The City of San Fernando is asking for volunteers to help conduct its annual homeless count on Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 8 p.m.
Kenya Marquez, housing coordinator for the City of San Fernando, said the homeless count helps the city get a more accurate estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness and where they are located. The city then uses those numbers to better implement its programs and solutions for combating homelessness.
“That [information] will help us be able to advocate for more services as well,” said Marquez.
The city uses the data when applying for grants or funding from organizations such as the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) or LA Family Housing.
On the night of the count, volunteers will meet at City Hall for a 30-minute training session, then split up into groups of three – a driver, a navigator and a counter. Each group is designated an area, where they will drive around and count anyone they see experiencing homelessness, also noting the type of dwelling – tent, car, street, etc.
For the safety of volunteers, Marquez said nobody is expected to get out of their vehicles or interact with anyone.
“We need volunteers,” said Marquez. “It’ll be a team effort.”
To volunteer, register at: