News Detail
Local Outreach Brings Hope To Homeless Neighbors
Community Connections
August 28, 2026
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – Here in Franklin County, quiet acts of compassion happen every day with many of those good deeds coming from Franklin County’s dedicated Community Connections staff. Their ongoing outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless continues to grow, adapt and inspire, offering both tangible support and moments of hope to those in need often when they need it most.
One of the department’s major efforts is the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a critical initiative that helps identify how many people in our community are currently experiencing homelessness. While the mandatory count happens each January, for the past 13 years Community Connections has voluntarily conducted an additional summer count. In July, staff and volunteers documented 75 individuals without stable housing, 39 of whom were living unsheltered. Though this number is lower than winter’s count of 102, the results of the summer count demonstrate a need for services year-round.
Counting is just one part of the PIT Count effort. The volunteers performing are also equipped with resource packets, hygiene kits, ponchos, snacks and information on local support programs and resources. When someone needs more substantial items—like a tent or a sleeping bag—the Community Connections staff follows up with that individual the next day to make sure those supplies are delivered. Many volunteers already know those they’re encountering and supporting, reinforcing the trust and relationships that have been built between the individuals and department staff over time.
The PIT Count is just one component of Community Connections’ overall, year-round efforts focused on connecting chronically homeless individuals to permanent housing solutions. While rising housing costs and limited local options can present challenges, success stories and small victories still emerge. In 2026, several participants in Community Connections’ permanent supportive housing program transitioned into Section 8 Housing. Those moves opened spaces that allowed new individuals to receive assistance through the housing program. One participant achieved something even more remarkable. After less than three years in the program, she secured housing completely on her own without Section 8 support. With guidance from the Community Connections team, she obtained her Social Security benefits, saved money and ultimately reached a place of stability and independence.
The generosity of the local community also plays a huge role in assisting Community Connections’ ability to offer support. Donations of clothing and hygiene supplies arrive consistently at times dropped off anonymously by individuals who simply want to help others. These items are then placed outside the Community Connections office at 39 North Second Street, Chambersburg, for easy pickup, ensuring that anyone in need can access essentials with dignity and without barriers.
Community Connections plans to offer its Giving Tree during the upcoming holiday season. Beginning in mid-November, the staff will place a tree filled with hygiene packets, snacks, hand warmers, bottled water and other necessities outside of its office. Anyone is welcome to take what they need. The tree will remain in place well past the holidays, serving as a symbol of ongoing care rather than just seasonal charity.
Community Connections welcomes volunteers and donations throughout the year. Anyone interested in volunteering for an upcoming PIT Count or in donating supplies can contact the office at (717) 261-3893. Every contribution—big or small—becomes part of a larger community effort to ensure our neighbors in need are seen, supported and never forgotten.
* This article was created with the help of AI-assisted technology. *