MCHH Data
Turning Information into Impact
Having data for any project is important because it turns assumptions into evidence and helps guide decisions with confidence. Good data helps design services, allocate resources, and anticipate challenges before they become problems. At the Milwaukee Coalition on Housing & Homelessness (MCCH), having accurate information is essential. It allows us to identify where help is most needed, track progress over time, and tailor our efforts to support people experiencing homelessness with the greatest impact.
The Point-In-Time (PIT) Count is an annual effort to count the number of people experiencing homelessness in a community on a single night in January. People survey both sheltered (in emergency shelters, transitional housing, etc.) and unsheltered (on streets or in other places not meant for human habitation) individuals. This data helps communities understand the scope of homelessness, plan services, and measure progress over time.
Point-In-Time Count
A Point-In-Time Count has many factors that make the annual event very important.
Measures homelessness: The count provides a “snapshot” of homelessness at the national, state, and local levels.
Plans service: The data from the count helps communities target services, identify system strengths, and address gaps in support for people experiencing homelessness.
Tracks progress: It provides a consistent benchmark each year, enabling communities to measure progress in addressing and reducing homelessness.
Funds resources: The data helps demonstrate the need for additional resources to support housing and related services.
Numbers from the 2024 PIT Count, conducted during the last 10 days of January, showed that the national homeless population reached a record high. In contrast, Milwaukee saw a 16% decrease in its homeless population between the 2023 and 2024 counts, with 885 people experiencing homelessness in Milwaukee County.
The chart below shows information from the 2024 Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and National Point-In-Time Count results.
2024 Point-In-Time Count
Want to learn more about the annual PIC Count?
If you’re interested in learning more about the Point-In-Time Count, visit one of the websites below.