A client expresses interest in emergency shelter and is experiencing unsheltered homelessness. May you conduct a Shelter Survey with them?

A client expresses interest in emergency shelter and is experiencing unsheltered homelessness. May you conduct a Shelter Survey with them?

• A. Yes.
• B. No.
• C. Only after approval.
• D. Only if there is a referral.

Answer: (A)

When someone who is unsheltered expresses interest in emergency shelter, you should proceed with the Shelter Survey as part of helping them access shelter. This survey is the step that gathers the necessary information to determine eligibility, match them with available beds, and document their interest and needs in the process of moving them into shelter. You don’t need to wait for an approval or a referral to start this process; if the client is ready to pursue shelter and consents to data collection, you can administer the Shelter Survey and begin coordinating shelter placement. Remember to obtain the client’s consent for HMIS data collection and sharing with Shelter providers as part of this process.

When someone who is unsheltered expresses interest in emergency shelter, you should proceed with the Shelter Survey as part of helping them access shelter. This survey is the step that gathers the necessary information to determine eligibility, match them with available beds, and document their interest and needs in the process of moving them into shelter. You don’t need to wait for an approval or a referral to start this process; if the client is ready to pursue shelter and consents to data collection, you can administer the Shelter Survey and begin coordinating shelter placement. Remember to obtain the client’s consent for HMIS data collection and sharing with Shelter providers as part of this process.