Chicago City Wire

The Point-in-Time (PIT) count is an annual evaluation of both sheltered and unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness at a specific point in time. The data collected during the PIT count each year are analyzed to identify areas of need and allocate resources for housing and services. According to the City, this data is crucial for demonstrating the need for federal funding, planning services and resources, and raising public awareness about homelessness.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) mandates that PIT counts be conducted every two years. However, since 2013, the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) has implemented yearly counts for the City of Chicago. Over 230 volunteers, including city employees and homeless shelter providers, participate in canvassing the city over a few hours in the evening.