Service-Learning: Promoting Empathy Through the Point-in-Time Count of Homeless Populations

BACKGROUND: An interprofessional service-learning experience, using the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Point-in-Time (PIT) count of unsheltered homeless, was used as the basis of exposing nursing and public health students to those facing homelessness and housing insecurity in their community. METHOD: Learning experiences included pre- and post-PIT count training, PIT count participation, debriefings, online and in-class reflections, and discussion of poverty-related readings. Students unable to participate in the actual count presented nutrition education programs in congregate meal sites. RESULTS: Participation in the PIT count received positive student feedback and reflected development of knowledge and empathy of those experiencing homelessness and housing and food insecurity. CONCLUSION: Health professional programs can use the PIT count to expose students to individuals living in poverty, as well as provide meaningful curricular opportunities to foster a culturally competent and empathetic health services work force. J Nurs Educ. 2018;57(7):436-439..