Statewide count of homeless across county

The annual Point-In-Time count will take place statewide Wednesday.

The count collects information about homeless individuals encountered throughout a 24- hour period across the state, including St. Joseph County.

As part of the statewide count, the St. Joseph County Housing Task Force is preparing to count the homeless and unsheltered people both on the streets and in shelters countywide. The local count will take place 5:30 to 8 p.m.

During the evening street count, volunteers seek people living in areas not meant for habitation. People who are homeless on the streets or living out of cars will be given a bag of emergency and personal items, and directed to contact Keystone Place, St. Joseph County’s homeless shelter.

This includes those dwelling at retail establishments such as laundromats, grocery stores, gas stations, fast food restaurants and other areas commonly known for congregation.