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Writer's pictureSimmie Rankins-Peters

A Critical Count: The Point in Time Survey and Our Fight Against Homelessness

In the bustling streets of Atlanta, a city known for its vibrancy and spirit, a significant event unfolded recently, resonating with the very core of Harbor Halo's mission. Volunteers took to these streets on a Monday night, embarking on a crucial task: gathering information about Atlanta's homeless population. This effort is part of the annual Point in Time count, a survey mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which profoundly influences federal funding allocations for combating homelessness.


Understanding the Point in Time Count

A volunteer hand a pen and census paperwork to a homeless person so they can be counted in the census.
A volunteer asking questions for the homeless census

The Point in Time count is more than just a survey. It's a nationwide initiative that plays a critical role in shaping the fight against homelessness. In Atlanta, this effort saw volunteers across every metro county coming together in a remarkable display of community commitment.

The survey targets both sheltered and unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. Organized by Partners for Home in collaboration with the city of Atlanta, its objective is clear and compelling: to gather data that guides where help is most needed.



Cathryn Vassell, CEO of Partners for HOME, emphasizes the impact of this data. It's not merely about numbers; it's about understanding trends, evaluating progress, and deploying resources effectively. This annual report acts as a compass, directing efforts and strategies in the ongoing battle against homelessness.


Why This Matters to Harbor Halo

At Harbor Halo, we are more than just observers of this initiative; we are deeply aligned with its purpose. Accurate data on homelessness is vital for organizations like ours. It helps us:

  1. Strategize Effectively: Understanding the scale and dynamics of homelessness allows us to tailor our programs and interventions to be more impactful.

  2. Advocate for Change: Armed with data, we can advocate for policy changes and increased support at both local and national levels.

  3. Mobilize Resources: Knowledge of the areas most affected by homelessness guides us in mobilizing our resources and volunteer efforts more efficiently.

  4. Measure Impact: By comparing annual data, we can gauge the effectiveness of our strategies and adjust our approach to ensure continuous improvement.

Join the Effort

The Point in Time count is a crucial element in our collective effort to address homelessness. We at Harbor Halo encourage our community to get involved. Volunteering for such counts, supporting local homeless initiatives, or contributing to organizations working on the ground can make a significant difference.


The Point in Time count in Atlanta is more than a survey; it's a beacon of hope. It’s an embodiment of community spirit and a critical tool in our shared mission to combat homelessness. At Harbor Halo, we stand committed to this cause, inspired by the collective action seen in Atlanta, and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.


Note: The information about the Point in Time count in Atlanta is referenced from https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2024/01/23/volunteers-deploy-across-atlanta-head-count-homeless/the news story provided.


For more details on the count and how to get involved, visit Partners for Home.

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