Point in Time Count

We have made the decision to conduct the unsheltered PIT count every other year to provide more time to analyze the data and make informed decisions about updating priorities in the Continuum of Care (CoC). By conducting the PIT count less frequently, we will have more time to thoroughly review the data, identify trends, and discuss recommendations for updating priorities within the CoC. This can lead to more effective strategies for addressing homelessness and allocating resources.

It's important to ensure that even though the PIT count is conducted less frequently, there are still mechanisms in place to monitor homelessness trends and respond to emerging needs in the off years. Regular data collection and analysis throughout the year will help provide insights into evolving challenges and inform proactive approaches.

Overall, taking this step will allow for a more comprehensive and deliberate approach to addressing homelessness within our community. We will have the next unsheltered count in 2026.  The sheltered count will continue to happen each year. 

Tools for Volunteers

2026 Point-in-Time Count (PIT)

Stay tuned for more details

2024 Point-in-Time Count (PIT)

Community/County Coordinators have been identified and are contacting volunteers

Charleston: Shelli Clark

North Charleston: Brandon Lilienthol

Colleton: Amanda Herndon

Jasper: Jennifer Coleman

Beaufort: Anna Ramirez

Hampton: TBD

Berkeley: TBD

Dorchester: TBD

What is the Point-in-Time Count?

The Point-in-Time (PIT) count is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. HUD requires that Continuums of Care conduct an annual count of people experiencing homelessness who are sheltered in emergency shelter, transitional housing, and Safe Havens on a single night. Continuums of Care also must conduct a count of unsheltered people experiencing homelessness. Each count is planned, coordinated, and carried out locally.

Why does the Point-in-Time Count matter?

Point-in-Time Count data are the primary data national estimates of homelessness. The numbers reported by your community are used by the US Interagency Council on Homelessness and all federal departments including Housing and Education. PIT Count numbers are also most often cited by local strategic plans, state, county and city government and the media.

Do you want to volunteer for the Unsheltered Count?

To register for the PIT count, please sign up here

When is training?

Training will be provided online this year. All volunteers will be sent a link to the training video on January 22. Please note that those who are new volunteers will be paired with someone who has participated before This will help with any questions you have. The training video will be sent to the email address provided when you signed up.