Engaging service providers on implementing a Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and supporting ongoing data management is a significant undertaking. Strategies and project planning are essentials aspects of any successful implementation. It also requires the collaboration of service providers, front line users, and clients to leverage multidisciplinary team and create change.

This collection of resources, which includes a mix of self-directed guides, toolkits and presentations, is intended to support those who will have to turn strategies and plans into actions regarding the implementation, deployment and maintenance of the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS).

It comprises several documents, including the HIFIS implementation guide which provide general information to get started on: 1) the governance structure and its considerations; 2) the implementation planning; 3) the deployment strategy; 4) the delivery of client support services; and 5) the approach regarding the maintenance of the system. The guide also includes templates to support some activities of the implementation.

HIFIS is a web-enabled HMIS that can provide communities with the information they need to further their efforts with addressing homelessness. It allows multiple service providers from the same geographic area to implement coordinated access using real-time information about people experiencing homelessness and the resources they need to find and keep a home.

By adopting HIFIS, communities acquire the capacity to collect homelessness sector information that can be used to monitor existing trends, support decision-making and contribute to advancing the understanding of homelessness in Canada.

HIFIS resources are available through a series of collection of resources, including:

– HIFIS News and General Information

– Get Started on HIFIS Implementation

– How to Install and Configure HIFIS

– How to Use HIFIS and its Functionalities

– HIFIS Regional Workshops Series 2019-2020

Designated Communities that receive Reaching Home funding though ESDC are required to have a coordinated access system in place by March 31, 2022. The Reaching Home – Coordinated Access resource provides guidance and detailed information on how to design, implement and operate Coordinated Access in communities across Canada. Resources on Coordinated Access such as the Reaching Home Coordinated Access Guide are available to support communities in their efforts in preventing and reducing homelessness.