Volunteers wanted for measuring homelessness in Windsor-Essex

A homeless person asleep on the grass near a parking lot outside of Windsor City Hall.

The City of Windsor is looking for people to volunteer as surveyors for the 2026 Windsor-Essex Point-in-Time (PiT) Count, which measures homelessness and housing insecurity.

The count is taking place on Oct. 20, 2026, across various locations in Windsor and Essex County.

• Time: 5:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
• Rain or Shine: The Point-in-Time Count will proceed as scheduled regardless of weather conditions. Volunteers are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and the evening outdoors.

The PiT Count is a national initiative aimed at measuring homelessness and housing insecurity in communities across Canada.

City officials say volunteers will play a vital role by conducting structured surveys with individuals who may be experiencing homelessness. Each volunteer will be part of a team led by experienced staff from the homelessness sector.

Volunteer Role and Responsibilities

Volunteers will:

• Engage respectfully with individuals in public spaces;
• Administer standardized surveys throughout assigned routes;
• Uphold confidentiality and dignity of all participants; and
• Follow all health, safety, and conduct protocols.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must be comfortable interacting with the public
• Must have strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Must be able participate in outdoor activities that may involve up to 4 kilometres of travel during a shift
• Must complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC); details provided upon selection
• Previous outreach or social services experience considered an asset but not required

City officials say they welcome volunteers of all abilities and are happy to discuss accommodations to support your full participation.

All volunteers will receive mandatory training prior to the event, covering survey procedures, health and safety protocols, and trauma-informed engagement practices. Volunteers will be supported by sector staff throughout the count, under the direction of the City of Windsor.

The data collected will help inform local policies, services, and supports for individuals experiencing homelessness.

More information or to express interest in volunteering is available at 2026 Windsor-Essex Point in Time Count – Community Volunteer Expression of Interest Form.

The deadline for registration is Sept. 18, 2026.