A resource fair in Cheyenne aims to increase participation in the Point-in-Time homeless count, helping those in need access vital services.
CHEYENNE: Last year, Jerome Lewis faced a near-fatal frostbite while sleeping under a bridge. He’s just one of many experiencing homelessness counted during Laramie County’s Point-in-Time (PIT) Count.
Volunteers and local organizations teamed up to conduct this count, which takes place on a single day in January. It’s crucial for federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), helping to identify service gaps and inform policy decisions.
Lewis has struggled with homelessness for years. Last winter, True Vine Church members found him in dire straits, and he credits them for saving his life. “It was a blessing,” he said, expressing gratitude for their support.
Dawn Cranmore, the PATH Program Coordinator, noticed many people don’t know about available resources. That’s why she organized a resource fair alongside the count. “Homelessness is getting worse,” she said, emphasizing the need for awareness and support.
HUD defines literal homelessness as living in places not meant for human habitation, like emergency shelters. The count helps allocate funds to local organizations, enabling them to assist people like Lewis.
Lewis has been trying to get his ID for eight months to find a job and secure housing. He shared how tough it is to be homeless, especially with strict camping bans in Cheyenne. “You get run off from everywhere,” he said, highlighting the challenges faced by those without stable housing.
Cranmore pointed out that finding safe parking for those living in their vehicles is also becoming harder. “We need community support to help our homeless population,” she said, stressing the lack of affordable housing options.
The PIT Count, mandated by HUD, aims to assess homelessness and raise public awareness. It also helps communities apply for more housing funds. Lewis believes these funds can be life-changing if people are willing to accept help.
“If they don’t pursue it, then it’s not gonna be useful,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of taking action. The count is mostly volunteer-run, and those who participated in the resource fair received a hot lunch and outreach bags filled with essentials.
Even the Cheyenne Police Department got involved, helping to ensure a smooth count. Lt. Joel Hickerson explained that their goal is to build rapport with the homeless community, making interactions more positive.
Cranmore added that people experiencing homelessness often face stigma. “Just saying ‘hi’ can make their day,” she said, urging the community to support those in need.
In 2023, 532 people in Wyoming were homeless, a slight decrease from previous years. However, Cranmore suspects the numbers have risen since then. Last year’s low turnout didn’t accurately reflect Laramie County’s needs, so she hopes for better participation this time.
“We want to make people feel like they count,” Cranmore said. “It’s important to get HUD funds into Cheyenne and Laramie County.”
