The 2026 point-in-time count takes the pilot to the next level, operating as a full-scale urban field operation rather than a one-off volunteer event. Its core goal is to produce a credible, defensible dataset that informs policy, funding and coordination, while keeping volunteers safe and operations tight from registration to debrief. 

Key objectives include:

• Running an accurate count in clearly defined zones
• Protecting volunteers through formal command and escalation structures
• Strengthening data integrity and cutting post-event processing delays
• Delivering a publishable report within agreed timelines

Partners include U-turn, MES, Standard Bank, Nando’s, the FIRM, Local Abode, Maharishi Security Mastery Academy, Wits, UJ, SAPS, JMPD, the Gauteng Department of Social Development, the City of Johannesburg, Gauteng City-Region Observatory, city improvement districts and multiple community organisations. 

Together, we are building the evidence base Jozi needs to plan smarter, not louder.