Navigating the Politics of Homelessness through Point-In-Time Counts: Opportunities and Challenges for Public Sociologists

• In Event: 40464 - Application of Sociological Perspectives in the Development of Non-Academic Research

Abstract

Every two years, local communities are tasked with conducting an extensive research effort to estimate the total number of individuals experiencing homelessness on any given night within their region. Known as the Point-in-Time (PIT) Counts, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) mandates these community research efforts to meet the federal funding requirements for various homeless programs. The data collected helps estimate annual rates of homelessness which influences the federal and state funding communities receive. Additionally, this information aids local stakeholders and service providers in understanding community needs and identifying investment areas.

This case study presentation will explore how public sociologists can assist communities coordinating their PIT Counts. Typically, a central community organization, in coordination with local government, facilitates the PIT. As the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has refined its methodological guidelines over the years, these entities increasingly seek help from universities for developing survey instruments and sampling strategies.

Sociologists can effectively contribute to these efforts while incorporating the collected data into their own research agendas. While HUD provides general guidelines for the PIT, communities and researchers also use this data to explore topics such as social isolation, segregation, discrimination, mental health, and social networks.

This case study presentation will outline a research team's experiences from four PIT counts in Northern California, highlighting both opportunities and socio-political challenges in community-based research. The findings from these counts influence funding and policy decisions, which can contribute to conflicting interests. Researchers must maintain their independence while reporting on marginalized conditions, facing ethical dilemmas in monitoring vulnerable populations for government entities. Despite these challenges, sociologists can use their expertise to help navigate these tensions. Additionally, the involvement of hundreds of volunteers and agencies during PIT counts provides a unique opportunity for the public to understand sociologists' values and perspectives.

Author

• Arturo Baiocchi, California State University-Sacramento