Pete Kurtz-Glovas, Housing Program Specialist
Centre County Government, Office of Adult Services
pskurtz-glovas@centrecountypa.gov
814-548-1196
Every year, Centre County joins the State of Pennsylvania in a nationwide initiative called the Point-in-Time (PIT) count. PIT offers an opportunity to locate and connect with the unsheltered homeless population who our service providers may or may not already be aware of. During last year’s count, 4 individuals were identified as being unsheltered and homeless on the night of Wednesday, January 22nd; meaning they had slept somewhere that is typically not meant for human habitation. A location that is deemed unsuitable for human habitation includes: the street, vehicles, tents, hallways, campground sites, abandoned buildings, or under bridges. During the day, the unsheltered homeless population may find respite at restaurants, retailers, libraries, and other community buildings.
This year, Centre County faces a unique challenge for the PIT amidst the rapid spread of Coronavirus. In an effort to curb transmissions and get a reasonable estimate of the homeless population, Centre County teams will be counting individuals who are accessing shelter, as well as individuals/families that are homeless but “doubled-up” (i.e. staying with family and/or friends) or experiencing near-homelessness to discuss emergency, temporary, or permanent housing options. While 4 unsheltered homeless individuals were identified last year during PIT, 124 homeless individuals were also sheltered in either one of our emergency shelters, transitional housing units, or Housing First programs.
Homelessness and Coronavirus are very real issues in Centre County and, in an effort to connect with the individuals/families that need our services the most, we are asking for your assistance. If you know the whereabouts of someone who is homeless, or you yourself are homeless, please contact the Office of Adult Services (adultservices@centrecountypa.gov OR 814-355-6768 ext. 2) no later than Tuesday, January 26th, 2021.
