Since 2003, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has required all Continuum of Cares (CoC) to collect local data on unsheltered homeless persons. Beginning in 2007, all CoCs were required to demonstrate that their unsheltered counts comply with the HUD standards for counting sheltered and unsheltered persons and conduct their point-in-time count during the last seven days of January (HUD 2004). The Vermont Point In Time (PIT) data collection tool was designed to provide the maximum amount of information, in a confidential and uniform manner. In 2006, the data collection tool was created with input from the CoC. It was subsequently disseminated and administered on January 26, 2006. The initial survey was a positive trial run and proved the tool could be successful. The “check box” format made completing the survey quick and easy. In 2007, feedback meetings were held by the CoC and CHA. These meetings informed and engaged all stakeholders. The feedback was used to enhance what data would be collected and the definitions that would be used. Overall, the design of the tool remained the same. Stakeholders became increasingly aware of the tool and the report capacity it could provide. Agencies and organizations began requesting more Point-In-Time trainings. A small group of CoC members trained agencies, organizations, and volunteers on the definitions, collection process, and the use of the data collected. The 2007 data produced was greatly improved. Data reports were prepared for the CoC and are available on the CoC and New England Regional Homeless Management Information System websites.
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