Social Services to help ensure 'everyone counts'

NEWS RELEASE
SOCIAL SERVICES SAULT STE. MARIE DISTRICT
*************************
On April 18, 2018, Sault Ste. Marie will take part in a coordinated effort to measure homelessness across Canada. Social Services, in partnership with volunteers from agencies throughout the community, will conduct the Point-in-Time (PiT) Homeless Count.

During the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., trained volunteers will count and survey individuals who are currently staying in shelters, short-term housing, or are without shelter. The PiT Count will provide a “snapshot” of the current state of homelessness in Sault Ste. Marie. 

The slogan for this year’s campaign is ‘Everyone Counts’. The Indian Friendship Centre, St. Vincent Place, and Soup Kitchen will be the main locations for the surveys to be conducted. Those affected by homelessness, will have with an opportunity to meet with volunteers and provide valuable information. In addition to these locations, volunteer teams will be conducting surveys at the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Works, United Way, Neighbourhood Resource Centre, Woman in Crisis, Pauline’s Place and at Nimkii-Naabkawagan Family Shelter.

The PiT Count will improve our understanding and response to the needs and circumstances of the people who are affected by homelessness in our community.  Collected data will provide Sault Ste. Marie and District Social Services with the important information needed to assist the Community’s Homelessness Prevention Team in achieving their ultimate goal of ending homelessness in Sault Ste. Marie.

Director of Housing Services, Jeff Barban is “pleased that our community will once again be joining the movement towards ending homelessness by participating in this year’s expanded national Point-In-Time Count.”

*************************