The BoS CoC HMIS Comparable Database Certification Process
The BoS CoC is tasked with ensuring compliance with HMIS and HMIS Comparable Database requirements in our CoC. To do this, we have created a certification process for HMIS Comparable Databases. A document outlining our HMIS Comparable Database Certification Process is attached below, as is a presentation we gave about the topic in 2021.
For the current certification process of any HMIS Comparable Database product, please contact kelly.schlabach@mass.gov
HUD-provided HMIS Comparable Database Information and Resources
Victim Services Providers (VSP) that are recipients or sub-recipients under HUD’s Continuum of Care (CoC) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Programs are required to collect client-level data consistent with Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS) data collection requirements. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) contain strong, legally codified confidentiality provisions that limit Victim Service Providers from sharing, disclosing, or revealing victims’ personally-identifying information (PII), including entering information into shared databases like HMIS. To protect clients, VSPs must enter required client-level data into a comparable database that is comparable to and complies with all HMIS requirements.