Fulton County is putting out a call for volunteers to aid in the annual enumeration of its homeless residents, a count aiming to provide more than just numbers. The Department of Community Development indicates that the "Point in Time Count" serves a dual purpose: it measures the scope of homelessness while pinpointing service and resource deficiencies. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the count will involve interactions with individuals in shelters, transitional abodes, and those in less formal settings like outdoor spaces, vehicles, or deserted structures.
The initiative is not just about tallying heads; volunteers will also distribute winter essentials such as clothing and toiletries while they canvas the streets, supporting those in immediate need. With the significance of the unsheltered population where, the greatest need for volunteer support lies, individuals will conduct succinct surveys and engage in conversation with those experiencing homelessness. As CBS News Atlanta highlighted, the act of counting translates into a broader awareness and an opportunity to collect personal accounts from a marginalized populace.
Those volunteering to scour the county's streets will be doing so on two specific evenings: January 22 in South Fulton and January 23 in North Fulton. Requirements for volunteers include online registration by January 15 and completion of a self-paced virtual training session. This training is designed to equip them with the necessary skills for respectfully engaging with participants, utilizing a mobile application for surveying, and understanding the counting methodology.
Stepping up on the health and safety front, officials have made face masks and gloves available at designated command centers, facilitating volunteers' efforts on the nights of the count. The use of personal protective equipment, while not mandatory, is highly recommended for those inclined to wear it. Those interested can register at the designated website provided by the county, where, they can also choose their preferred areas and find pairing with seasoned team members. Group registrations are also accepted, encouraging participation among colleagues, friends, or family groups.
