Los Angeles officials are seeking volunteers for the annual homeless count, scheduled to take place January 20-22. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) aims to recruit 6,500 volunteers for the effort.
Understanding the Annual Count
The point-in-time count involves volunteers covering over 4,000 square miles of Los Angeles County. Working in small groups, they will tally the number of people experiencing homelessness, as well as the number of tents, shelters, and vehicles used as housing.
As of Monday, approximately 1,500 volunteers had registered, according to LAHSA. However, a spokesperson, Christopher Yee, indicated that volunteer sign-ups typically increase as the count dates approach, and that “an additional 3,200 people will help ensure the job is completed smoothly.”
Why the Count Matters
The data gathered during the count is crucial for directing resources to those in need. According to LAHSA, the information informs how the rehousing system allocates funding, housing, and services throughout the region.
This year’s count will also consider the potential impact of last year’s fires. LAHSA will monitor how displacement from the fires may affect the number of people experiencing homelessness.
What to Expect
The count will be conducted in phases. On January 20, volunteers will focus on the San Fernando Valley and Metro Los Angeles areas. January 21 will see volunteers in the San Gabriel Valley and East Los Angeles. The final day, January 22, will cover the Antelope Valley, West Los Angeles, South Los Angeles, and the South Bay/Harbor region.
In addition to the unsheltered count, the Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count includes a youth count, conducted throughout January with youth service organizations, and a shelter and housing inventory count, scheduled for January 21.
Officials with the University of Southern California began a demographic survey of unsheltered individuals in December, and it will continue through March.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the point-in-time count?
The point-in-time count provides data that illuminates the scope and nature of homelessness in the Los Angeles region, guiding policymakers and service administrators in addressing the issue.
Who is leading the effort?
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is leading the count as the lead of the Los Angeles Continuum of Care.
What types of data will be collected?
Volunteers will tally the number of people, tents, makeshift shelters, and vehicles they see in their assigned census tracts.
Considering the importance of accurate data in addressing homelessness, how might increased volunteer participation impact the effectiveness of resource allocation in Los Angeles?
