The Hays County Homeless Coalition is seeking volunteers for the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count scheduled for January 22, 2024. This event, conducted in partnership with the Texas Homeless Network (THN) and the Hays County Health Department, aims to gather essential data on the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the area.
The PIT Count serves as a critical snapshot of both sheltered and unsheltered populations, providing valuable insights that inform local programming and resource allocation. This nationwide initiative, mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), allows communities across the United States to assess trends in homelessness and shape effective public policy.
Community Engagement and Data Collection
On the day of the count, volunteers will be strategically deployed throughout Hays County to conduct surveys and provide support to individuals in need. The data collected will be submitted to THN for analysis, ultimately contributing to a clearer understanding of homelessness trends at a national level.
Isabella Vigil, the Behavioral Health Coordinator for Hays County and Co-Chair of the PIT Planning Team, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “As a community, we have a responsibility to understand the challenges our unhoused neighbors face,” she stated. “The PIT Count helps us see the full picture so we can respond with intention, empathy, and the resources needed to make a real difference.”
Nancy Heintz, Secretary of the Hays County Homeless Coalition (HCHC), highlighted the collaborative nature of the effort. “Tackling an issue like homelessness requires county-wide solutions, and this collaborative effort highlights the strength of Hays County’s commitment to caring for our most vulnerable neighbors,” she said.
Volunteer Opportunities and Community Support
Community engagement is vital for the success of the PIT Count. Local organizations and residents are encouraged to volunteer, donate items, or support shelters and service providers. Those interested in donating can reach out to Isabella Vigil at [email protected].
The initiative also calls for volunteers to fill roles such as drivers, navigators, and surveyors, with shifts available between 06:00 and 19:00. Participants must be at least 18 years old and attend a training session lasting 60 to 90 minutes prior to the count. For inquiries, potential volunteers can contact Jessica Cain, Volunteer Recruitment Chair, at [email protected].
Erika Rosa, Co-Founder of Breaking Bread Outreach Ministries and Co-Chair of the PIT Committee, expressed the significance of the data collected. “The PIT Count gives us the data we need to advocate for stronger resources in Hays County. When we understand the scope of homelessness in our community, we can target services more effectively and work together toward permanent solutions,” she noted.
The collaborative efforts surrounding the PIT Count are not just about data collection; they represent a broader commitment to fostering health, dignity, and stability for all individuals within the community. By participating in this initiative, volunteers can play a crucial role in addressing homelessness in Hays County.
