More Than a Count
Every January, thousands of volunteers across every city and state participate in the Point-in-Time (PIT) Homelessness Count — a nationwide effort to understand homelessness. This year, for the first time, I joined the movement, not knowing what to expect but eager to make a difference. What I experienced left an indelible impression on me and deepened my understanding of homelessness, not just in my city, but as a reality affecting communities everywhere.
Coffee, Layers, and Purpose: Kicking Off the PIT Count
Before heading to bed, I did one last check: Gloves? Check. Hat? Check. Multiple alarms? Definitely.
I got up to the sharp chill of the morning air. As I layered up and grabbed my supplies, I thought about the people we’d meet — for them, mornings like this weren’t just cold but a daily reality of uncertainty and survival. That thought stayed with me as I headed out to meet my team.
Volunteers and outreach workers gathered, bundled against the cold — some seasoned, sharing stories; others like me, first-timers, absorbing every tip. After a quick briefing on approaching people with respect, we grabbed our surveys and set out with a clear purpose: To connect, listen, and gather the data needed to drive change.
Grief, Resilience, and Love: The PIT Count Through Their Eyes
Before long, I met my first individual, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Their openness struck me immediately. I heard soft humming and followed the sound to a man sitting on a blanket, wrapped in layers. He greeted me with a warm smile and shared that humming helped him stay calm through the toughest nights. His story stayed with me — not just for the hardships he endured, but for his resilience. Even in uncertainty, he found small ways to hold onto hope. That simple sound became a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
As I continued through the count, each encounter revealed a different story of struggle and resilience. While some, like the man who hummed to soothe himself through the night, found small ways to hold onto hope, others carried grief that weighed heavily on their hearts. That’s when I met Roberta.
The Work Doesn’t Stop Here: Making a Lasting Impact
As I left my first PIT Count, the faces and stories I encountered stayed with me — especially Roberta’s. She reminded me that this work isn’t just about data; it’s about seeing people, recognizing their humanity, and striving for a world where no one faces these struggles alone. The PIT Count plays a crucial role in that mission, helping communities understand the scope of homelessness so we can direct resources where they’re needed most.
At St. Vincent de Paul, we see firsthand how critical support can prevent homelessness before it starts. Programs like Angels on Call step in during times of crisis, offering rent assistance, food, and essential services to help families stay in their homes. The stories I heard during the PIT Count reinforced why this work is so important — because behind every number is a person in need of compassion and support.
This experience made one thing clear: addressing homelessness requires more than just one day of service — it takes ongoing commitment. I’m proud to be part of an organization that works daily to serve those in need, and I encourage others to join us. Change happens one count, one conversation, and one act of kindness at a time.
