THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WALB) — Homelessness is a growing crisis across the state of Georgia, with rural parts of the state experiencing high rates due to a lack of shelters and resources.

Volunteers in South Georgia can help by participating in the Point-in-Time Count, which is a literal count of all people experiencing homelessness on a single night. The count happens nationwide during the last 10 days of January, according to Thomas County CARES.

The count includes people who are unsheltered, living in places not meant for habitation and those in emergency shelters or transitional housing.

The data collected is used to inform Congress, which then determines funding levels and policy decisions for homelessness programs across the country.

Organizers say volunteers are essential in order to make sure the data is complete.

To help ensure no one is overlooked, volunteers can register by downloading the “Counting Us” mobile app and creating an account.

For more information, you can call Thomas County CARES at (229) 564-7516 or visit their website.

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