The City of Amarillo is once again preparing for an important community effort that often happens quietly but has long-lasting effects: the winter 2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. This effort, scheduled for Jan. 23, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., is about far more than numbers. It is about understanding the reality of homelessness in Amarillo and making sure the city has the information it needs to respond effectively.
The PIT Count is a 24-hour snapshot of individuals experiencing homelessness across the city. Led by the City of Amarillo’s Community Development Department in partnership with the Amarillo Continuum of Care, the count relies heavily on volunteers. These volunteers conduct in-person interviews and observations throughout Amarillo to help gather accurate data on how many people are living without stable housing.
At first glance, counting may seem like a simple exercise, but the information collected plays a critical role in shaping local policy and funding decisions. As Shelia King, Grant Monitor for the City of Amarillo, explained, “These numbers we use to send in, to get assistance for what we do. It’s important that we know how many people there are in our community that are homeless.” In practical terms, this means that an accurate count can help Amarillo qualify for state and federal resources that support shelters, housing programs, and outreach services.
Volunteers are central to making the count successful, and city officials emphasize that no prior experience is required. Training is provided, along with scripts and tools to guide volunteers through respectful and consistent interactions. This approach helps ensure that the process is both humane and reliable. Local shelters and service providers also partner with the city, helping to reach individuals who may otherwise be overlooked.
James Bellar, Shelter and Program Director at Transformation Park, highlighted why volunteer participation matters so much. “The better we do, the better, the more accurate the count is, and the more that we could potentially qualify for this area for support,” Bellar said. “The support that’s needed is huge, and anybody can help.” His comments underscore a simple truth: better data leads to better outcomes for people who need help the most.
Beyond volunteering, residents can also support the PIT Count through donations. The city is assembling care packages for individuals encountered during the count, with a focus on practical, everyday items. Feminine hygiene products, travel-sized toothbrushes and toothpaste, chapstick, prepackaged snacks, and hard candy are among the most needed supplies. These small items can make a meaningful difference, offering comfort and dignity during a difficult time.
Donations can be dropped off at the City of Amarillo Community Development Department in the Simms Building at 808 South Buchanan St., Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a deadline of Jan. 21. For those unable to deliver items, pickup options are available.
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