2017 Point in Time Homeless Count conducted in Riverside County

Volunteers hit the streets of Riverside County Tuesday for the Point in Time Homeless Count, surveying and interviewing the local homeless population. The survey is required by the federal government in order to for cities and non-profits to receive funding for services serving the homeless.

Some of the volunteers gathered in Palm Springs at the police training center to make a tally of homeless individuals in the city. They included Palm Springs city councilmembers Geoff Kors and Ginny Foat. One volunteer said the survey was a way to reduce the stigma surrounding homeless individuals and provide a learning experience for participants.

“Last year we had 23 volunteers and this year we have 34,” Dale Cook said. “So I think it gives admiration to the community and the compassion that they have in trying to address the issue and becoming familiar with the issue.”

One of those surveyed was Gloria Murnanes, a homeless woman who lived out of her car. She was not able to afford rent and was left with a place to call home. She said the homeless survey was a good thing but said living on the streets was a struggle.

“The worst thing about it is not having a shower or a bathroom,” she said.

The results of the survey will be released in May.