The Halifax Point in Time Count (PIT) is a one day snapshot of homelessness in our city that captures numbers and basic demographics of people staying in emergency shelters, hospitals, detox facilities, and the streets. PIT counts provide a benchmark from which to measure changes in the homeless population and assist policymakers and programme administrators in monitoring progress.Â
On May 12th 2015, over 60 volunteers took to Halifax’s streets and shelters to enumerate and survey the homeless community. Moving forward, in 2016 Halifax will take part of the first annual national PIT using a standardized methodology to allow for comparability across the country. By aligning methods across Canada, we can examine trends that help inform solutions to support the goal of ending homelessness.Â