(ABC 45) Why the Point in Time Count Matters for Guilford County’s Homeless Community
Every year, Guilford County takes an important step toward addressing homelessness by conducting the Point in Time (PIT) homeless count. Recently, county leaders and volunteers came together at Jamestown Presbyterian Church to perform the count, as highlighted in an article by ABC45. This effort isn’t just about statistics; it’s about understanding the true scope of homelessness in our community and securing the resources needed to make a difference.
What Is the Point in Time Count?
The PIT count, required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, involves identifying and assessing those experiencing homelessness. It gives us a critical snapshot of how many people are unhoused, what challenges they face, and where resources are most urgently needed. Guilford County Commissioner Pat Tillman put it best when he said, “What is measured is what gets done.” Without accurate data, it’s impossible to direct funding and services effectively.
This data is vital for unlocking government funding to support emergency shelters, behavioral health services, and long-term housing solutions. Commissioner Skip Alston emphasized the complexity of the issue, noting that many individuals have skills or trades but face barriers like mental illness, substance use challenges, or addiction that keep them stuck in cycles of homelessness.
Beyond the Numbers
The Point in Time count also has an immediate impact. During the recent count, volunteers handed out winter care kits filled with blankets, toiletries, and other essentials to those in need. This small act of kindness shows how a caring community can come together, even in the simplest ways, to provide relief and hope.
How You Can Help
The PIT count is only one part of the solution. Addressing homelessness requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. Here’s how you can play a role in transforming our community for the better:
- Volunteer: Give your time to organizations working on homelessness solutions, from helping with counts to assisting in shelters or distributing supplies.
- Donate: Your financial support helps fund critical services like housing initiatives, job training, and emergency care. Contributions can make a world of difference for a family or individual on the path to stability.
- Advocate: Push for policies that expand affordable housing and supportive services in Guilford County. Advocate for the kind of systemic changes that can prevent homelessness from happening in the first place.
Every contribution, no matter how small, helps to chip away at the barriers facing those living without a home. The PIT count is a reminder that with dedication and the right resources, we can create a future where no one in our community is left behind.
For more details, check out the full ABC45 article here and consider how you can take action today to support Guilford County’s homeless population. Together, we can make lasting change.
