Learn how YOU can participate in Shadow Count 2025!
On January 28th – 29th (overnight), the Department of Social Services (DSS) will conduct the HOPE (Homelessness Outreach Population Estimate) Count and will send volunteers across New York City to count people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
On the same night, paid “decoys” will be planted in pairs in designated locations throughout all five boroughs of New York City. The number of decoys who are counted by DSS volunteers will be used to assess the accuracy of the official DSS HOPE Count 2025.
When: Tuesday, January 28th at 10 PM – Wednesday, January 29th at 4 AM
Where: Decoys are stationed on streets and in subways throughout the five boroughs. Your designated borough will be assigned to you during training.
In order to participate, you must attend one mandatory training prior to the night of Shadow Count. Two types of training are available. You may choose to attend an IN-PERSON training at the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, located at 2180 3rd Avenue @ 119th Street, New York, NY 10035 OR a VIRTUAL training.
Compensation: Decoys will be paid $90.
What is required?
- Complete a
- Attend a decoy training.
- Submit a copy of your social security card and valid photo ID on the day of your training for people doing IN-PERSON training, and on the day of the Count for people doing VIRTUAL training.
- Check into and remain at your designated location on the night of the Shadow Count. (People who did VIRTUAL training must remember to bring their required documents.)
Please consider reaching out to people you know to talk to them about Shadow Count. Here is a brief flyer you can share with them and perhaps challenge them to participate with you: INFO SHEET
For more information please visit our Facebook page or call us at 212-396-7766 (leave a message)
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