Central Oregon prepares for 2026 Point in Time Count to address homelessness
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — J Bar J Youth Services is partnering with the Homeless Leadership Coalition and regional nonprofit agencies to conduct the 2026 Point in Time Count. The census measures sheltered and unsheltered homelessness across Central Oregon to help guide future resources for individuals and families experiencing housing instability.
The count is a federally required annual effort led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Locally, the Homeless Leadership Coalition coordinates the project as Central Oregon's Continuum of Care to understand the scope and characteristics of homelessness on a single night.
The 2026 census collects demographic information including age, gender, race and ethnicity. Participants are also asked to provide their veteran and disability status. This data is used to support local planning and strengthen grant applications for housing programs.
Individuals and families included in the count may be living in emergency shelters or transitional housing. The effort also identifies people living outdoors, in cars, in camps or in RVs without hookups. It also includes those who are "doubled up" or staying temporarily with friends and family.
J Bar J Youth Services is the largest provider of youth services in the region and focuses on identifying young people in crisis. Organizers noted that youth are particularly difficult to count because they often stay in garages, surf couches or avoid social services because of past trauma.
Stephanie Alvestad serves as the CEO of J Bar J Youth Services. She said the data gathered through the census determines the resources available to help youth move toward stability.
"Participating in the Point in Time Count is one of the most important ways we ensure that the needs of young people and families experiencing homelessness in Central Oregon are accurately represented," Alvestad said. "The data gathered through this effort directly influences the funding and programs that allow us to support youth in crisis and help them move toward stability." To reach these populations, J Bar J uses its shelter programs and street outreach teams.
Andrew Scott, the director of residential services, said these teams are positioned to find youth who may be hidden from view or avoiding traditional systems. "Many young people experiencing homelessness are hidden from view, staying temporarily with friends or avoiding systems altogether," Scott said. "Our outreach teams are uniquely positioned to connect with these youth and make sure their experiences are counted."
An accurate count directly impacts the amount of federal funding available for homeless services in Central Oregon. The information also provides insight into trends affecting housing insecurity for unaccompanied youth and young adults.
