A Point-in-Time (PiT) Count is a strategy to help determine the extent of homelessness in a community on a given night, or at a single point in time. It provides a “snapshot” of the characteristics of a community’s homeless population, to better understand the nature and extent of homelessness to support planning and program delivery to address the issue.
United Way is the Community Entity responsible for coordinating and conducting the PIT Count in Kingston. Working with the City of Kingston and agency partners, our community has conducted 3 PIT Counts since 2013. The bi-annual process typically takes place in April, and involves training and deploying volunteers out onto the streets, who conduct face to face surveys with individuals experiencing homelessness.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Pit Count was not able to happen. However, plans are underway for a modified PIT Count to take place on April 14, 2021, that will include infection control procedures. This year’s process will not include community volunteers conducting a street count, however, we will work closely with agencies and staff to implement a safe enumeration and survey process within shelters, drop-in centres, institutions and transitional housing programs.
For more information about previous PIT Counts visit https://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/reports/