Volunteers needed for annual Macomb County Point in Time Count of homeless population

Macomb Community Action is currently seeking volunteers for its Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, an annual census of those who are experiencing homelessness in Macomb County. The Point-in Time Count is a requirement of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is intended to provide a better understanding of Macomb County's homeless population and help direct resources to those who need them most. The 2025 count will be held on Wednesday, January 22 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

"We're asking our community to come together for this important event," said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. "The Point-in-Time Count not only provides vital data but also shines a light on the individuals behind the numbers. This is about compassion and community. By volunteering, you're making a meaningful impact on the lives of our neighbors in need."

Volunteers gather data on those encountered, including gender, race and ethnicity for all persons. Additional data will be gathered if the person interviewed voluntarily provides the information. This could consist of veteran status, age, whether the person is "chronically homeless" or if the person is experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence, disability status, HIV/AIDS or those who have a substance use disorder.

Groups of three to four volunteers per vehicle will canvass the County in search of those who, during the PIT count hours, are found outside unsheltered. The volunteers will be provided a geographic portion of the County to monitor. "Hot spots" - where homeless people are known to be - will be provided. Volunteers will complete forms on those they encounter to ensure data is collected appropriately. A bag of items will be provided to everyone they meet along with a sheet of resources including shelter information, health care information, etc.

"Addressing homelessness is one of the most important challenges facing our society today," said Andrew Cox, Director/Health Officer of Macomb County Health and Community Services. "We use the PIT Count to engage our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness and learn more about them. I encourage community members to join us so they can learn more about the people experiencing homelessness and help us continue working towards solutions."

"Getting a better understanding of homelessness on a local level helps us be more effective in our efforts to address this important issue," said Ed Scott, Director of Macomb Community Action. "We hope Macomb County residents will once again turn out to be an important part of the solution."

Those interested in volunteering with Macomb Community Action for the night of the PIT Count must complete an online registration form and attend volunteer training. Those unable to volunteer, but still wishing to contribute, can make donations for the giveaway bags. Organizers currently are seeking winter gloves, small blankets, hand and foot warmers, travel size hygiene products (toothbrushes, lip balm, lotion, deodorant, tissues, nail files/clippers and shampoo). The deadline to volunteer or make donations is Monday, January 6, 2025.

For more information, interested individuals can send an email to [email protected].

To register to volunteer for the Point-in-Time Count, visit https://forms.gle/Z91bPQgBu7Z1yc6WA

Scott Turske

586-243-6321

[email protected]

Department:Macomb Community Action

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