Each January, Pima County residents come together to document and understand homelessness in the community through the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. This year’s count, scheduled for January 29, 2025, offers volunteers an opportunity to make a tangible difference.
What is the Point-in-Time Count?
The Point-in-Time Count, often referred to as the PIT Count, is a community-wide initiative to record the number of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Pima County on a single night.
Conducted by the Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness (TPCH), the count is vital for understanding local needs, improving services, and securing federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Why Volunteers Are Essential
“Volunteers are pivotal to the success of the Point-in-Time Count,”
says Kat Davis, Continuum of Care Manager for Housing and Community Development in Tucson.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with your community and support our unhoused neighbors.”
Volunteers work in small teams, surveying designated areas and interviewing individuals using a standardized electronic form. This ensures data is consistent and actionable. Training will be provided ahead of the count, making it accessible even for first-time participants.
Volunteer Requirements and Training
- Age: Volunteers must be 18 or older.
- Training: A mandatory session will be held on January 23, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM.
- Role: Volunteers will gather data through surveys conducted in groups led by a team leader.
How the Data Helps
The collected information sheds light on homelessness trends, enabling local organizations to address gaps in services. Additionally, this data strengthens funding applications and guides community initiatives.
How to Sign Up
Volunteering is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit Point-in-Time Count Registration.
- Create a free GIS Hub account and verify your email.
- Complete the registration form and submit it.
Once registered, volunteers will receive additional details about their assignments and resources to prepare for the count.
Final Thoughts
The Point-in-Time Count is more than a data collection exercise; it’s a chance to connect with your community and contribute to solutions for homelessness.
If you’re ready to lend a hand, register today and help make a meaningful impact.
Sources: THX News & City of Tucson.
