Volunteers Mobilize for San Diego Homeless Count

Annual Point-in-Time survey aims to provide data to guide homelessness solutions

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Hundreds of volunteers and county staff will hit the streets of San Diego on Thursday morning to conduct the annual Point-in-Time Count, a one-day survey of the region's homeless population. The count provides crucial data to help secure funding and resources to address homelessness in the community.

Why it matters

The Point-in-Time Count is a vital tool for understanding the scope of homelessness in San Diego and informing strategies to provide housing and support services. The data collected helps guide where resources are directed and how funding is allocated to tackle the region's homelessness crisis.

The details

Around 1,700 volunteers will join 300 county employees to conduct the count, which runs from 4-8 a.m. The volunteers will go out in small groups to survey people living on the streets and do a headcount. The information collected is used to apply for federal and state funding to help those experiencing homelessness.

  • The Point-in-Time Count takes place annually in San Diego.
  • This year's count is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026.

The players

Paloma Aguirre

County Supervisor who emphasized the importance of the community coming together for the Point-in-Time Count to guide resources and funding to support the unhoused.

Dijana Beck

Director of the County Office of Homeless Solutions, who stated the count is a vital tool to understand homelessness and shape solutions.

Deacon Jim Vargas

President and CEO of the homelessness-focused nonprofit Father Joe's Villages, who said the count represents an opportunity for the community to connect with those in need.

Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH)

The organization that coordinates the annual Point-in-Time Count in San Diego County.

Serving Seniors

The organization hosting a resource fair for older adults following the homeless count.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's so important that we come together as a region to take part in an effort, like Point-in-Time Count, that guides where we direct resources and how we advocate for funding to support our unhoused neighbors.”

— Paloma Aguirre, County Supervisor

“The Point-in-Time Count is a vital tool that helps us understand homelessness in our community and shape how we approach solutions.”

— Dijana Beck, Director of the County Office of Homeless Solutions

“This annual event represents a perfect opportunity for members of the community to truly listen, see and connect with our neighbors in need.”

— Deacon Jim Vargas, President and CEO of Father Joe's Villages

What’s next

Following the count, Serving Seniors will host a resource fair at its Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center to provide older adults experiencing homelessness with access to legal help, health and dental care, public assistance programs, meals, and other support services.

The takeaway

The Point-in-Time Count is a crucial data-gathering effort that helps San Diego secure funding and resources to address homelessness in the region. By volunteering for the count, community members play a vital role in shaping solutions to this complex issue.