Members of Odessa Links are ready to conduct their annual Point in Time survey, rain or shine.
Offering a snapshot of homelessness in Ector County, the survey is reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to show who is experiencing homelessness. The survey also raises awareness in the community and helps local officials advocate for funding to engage in ending homelessness.
The count includes those considered “unsheltered” who live in cars, parks, and on sidewalks, and those who are “sheltered” and staying in transitional housing or emergency shelters.
In 2023, 68 people were reported homeless in the survey; 60 people in 2022; and 77 people in 2020. The national survey was cancelled in 2021 due to COVID, but Odessa still reported at least 21 people.
Odessa Links Executive Director Andrea Quiroz said that by tracking the homeless population, officials with Odessa Links and the City of Odessa will know where to concentrate efforts to help those in need.
“It doesn’t matter who you are, we need to provide shelter for everyone,” Quiroz said.
Officials will begin the survey at 8 a.m. Jan. 25, at the Salvation Army, 810 E. 11th St., before going out to the various shelters and around town. Quiroz said volunteers would receive training before the count.
A bag of essentials and a bus pass will be given to those counted in the survey. Lunch is scheduled to be served from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Jesus House, 1335 E. Sixth St.; and dinner will be served from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Salvation Army.
Quiroz said Odessa Links is still taking donations of blankets, white socks, beanies, scarfs, bottled water and snacks at LL Services, 111 W. Ninth St., or at the Odessa Links office at 119 W. Fourth St. Monetary donations can be made on the Odessa Links website.
“It’s time for us to roll up our sleeves and get to work,” Quiroz said.
If you go
- What: Odessa Links Point in Time survey.
- When: 8 a.m. Jan. 25.
- Where: Volunteers will begin at the Salvation Army, 810 E. 11th St.
- Donations of blankets, white socks, beanies, scarves, bottled water and snacks are needed. Drop off locations are Odessa Links, 119. W. Fourth St.; or LL Services, 111 W. Ninth St.
- Call 432-582-0099 for questions about donating or volunteering.
