This message is sent on behalf of The Region of Durham IEHSD.
Volunteers needed for the upcoming Point in Time (PIT) Count, a vital initiative aimed at understanding homelessness in our community, taking place November 18, 2024. Your participation can make a significant difference in gathering essential data that helps shape local services and support.
The Point-in-Time Count provides a snapshot of homelessness at a given time to help to better understand who is homeless and what their needs are. This involves counting and surveying those in our community who experience:
• Unsheltered homelessness (those living outside or in emergency shelters)
• Hidden homelessness (those staying with others or “couch surfing”)
A successful count will allow our community to:
• Ensure the comprehensiveness of the Built for Zero by-name list of people experiencing homelessness
• Identify the characteristics and needs of the absolute and hidden homeless
• Identify where progress is being made and where refocusing of effort is needed, both geographically and for different subpopulations
• Increase public awareness about homelessness
We’re looking for volunteers to assist with the following:
Survey Volunteers: survey individuals on the street, in shelters and at service locations. Survey Volunteers are required to commit to a 4-hour shift and completion of online training before the count. Survey Volunteers will work in assigned teams under the leadership of someone with experience in the field. Volunteers surveying on the street need to be able to stand and walk for up to 3 hours. Accommodations can be made for volunteers who are unable to meet this criterion.
Team Leaders: Team Leaders take on additional responsibilities regarding the safety and coordination of a team of volunteers. Team Leaders must also commit to a 4-hour shift and completion of online training before the count. Ideally, Team Leaders should have experience working with individuals that are homeless and/or vulnerable populations.
If you’re interested in making an impact, please complete the form located here: https://forms.durham.ca/IEHSD/Homelessness/Durham-Region-PiT-Count-Volunteer-Registration