Counting Neighbors, Not Numbers: The 2026 Point-in-Time Count

UNDERSTANDING THE POINT-IN-TIME COUNT

The Point-in-Time Count, a national initiative led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), takes place each January. The count provides a snapshot of homelessness on a single night, identifying who is experiencing homelessness, their living situation, and their characteristics.

Locally and nationally, PIT data informs policy decisions, funding priorities, and program design. These insights help communities strengthen systems, measure progress, and focus resources where they are needed most.

During the 2025 Count, Charlotte-Mecklenburg identified 2,101 people experiencing homelessness. Among them were 152 families with minor children, 76 unaccompanied youth (ages 18–24), and 444 individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Planning for the 2026 Count is well underway, and success depends on strong community participation.

HOUSING INVENTORY COUNT

On the same night as the PIT, the Housing Inventory Count (HIC) is conducted to assess the system’s housing capacity. The HIC documents available emergency shelter, transitional housing rapid rehousing and permanent supportive housing beds.

Together, the PIT and HIC help the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Continuum of Care (CoC) track trends in homelessness and evaluate the community’s ability to meet short- and long-term housing needs.

EVERYBODY COUNTS

While HUD mandates that all Continuums of Care conduct the PIT annually, Charlotte-Mecklenburg approaches the effort as more than a federal requirement. It is a community-wide moment of connection and accountability; a reminder that Everybody Counts. Recognizing each individual experiencing homelessness not only affirms their humanity but also reinforces our shared responsibility to create pathways out of homelessness.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

The 2026 Point-in-Time Count is led by Mecklenburg County Community Support Services in collaboration with the Hearts for the Invisible Charlotte Coalition. There are several ways to get involved:

• Volunteer Your Time: On January 22, 2026, we need volunteers to join outreach teams to complete surveys with and provide supplies to people experiencing homelessness across Mecklenburg County. If you are interested in volunteering, please create an account and register here. First-time volunteers are encouraged to attend one of two information sessions. Details and registration links are available here.
• Donate Supplies: Support the 2026 PIT Count by donating essential items for people sleeping outside in our community. Check out the Amazon Wishlist for the most needed items, or make a financial contribution to provide these supplies and $10 gift cards to our neighbors on the morning of the PIT. To make a financial contribution to Hearts for Invisible Charlotte Coalition, the lead outreach organization in our community, for PIT supplies and gift cards, click here.
• Spread the Word: Use your voice to raise awareness and share this information with friends, family, and networks via social media using the #EverybodyCountsCLT hashtag. Stay informed and participate in community activities outlined on the 2026 PIT Activities Calendar. This year’s calendar will be available mid-December at the Point-in-Time Count page on the Housing and Homelessness Dashboard.