Engaging service providers on implementing a Homelessness 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 is intended to provide information and guidance on the installation and configuration of the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS). It provides a description of the technical requirements, the overall HIFIS system architecture and the steps needed to installation HIFIS. It also explains the HIFIS configuration options in order for communities to align the system with their respective business model.

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.

HIFIS is a comprehensive data collection and case management system that supports the day-to-day operations of homelessness service providers, HIFIS supports Coordinated Access by allowing multiple service providers from the same community to access real-time homelessness data.

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 effort in preventing and reducing homelessness.