City of Hamilton seeks volunteers to participate in the 20,000 Homes Point-In-Time Count

HAMILTON, ON – January 19, 2016 – The City of Hamilton is seeking approximately 200 volunteers to work shifts on Sunday, February 21 and Monday, February 22 for the 20,000 Homes Point-In-Time Count.

The Point-in-Time Count builds on the 2015 20,000 Homes Campaign to house 20,000 of Canada’s most vulnerable homeless people by July 1, 2018. On February 21 and 22, the City will take part in a coordinated effort to measure homelessness across Canada. Sponsored by the Federal Government, this is the first time communities across the country will participate in a Point-in-Time Count at the same time, using the same approach. This count is being completed in partnership with Hamilton’s Urban Aboriginal Community.

The City will train volunteers to count and survey individuals experiencing homelessness, which includes those staying in shelters, short-term housing and sleeping rough (without shelter). The surveys will identify as many people as possible experiencing homelessness and gather information on their health and social needs. The City will then use this information to direct resources and supports to areas of greatest need.  

“The 20,000 Homes Point-in-Time Count will help us to better understand and enable us to address the current health and housing needs of people experiencing homelessness in our community”, said Mayor Eisenberger. “The City’s participation in this national count is a significant step towards our goal to end homelessness in Hamilton.”

The survey results from the Point-In-Time Count will be shared with the community during the Community Debrief on March 4.

Sign up to volunteer today! The deadline to register as a volunteer is February 5.

Learn more about 20,000 Homes Point-in-Time Count campaign.