The Department of Homeless Services is counting on everyday New Yorkers to help the vulnerable homeless population during the coldest months of the year, and it's calling on volunteers to pitch in.
The Homeless Outreach Population Estimate, or HOPE, is a chance for New Yorkers to positively impact those who live on the city's streets. Every year, thousands of people throughout the five boroughs participate in the event, which sees volunteers going through parks, streets and other public spaces to identify people who are living unsheltered.
HOPE is required by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. It's considered to be one of the most comprehensive efforts nationwide effectively providing services and resources to those who are experiencing chronic street homelessness.
Volunteers are needed Monday night from around 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. Organizers say just one night of your time can help collect critical information to move people from the streets into a stable environment.
For more information or to sign up, visit NYC.gov/HOPE.