Topeka Point-in-Time Count 2015

For Immediate Release

January 13, 2015

 

Everybody Counts

Annual Point-In-Time Count Details Announced

 

TOPEKA, Kan. – Homelessness in Kansas and across the country is on the rise.  

In the past year, the Topeka Rescue Mission has seen record numbers of guests in the shelter with the biggest increase being in persons with mental health challenges.

Kansas schools have also seen large increases in homeless children and youth.

 

Now, more than ever, it is important for the City of Topeka to obtain the appropriate level of funding so that we can provide needed services to those experiencing homelessness and those at risk for homelessness.  To receive funding for programs, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires communities to complete a point-in-time count of the homeless every year.

 

This year's Point-In-Time Count will be held from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, January 28^th.

 

"This is one of the important ways for Topeka to determine whether we are meeting the needs of persons experiencing homelessness," City Housing Services Director Corrie Wright said. 

 

The information gathered will help Topeka:

• Understand the face of homelessness within the community;

• Make sure services are meeting the needs of homeless persons;

• Raise public awareness about the issues surrounding homelessness; and

• Measure community progress towards preventing and ending homelessness.

 

Help us make sure that everyone is counted! 

 

Persons who are experiencing homelessness or know someone who is, please call 785-368-0168 between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. on January 28^th, or drop by the Rescue Mission or Let's Help and complete a survey that day.  Interviewers will also be available from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on January 28, at the City's Holliday Building, 620 SE Madison, in the Holliday Conference Room.

 

Call the Community Resources Council, 785-233-1365, if you need a volunteer to come to you with a survey or to schedule an appointment for January 28^th.

 

For more information, please contact G.R. Laughlin, Executive Director, Community Resources Council, 785-233-1365.

 

Suzie Gilbert

Communications & Marketing Director

City of Topeka

(785) 368-0991

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