DES Program Spotlight: Counting the Homeless, Connecting to Services
Do you ever wonder how many people are living in homeless shelters or on the streets at any given time? That’s what volunteers hope to find out during the annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count this month. This year’s annual survey will take place on January 24th, during which volunteers will fan out across the country, interviewing the homeless and gathering information government officials hope will help them allocate resources to those living on the streets.
In Arizona’s largest metro area—Maricopa County—the Point-in-Time Homeless Count is coordinated by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). Volunteers will be assigned to teams which will conduct surveys in a predetermined area. In Maricopa County, the start time is around 5:30am, and will conclude around 12:00pm.
The Department of Economic Security Division of Aging and Adult Services provides funding for various programs focused on assisting the homeless in securing permanent residency. In addition to housing, funds are also used to assist in providing the homeless with nutritional services, skills training and counseling.
For the Point-in-Time Homeless Count, Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) State Homeless Coordinator, Alfred Edwards, says there is no age limit for volunteers, but he does recommend volunteers be at least 18. He says there is an element of caution when dealing with individuals who may be unpredictable. He also recommends volunteers approach the homeless in groups of two.
“Many of the individuals are unaware of the intentions of the volunteers and approaching in a large group may have unintended results,” said Edwards. “Volunteers should not approach individuals who are sleeping or residing in tents.”
Volunteers will ask questions designed to acquire information to assist in determining what resources the homeless need to regain their independence, and how much money should go toward that assistance.
“The funding dollars are used for a variety of resources ranging from rent and utility deposits to life skills training and counseling,” said Edwards.
In 2016, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) estimated that on any given night, 10,000 individuals experienced homelessness in Arizona. In response, HUD awarded $37 million to housing and various programs for the homeless throughout the state.
Those interested in volunteering for the Point-in-Time Homeless Count are required to submit a request to MAG. A representative will contact them with the time and location of the training site. Communities statewide will organize volunteers to conduct counts in their areas.
Find out more about DES programs and services for the homeless.
By Vance Phillips