Volunteers needed for annual Macomb County Point-in-Time Count of homeless population

Macomb Community Action is currently seeking volunteers for its Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, an annual census of those who are experiencing homelessness in Macomb County. Volunteers can elect to participate in the 2026 Point-In-Time Count in either of two shift options -- the late-night shift beginning on the night of Wednesday, January 28 from 9 p.m. - midnight, and the early morning shift on January 29 from 2 - 5 a.m.

The Point-in Time Count is a requirement of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is intended to provide a better understanding of Macomb County's homeless population and help direct resources to those who need them most.

"We're encouraging residents across Macomb County to come together for this important event," said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. "The Point-in-Time Count provides essential data that helps guide our efforts to address homelessness, but it also reminds us of the real people behind those numbers. By volunteering, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors who need our support."

Volunteers gather data on those encountered, including gender, race and ethnicity for all persons. Additional data will be gathered if the person interviewed voluntarily provides the information. This could consist of veteran status, age, whether the person is "chronically homeless" or if the person is experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence, disability status, HIV/AIDS or those who have a substance use disorder.

Groups of three to four volunteers per vehicle will canvass the County in search of those who, during the PIT count hours, are found outside unsheltered. The volunteers will be provided a geographic portion of the County to monitor. "Hot spots" - where homeless people are known to be - will be provided. Volunteers will complete forms on those they encounter to ensure data is collected appropriately. A bag of items will be provided to everyone they meet along with a sheet of resources including shelter information, health care information, etc.

"Homelessness remains one of the most important challenges facing our society today," said Andrew Cox, Director/Health Officer of Macomb County Health and Community Services. "We use the PIT Count to engage our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness, learn more about them, and share information and resources that they might find helpful. I encourage community members to join us to help address this important issue and work toward solutions."

"Getting a better understanding of homelessness on a local level helps us be more effective in our efforts to address this important issue," said Edward Scott, Director of Macomb Community Action. "We hope Macomb County residents will once again turn out to be an important part of the solution."

Those interested in volunteering with Macomb Community Action for the night of the PIT Count must complete an online registration form and attend volunteer training. Those unable to volunteer, but still wishing to contribute, can make donations for fast food gift cards that are distributed during the Point-In-Time Count.

For more information, interested individuals can send an email to [email protected], oryou can call Kristin at 586-817-2049.

To register to volunteer for the Point-in-Time Count, visit https://bit.ly/47TFJVX

Scott Turske

[email protected]