On Wednesday, January 27, volunteers from across the state will survey homeless persons in Kentucky. This point-in-time count, known as the K-Count, occurs over a 24-hour period beginning at sunrise on the January 27, and ending at sunrise the following day. Every year, Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) coordinates the K-Count—to monitor the scope of the homeless situation in Kentucky.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires such a count every other year, but KHC believes it best serves the people of Kentucky to conduct this count yearly.
“Making the effort to count how many are without shelter on any given night, each year, allows us to better serve Kentuckians,” said Davey King, managing director of Housing Contract Administration at KHC. “Situations can change drastically within a year, and we want to be sure we always have the most up-to-date information to best administer housing programs.”
Results of the K-Count demonstrate the need for resources for housing and services for homeless persons in each community. The K-Count also helps determine how much federal funding will be awarded from HUD for homeless programs. In addition, the K-Count helps assess progress under Kentucky’s Ten-Year Plan to End Homelessness and provide important information for updating the plan.
“We would not have an accurate count without help from many residents who volunteer within these communities, especially rural communities, where the places homeless may find to shelter would be unknown to anyone not living in the area,” said Shaye Rabold, manager of Program Planning at KHC.
“It’s amazing how many people come together to ensure those who are often overlooked are seen and more volunteers are needed.”
With participation from volunteers, valuable data can be collected that will ultimately help end homelessness in Kentucky, and assist thousands to find affordable, permanent housing. Ending homelessness will save taxpayer money currently spent on homeless resources, such as government-funded temporary housing.
If you would like to volunteer in your area, please contact KHC’s Shaye Rabold toll-free in Kentucky at 800-633-8896 or 502-564-7630, extension 415; TTY 711; or email srabold@kyhousing.org.
