Volunteers and leaders in the Atlanta area mobilized this week for the significant task of tallying the number of people experiencing homelessness. This undertaking is part of the annual Point in Time count, a federally mandated survey that ultimately influences how federal funding is allocated to local communities for battling homelessness, as reported by Atlanta News First.
The multiday effort seeks to capture a snapshot of the homeless population, both those who are sheltered and those who lack any form of housing. This count is an collaborative initiative between entities such as Partners for Home and Atlanta city officials. Cathryn Vassell, CEO of Partners for HOME, highlighted the count's critical role in resource allocation, saying "That helps us, as a system, understand the number of people in our system, helps us gauge our progress, helps us evaluate trends in our system year over year, and it helps us understand where we need to deploy resources."
On-the-ground volunteers were advised on the proper conduct when engaging with homeless individuals. Darryll Starks, CEO of Ujima Way, stressed the importance of consent, respect, and presenting resources only when available. More somberly, he emphasized the safety of all involved in the process, stating the goal is "to return everyone home safely." These guidelines intend to protect both the census-takers and the people they are counting, a sentiment echoed in a Atlanta Journal-Constitution report.
The count's methodology includes visiting locations like encampments, parks, and areas under bridges, as well as reaching out to those dwelling in vehicles. The effort will be staggered across jurisdictions in Metro Atlanta, with varying start dates. The collection of demographic information, including race, age, and ethnicity of the homeless population, as well as the length and frequency of their homelessness, will help identify emerging trends and hotspots. Abby Bracewell from Partners for Home noted the count as "a really important data tool for us to use to measure our progress year over year."
Dedicated volunteers like Deborah Burke Johnson hope the experience will offer a new perspective on aiding disadvantaged communities. Johnson, who has experience working with organizations for young girls, sees the Point in Time count as an opportunity to expand her understanding and continue her philanthropic efforts. She emphasized her anticipation for the opportunity "to be able to see actually where the people actually are," in an interview obtained by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
