Mississippi

First day of ‘Point-in-Time Count’ gets started in Central Mississippi

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JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – On Wednesday, the first “Point-in-Time Count” took place in Central Mississippi. This is an annual survey conducted by the Central MS Continuum of Care that takes a count of the homeless population in specific regions which could impact funding for homelessness resources.

So, what is a “Point-in-Time Count” and why does it matter? Melvin Stamps, the Planning Director at Central MS Continuum of Care, explains.

“It is a tool used throughout the United States to be able to address homelessness. It gives us a snapshot of our homeless population on one specific night. It plays a critical role as it relates to public policy, advocacy efforts, and also, resource distribution throughout the state of Mississippi,” Melvin Stamps said.

Volunteers conduct a count and interview people who are homeless. This information is then used to request more funding from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide services for the homeless.

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“The data is developed and put into what is called a hall report. That report is generated to Congress and Congress looks at that data. They use that information to make decisions as it relates to how much funding is needed in order to meet the needs of our homeless population,” Stamps said.

For many who did the survey, they hope it can bring more funding to help them back on their feet.

“It feels great to really have somebody to help you. I’ve been homeless for a while, it feels great,” James Starks said.

“The more people they can get to fill out the surveys, it’s money that comes to the city to help with everything within the city with homelessness and fixing things. So that’s a good thing. It don’t just help us, it helps everybody,” said Patrica Aaron.

These counts will take place through January 31st.

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You can click here to find out when and where the next “Point-in-Time Count” will take place and more information on donation and volunteer opportunities with the Central MS Continuum of Care.

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