The City, in collaboration with close to 100 partner agencies, will conduct the 2024 Point-in-Time (PiT) Count from 12 pm on Wednesday, October 23 to 12 pm on Thursday, October 24. This nationally coordinated federal initiative, carried out in communities across Canada, will provide a snapshot of homelessness in Ottawa, which helps shape policies and programs to better support those experiencing homelessness.
The PiT Count is a 24-hour event where outreach teams canvass outdoor areas. Data is also gathered from shelters and transitional housing using information and reports from service providers. The enumeration includes known locations of both sheltered and unsheltered homelessness.
The City partners with local shelters, outreach programs, and social services to ensure the count is thorough and inclusive. The last count was conducted in 2021 and surveyed 1,340 people across 114 locations throughout Ottawa.
In addition to the count, the 2024 Survey on Homelessness will be conducted over five days, from 12 pm on Wednesday, October 23 to 4 pm on Monday, October 28. This more comprehensive survey will collect valuable information on demographics, experiences, and the contributing factors of homelessness.
The survey period has been extended this year to enable a more representative sample, including populations that are often missed or undercounted, such as youth, women, Indigenous peoples and those experiencing hidden homelessness, such as staying with friends or family.
Any resident who is experiencing hidden homelessness can contact 3-1-1 to complete the survey by phone. Residents can also contact the Point-in-Time Count Command Centre at pitcount_denombrementponctuel@ottawa.ca or at 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) to obtain information on locations where they can complete the survey in person.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.