A Point in Time survey was recently completed in Greene County to identify homeless individuals.

Greene County Public Health Social Worker Sara Miller says two people were identified as homeless, living in Greene County, during the two-day survey from July 31st-August 1st. There were 22 volunteers that helped by feeding homeless individuals with a meal, giving them hygiene packages and information on helpful resources. She adds that the most recent results were a slight increase compared to the one done this past February, where one individual was identified. 

Miller talks about the most recent survey and what they learned from the homeless individuals.

“What they shared with us, though not surprising, was that there are several other people living in the City of Jefferson and within Greene County, that did not want to come forward for various reasons, but who are experiencing homelessness.”

Miller says the survey and those interactions helps the Greene County Homeless Coalition to modify their approach to homelessness, extend the outreach and look at how they can educate the community and homeless individuals to connect them to resources that are available. She notes that while there are a variety of reasons for how someone becomes homeless, Miller emphasizes those individuals can contact New Opportunities Greene County Coordinator Teresa Lansman, Greene County Disabilities Coordinator Ellen Ritter and Miller herself at public health.  

The surveys are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for every county to be completed annually. HUD can obtain data to determine if financial or additional resources are needed for an area.