According to the most recent count, there are 172 homeless individuals in south Snohomish County (Lynnwood, Bothell, Edmonds, Mill Creek, Mukilteo and Mountlake Terrace.) That number doesn’t include people staying in emergency shelters and transitional housing units

This week, Snohomish County was awarded a federal grant to help combat the problem of homelessness.

Local nonprofits will receive a total of $4.7 million to pay for affordable housing and support services. Agencies slated to get the money include the YWCA, Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County, Catholic Community Services, Housing Authority of Snohomish County and Compass Health.

“This award comes at a significant time,” said Human Services Director Ken Stark. “Families, seniors, veterans and others needing housing and services will benefit from these programs receiving funding.”

Last month’s count found 2,240 homeless individuals in all of Snohomish County, a slight decrease from 2010.