Homelessness in Sacramento Point in Time Count. The Value and Call for Volunteers.

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In this NewsPod I speak with Trent Simmons, Chief Program Officer of Sacramento Steps Forward to unpack the latest Point-in-Time (PIT) Count and what the data actually tells us about homelessness in Sacramento.

The PIT Count is more than a snapshot—it’s a federally required tool that shapes funding decisions, policy direction, and how resources are deployed across our region. In this conversation, we talk about what has changed since the last count, where progress is being made, and where challenges persist.

We also explore why the numbers matter beyond headlines—how they reflect real people, real systems, and the long-term work required to move individuals from crisis to stability. This NewsPod is about context, clarity, and accountability—understanding not just what the data says, but why it matters.

If you care about housing stability, public investment, or the effectiveness of our local response to homelessness, this is an essential listen. It's also a call to action to volunteer for the count. The goal is 1000 volunteers to get the most accurate count possible as numbers matter. The details on registration are below.

What You’ll Hear in This NewsPod

• What the PIT Count measures—and what it doesn’t
• Key takeaways from Sacramento’s latest data
• How PIT Count results influence funding and strategy
• Why year-to-year comparisons require nuance
• The importance of viewing data through a human lens

2026 Point in Time Count

When:

January 26 & 27, 2026. 5:00–11:00 p.m.

Volunteers are highly encouraged to participate in both nights of the count if possible.

Where: Volunteers will meet at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center (6151 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95819) before going out to pre-determined routes across the County.

How: Volunteers are required to register by January 16, 2026.

https://www.sacramentostepsforward.org/data-and-analytics/2026-sacramento-point-in-time-count/

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