The annual point in time count that tracks the demographics, causes and population of those experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness in the Asheville and Buncombe County community takes place on Wednesday, January 26. The count, which is used to provide accurate data about the state of homelessness in the community, constitutes a partnership across multiple city and county departments, agencies and stakeholders.
From the Asheville-Buncombe Homeless Initiative blog:
This number reflects an estimate derived from the annual Point in Time Count. This year the count takes place on Wednesday, January 26th. Staff from homeless agencies, volunteers, and people who are experiencing homelessness will work together to count everyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness on the night of January 26th.
In addition to shelters and other housing programs, the Buncombe County Department of Social Services, Buncombe County Jail, police from Asheville, Montreat, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Woodfin, and Weaverville, the Mission Hospital, the Charles George VA Medical Center, United Way’s 2-1-1, and agencies that provide crisis services to people in our community will help with the count.
Data collected during the count includes demographic information, causes of homelessness, where people are sleeping, and information about chronic homelessness, veteran status, and other subpopulation data. The count will include individuals and families staying outside, in shelters, and in other housing programs for people experiencing homelessness.