The United States has made significant progress in addressing Veteran homelessness with the number of homeless Veterans reaching a historic low. This achievement is the result of coordinated efforts by various government agencies, local communities, and nonprofit organizations. The Point-in-Time (PIT) count an annual effort led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) plays a crucial role in estimating the number of Americans, including Veterans, without safe and stable housing.
The PIT count is a vital tool for assessing progress toward the VA’s priority goal of ending homelessness among Veterans. It helps direct resources based on need and provides a national snapshot of homelessness. The January 2025 PIT count results reflect the progress made through the end of 2024.
The 2025 PIT Count Results
The national snapshot of Veteran homelessness showed that the total number of Veterans who experienced homelessness was 32,495 a decrease of 1.2% over January 2024. This is the fewest number of Veterans counted since HUD began reporting on Veteran homelessness in the PIT count in 2009. The estimated number of Veterans experiencing homelessness in America has declined by 56.1% since 2010.
Breaking down the numbers, 18,977 Veterans experienced sheltered homelessness living in places such as emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, or other supportive settings. Meanwhile, 13,518 Veterans experienced unsheltered homelessness living in places not meant for human habitation, such as cars, parks, sidewalks, abandoned buildings, and literally on the street.
The Role of the PIT Count
The PIT count is administered by HUD’s approximately 400 Continuums of Care (CoCs) which are local planning bodies responsible for coordinating all homelessness services in a geographic area. During even-numbered years, CoCs are only required to count sheltered persons, although many voluntarily collect data about unsheltered persons. During odd-numbered years, CoCs are required to count both sheltered and unsheltered persons.
The data generated from the PIT count is used for the Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress, which describes the This data is also used in conjunction with other data points to make strategic decisions about programs for Veterans who are homeless, administered by the VA, HUD and partner organizations.
Sustaining the Progress
The goal of ending homelessness among Veterans is within reach, and progress is already being made community by community. To further this progress and sustain these gains, it is essential to maintain government investments that support effective interventions to prevent homelessness among Veterans and rapidly re-house those who become homeless. Communities and states that have already announced an end to Veteran homelessness serve as models for this approach.
Relentless outreach to Veterans in need is also crucial. Collaborating with governments, employers, and community-based entities to house, employ, and serve Veterans exiting homelessness is another key strategy. These efforts require continuous coordination and commitment from all stakeholders involved.
If you are a Veteran who is homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness, it is strongly encouraged to contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 for assistance. The call is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Trained professionals are standing by to connect you to your nearest VA for help.
