Extended Point in Time Count Expected to Improve Data on Homelessness

ALBUQUERQUE – Each year, the annual Point in Time Count (PIT) is held to take a census of people experiencing homelessness and guide outreach and services to our unsheltered population. Today, the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness began the count with support from the City of Albuquerque.

This year’s count will last one week, ending on January 29. In years past, the count only lasted four days. The change is intended to increase community participation by allowing people to volunteer over the weekend. It will also prevent the process from being rushed and will offer flexibility to adjust methodology for severe winter weather, which has caused a low count in previous years.

"We thank our partners at the city for continuing to coordinate with us as we make efforts to improve the PIT count,” said William Bowen, Albuquerque CoC Program Officer. “ City volunteers, particularly the Albuquerque Community Safety surveying team, are an essential part of the effort to get an accurate picture of homelessness in Albuquerque."

The City will be divided into five zones for the count. Most zones will require one day each to count. Zones one and five will require two days each because they are more densely populated areas.

”When we know where to focus services and outreach, we can better meet the needs of our unsheltered neighbors,” said Health, Housing and Homelessness Director, Gilbert Ramirez. “That’s what the PIT count accomplishes for our community, and we welcome changes that will lead to better data.”

Albuquerque Community Safety’s Street Outreach team will also participate in the count— helping during weekdays when volunteer numbers are lower.

“Our team is dedicated to outreach that creates lasting community improvements,” said ACS Homeless Liaison Administrator Jennifer Martinez. “By partnering with others and conducting surveys, we ensure individuals facing homelessness have access to the resources they need.”

“Through our Gateway Network and ACS First Responders, we are building systems of outreach and support for our unhoused community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “A more accurate PIT count shows us how to leverage these new resources to better serve residents.” 

This year, during the count, teams will hand out donations of new or gently used clothing items to keep people warm on cold winter days. Donations are still being accepted.