Kingston one of more than 60 communities participating in the nationally coordinated count of individuals experiencing homelessness across the country
Kingston, ON (August 7, 2025) United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington has put together a report based on the results of the Point In Time (PiT) count conducted in a 24-hour period from November 19th to 20th, 2024.
United Way KFL&A, in partnership with the Government of Canada’s Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy, leads the local Point-in-Time (PiT) Count — a census that captures the number of individuals experiencing homelessness on a specific night. As part of the process, individuals encountered are also invited to complete a short, anonymous survey. This marks the fifth PiT Count conducted in Kingston, following previous counts in 2021 (which was delayed and limited due to the pandemic), 2018, 2016, and 2013.
“We really appreciate the efforts of our local agencies, healthcare partners and institutions assisting in this count,” said John DiPaolo, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A. “Information collected through PiT counts help give us a clearer picture of the issue of homelessness locally and nationally and helps our communities better understand the needs.”
The total number of people enumerated in the 2024 PiT Count increased by 133% compared to 2021, rising from 207 to 483.
Of the total number of individuals enumerated, 288 or 60% participated in the survey, though each individual may not have answered every question.
“The data collected in 2024 shows the increase in individuals experiencing homelessness in our community and the challenges that so many are facing in terms of costs,” added Kim Hockey, Vice-President, Community Investment, United Way KFL&A, pointing out that the top reason for housing loss was not enough income, with 32% of respondents indicating this as a reason; of those 63% identified as women. “These results help us identify trends and allow us to plan, enhance, and expand programs to support these individuals. The results will also help inform planning and policy decisions among various organizations and governments going forward.”
Key findings from the 2024 Point In Time Count
Enumeration
- The total number of people enumerated in the 2024 PiT Count increased by 133% compared to 2021, rising from 207 to 483.
- The percentage of people experiencing absolute homelessness during the 24hr period – staying in shelters or other overnight locations, in (outdoor) public spaces, or in encampments – increased from 53% in 2018 and 65% in 2021 to 70% in 2024.
- 37% of individuals enumeratedwere staying in emergency shelter (includes domestic violence shelter).
- 27% of individuals enumeratedwere found to be experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
Survey
- Of the total number of individuals enumerated, 288 or 60% participated in the survey, though may not have answered every question.
- 92% of those surveyed were adults 25 years or older. Youth ages 16 to 24 made up 8% of respondents.
- Of those surveyed who responded about their education, 30% had completed High School (includes GED), 23% had a Post-Secondary credential, and 5% held a Graduate degree.
- 67% of respondents indicated having a substance use issue and 75% indicated having mental health issues.
- 70% of those surveyed had stayed in a shelter at least once in the past year.
- The top reason for housing loss was not enough income, with 32% of respondents indicating this as a reason. Of those 63% identified as women.
To view the full Point In Time Count for 2024 click here and to view past reports visit https://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/reports/
Note: Data collected from the PIT Count is in addition to the information that the City of Kingston collects through the By Name List
About the Point in Time Count
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) supports community efforts across Canada to better understand the state of local homelessness, and contribute to a national picture of homelessness. Everyone Counts, the nationally-coordinated Point-in-Time (PiT) Counts, are an important piece of this national understanding. They include an annual enumeration of people experiencing sheltered and unsheltered homelessness, and a periodic survey that gathers information about causes and consequences of homelessness and the populations affected by it.
Full PiT Counts take place every third year and include two components:
- Enumeration: An enumeration is an estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness within a determined geographical area on a single night. It also identifies the location where they spent the night: in shelters, transitional housing, or unsheltered locations.
- Survey on Homelessness: The Survey on Homelessness (“the survey”) includes a set of standardized questions that are administered directly to individuals experiencing homelessness. Respondents include those in shelters, transitional housing, health and correctional systems, unsheltered locations, and hidden homeless (e.g. people who are “couch surfing”). The survey collects information on the characteristics and experiences of people affected by homelessness to help community organizations, and all orders of government better understand and serve individuals experiencing homelessness in Canada.
About United Way KFL&A
United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington works closely with community partners to ensure that people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live with hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. This vision is realized by building on deep-rooted local community knowledge and relationships to empower people to make an impact.
The United Way raises funds for programs that support immediate needs while also tackling complex social issues collaboratively. Led by volunteers, driven by a small professional staff team, the United Way KFL&A is a unifying force, encouraging people to get involved to support our most vulnerable.
Stay up to date by following their social media channels – Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca
Media Contact:
Mandy Pasch, Director, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
