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86 volunteers.
19 teams.
20 people sleeping outside.
Every year, volunteers conduct a Point-In-Time Homeless Count to search all over Lake County to interview and offer assistance to unsheltered people experiencing homelessness. This year, 86 volunteers helped document the need in our communities and served as the boots on the ground to connect individuals with the resources they need. In addition to helping people on the spot, they gathered information to help local agencies understand where resources should be focused, and evaluate current and potential future programs.
Volunteers made contact with 20 people experiencing homelessness, compared to 27 last year. This number will increase over the next few days as volunteers conduct further interviews and pull additional data from local shelters and agencies. County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor welcomed the volunteers with a story of a past count when he met a homeless man who was in the emergency room due to his mental health struggles.
“I think about this man often. His story has stayed with me and has compelled me to become more engaged in mental health issues. We won’t stop working until we have the system we need to end homelessness and address the mental health needs in this county,” Lawlor explained.
During last night's event, five people were transported to a local homeless shelter. Volunteers also distributed items that were donated to the cause, such as blankets and food, to help people stay warm.
Brenda O’Connell, one of the event organizers, said, “It was
a long night last night, and our volunteers worked tirelessly until early in
the morning. The information they gathered will help us develop housing
solutions for the future. But even more importantly, the connections they made
last night directly impact the people we were able to assist. Connecting
someone to the services they need may be enough to end chronic homelessness for
that one individual, which is potentially saving a life.”
The Point-In-Time Homeless Count is only ONE event, held on one specific day. The Lake County Coalition for the Homeless and other local partners are working throughout the year on many programs and initiatives with the goal of ending chronic homelessness.
Get involved! Lake County residents can make a difference by supporting the Lake County Coalition for the Homeless and the various member organizations. Each organization has different needs, or ways to get involved. For example, The Lake County Haven shares volunteer opportunities on their Facebook page, and individuals can sign up to volunteer with PADS.
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Contact: Brenda O'Connell
847-377-2331
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