News Summary
Asheville is gearing up for its annual Point-in-Time count on January 28, aiming to survey the local population of unhoused individuals. With the aftermath of Hurricane Helene significantly impacting shelter availability, volunteers will collect data over two days to address the rising demand for support. This year’s count will also focus on the correlation between homelessness and recent storms to better allocate resources moving forward.
Asheville Gears Up for Essential Point-in-Time Count Amid Homelessness Surge
The charming city of Asheville, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is preparing to conduct its annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count starting on January 28. This essential initiative aims to survey the local population of unhoused individuals, and this year, the count is expected to reflect a significant increase in numbers due to the recent impacts of Hurricane Helene.
Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath
Unfortunately, it’s not an easy task. The effects of Hurricane Helene have left many residents without shelter, and some of those displaced are currently living in transitional housing or are temporarily placed in hotels, both of which will be counted as unhoused individuals. The count will even include those who are receiving assistance through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the current situation.
Surveying the True Impact
This year’s PIT count will not just focus on the numbers; it will also include extra questions that pinpoint the correlation between homelessness and the recent storm. Understanding how Hurricane Helene has affected the local population is pivotal in shaping future resource allocation and advocacy efforts.
Increasing Demand for Support
The PIT count is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and it’s critical for communities like Asheville to receive necessary funding to combat homelessness. Volunteers will spread out across the city on the evening of January 28 and during the day on January 29, gathering data that will inform how the community can better support those in need.
Challenging Winter Conditions
As if the surge in homelessness wasn’t enough, the freezing temperatures hitting Buncombe County have created even greater demand for shelter services. Many local shelters are reaching capacity and are calling for volunteers to step up and assist. Residents facing barriers to accessing resources even before the storm are now finding the situation even more challenging, impacting tens of thousands throughout Western North Carolina.
Effects of Rising Housing Costs
In recent times, Asheville has grappled with an increase in rental prices and a diminishment of available housing stock. The rising trend of tourism-driven short-term rentals has further exacerbated the housing plight, making it difficult for many to find affordable places to live.
Last Year’s Count and Its Implications
Health and Well-Being of Unhoused Individuals
Health concerns are also a pressing issue, with a mobile medical unit responding to urgent medical needs exacerbated by the harsh weather conditions post-storm. The demand for prescription refills, particularly for those on medication-assisted treatments, has surged. Compounding these challenges, access to sanitation facilities has diminished, with public restrooms and sanitation services critically limited.
Community Support and Collaboration
In the wake of these challenges, the Asheville community has rallied together, stepping up mutual aid efforts to respond to the increased needs following Hurricane Helene. Local nonprofits and community organizations are tirelessly advocating for enhanced resources and support for the homeless population.
Transportation to Safety
The city’s transit system is also playing its part by offering free bus rides to temporary shelters during extreme weather conditions, ensuring that those in need can access the facilities available to them. This coordinated effort combines the input of individuals with lived experience and public safety officials, as the community seeks to address the pressing issue of homelessness in an effective way.
Moving Forward Together
As Asheville prepares for its PIT count, it’s clear that the community is coming together in unprecedented ways to tackle the challenges presented by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. With collaboration, compassion, and concern for one another, the hope is that Asheville will not only gather essential data but also take meaningful steps towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Buncombe County See Spike in Homeless Population
- The Assembly: Unhouse Asheville Shelter Post-Hurricane Helene
- WLOS: 2024 Point-in-Time Homeless Count Release
- Charlotte Observer: Weather News Article
- Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
