On January 22, 2020, volunteers and staff of Lycoming County’s homeless service providers will distribute items to homeless adults and children during the annual point-in-time (PIT) Count. During this time, volunteers canvas the entire county to get a real-time picture of homelessness in our area and distribute hygiene items and cold-weather accessories

Volunteers to help assist in the count, as well as donations of supplies to be distributed are needed.

To help with this survey, contact Jernae Drummond at jdrummond@ywcawilliamsport.org.

Items such as basic hygiene supplies, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, flashlights, matches, blankets, snacks, handwarmers, and more are needed so those who are living in homelessness can have an increased sense of safety, warmth, and dignity.

All items donated will be distributed in rugged, durable uniquely designed CITYPAK backpacks, designed to uniquely meet the constantly changing needs of the homeless. Packs are made of ballistic nylon, include straps for a bedroll, an integrated poncho to keep both the individual and their possessions dry and anti-theft webbing loops so the pack can be hooked onto an arm or leg when needed.

This street-level survey is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the largest funding source for services and programs for homeless individuals. The information gathered through this process influences the services HUD provides and is used in creating regional planning efforts to work toward the goal of ending homelessness

During the PIT count, individuals are often found in tents, in uninhabitable structures, at campgrounds, under bridges and along the river. If you know of any locations where homeless individuals stay, please contact Drummond.