(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — The City of Simi Valley is preparing for the 2025 Homeless Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, taking place on Wednesday, January 22. This annual count, coordinated by the Ventura County Continuum of Care, is a vital effort to document the number of people experiencing homelessness in the region. The data helps guide funding decisions for essential programs and services aimed at addressing homelessness.
Homelessness in Simi Valley has increased in recent years. In 2024, the PIT Count identified 160 individuals experiencing homelessness, up from 150 in 2023 and 141 in 2022—a 13.5% rise over three years. Of the 2024 total, 11 individuals were in shelters, meaning the majority were unsheltered, often visible in public spaces, like the Arroyo Simi bike path area.
The PIT Count captures a comprehensive snapshot of homelessness within a single 24-hour period. It categorizes individuals as either sheltered, living in emergency housing, or unsheltered, residing in spaces not meant for habitation, such as streets or vehicles. This data is crucial for understanding the scope of the issue and advocating for resources.
Results from the count support the allocation of federal and state funding for emergency shelters, housing assistance, and outreach services. It also serves as a critical tool for raising public awareness about homelessness in Ventura County.
Volunteers have been trained in conducting surveys and using data collection tools to ensure an accurate and respectful count. Teams will canvass Simi Valley at sunrise on January 22, focusing on identifying individuals and collecting information to better understand their needs.
The 2025 PIT Count is not only a tool for gathering data but also an opportunity to address the underlying issues contributing to homelessness in Simi Valley. By participating in this effort, the community takes a step toward building solutions and fostering support for those experiencing homelessness.
For more information about the PIT Count and its impact, visit ventura25.pointintime.info or contact Cynthia McCullough, Senior Management Analyst, at (805) 583-6759.
