Freezing Temps Alter San Antonio's Annual Homeless Count

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The annual Point-in-Time count of people experiencing homelessness in San Antonio and Bexar County was altered this year due to freezing temperatures on the scheduled survey night. Instead of the usual unsheltered count, the nonprofit Close to Home redirected efforts to count individuals at emergency overflow shelters to gather data on the changing demographics and needs of the homeless population.

Why it matters

The Point-in-Time count is a critical annual data collection effort that provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community and informs funding and resource allocation decisions. While the altered methodology this year may impact year-over-year comparisons, the data gathered will still be valuable in understanding current trends and needs.

The details

Due to the severe winter weather, Close to Home canceled plans for the unsheltered count and instead stationed staff at seven temporary overnight shelters to survey people in a warm environment. The sheltered count at the three permanent shelters - Haven for Hope, SAMMinistries, and the Salvation Army - still took place as usual. While the final numbers may not be directly comparable to previous years, Close to Home says the information gathered will be crucial in determining the community's most pressing needs regarding homelessness.

• The Point-in-Time count typically takes place once a year.
• The count for 2026 was scheduled for Tuesday, January 28.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Close to Home plans to compile the data collected from the sheltered count and the surveys at the temporary overnight shelters into a State of Homelessness report, which will be shared with the community and submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to inform funding decisions.