The count, which is coordinated by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), provides a one-night snapshot of the number of men, women and children living in unsheltered situations or on the streets. Those who are in shelter also will be counted the same night to achieve a total Point in Time count. Those interested in volunteering for the count can contact a coordinator in their area.

“While the Point in Time count is only a small snapshot of the homelessness crisis, we know that gathering data is an important way to drive progress,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, chair of MAG. “As MAG brings together Valley leaders to confront homelessness head-on, monitoring and assessing trends can help us better understand the challenge and ultimately inform our policy decisions.”

More than 1,000 volunteers from local governments, nonprofits, and faith-based communities will participate in the count by fanning out across the Valley in teams. Where possible, they will conduct a brief survey of individuals to identify specific homelessness situations and determine most-needed resources.

Last year’s homelessness Point in Time count tallied 9,642 people experiencing homelessness in the region, an overall increase in homelessness of nearly 7 percent. Numbers showed a decline in the number of people living on the street, but a rise in those living in shelters. Data from the 2024 count will be available in April.

Vicki Phillips is co-chair of the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care, which seeks to develop regional solutions to end homelessness. She notes that the Point in Time count is just one of many data sources that the board relies on to understand the homelessness picture.

“Our primary source of homelessness data comes from the Homeless Management Information System, which is gathered daily when someone interacts with the homeless services system,” says Phillips. “Using this database, we produce a quarterly homelessness trends report that highlights trends in the populations experiencing homelessness as well as system performance measures in Maricopa County. All of these data points help us better understand the greatest needs and best manage limited resources.”

The results of the count are used in the MAG consolidated application to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to support homeless assistance programs. Since 1999, the Continuum of Care has received over $550 million of funding and now supports more than 32 homeless assistance programs within 11 different agencies. This award has been an important and consistent source of funding for the community.

Individuals can make a difference in addressing homelessness. See these tips for getting involved.