Gathering insights into homelessness within our community.
Collecting accurate information about those experiencing homelessness is essential to developing real solutions. Data helps us:
- Understand why people in our community become homeless.
- Create better policies, programs, and services.
- Track progress in reducing homelessness.
- Educate and involve the community in housing and homelessness efforts.
- Secure funding from federal, state, local, and private sources.
One key way we gather data is through the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, which happens during the last 10 days of January and helps us understand who is experiencing homelessness. Annually, this includes a count of individuals experiencing homelessness who are using shelter services, based on the data in our Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). Every other year, a survey of those experiencing unsheltered homelessness is completed on the ground throughout the region.
The biennial unsheltered PIT Count is the most widely known effort and a major community event. It requires hundreds of volunteers, engages community leaders, and increases awareness about the realities of homelessness. The results are widely shared and used to inform local strategies and decisions.
In our role as the lead agency for the region’s Continuum of Care (CoC), Sacramento Steps Forward is responsible for implementing the PIT Count.
Join Our Mailing List
Join our email list to receive notifications about 2026 PIT Count information and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Sacramento’s next unsheltered PIT Count is tentatively scheduled to take place January 26-27, 2026. More details coming soon!
