HMIS is a local information technology system used to collect client-level data and data on the provision of housing and services to individuals and families at risk of and experiencing homelessness. Each CoC is responsible for selecting an HMIS software solution that complies with HUD’s data collection, management, and reporting standards.

Every CoC-funded project is required to participate in HMIS, though other homelessness
projects may also have funders who also require this participation as well. Participation in
HMIS entails individual agencies entering and maintaining their client and project data in this
centralized system.

MERCY Communities serves as the HMIS Lead for the Heartland Continuum of Care.

Why is HMIS Data Important?
Because all Heartland Continuum of Care data is housed in HMIS, the database serves as the CoC’s primary source of information when making data-informed decisions in homelessness planning. HMIS is only as useful as the quality of the data being entered by users, which is part of why participation in HMIS is a vital piece of the homelessness system.

HCoC HMIS Policy (approved 10/22)
New User HMIS Form
New Project Form