Last week, several Miriam’s Kitchen staff and volunteers took part in the annual point-in-time (PIT) Count to gather critical demographic data regarding those experiencing homelessness in Washington, D.C. Members of MK’s Outreach team lead teams of surveyors in Foggy Bottom, The National Mall, and Adams Morgan. MK’s Director of Donor Relations, Catherine Francis, reflected on her first time participating in the PIT Count.
Last night I and several other volunteers went out in the cold, wet weather of late January to walk through the District to help facilitate the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, an annual census that allows cities and states to measure their progress toward ending homelessness. This was my first year participating, and I was very excited and curious about how the night would go. My team and I walked the blocks of Foggy Bottom and despite the dismal weather, we were able to engage with several individuals who are experiencing homelessness.
Though I have done volunteer shifts in the dining room, this was a completely new way for me of engaging with potential guests of Miriam’s Kitchen. Many of those we talked to were familiar with MK, with several saying it was an amazing place that has always treated them well. Others who had not known of MK were curious about the services we provided and said they were glad to now know of a place to help them get connected to critical resources.
The fellow members of my team and I made a point to try and help those we had interacted with. This included assisting a gentleman with crutches get a spot in a shelter, and handing out a few blankets to some others we had met. I know it was even more eye-opening to hear what each person we spoke with said. There were heartbreaking moments but even on a cold wet night, most people felt comfortable sharing some of their stories with us and more than a few laughs.
As I reflect on last night, I knew that I will be volunteering for the PIT Count again. I would also encourage anyone who can to participate in it as well. It adds even another layer of the importance of Miriam’s Kitchen.
MK staff and volunteers post before the 2023 PIT Count.
By Catherine Francis
Director of Donor Relations, Miriam’s Kitchen
