Annual ‘Point in Time Count’ to begin Jan. 25

FLAGSTAFF — The annual Point in Time Count (PIT) will take place starting Jan. 25 throughout the City of Flagstaff. This count documents the number of unsheltered people experiencing homelessness at a single point in time and is conducted across the country.

Local data collected during the annual PIT Count measures progress at local and national levels related to preventing and ending homelessness. Information gathered from the survey scan help raise awareness about the challenges faced by people who are experiencing homeless in the community. Data is also shared on the local, state and national level to determine funding for homeless services throughout Coconino County. This count is required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Trained City of Flagstaff and Coconino County employees, social service agencies, led by Catholic Charites and Flagstaff Shelter Services, and volunteers will join mobile outreach teams that will locate individuals, families and youth experiencing homelessness as well as staff booths to conduct surveys at libraries and various locations.

Each person experiencing homelessness who completes thissurvey is eligible for a participation incentive of either fivedollars in Better Bucks, a hygiene kit or a snack pack.

The success of this count is dependent on community volunteers. For more information or to sign-up as a volunteer, please contact Sarah Rendon with Catholic Charities at msrendon@cc-az.org or 928-606-7731 or Holly Creager with Flagstaff Shelter Services at holly@flagshelter.org or 928-607-7269.