United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley’s Home for Good strategy has released early data from the 2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, conducted January 26th –29th across the Chattahoochee Valley. The PIT Count provides a snapshot of individuals and families experiencing homelessness and helps guide local housing and support strategies.
Preliminary results identified 301 individuals experiencing homelessness, representing a 1% decrease compared to 2025 and remaining consistent with trends observed over the past decade.
Understanding the Early Data
While overall numbers remained relatively stable year over year, early findings highlight important shifts within the population experiencing homelessness.
Notable trends include:
- A 7% decrease in unsheltered men compared to 2025
- A significant increase (29%) in unsheltered women, continuing a trend community providers are monitoring closely
- A 45% decrease in children experiencing homelessness compared to last year
- A 4% increase in sheltered men
- A 6% decrease in sheltered women
These changes underscore the evolving nature of housing instability and the importance of monitoring not only total counts, but who is experiencing homelessness and how their needs are changing.
Weather and Its Impact on the Count
According to Pat Frey, Vice President of Home for Good, unusually cold weather during the count period may have influenced results.
“In extremely cold conditions, families and individuals may temporarily take in loved ones experiencing homelessness — situations that may not be possible during normal weather,” Frey noted. “This likely reduced the number of surveys completed and may have contributed to the slight decrease we observed.”
What These Trends Mean for the Community
Community partners continue to note that rising housing costs, limited affordable housing inventory, and economic pressures play a major role in shaping who experiences homelessness and how services are accessed.
While early PIT Count results offer valuable insight, they represent only one piece of a larger picture. Final, verified data will help local leaders and service providers refine outreach, shelter strategies, and long-term housing solutions.
“The Point-in-Time Count helps us understand not just how many people are experiencing homelessness, but how those needs are shifting,” said Frey. “This allows us to respond strategically and focus on housing solutions that work.”
What Comes Next
Data verification is currently underway. A more detailed PIT Count report and updated interactive dashboard will be released in the coming weeks. These final results will provide deeper insight into trends by household type, shelter status, and demographics, supporting continued progress toward stable housing solutions across the region.
Need Help Now?
For anyone in need of shelter, food, or supportive services, help is available through 211.
- Call or text 2-1-1
- Call 706-748-8532
- Visit 211uwcv.org to search the online resource database 24/7
211 is a free, confidential, and multilingual service, with live assistance available Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (excluding holidays).
