Counting Us for iPhone

Quick summary

Counting Us is a mobile monitoring-and-evaluation application built to support the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count of people experiencing homelessness. It streamlines volunteer participation and data capture so communities can produce accurate, reportable census results.

Volunteer onboarding and use

Volunteers join by installing the app, creating a personal account, and using a short survey whenever they encounter an individual or household without stable housing. The interface is designed for quick, on-the-ground use so contributors can submit observations with minimal training.

Notable features

• Offline data collection: save responses locally when there’s no connectivity and upload later.
• Automatic geolocation: each record is stamped with precise GPS coordinates for mapping and verification.
• Built-in survey templates: forms align with Federal reporting requirements to support consistent, compliant data.
• Live coordination: the tool connects with the PIT Regional Command Center to enable centralized oversight during counting operations.
• Simple volunteer workflow: lightweight account setup and concise surveys encourage wide participation.

Device compatibility and system links

The app works across a broad range of smartphones and tablets and is designed to synchronize securely with regional PIT systems. Administrators can monitor submissions in real time and aggregate results for reporting and planning.

Suggested companion tool

For volunteers who want to reduce distractions while working in the field, consider using Forest — Stay Focused (free). It’s a productivity timer that can help maintain concentration during long shifts.