To: Board of Supervisors
From: Dr. Grant Colfax, Health Services Director
Report Title: Gift Cards for Participants in the Point-in-Time Count
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to purchase on behalf of the Health Services Director, 275 7-Eleven gift cards, each with a $10 value and 275 Grocery Outlet gift cards each with a $10 value plus applicable delivery fees of up to $5 for a total amount not to exceed $5,505 to provide as incentives for the participation of people with lived experience (PWLE) in the 2027 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This action will result in expenditures of up to $5,505 and will be funded by California Housing and Homelessness Incentive Program (HHIP).
BACKGROUND:
Contra Costa Health’s Homeless Program Continuum of Care (CoC) conducts an annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count to collect information on individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The PIT Count includes both sheltered and unsheltered individuals to better understand homelessness in our community. The data collected is essential for identifying trends over time, informing policy decisions, and allocating resources.
In addition to the observational count, surveys are conducted to gather demographic data to better understand who in our community is experiencing homelessness. PWLE bring valuable knowledge and firsthand perspectives that help inform and strengthen the PIT Count. To support participation and complete data collection, gift cards will be offered as incentives to individuals, including youth, who agree to complete a survey.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If this action is not approved, participation rates are expected to be very low, especially among young individuals, who may be less likely to engage in the survey. This will impact the ability to fully understand the scope of demographic data, causing fewer resources and funding opportunities.