San Diego County, January 23, 2026
San Diego County is seeking approximately 1,700 volunteers for the annual Point-in-Time Count on January 29, 2026. This event aims to provide a snapshot of the region’s homeless population, helping to secure vital resources and shape solutions to homelessness. Volunteers will conduct surveys and headcounts early in the morning, gathering crucial data for policy decisions and funding allocations. Interested individuals can register on the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) website.
San Diego County Seeks Volunteers for Annual Homeless Count on January 29, 2026
San Diego County is calling for volunteers to participate in the annual Point-in-Time Count, scheduled for January 29, 2026. This event aims to provide a one-day snapshot of the region’s homeless population, including those in emergency shelters and safe parking lots. The count is coordinated by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) and is crucial for understanding homelessness trends and securing resources to address the issue.
Volunteer Participation
Approximately 1,700 volunteers are needed to conduct the count effectively. Volunteers will be deployed in small groups to designated areas across the county, where they will conduct brief surveys and headcounts of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The count will take place between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on January 29, 2026. As of January 22, 2026, the RTFH had registered 1,313 volunteers, with nearly 400 additional volunteers still needed to meet the target. Interested individuals can register through the RTFH website.
Importance of the Count
The Point-in-Time Count is a vital tool for understanding homelessness in the community and shaping effective solutions. The data collected helps secure federal and state funding to support programs for individuals experiencing homelessness. Last year, the count identified at least 9,905 individuals living in shelters or on the streets, a 7% decrease from the previous year. This decline was attributed to significant reductions in family homelessness and veteran homelessness. However, challenges remain, including an increase in the number of people living in vehicles and a rise in first-time homelessness among seniors.
Background
The RTFH has been conducting the annual Point-in-Time Count for several years, involving hundreds of volunteers and outreach workers across San Diego County. The count provides a minimum estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness, offering valuable insights into the scope and nature of homelessness in the region. The data collected is used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources, and develop programs aimed at reducing homelessness.
How to Register
Individuals interested in volunteering can register through the RTFH website. The registration process includes selecting a deployment site and reviewing training materials provided by the RTFH. Volunteers are encouraged to register promptly, as spots fill up quickly. Once registered, volunteers will receive a confirmation email with assigned site details and access to the 2026 Volunteer Training video.
Contact Information
For further inquiries regarding San Diego’s Point-in-Time Count, please email [email protected]. Additional information and registration details are available on the RTFH website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Point-in-Time Count?
The Point-in-Time Count is an annual event that provides a one-day snapshot of the number of people experiencing homelessness in San Diego County. It is coordinated by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness and involves volunteers conducting surveys and headcounts of individuals in shelters and on the streets.
How can I volunteer for the count?
Individuals interested in volunteering can register through the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) website. The registration process includes selecting a deployment site and reviewing training materials provided by the RTFH. Volunteers are encouraged to register promptly, as spots fill up quickly.
When is the count taking place?
The Point-in-Time Count is scheduled for January 29, 2026, between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Volunteers will be deployed in small groups to designated areas across the county during this time frame.
Why is the count important?
The count is crucial for understanding homelessness trends in the community and shaping effective solutions. The data collected helps secure federal and state funding to support programs for individuals experiencing homelessness and informs policy decisions and resource allocation.
How many volunteers are needed?
Approximately 1,700 volunteers are needed to conduct the count effectively. As of January 22, 2026, the RTFH had registered 1,313 volunteers, with nearly 400 additional volunteers still needed to meet the target.
Key Features of the Point-in-Time Count
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | January 29, 2026 |
| Time Frame | 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. |
| Volunteer Requirement | Approximately 1,700 volunteers |
| Registration Status | 1,313 volunteers registered as of January 22, 2026; nearly 400 additional volunteers needed |
| Registration Link | Available on the RTFH website |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |
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