Pathways to Home

Those we serve are the focus of all we do. We will offer a broad range

of programming for maximum impact. In some cases, the DI will opt to maintain and improve services, and in other cases services may be integrated, intensified, diversified, or pursued through collaboration.

The work in this priority ensures that each person accessing DI services and facilities is best supported based on their unique circumstances.

By 2030, we will optimize the impact of programs, supports, and interactions.

To achieve this, we will:

• Better understand the diversity of people accessing services to influence quality and variety of services.
• Explore options to better address and enhance safety for individuals accessing services in a person-centred way.
• Design, evaluate, and implement a strategy to pursue specialized lower capacity and alternate housing-focused shelter options.
• Embed housing-focused best practice standards across the agency.

Progress Report:

• In year 1, we coordinated a frontline initiative, the Rapid Response Program, that connects with individuals in crisis before emergency services are needed. The program has reduced 911 calls by over 80%, leading to significant cost savings for the city’s emergency response system and is now being scaled in other jurisdictions.

We have a responsibility to ensure the organization is best poised for the future, which means that we test ideas, that we examine the possibility of streamlining offerings, and that we think strategically about the way we operate. Thoughtful investments to equip our organization will, in turn, maximize the outcomes for those we serve.

Over the next several years, we will increase the impact of our work by fortifying our capacity.

To achieve this, we will:

• Strengthen our financial position and resources through responsive financial management and assertive fund development.
• Establish succession plans for critical roles across the agency.
• Proactively use data in decision making, program development, and resource deployment.
• Enhance technology across the agency.
• Improve and maintain the improved condition of physical assets.
• Configure physical assets, including land and property, to best realize our mission.

Progress Report:

• In year 1, we launched a Capital Modernization Project and made upgrades and refurbishments to critical DI infrastructure, making our facilities safer and more comfortable.

When it comes to ending homelessness, there is much work to be done by us all and we must be proactive in generating mutual understanding across our local communities, as well as advocate for advancements to the standards of housing-focused services that will have an impact on policy and the ways in which we operate.

We will continuously lean into our respective strengths with key stakeholders including partners, governments, and donors. We will advocate, remove bottlenecks, and improve flow of service.

To achieve this, we will:

• Work with partners to integrate housing-focused services standards beyond the DI.
• Engage with and cultivate mutual understanding with neighbouring communities.
• Promote collaboration among sector organizations.
• Develop a public policy process and advance the DI’s policy advocacy.
• Generate and influence housing options for people exiting homelessness.
• Increase advocacy activities across the continuum of care.

Progress Report:

• In year 1, we continued to focus on Reconciliation and build relationships with Indigenous-led organizations and Nations to build seamless pathways and provide cultural supports.