TAMPA, Fla.  — Hillsborough County is conducting its annual Point-in-Time homeless count, a coordinated effort aimed at measuring how many people are experiencing homelessness across the county. 

The count began at midnight at shelters throughout the county.

Later in the morning, volunteers fanned out to canvass Hillsborough County’s 1,200 square miles from eight deployment sites, including Hyde Park United Methodist Church.

What You Need To Know

 Hillsborough County conducting its annual Point in Time Homeless County today 

 The count is required by law and helps local leaders track homelessness year to year

 Results of the count can impact future funding and grants from HUD

A youth homeless count will be conducted on March 4 
THHI: ANNUAL HOMELESS POINT-IN-TIME COUNT

Officials said the data gathered during the count plays a crucial role in connecting people to services and securing funding.

According to Antonio Byrd, chief operating officer of the Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative, knowing where people are located and understanding the scope of homelessness locally directly impacts the community’s ability to respond.

“The hope is that the strategies that our community’s implemented and put in place will continue to allow us to make progress in reducing the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” said Byrd.

More accurate tracking also strengthens the county’s ability to compete for state and federal grants that fund housing and support programs.

Over the past three years, data shows the homeless population in Hillsborough County has gradually declined — dropping from more than 2,000 individuals to fewer than 1,800. 

The decrease follows a post-pandemic spike that peaked heading into 2023.

Byrd says community partnerships, new programs, and refined strategies have contributed to the downward trend, and officials expect that progress to continue this year.

Despite the encouraging numbers, affordable housing remains one of the biggest challenges.

While rent prices across Hillsborough County have leveled off, they remain elevated. 

Many rental properties require between $4,000 and $6,000 upfront for deposits and move-in costs — a steep barrier for individuals and families trying to transition out of homelessness.

County and city leaders say they are continuing to address the issue through housing assistance programs and supportive services.

This year’s Point-in-Time effort also includes a renewed focus on homeless youth.

The youth count will take place March 4, utilizing a new outreach hub designed to improve engagement and identification of young people experiencing homelessness.

Last year, nearly 20 percent of the homeless population in Hillsborough County was under the age of 18 — underscoring the importance of targeted outreach and support for children and teens.

Officials say the results of this year’s count will help shape funding priorities and service strategies in the months ahead as the community continues working to reduce homelessness across the county.