CoAction, in partnership with local service providers and dedicated volunteers, recently conducted the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count of individuals experiencing homelessness on January 29. This effort provides valuable insights into homelessness in Northwest Indiana and across the state.
The PIT Count offers a snapshot of homelessness in our region, capturing essential data on individuals experiencing both unsheltered and sheltered homelessness. This information is enabling CoAction and other community organizations to develop targeted programs and allocate resources where they are needed most. Sheltered counts were conducted at emergency shelters, transitional housing facilities, and safe havens across Northwest Indiana.
“In Northwest Indiana, the PIT Count is more than just data collection; it’s a powerful tool to identify the unique challenges faced by our community,” said Gina Gomez,Director of Community Services , CoAction. “By understanding the scope of homelessness in our region, we can work toward solutions that provide lasting stability for individuals and families.”
The success of the PIT Count depends on collaboration between service providers and volunteers, who are trained to use the PIT survey and engage with individuals experiencing homelessness using trauma-informed care and sensitivity. CoAction thanks the community members who volunteered their time to amplify the impact of this initiative in Northwest Indiana.
“Homelessness in Northwest Indiana requires local solutions informed by accurate and timely data,” said Jen Trowbridge, CEO, CoAction. “The PIT Count ensures that we have the information needed to secure funding, develop programs, and advocate for policies that address homelessness effectively in our region.”
In Northwest Indiana, CoAction alongside other organizations coordinated PIT count teams throughout counties in NWI. Volunteers and service providers canvassed communities across the region to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness and ensure their stories were counted.
The results of the PIT Count will directly impact funding and resources allocated to Northwest Indiana, shaping programs like emergency shelters, meal services, and transitional housing projects in our communities. By participating in this effort, community members play a crucial role in driving positive change and ensuring no one is left behind.
For more information about the PIT Count, visit https://www.in.gov/ihcda/indiana-balance-of-state-continuum-of-care/hmis_data_portal/:
