As COVID-19 continues to take countless lives, homeless individuals are among those who need access to COVID-19 testing and personal protective equipment, such as masks and sanitation supplies. Experts say homeless encampments bring large groups of people into close quarters, and homeless individuals may be more exposed to the virus than those with reliable housing.
Several local organizations are helping homeless Austinites secure testing and other resources during this unprecedented time. During the yearly Point In Time Count (PIT) conducted by Austin’s Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO), volunteers take a headcount of homeless individuals in Austin and Travis County.