More Than a Number: Understanding the 2026 Point-in-Time Count in Southern Maryland

Each year, communities across the nation participate in the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a one-night effort to identify individuals and families experiencing homelessness. While the PIT Count provides important data used for planning, funding, and resource allocation, it represents much more than statistics—it represents our neighbors, families, veterans, youth, and individuals facing housing instability throughout Southern Maryland.

On January 28, 2026, outreach teams, shelter providers, volunteers, and community partners came together across Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's Counties to conduct the annual Point-in-Time Count.

The 2026 PIT Count identified 298 individuals experiencing homelessness in Southern Maryland. Of those counted:

• 204 individuals (68%) were staying in emergency shelter.

• 45 individuals (15%) were residing in transitional housing.

• 49 individuals (16%) were living unsheltered.

• 20% were identified as chronically homeless.

• 34% were youth under the age of 24.

• 65% identified as Black or African American.

The unsheltered count included:

• 22 individuals in Calvert County

• 26 individuals in Charles County

• 1 individual in St. Mary's County

These numbers help our community better understand who is experiencing homelessness and where resources are needed most. The data informs local planning efforts, funding priorities, housing strategies, outreach efforts, and service delivery throughout Southern Maryland.

Understanding What the PIT Count Does — and Does Not — Measure

While the PIT Count provides valuable information about homelessness in our community, it is important to understand its limitations.

The PIT Count is a snapshot of homelessness on a single night. It does not represent every person who experiences homelessness throughout the year.

Many individuals and families experiencing housing instability are not captured in the count, including those who are:

• temporarily staying with friends or family ("doubled up"),

• moving between households,

• living in unstable housing situations,

• staying in motels paid for by family or friends,

• or otherwise hidden from traditional outreach efforts.

Additionally, the count only includes individuals who were located on the night of the count and who agreed to participate. Despite the tremendous efforts of outreach teams and volunteers, some individuals may not be encountered, while others may choose not to be counted.

For this reason, the PIT Count should be viewed as a minimum estimate rather than a complete picture of homelessness in Southern Maryland.

The true number of individuals and families experiencing housing instability in our community is likely much higher than what is reflected in the annual count.

Why the PIT Count Matters

The PIT Count helps tell a story that often goes unseen.

Every number represents a person. Every statistic represents a unique journey, challenge, and need. The data collected helps local providers and community leaders better understand trends, identify gaps in services, advocate for resources, and develop solutions that support individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

The count is successful because of the dedication of volunteers, outreach workers, shelter providers, faith communities, local governments, and community partners who work together to ensure every person possible is counted.

The Southern Maryland Local Homelessness Coalition remains committed to strengthening coordinated entry, expanding access to shelter and housing resources, increasing outreach efforts, and working collaboratively to prevent and end homelessness throughout our region.

The 298 individuals identified during the 2026 Point-in-Time Count represent the people we were able to find, engage, and count on one night. They do not represent every individual, youth, veteran, or family experiencing homelessness in Southern Maryland.

The need in our community extends beyond a single day, and so must our response.

Together, we can continue building a community where everyone has access to safe, stable, and permanent housing.