Goals/Core values

The goal of the Homelessness Network is to assist those who are absolutely homeless; for example, those living on the streets or in places not intended for human habitation, or staying in emergency shelters, to find and maintain housing through a case management program, specialized in assisting those in need by addressing barriers to achieving permanent housing.
The Network espouses the following Housing First core principles:
1. Immediate access to permanent housing with no housing readiness requirements
2. Consumer choice and self-determination
3. Recovery orientation to service
4. Individualized and client-driven supports
5. Social and community integration

Note: All persons to be supported by the Homelessness Network will have been registered through the city’s Coordinated Access System central By-Name List and referred to the Homelessness Network through the city’s prioritization process. Persons must be able to, and willing to, collaborate and participate in a program that consists of weekly home visits by a Housing Based Case Manager.

Referral process

Any individual or family can refer themselves or be referred by other services. Persons will be received by our Central Intake Worker (at John Howard Society), or our Community Outreach team, who will take their personal information, and then assess individuals or families utilizing the SPDAT. This tool (Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool) is used nationally to evaluate the acuity level at which persons are presenting. If a person consents to registering on the By-Name List, their application will be sent to the city’s central list and considered week to week through the city’s Coordinated Access System. The acuity level (needs and barriers), along with other factors, will determine the priority with which individuals or families will be offered services. The Homelessness Network does not hold a waiting list. All referrals to the Homelessness Network come through the city’s By Name List and Coordinated Access System.

Supports / Services

Once registered to the city’s Coordinated Access System and By Name List, persons who qualify and decide to participate in the program, are assigned one of seven (7) Network Housing Case Managers. Supports will include assisting individuals in resolving their homelessness by assisting them to find accommodation; offer weekly (or more) home visitations; referrals to specialized services where mental health, substance use, or other health issues affect housing retention and successful tenancies.
Case Managers are trained to assist individuals in achieving their housing and personal goals for social integration.