San Diego, January 30, 2026
On January 29, volunteers gathered in San Diego for the annual Point-in-Time Count to assess homelessness in the region. With around 1,700 volunteers taking part, the initiative helps gather critical data for understanding homelessness. Preliminary observations highlight the community’s commitment to addressing this ongoing issue, reflecting a potential 7% decrease in homeless individuals compared to last year. The data collected will inform strategies and resource allocation for effective community support and action.
San Diego Conducts Annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count
San Diego, CA – On January 29, 2026, approximately 1,700 volunteers participated in the annual Point-in-Time Count, a comprehensive survey aimed at assessing homelessness across San Diego County.
Purpose and Participation
The Point-in-Time Count is an annual initiative coordinated by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH). This year, volunteers canvassed various areas, including streets, shelters, and encampments, to identify individuals experiencing homelessness. The data collected is crucial for understanding the scope of homelessness and informing resource allocation.
Preliminary Observations
While the official results of the 2026 count are pending, preliminary observations suggest a continued commitment from the community to address homelessness. In previous years, the count has revealed fluctuations in the homeless population, with a 7% decrease in 2025 compared to 2024.
Background Context
The Point-in-Time Count has been conducted annually since 2014, with the exception of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The data collected serves as a minimum estimate of homelessness, guiding local decision-making and the allocation of resources. However, it’s important to note that the count may not capture the full extent of homelessness, as it focuses on visible individuals and may exclude those in less accessible areas.
Looking Ahead
As the official results of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count are analyzed, stakeholders anticipate using the data to refine strategies aimed at reducing homelessness in San Diego County. The community’s ongoing involvement underscores a collective effort to address this complex issue.
Key Features of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | January 29, 2026 |
| Volunteer Participation | Approximately 1,700 volunteers |
| Survey Areas | Streets, shelters, encampments, and other locations across San Diego County |
| Purpose | To assess homelessness and inform resource allocation |
| Data Collection | Conducted by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) |
| Previous Findings | 7% decrease in homelessness in 2025 compared to 2024 |
FAQ
What is the Point-in-Time Count?
The Point-in-Time Count is an annual survey coordinated by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness, involving volunteers canvassing various areas to identify individuals experiencing homelessness. The data collected helps inform resource allocation and strategies to address homelessness in San Diego County.
How many volunteers participated in the 2026 Point-in-Time Count?
Approximately 1,700 volunteers participated in the 2026 Point-in-Time Count, canvassing various areas across San Diego County to identify individuals experiencing homelessness.
When will the official results of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count be available?
The official results of the 2026 Point-in-Time Count are currently being analyzed. Previous counts have shown fluctuations in the homeless population, with a 7% decrease in 2025 compared to 2024.
How does the Point-in-Time Count impact homelessness strategies in San Diego?
The data collected from the Point-in-Time Count serves as a minimum estimate of homelessness, guiding local decision-making and the allocation of resources. It helps stakeholders refine strategies aimed at reducing homelessness in San Diego County.
Is the Point-in-Time Count the only measure of homelessness in San Diego?
No, the Point-in-Time Count is an annual snapshot and may not capture the full extent of homelessness, as it focuses on visible individuals and may exclude those in less accessible areas. Additional data sources and ongoing monitoring are used to assess homelessness comprehensively.
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