Using Data

Data can offer a sense of scale, help to demonstrate the impact of policy changes and aid the case for allocating resources. At the local level, shared data help cities understand real progress toward ending homelessness, see what is working and improve strategies or problem-solve together. 

Clear, shared goals should form the basis for local or national agencies to come to the same table to share information and coordinate efforts. These coordinated systems should use shared local and national data to problem-solve, assess progress, and make the case for resources and political support. Setting targets with deadlines and tracking progress can change a system that manages homelessness into a system that ends it.