More than 1,000 volunteers will scan alleys, riverbeds, streets and other areas Jan. 28 in an annual effort to count the number of people experiencing homelessness in the region.

The Maricopa Association of Governments’ Point-In-Time homelessness count provides a one-time snapshot of the number of people living in unsheltered situations or on the streets. Those in shelters also will be counted simultaneously to achieve a total point-in-time count.

“The Point-In-Time count is a big undertaking, but it is only a small snapshot of the homelessness crisis. Gathering data is an important tool in creating regional solutions to the problem,” Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, chair of MAG, said.

“Monitoring and assessing trends from year to year helps Valley leaders better understand the issues and create meaningful policies to ease the strain on our communities.” 

Last year’s homelessness Point-In-Time count tallied 9,435 people experiencing homelessness in the region, according to a MAG release. The number reflected a 17 percent decrease in people living unsheltered and a 13 percent increase in the number of people staying in shelter.

Data from the 2025 count is expected to be available in late spring. The results of the count will be used in the MAG consolidated application to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to support homeless assistance programs, MAG officials said.

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