In a collaborative effort with the Texas Homeless Network and dedicated community volunteers, Odessa Links, a nonprofit organization, conducted a comprehensive point-in-time (PIT) Homeless Count on Jan. 25.
The initiative was aimed at providing a snapshot of homelessness in the community, focusing on emergency shelters, transitional housing, and unsheltered locations, a news release said.
Odessa Links will hold a news conference on the results at 9:30 a.m. Monday in the first floor classroom of the City of Odessa Municipal Plaza, 119 W. fourth St.
Over a 24-hour period, trained volunteers dedicated their time to counting and surveying individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The results, indicating the minimum number of people without stable housing on that specific night, provide valuable insights into the characteristics of the homeless population, including gender, age, ethnicity, and veteran status.
It is essential to note that the PIT Count, following HUD guidelines, does not encompass all forms of homelessness, such as those temporarily staying with friends or securing accommodations through private means like hotels or motels. Consequently, the data represents only a fraction of the total homeless population in Odessa.
The release of this information is a step towards enhancing our understanding of the unique needs and circumstances of those experiencing homelessness. The survey results are accessible to the public and will serve as a foundation for improving the community’s response to homelessness.
