This report assesses the extent of homelessness in Maryland. Data are provided in the following areas: (1) the number of homeless people; (2) causes of homelessness; (3) distribution of the homeless and characteristics of those sheltered; (4) shelter beds available; (5) what is needed to address the problems of homelessness; (6) the extent of the unmet need; and (7) impact of government programs and policies. Since 1983 there has been a 45 percent increase in the number of homeless persons sheltered in Maryland. Shelter providers served over 28,000 persons in 1985. Of those receiving shelter, 52 percent cited eviction or unemployment as the precipitating cause of their problems; 16 percent cited family conflict. Although Maryland is the sixth wealthiest state, its public assistance payments rank twenty-seventh in the nation. There is a shortage of low-cost housing in every jurisdiction in Maryland. The plight of deinstitutionalized chronically mentally ill persons is discussed. Public education is needed to reduce fear and prejudice. High standards of care must be developed and maintained within facilities. Government response to homelessness has been inadequate. A substantial increase must be made in the state's capacity for short-term shelter and transitional housing. Appendices provide the following: (1) shelter programs surveyed; (2) shelter provider and Department of Social Services survey instruments; (3) round table participants and key informants; (4) agencies offering estimates of unserved homeless population; (5) directory of shelter agencies identified; and (6) survey data by local jurisdiction. Tables illustrate the data. Photographs accompany the text. A bibliography is included. (BJV)