The 2017 Homeless Count next week in Chilliwack is geared to capturing a statistical snapshot of homeless people over a 24 hour-period.
Trained volunteers will fan out across the city conducting interviews on March 7-8.
Anecdotal reports point to a sizable increase in the numbers of homeless in Chilliwack. The last count in 2014 found 73 people who self-identified as homeless in Chilliwack.
To determine the updated number four years later, the 2017 count reps will be conducting interviews, safely and respectfully.
"We anticipate having approximately 30 volunteers participating in the homeless count," said Jutta Wykpis of Pacific Community Resources Society.
That means Chilliwack will see about one-third of the total of 90 volunteers for the entire Fraser Valley pitching in locally in the homeless count effort.
They'll be heading to emergency shelters, soup kitchens, bush camps and downtown gathering spaces, approaching individuals with respect, and without judgement.
"There has already been an amazing amount of community collaboration in response to the homeless in Chilliwack, and this count brings us one step closer to better understanding and responding in a way that matches PCRS's vision of wanting to see all people thriving in strong, healthy communities," said Wykpis.
The counters have stepped forward from the existing volunteer and staffing pools within the Salvation Army, Ruth and Naomi's, PCRS, MQHS, Chilliwack Community Services, Fraser Health, City of Chilliwack, Xolhemet Society, and more.
The numbers of homeless, and their stories, which are captured in one-on-one anonymous interviews for the count will provide critical info for service providers, planners, health officials, municipalities, and more. They shape policy development, programs and services which directly address the needs of those living rough on the streets.
"The data is also used to increase public awareness about homelessness and the need for more supportive housing and affordable housing options," said Ron van Wyk of the Mennonite Central Committee in Abbotsford, which coordinates the regional exercise.
Preliminary results will be provided in a presentation at a FVRD board meeting on March 22.
"I would encourage the public to read the results of the 2017 Homeless Count report to gain more of an understanding," added Wykpis. "We really want to make sure that services we make available to individuals are reaching their specific needs, and as such, we need a variety of services that meet a variety of needs."