What is the PWA CoC Point in Time (PIT) Count?
The PIT is an annual count of persons experiencing homelessness on a single night each year in January as required by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). The Prince William County Department of Social Services (DSS) is the lead for the Prince William Area Continuum of Care (PWA CoC), which includes the areas of Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park. (See the 2021 report.)
This year’s count will take place on Wednesday, 1/26/2022, from 8PM – 12AM with a backup date of Thursday, 1/27/2022 in case of inclement weather. Volunteers must be 18+, comfortable with technology, and available for a training prior to PIT (date TBD). Click to view more information and requirements. Sign-up online, or email homelessservices@pwcgov.org with questions.
Why is the PIT Count Important?
The PIT provides a “snapshot” of the nature and extent of homelessness in our area. The data collected during the count is used to inform funding decisions, support services and resource planning, as well as, raise public awareness about homelessness.
As in previous years, we are in need of volunteers to help us complete the “unsheltered” portion of the count, which involves visiting places where persons experiencing homelessness are sleeping in a “place not meant for human habitation” (such as their vehicle, an abandoned building, or anywhere outside). Volunteers will be placed in teams, led by an experienced “Team Lead”, and will complete surveys with participants at pre-identified locations.
If you are interested in volunteering for the 2022 PIT Count, please register at the link below.
2022 PIT Volunteer Registration
2021 Point in Time (PIT) Count Report January 27th, 2021