A.K. Smiley Library hosts live music events to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Local and renowned musicians performed as part of the Smiley LIVE! series.
2024 Point in Time Count will take place on Thursday, Jan. 25.
REDLANDS, Calif. — The city of Redlands is seeking volunteers for the San Bernardino County 2024 homeless Point-in-Time Count (PITC), which will be held on the morning of Thursday, Jan. 25.
Why it matters: The PITC is a valuable tool to help the unhoused community. The data collected is used to determine funding allotments for programs and services on a local level.
This year's count follows a sharp rise in homelessness seen during the 2023 PITC. The number of unhoused counted in Redlands jumped by 76% last year, while San Bernardino County saw a 26% rise in homelessness.
Details: The federally mandated PITC relies on local volunteers. Volunteers will be out on the streets from 5:15 a.m. to 10 a.m. to identify both individuals without shelter, such as those living in cars, parks, sidewalks, and abandoned buildings, as well as those staying in local emergency shelters and transitional housing programs.
Each person counted will also be asked a series of survey questions so data can be collected about various subpopulations. This includes gathering information about HIV/AIDs, mental illness, substance use, veteran status, age and family information.
Register to volunteer: As of this week, about 60 volunteers have signed up to help with the count in Redlands, however, coordinators are hoping for an even larger group effort. Those interested in volunteering can register here.
All volunteers must attend a training session, either virtually or in-person, prior to the count. Redlands volunteers can attend the Central Valley Regional Training on Jan. 17 in person at the Norman F. Feldheym Library in San Bernardino from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Virtual training is available the same day at either 1:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m.
All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Social service providers, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, neighborhood groups, and both current and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to participate.
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