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—a federal survey that is required for communities to qualify for funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For example, in FY2024, Sacramento received $40.5 million from HUD, supporting housing, shelter, and services in our region.

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.

Each year, Sacramento Steps Forward provides point-in-time data collected in the last 10 days of January. Annually, this includes a count of those experiencing homelessness who are using shelter services based on the data we have in our Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). Every other year, a survey of those experiencing unsheltered homelessness is completed 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 elected officials and community leaders, and increases awareness about the realities of homelessness. The results are widely shared and used to inform local strategies and decisions.