Updated on March 2, 2021 at 10:54 am NBCUniversal, Inc. An important endeavor to get a better understanding of the homelessness situation in North Texas is underway in Dallas and Collin Counties. But with the pandemic and the aftermath of a historic winter storm, this year’s count comes at a tricky time. Download our NBC DFW mobile app for Apple or Android to get alerts for local breaking news and weather. The point-in-time count is required by federal law for anyone receiving grants from U.S. Housing and Urban Development to address homelessness issues. Hundreds of volunteers usually split up into groups and walk or drive to certain areas to literally count homeless individuals and conduct questionnaires to better understand their needs. Unsheltered homeless, those with disabilities and veteran homelessness are key data points gathered during the counts.