Billings Needs Volunteers for 2026 Point-In-Time Homeless Count

If you’ve ever wondered how our community really measures and responds to homelessness, this is one of the most important nights of the year. The Downtown Billings Association is asking for volunteers to help with the 2026 Point in Time Count, an effort that helps shape funding, services, and long-term planning for people experiencing homelessness right here in Yellowstone County.

What the Point in Time Count Really Is

The Point in Time Count, often called the PIT Count, is a HUD survey conducted nationwide each year. Locally, it’s coordinated by the Yellowstone County Continuum of Care. Volunteers head out into the community to conduct brief, respectful surveys with individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The data collected doesn’t just sit in a report. It directly influences local programs, resources, and support systems throughout the year.

When and Where Volunteers Are Needed

The 2026 PIT Count will take place on Thursday, January 29. Volunteers will work anytime between 4:00 p.m. and midnight, with a minimum two-hour shift required. Everything kicks off at the Tumbleweed Parking Lot at 505 North 24th Street in Billings, where volunteers will receive orientation and final instructions before heading out.

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What Volunteers Will Be Doing

Volunteers won’t be doing this alone. Everyone is deployed in teams of two or more and receives training ahead of time. On the night of the count, volunteers will visit assigned outreach zones, shelters, and service locations to conduct short surveys. The focus is on treating every person with dignity, respect, and professionalism, then returning completed surveys to PIT leadership at the end of the shift.

Training and Support Are Provided

No experience is required to help. All volunteers will complete a short online training in advance and attend a brief orientation at the kick-off meeting the night of the count. Materials, guidance, and ongoing support are provided throughout the evening so volunteers feel prepared and supported every step of the way.

Donation Items Are Also Needed

If heading out into the cold isn’t an option for you, there are other ways to help. Donation items are being collected to support both volunteers and individuals encountered during the count. Items especially needed include hand warmers, individually wrapped snacks like granola bars or trail mix, warm adult-sized socks, and gloves. These small comforts can make a real difference during one of the coldest times of the year.

Why This Night Matters So Much

The Point in Time Count is more than a survey. It’s a coordinated community effort to make sure every person experiencing homelessness is counted and represented. Accurate data leads to better services, stronger advocacy, and smarter planning. Your participation directly impacts how Billings shows up for some of its most vulnerable neighbors.

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How to Get Involved or Learn More

Volunteers can sign up online and will receive training details after registering. Those interested in donating items can find drop-off details through the Downtown Billings Association. For additional information, Community Resource Director Kody Christensen is available at kody@downtownbillings.com.

This is one night, just a few hours, and it has the power to shape support and services for an entire year.