Volunteer Opportunity: Santa Clara County Counting Unhoused Residents
The County of Santa Clara is looking for dedicated volunteers to assist with the 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count of unhoused residents happening this year. This crucial count will provide essential data to inform local policies regarding homelessness. The PIT Count, also known as the Santa Clara County Homeless Census and Survey, is scheduled for the mornings of Wednesday, January 22, and Thursday, January 23.
Santa Clara County Continuum of Care
The Santa Clara County Continuum of Care, which includes the County, the City of San José, and the other 14 cities in the county, is spearheading the PIT Count. The County and city governments will use the findings from the survey to support homeless individuals and families, as well as provide valuable information to federal and state agencies.
Community Engagement
Volunteers play a vital role in the success of the PIT Count. During the last count in January 2023, it was discovered that a total of 9,903 homeless individuals resided in Santa Clara County. Volunteers will be grouped and dispatched to different locations across the county to observe and interview unhoused residents. No previous experience is necessary, as training will be provided to all volunteers. Those with personal experience of homelessness will receive a $150 gift card for each day of participation.
Gratitude and Impact
KJ Kaminski, acting director of the County Office of Supportive Housing, expressed gratitude towards community members who volunteer for the PIT Count. Their efforts provide a valuable public service that directly benefits those in need. The data collected during the count, combined with other tools and information, helps determine how resources can be allocated to reduce homelessness in Santa Clara County and connect unhoused residents with vital services and housing options.
To sign up as a volunteer, please visit santaclara.pointintime.info. For any inquiries or questions, feel free to reach out via email at OSHdata@hhs.sccgov.org.
