Columbia Prepares for 2025 Point-In-Time Count on Homelessness

News Summary

Columbia is gearing up for the 2025 Point-In-Time Count, a crucial initiative spearheaded by the United Way of the Midlands to address homelessness. Scheduled for January 22, the event calls for volunteers to help gather vital data that influences federal funding and community resources. This year’s count is particularly urgent, given the recent 18.1% increase in homelessness across the U.S. Volunteers will receive training on January 15, and anyone can sign up to contribute to this important cause.

Columbia Gears Up for 2025 Point-In-Time Count to Tackle Homelessness

Columbia is stepping up to take a serious look at one of the pressing issues we face today: homelessness. As cities and towns across the United States grapple with this concern, community initiatives are gaining momentum. On January 22, 2025, the United Way of the Midlands is set to conduct the annual Point-In-Time (PIT) Count, and guess what? They need volunteers like you!

What’s the Point-In-Time Count?

Every January, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, better known as HUD, requires local groups to tally the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This count takes place over a single night and provides a snapshot of homelessness on a national level. The data isn’t just numbers on a page; it plays a vital role in securing funding and creating effective solutions to help those in need.

How You Can Help

Mark your calendars! Volunteers are crucial for the success of the 2025 PIT Count in the Columbia area. The United Way of the Midlands is on the lookout for dedicated individuals, families, community groups, and organizations who want to make a difference. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to the cause, your help is welcome!

To prepare volunteers for this important task, a mandatory training session will take place on January 15, 2025. During the Count, volunteers will form teams to gather information, conduct surveys, and observe conditions in designated areas overnight. It’s a chance to get out in the community and connect with those who need it most while also providing them with a voice.

Thinking about joining? You can easily sign up to be a volunteer online. For more questions, you can reach out to Brandi Ross via email, and she’ll provide more details about the volunteer opportunities.

The Bigger Picture

18.1% increase in homelessness throughout the country, leading to over 770,000 people officially identified as homeless according to HUD data. This increase is driven by various factors, including the rising costs of living and a lack of affordable housing, made even worse by natural disasters.

It’s essential to note that these numbers only reflect those who are literally homeless—those living on the streets or in shelters. They don’t account for individuals who might be temporarily staying with friends or family because they’ve lost their own permanent residence.

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Your Role in Making a Difference

Whether it’s through volunteering for the Count or simply spreading awareness, everyone can play a part in building a community where everyone has a place to call home. Join the effort, and let’s strive together for a brighter future for all!