Three Important Acronyms in Solving Homelessness - PIT, HIC, and AHAR
As HomeAid looks to engage with communities across the nation in ending homelessness (and the progress that is being made), three important sources of data and their acronyms are often discussed as we assess how to understand and address the crisis of those that are unhoused: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Annual Housing Assessment Report (AHAR), Point-In-Time (PIT) and Housing Inventory Count (HIC).
The AHAR is a comprehensive report that provides an overview of homelessness in the United States. It is published by HUD each year from data collected from 387 Continuum of Cares (CoC) across the nation.
The AHAR synthesizes data from various sources, including the Point-in-Time (PIT) count, the Housing Inventory Count (HIC), and other administrative data, to provide a comprehensive analysis of homelessness trends, characteristics, and efforts to address homelessness across the country.
HUD's annual Point-In-Time (PIT) count refers to a national effort in the United States to estimate the number of individuals experiencing homelessness on a given night. HUD required CoC across the country to conduct this count every year.
The exact numbers can vary each year, but the PIT count provides a snapshot of homelessness at a specific point in time and helps inform policy decisions and resource allocation. It includes both sheltered and unsheltered individuals and aims to provide an overall estimate of homelessness in the country.
Benefits of the Point-In-Time Count
Understanding the Point-In-Time (PIT) count is important for several reasons:
Assessing the scale of homelessness: The PIT count provides an estimate of the number of individuals experiencing homelessness on a given night. It helps policymakers, government agencies, and service providers understand the magnitude of the issue. By knowing the extent of homelessness, communities can develop appropriate strategies and allocate resources effectively.
Identifying trends and patterns: The PIT count is conducted annually, allowing for comparisons over time. Analyzing these trends can help identify patterns and changes in homelessness rates, which can inform policy decisions and highlight the effectiveness of interventions. It can also identify subpopulations that may be particularly vulnerable, such as families, veterans, or individuals with mental health issues.
Informing resource allocation: Homelessness assistance programs and services rely on accurate data to allocate resources effectively. The PIT count helps determine the level of need within communities and guides funding decisions. By understanding the size and composition of the homeless population, policymakers can target resources where they are most needed.
Advocacy and public awareness: The PIT count results can serve as a powerful tool for advocacy efforts. Sharing the data with the public and policymakers raises awareness about homelessness, promotes understanding of its impact on individuals and communities, and encourages support for initiatives to address the issue.
Tracking progress and evaluating interventions: The PIT count is a valuable metric to monitor progress in reducing homelessness. Communities can set goals, implement strategies, and use the count to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and measure their impact over time.
How is the Housing Inventory Count Different from the Point-In-Time Count?
Alongside the Point-In-Time (PIT) count, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) conducts a Housing Inventory Count (HIC). While the PIT count focuses on estimating the number of individuals experiencing homelessness on a given night, the HIC provides information about the available housing inventory for individuals experiencing homelessness throughout the year.
The Housing Inventory Count collects data on different types of housing resources that serve people experiencing homelessness, such as emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, safe havens, and permanent supportive housing. The purpose of the HIC is to provide a comprehensive overview of the capacity and types of housing available within a community to address homelessness.
The HIC collects information on the number of beds available in emergency shelters and transitional housing programs, including those designated for specific populations like families, youth, or survivors of domestic violence. It also captures data on permanent supportive housing units, which offer long-term housing combined with supportive services for individuals with chronic health conditions or disabilities.
By gathering data on the available housing resources, the HIC helps communities assess their capacity to meet the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. It provides valuable information for planning and resource allocation, allowing communities to identify gaps in housing options and make informed decisions to expand or modify their housing programs.
The combination of the PIT count and the HIC provides a more comprehensive understanding of homelessness in a community, encompassing both the number of individuals experiencing homelessness and the housing resources available to support them. This data is crucial for developing effective strategies and policies to address homelessness and improve housing stability for vulnerable populations.
Creating Change Using PIT and HIC Data
HomeAid, both nationally and locally, can utilize the Point-In-Time (PIT) count and the Housing Inventory Count (HIC) in the communities where it has current and potential affiliates in the following ways:
Identify needs and gaps: Analyze the PIT count and HIC data to identify the specific needs and gaps in housing resources within the community. Understand the demographics, trends, and subpopulations experiencing homelessness to determine where additional support is required.
Strategic planning: Utilize the PIT and HIC data to inform strategic planning. Develop targeted initiatives and programs that address the identified needs and fill the gaps in housing resources. This may involve collaborating with local partners, service providers, and government agencies to develop comprehensive solutions.
Resource allocation: The HIC data can guide HomeAid in allocating resources effectively. Identify areas with a shortage of specific types of housing, such as emergency shelters or transitional housing, and prioritize resource allocation to address those gaps. Consider funding or supporting projects that increase the availability of suitable housing options for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Collaborate with stakeholders: Share the PIT and HIC data with key stakeholders, such as local government officials, housing agencies, service providers, and philanthropic organizations. Engage in collaborative discussions and partnerships to collectively work towards reducing homelessness and improving housing stability in the community.
Advocacy and awareness: Leverage the PIT and HIC data to raise public awareness about homelessness and advocate for policy changes or increased funding for homelessness initiatives. Use the data to educate policymakers and community members about the extent of the issue and the importance of investing in effective housing solutions.
Measure impact and track progress: Continuously monitor and evaluate the impact of HomeAid's programs and initiatives using the PIT and HIC data. Track progress over time and assess the effectiveness of interventions in reducing homelessness and expanding housing options. Use this information to refine strategies and improve outcomes.
By leveraging the PIT count and HIC data, HomeAid both locally and nationally can make informed decisions, prioritize resources, advocate for change, and collaborate effectively to address homelessness and improve housing options in the communities where each affiliate operate.