The Point-in-Time (PIT) Count is an annual effort mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assess homelessness across the nation. Conducted on a single night in January, the PIT Count provides a snapshot of both sheltered and unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. This data is crucial for understanding the scope of homelessness, securing federal funding, and shaping effective interventions.
In Anoka County, the 2025 PIT Count is scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Local outreach teams, including volunteers and service providers, will survey individuals and families experiencing homelessness throughout the community. Safety remains a priority, with participants encouraged to follow recommended protocols.
Stepping Stone Emergency Housing plays a vital role in this initiative. As the only adult homeless shelter in Anoka County, we provide essential data on sheltered individuals during the count. Our staff collaborates with county officials to ensure accurate reporting, which is essential for resource allocation and program development aimed at ending homelessness in our area.
HUD provides detailed guidelines to standardize the PIT Count process nationwide. These guidelines outline methodologies for counting both sheltered and unsheltered populations, ensuring consistency and accuracy in data collection.
Community involvement is crucial to the success of the PIT Count. Volunteers assist in data collection, and local shelters like Stepping Stone Emergency Housing provide necessary information on sheltered individuals. This collaborative effort helps to create a comprehensive understanding of homelessness in Anoka County, guiding local solutions and informing policy decisions.
As we begin the new year, we invite community members to support the upcoming PIT Count. Your participation can make a significant impact in our ongoing efforts to address and ultimately end homelessness in Anoka County.
Recent Surge in U.S. Homelessness Highlights Importance of PIT Counts