garages and under roadways.

About 978 volunteers counted 2,759 homeless in King County, down from last year’s 2,826.

It’s understood there could be more uncounted homeless, according to a press release from Seattle and King County Coalition for the Homeless (SKCCH).

This number doesn’t include the estimated 6,000 people staying in emergency shelters and transitional housing.

The count is an annual requirement for federal funds. Similar counts were happening throughout the nation this week.

The event is also an educational tool.

“We must apply pressure to our elected representatives to fund housing and homelessness solutions at every level of government,” said Alison Eisinger, SKCCH director. “When people become aware of the problem we can make a difference.”