The United Way of the Midlands updates schedule and seeks volunteers for 2025 Point-in-Time Homelessness Counts

January 23, 2025

The United Way of the Midlands is calling on community members to join the 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) Homelessness Counts. The PIT Counts were originally scheduled to take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, but with the inclement winter weather the PIT Counts now span from Thursday, January 23, 2025 to Saturday, January 25, 2025.  This annual effort provides a critical snapshot of homelessness in our community and serves as a foundation for programs and policies aimed at addressing housing insecurity.

The PIT Count is a nationwide initiative mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to measure the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. These counts play a pivotal role in securing funding and shaping solutions to end homelessness.

Why Volunteer? Volunteers are essential to the success of the PIT Count. By participating, you will:

  • Help identify and document the scope of homelessness in our community.
  • Support local efforts to connect individuals to vital resources and services.
  • Contribute to data that informs policy decisions and funding allocations.
  • Be part of a compassionate community working toward solutions.

Who Can Volunteer? We welcome volunteers from all walks of life, including individuals, families, community groups, and organizations. Training will be provided to ensure participants feel prepared and supported.

What to Expect:

  • Attend a training session to learn about the PIT Count methodology and guidelines.
    • A video training session is available if you are unable to attend that day.
  • Work in teams to conduct surveys and observations in designated areas.
  • Commit to a shift during the PIT Count dates, typically during evening or early morning hours.

How to Sign Up: To volunteer for the 2025 PIT Count, please visit https://www.cognitoforms.com/UnitedWayOfTheMidlands1/RICHLANDCOUNTY2025PointInTimeCountShifts or contact Brandi Ross at [email protected] for more information.

Here are the links to the training videos:

Richland County PIT Training

PIT Survey Training

Here is the link to the shift sign-up:

https://www.cognitoforms.com/UnitedWayOfTheMidlands1/RICHLANDCOUNTY2025PointInTimeCountShifts

Here is the link to the PIT Survey:

https://www.cognitoforms.com/UnitedWayOfTheMidlands1/_2025PITSurvey

Here is the link to the waiver (REQUIRED):

https://www.cognitoforms.com/UnitedWayOfTheMidlands1/_2025PointInTimeCountVolunteerApplicationAndWaiver2

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and build a community where everyone has a safe place to call home. Join us in this meaningful effort.

#TogetherWeAreColumbia