Homeward Announces Summer 2023 Point in Time Count
Richmond, VA – July 25, 2023 – Collecting reliable and consistent regional data about individuals and families experiencing homelessness is crucial in building an effective community-wide response. Homeward will organize and conduct a Point in Time (PIT) count in the Greater Richmond region on the night of July 26, 2023 and the morning of July 27, 2023
Findings from the PIT count help our region’s coordinated network of homeless services learn about needs in the community from those individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.
“The Summer PIT count will help our region better understand the needs of our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” said Kelly King Horne, Homeward’s Executive Director. “We also will ask new questions, including how those experiencing unsheltered homelessness plan for weather emergencies, such as extreme heat or cold.”
By talking directly to people experiencing homelessness in our region, homeless services providers can lead more effective and impactful community change.
Reporters are invited to observe the Summer 2023 PIT count. Any members of the media interested in participating must register directly with Homeward to ensure that all Federal privacy rules are followed. To register, email Horne at kkhorne@homewardva.org.
PIT counts are a requirement from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that communities conduct periodic counts of people experiencing homelessness. This data is compiled both locally and nationally to inform programs, planning, and funding. Homeward has coordinated Greater Richmond's PIT counts since 1999. Homeward has used a standard methodology since 2007, which includes publishing PIT count data and trends over time on our website.
“The PIT counts in January and July are an important part of our efforts to ensure our region’s response to homelessness is grounded in listening to those who are most impacted,” Horne added.
Once the Greater Richmond PIT count is complete, Homeward will begin analyzing the data and reporting to federal and state agencies, as required by law. Initial findings from the Summer 2023 PIT count are expected to be released in late August.
