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The Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE) is an annual survey conducted to estimate the number of New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Over a single night, volunteers canvass streets, subway stations, and other public spaces across the City to survey people about their housing status. 

HOPE 2026 will take place on Tuesday, January 27 from 10 PM until 4 AM the following day.

You can volunteer if you are 16 or older. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

You can register and learn more at nyc.gov/hope. Closer to HOPE night, you will receive training instructions and additional information by email. 

Volunteers do not need to have experience to participate in HOPE.

Training videos are posted on the HOPE website. You will also receive training on the night of HOPE at your volunteer site. 

On the night of the survey, you should dress warmly with a winter coat, gloves, scarf, and hat. If it is raining or expected to rain, you should bring an umbrella or poncho. You will also be walking for an extended period, so wear comfortable shoes. 

Transportation during HOPE is not provided. You will need to use an OMNY to travel to and from the training site and survey locations. You will be provided with subway fare to canvass subway stations. 

Canvassing is conducted in the HOPE mobile app, so it is highly recommended that you bring a cell phone. 

Light snacks and hot beverages will be provided to volunteers at the training site.

HOPE will only be rescheduled in the event of extreme winter weather. It will not be cancelled for rain or light snow.

The rain date for HOPE 2026 is February 3rd, 2026. Registered volunteers will be notified in advance if HOPE is rescheduled. 

Online

Visit the HOPE NYC website.

By Phone

  • Agency: Department of Homeless Services
  • Division: HOPE Helpline
  • Phone Number: (646) 783-8716
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

You can get help if you have questions about the event or need help registering to volunteer.

Online

Complete the form on our Contact Us page.

By Email

Send the HOPE team an email at HOPE@dss.nyc.gov.

By Phone

  • Agency: Department of Homeless Services
  • Division: HOPE Helpline
  • Phone Number: (646) 783-8716
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM