Point-in-Time Homeless Count 2024

The Point-in-Time (PIT) Homelessness Count is done by the Maricopa Association of Governments each year. This street and shelter count determines the number of people experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County during a given point in time, which in this case was Jan. 23, 2024.

The PIT Homeless Count is part of a national effort to identify the extent of homelessness throughout the country. It counts the people and families experiencing homelessness in and out of homeless shelters. The count is completed by hundreds of volunteers.

“Each team is assigned a geographic grid,” said Vicki Phillips, Co-Chair of the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care Board. “You would just go out and comb street corners, buildings, river bottoms, wherever your geographic location is, and just try to identify individuals who are experiencing homelessness and have a conversation with them.”

The questions asked to those who are identified are the typical demographic questions, inquiring about where they slept the night before and other contributing factors to homelessness.

The average demographic has been white males aged 25-64 experiencing homelessness in and out of homeless shelters. However, it is still too early to make a complete synopsis from the data.

“The information helps identify any trends or patterns we are seeing,” Phillips said. “And it helps us better allocate our resources.”

The total numbers and demographics from the count will be finalized in April.