The planning process must  include all aspects of a Continuum  outreach, shelter, support services, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, and permanent housing. 

There must also be an ongoing process of evaluation and assessment to determine the effectiveness of programs and services and to ensure that gaps in services are met or plans developed to meet the gaps.

Prior  to 1995, there were more than 30 associations, commissions, committees, and other groups meeting to discuss the issues related to homelessness.  The 1995 Continuum of Care called for the establishment of a Homeless Consortium to bring together the diverse groups into one planning body. 

The City of Dallas took responsibility to facilitate the ongoing activities of the Consortium through the provision of  a staff member as liaison and funding for mailings, consultants, and other administrative matters. 

External Partners: The Continuum of Care is a totally collaborative effort between the City and County, Human Services Commission, Chase Bank, Dallas Association of Services to the Homeless, African American Homeless Coalition, and other individuals and groups.   The Homeless Consortium welcomes anyone having an interest in issues relating to the homeless.

Measurable Results of the Continuum of Care 1996 - 1998

Development of a Dallas Homeless Consortium web site

Decrease in homeless persons living on the streets and in other public places

Implementation of a peer review system to evaluate public funded projects to ensure that services are appropriate and cost effective

Established dialogs with Dallas City Council members to promote development of housing for low low income families and individuals

Decrease in families using multiple shelters

Implemented use of a common referral instrument

Developed a homeless data base to track client progress and share information

RESULTS 1998 HUD APPLICATION

The 1998 Dallas application for HUD Supported Housing funds received $6.9 million to support  three renewal projects

The $6.9 million award is the largest amount of money ever awarded to Dallas since the inception of the Super NOFA funding in 1995

The Cities Shelter Plus Care Grant was renewed for an additional five years to provide rental payments for 102 homeless individuals and families

The Family Place received $2 million to continue providing transitional housing to 50 victims of domestic violence

LifeNet received $1 million to continue providing transitional housing to 100 homeless mentally ill individuals

The 1999 application is due June 2, 1999 and the planning process is currently underway.