VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR HOMELESS COUNT ON JANUARY 27 COUNTYWIDE

January 19, 2012 (San Diego) – The Regional Task Force on the Homeless seeks volunteers to help with its annual countywide point-in-time count of homeless people in our region. Titled the “We all County Campaign,” the count will be held on Friday, January 27 from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. To volunteer, sign up at http://www.rtfhsd.org/pitc/weallcount-registration/.

Forming teams is encouraged, but not required. Another 200 volunteers are needed to reach this year’s goal of 750 volunteers.

Training will be provided at locations throughout the County. Register by January 22. Homeless people will be counted on the streets as well as those living in cars. The count also includes an in-depth survey of about 1,000 individuals.

Elected officials will be participating, including Congressman Bob Filner, Santee Mayor Randy Voepel, Assemblymembers Nathan Fletcher and Toni Atkins, San Diego Councilman Kevin Faulconer, and Poway Councilman Dave Grosch.

“Homelessness affects thousands n the San Diego region alone,” said Peter Callstrom, RTFH executive director. “The count is an extremely important component that enables us to understand the scope as well as individual needs. From this knowledge, we can then work most effectively to target and work towards solving this regional crisis.”

The count is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as a critical effort to help end chronic and veteran homelessness by 2015 and family, youth and child homeless by 2020, said HUD regional administrator Ophelia Basgal.

Currently there are an estimated 10,000 homeless individuals and families in San Diego County. Results of the count each year lead to approximately $16 million in federal funds for local agencies helping the homeless in our region. Total homeless increased 5.9% in 2010.