Pocatello church feeds homeless; city officials gather data for PIT survey
The Trinity Episcopal Church in Pocatello fed the homeless Sunday, as a way for city officials to come and talk to those who came in. They took part in an on-going PIT survey, or “point-in-time” survey. It records the number of people who are already homeless, or who may be at risk of homelessness.
The count began Wednesday. Volunteers ask all the homeless where they spent Wednesday night. Having the same day for everyone gives a better sense of how many people go without shelter on one given night.
They also ask the homeless what caused their situation, how many family members they have and whether or not they’re a veteran. This is all information that tells the city how many people need help, what kind of help they need, and where city funding is most needed.
All the information goes to the federal government for the city to be eligible for financial aid. Any money the government awards from the survey goes to local shelters, service organizations, crisis centers and housing agencies.
Those who fill out the surveys are given bags with things like socks, water and non-perishable food items. They also receive a $5 gift card to places like Subway or McDonald’s.
The PIT survey is still ongoing and the city hopes to see the final results in a few months.
Melanie Gygli, who works for the Neighborhood and Community Services Division with Pocatello City, says there are more homeless than people realize.
“We’re a small town, relatively small,” Gygli said. “And there are a lot of great services, and I think people tend to think it doesn’t happen here. But honestly there are a lot of people who struggle. One bad luck, one accident, one something and then pretty soon your money’s gone and then you can’t pay your bills and you can lose your housing.”
She says people who want to help should donate money or items to local services, such as shelters, rather than to pan-handlers on the street. They say this way, they’re able to help on a more long-term basis with donations they receive.
