Homeward Community Information System

The Homeward Community Information System (HCIS) is a HIPAA-compliant online database by social service providers to record information on client needs, characteristics, and services.

HCIS is a type of “HMIS” which is required to receive homeless assistance funding from: HUD (U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development), DHCD (Virginia Department Housing and Community Development), and the United Way of Greater Richmond/Petersburg.

Partner Agencies have access to a common set of tools, and agree to uphold standards of privacy and confidentiality as a condition of continued use. Homeward provides training and technical assistance to agencies and users participating in the system.

If you are interested in joining HCIS, start by reading the Implementation Timeline and agency Functions Description. Other important documents can be found here.

Guidance Docs

• Summary of HMIS Data Standards
• HMIS Data and Technical Standards (July 30, 2004)
• Clarification and Additional Guidance on Special Provisions for Domestic Violence Provider Shelters (October 15, 2004)

Research

• Linking Homeless and Mainstream Data Systems for Cost Avoidance Analysis - presentation made at the HUD Advanced Data Users Meeting in New Orleans - April 25, 2007