OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Working collectively to help the community’s most vulnerable.
Government leaders, nonprofits, business owners, and the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership met with the Office of Homelessness Prevention on July 30 to address homelessness in Marion County. The discussion centered on the accuracy of homelessness data and how it impacts local efforts.
Examining the PIT Count
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Point-in-Time (PIT) count was reviewed in detail at the group’s second meeting. At the first meeting on July 9, participants explored whether Florida should change its definition of homelessness used in the PIT count.
Miles McConico of Veterans Helping Veterans USA noted that HUD updated its definition in 2009 during the recession, expanding it to reflect broader needs under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
“When we talk about homelessness, we’re not just talking about those on the street,” McConico said. “We have to look at the working poor, those on the verge of losing housing.”
Beyond Street Homelessness
McConico pointed to a major gap between HUD’s PIT count and the McKinney-Vento count used by schools.
- HUD PIT count: Focuses on people visibly without shelter.
- McKinney-Vento count: Includes students who are “doubled up” with others, living in hotels, or sleeping on couches.
These hidden homeless situations are common in Marion County.
“A child sleeping on someone’s couch is homeless. Their parents are homeless too,” McConico said.
Why McKinney-Vento Data Matters
McConico argued that the McKinney-Vento count may be a more accurate measure because:
- School attendance laws require reporting, ensuring better tracking.
- Parents face accountability if children miss school.
- The system connects students with scholarships and support to break the cycle of homelessness.
He suggested applying similar support models to homeless adults.
“That’s an incredible program for kids. Let’s keep that concept for the larger adult demographic,” McConico said.
Next Steps
The group will continue exploring ways to align definitions and counts to ensure resources reach all who need them, not just those in the most visible situations. By broadening the scope, community leaders hope to address the full spectrum of homelessness in Marion County, from those on the streets to those living in unstable or temporary housing.