Why should I used HMIS?
In order to be competitive for homeless funding administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), agencies that coordinate a Continuum of Care system must have HMIS implemented their continuum. If you receive HUD funding, you are required to use to use this system. However, to gain the fullest understanding of homelessness and the use of homeless services over time, we are seeking participation from all homeless service providers, regardless of whether they have or ever will receive government funding.

Will HMIS be good for us?
The primary purpose of an HMIS is to gather and aggregate data on homelessness to accurately describe the scope of the problem and the effectiveness of efforts to ameliorate it. Beyond data collection, LAHSA is in the unique position to utilize network technology to effect system-wide change that will make the CoC truly effective and help reduce homelessness. By tracking information related to all services utilized by homeless persons in such a diverse region, we will better understand services needed, and focus resources and effort towards our goal of ending homelessness. In addition, HMIS benefits:

• For the Client - Reduce the time clients must wait to receive services.


• For the Provider Who Participates - Provide time and cost savings to service providers in reporting, intake, assessment processes and service delivery.


• For the Continuum of Care - Shift from homeless service "Activity" to "Achievement".


• For HUD and Other Funders - Understand patterns of service and housing utilization.

How can I learn more about HMIS?
Contact the LACoC HMIS Team or go to HUD website at hmis.info.