Everyone Counts in New York City HOPE Survey

HUD staff pictured from left: Nefertari Kirkman-Bey, Holly Leicht, Natasha Saxton, Ned Nakles, Charles McNally)

On February 11, Regional 2 Administrator Holly Leicht joined New York City's Department of Homeless Services Commissioner Gilbert Taylor and several HUD staff for the annual Point-in-Time count. The Homeless Outreach and Population Estimate, known locally as the HOPE Survey, celebrated its 10th Anniversary this year, at a time when a shortage of affordable housing has driven a dramatic increase in family homelessness. Yet despite this discouraging trend, there are reasons for optimism. Veterans homelessness fell 55% last year in New York City, and local leaders and homeless advocates now believe it can be eliminated by the end of the year. HUD recently announced over $100 million in funding to New York City homeless providers, as well as $26 million in statewide Emergency Shelter Funding. Ultimately, a city-wide count conducted by nearly 3,500 volunteers is one of the only methods available to measure the impact of these funding commitments. Everyone must count (www.amny.com/opinion/annual-homeless-count-part-of-the-solution-holly-leicht-1.9918351) if we are to truly end homelessness. Learn more about HUD's work in this area at www.hud.gov/homelessness.

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