After assembling at P.S. 116 in Manhattan, the Touro volunteers ventured out after midnight to canvass parks, subways, and other public spaces as part of the New York City Department of Homeless Services’ (DHS) Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE).

“This is a teachable moment for our students, said Professor Elhanan Marvit, MSW, LCSW, director of administrative services for the graduate school. “By participating in this historic event every year, our social work graduate students are able to witness the problem of homelessness up front as well as see an educational and governmental institution partnering to help provide a solution."

“We appreciate the valuable support of the Touro College students,” said Homeless Services Commissioner Seth Diamond. “This is a tremendous learning experience for them, and a great showing of community support. Without volunteers this critical event would not be possible.”

Approximately 25 students, faculty and alumni from the Graduate School of Social Work canvassed in midtown Manhattan, where they walked along streets and through parks and other public spaces with survey questions to determine if people they encountered were experiencing homelessness.

Touro College’s Graduate School of Social Work’s Master of Social Work program trains clinical social work practitioners who awaken and enliven the innate ability of individuals, families, and communities to meet their own needs and sustain their equilibrium, thereby enhancing their well-being. The program meets all academic requirements for both social work licenses: LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) and LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker).