2025 Point-in-Time Count

Reflecting on the Point-in-Time Count

In late January of last year, I had the opportunity to participate in the annual Point-in-Time Count, often referred to as the PIT Count. This nationwide effort takes place every winter and brings together volunteers, outreach workers, and local organizations to count the number of people experiencing homelessness on a single night.

The Point-in-Time Count is designed to capture a snapshot of both sheltered and unsheltered homelessness within a community. While it does not tell the full story of homelessness throughout the year, it provides critical data that cities, counties, and organizations use to understand trends, allocate resources, and advocate for long-term solutions. More information about how the count works and why it matters can be found here:  https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/hdx/pit-hic/

Participating in the count was a sobering experience. It puts faces and conversations behind statistics that are often discussed abstractly. Walking designated areas, engaging respectfully with people where they are, and contributing to a broader community effort reinforced how real and present this issue is, even in places where it may not always be visible.

At About Face, our mission is to support veterans facing homelessness or housing instability. Many veterans return from service carrying challenges that are not always obvious and not always adequately addressed. Our work exists to help bridge that gap and to stand alongside those who have served when they need support navigating the next chapter of their lives.

Taking part in the Point-in-Time Count aligned naturally with that mission. Veterans are a significant part of the homeless population, and participating in the count helps ensure they are seen, counted, and considered when decisions are made at the local and national levels. For us, showing up is not just symbolic. It is part of being engaged, informed, and accountable to the people we aim to serve.

Although the Point-in-Time Count happens on one night each year, its impact extends far beyond that moment. The data collected continues to shape conversations, funding decisions, and community planning long after the count is completed.

Looking back on that experience reinforces why About Face remains committed to being involved, present, and responsive. Awareness leads to understanding, and understanding is the first step toward meaningful change. Participating in efforts like the Point-in-Time Count is one way we stay connected to the realities veterans face and to the broader community working to address homelessness with compassion.