ffy2015 vt bos coc consolidated application – submitted (1 of 2)

Before Starting the CoC Application

The CoC Consolidated Application is made up of two parts: the CoC Application and the CoCPriority Listing, with all of the CoC's project applications either approved and ranked, or rejected.The Collaborative Applicant is responsible for submitting both the CoC Application and the CoCPriority Listing in order for the CoC Consolidated Application to be considered complete.

The Collaborative Applicant is responsible for:

- Reviewing the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition NOFA in its entirety for specific applicationand program requirements.- Using the CoC Application Detailed Instructions for assistance with completing the applicationin e-snaps.- Answering all questions in the CoC Application. It is the responsibility of the CollaborativeApplicant to ensure that all imported and new responses in all parts of the application are fullyreviewed and completed. When doing so, please keep in mind that:

- This year, CoCs will see that a few responses have been imported from the FY 2013/FY 2014CoC Application. Due to significant changes to the CoC Application questions, most of theresponses from the FY 2013/FY 2014 CoC Application could not be imported. - For some questions, HUD has provided documents to assist Collaborative Applicants in fillingout responses. - For other questions, the Collaborative Applicant must be aware of responses provided byproject applicants in their Project Applications.- Some questions require that the Collaborative Applicant attach a document to receive credit.This will be identified in the question. - All questions marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory and must be completed in order tosubmit the CoC Application.

For Detailed Instructions click here.

Applicant: Vermont Balance of State CoC VT-500Project: VT-500 CoC Registration FY2015 COC_REG_2015_121585

FY2015 CoC Application 11/10/2015

1A. Continuum of Care (CoC) Identification

Instructions:For guidance on completing this form, please reference the FY 2015 CoC Application DetailedInstructions, the CoC Application Instructional Guides and the FY 2015 CoC Program NOFA.Please submit technical questions to the HUDExchange Ask A Question.

1A-1. CoC Name and Number: VT-500 - Vermont Balance of State CoC

1A-2. Collaborative Applicant Name: Vermont State Housing Authority

1A-3. CoC Designation: CA

1A-4. HMIS Lead: Institute for Community Alliances



1B. Continuum of Care (CoC) Engagement


1B-1. From the list below, select those organizations and persons thatparticipate in CoC meetings. Then select "Yes" or "No" to indicate if CoCmeeting participants are voting members or if they sit on the CoC Board.

Only select "Not Applicable" if the organization or person does not exist inthe CoC's geographic area.

Organization/Person Categories

Participates in CoC

Meetings

Votes,including electing

CoC Board

Sits onCoC Board

Local Government Staff/Officials Yes Yes Yes

CDBG/HOME/ESG Entitlement Jurisdiction Yes Yes Yes

Law Enforcement Yes No No

Local Jail(s) No No No

Hospital(s) Yes No No

EMT/Crisis Response Team(s) No No No

Mental Health Service Organizations Yes Yes Yes

Substance Abuse Service Organizations Yes Yes Yes

Affordable Housing Developer(s) Yes Yes Yes

Public Housing Authorities Yes Yes Yes

CoC Funded Youth Homeless Organizations Yes Yes Yes

Non-CoC Funded Youth Homeless Organizations Yes Yes Yes

School Administrators/Homeless Liaisons No No No

CoC Funded Victim Service Providers Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable

Non-CoC Funded Victim Service Providers Yes Yes Yes

Street Outreach Team(s) Yes Yes Yes

Youth advocates Yes Yes Yes

Agencies that serve survivors of human trafficking Yes Yes Yes

Other homeless subpopulation advocates Yes Yes Yes

Homeless or Formerly Homeless Persons Yes Yes Yes

Faith-Based Organizations Yes Yes No

Statewide 211 [United Way] Yes Yes Yes

Veteran Providers Yes Yes Yes



1B-1a. Describe in detail how the CoC solicits and considers the full rangeof opinions from individuals or organizations with knowledge ofhomelessness in the geographic area or an interest in preventing andending homelessness in the geographic area. Please provide twoexamples of organizations or individuals from the list in 1B-1 to answerthis question. (limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC conducts extensive outreach to specializedentities/subpopulations, expansive invitations/public meetings &website/postings/surveys to get a wide variety of perspectives: 1) 2 peoplerecruited to ensure inclusion of lived experiences with homelessness: bothelected to CoC Board for decision-making, lead Membership Committee(outreach/voting) & CoC educators of Olmstead Act/Housing 1st/Peer Support;2) local VA Medical Center recruited as Veteran rep, elected to CoC Board &enlisted to form Statewide Veterans Committee; 3) VT Coalition ofRunaway/Homeless Youth Programs recruited/elected to CoC Board, activewith VT HMIS Committee/annual PIT/LGBTQ issues; 4) 3 State employeeselected to CoC Board, lead CoC Coordinated Entry/ESG/PATH/Con Plan; 5) VTState Housing Authority elected to CoC Board, PHA lead on homelesspreferences & CoC-PSH/RRH, co-lead VASH/CoC-ESG coordination,Collaborative Applicant/lead NOFA committee, active committees-PIT/HMIS/Project Ranking/Executive.

1B-1b. List Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY)-funded and other youthhomeless assistance providers (CoC Program and non-CoC Program

funded) who operate within the CoC's geographic area. Then select "Yes"or "No" to indicate if each provider is a voting member or sits on the CoC

Board.

Youth Service Provider (up to 10)

RHYFunded?

Participated as a VotingMember

in at least two CoCMeetings

within the last 12 months (between October 1, 2014 and November 15, 2015).

Sat on the CoC Board asactive

member or official at anypoint

during the last 12 months (between October 1, 2014 and November 15, 2015).

VT Coalition of Runaway & Homeless Youth Programs Yes Yes Yes

NE Kingdom Community Action Yes Yes Yes

NW Counseling & Support Services Yes Yes Yes

Rutland Parent Child Center Yes Yes No

NE Kingdom Youth Services Yes Yes No

Addison County Parent/Child Center Yes Yes No

Lamoille Family Center Yes Yes No

Clara Martin Center Yes Yes No

Washington County Youth Service Bureau Yes Yes No

Counseling Service of Addison County Yes Yes No



1B-1c. List the victim service providers (CoC Program and non-CoCProgram funded) who operate within the CoC's geographic area. Then

select "Yes" or "No" to indicate if each provider is a voting member or sitson the CoC Board.

Victim Service Provider for Survivors of

Domestic Violence (up to 10)

Participated as a Voting Member in at least two CoC Meetings

within the last 12 months (between October 1, 2014 and November 15, 2015).

Sat on CoC Board as active member or

official at any point during the last 12 months

(between October 1, 2014 and November 15, 2015).

VT Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence Yes Yes

CVOEO-Voices Against Violence Yes No

Clarina Howard Nichols Center Yes No

UMBRELLA Yes No

CIRCLE Yes No

WomenSafe Yes No

PAVE Yes No

Rutland County Women's Network & Shelter Yes No

WISE Yes No

Women's Freedom Center Yes No

1B-2. Does the CoC intend to meet the timelines for ending homelessnessas defined in Opening Doors?

Opening Doors GoalCoC has

establishedtimeline?

End Veteran Homelessness by 2015 No

End Chronic Homelessness by 2017 Yes

End Family and Youth Homelessness by 2020 Yes

Set a Path to End All Homelessness by 2020 Yes

1B-3. How does the CoC identify and assign the individuals, committees,or organizations responsible for overseeing implementation of specificstrategies to prevent and end homelessness in order to meet the goals ofOpening Doors? (limit 1000 characters)



1) VA-WRJ Medical Center recruited & elected to CoC Board, enlisted to formStatewide Veterans Committee with CoC-requested HUD-TA/Vets@HomeInitiative; 2) Two PHAs (VT State & Brattleboro) designated to lead ChronicHomeless efforts: created CH priority policy, CoC voted to apply for 5 new CoC-PSH/CH projects (all awarded), Housing 1st practices, integrate CoC-PSH/Coordinated Entry/HMIS (VASH/HOPWA pending); 3) VCRHYP recruited& elected to CoC Board to lead Youth Homelessness goal/HMISintegration/Coordinated Entry; 4) VTNADSV recruited & elected to CoC Boardto lead efforts to end domestic/sexual violence homelessness & humantrafficking; 5) VT Agency of Human Services elected to CoC Board - lead effortsto end family & all types of homelessness: lead CoC CoordinatedEntry/Prevention (CSBG/ESG), state-funded RRH, AHS Policy to End FamilyHomelessness/Vermont Plan to End Homelessness (VT [Interagency]Councilon Homelessness) & ending mental health-related homelessness(PATH/SOAR).

1B-4. Explain how the CoC is open to proposals from entities that havenot previously received funds in prior CoC Program competitions, even ifthe CoC is not applying for any new projects in 2015.(limit 1000 characters)

On 9/28/15, VT BoS CoC posted on its website (www.helpingtohousevt.org) &sent via CoC list serve & by the Collaborative Applicant to all known eligibleentities in Vermont a specific notice that explained how the CoC is open toproposals from entities that have not previously received funds in prior CoCProgram competitions, even if the CoC is not applying for any new projects in2015. The CoC conducted a webinar (recorded) that was available to anyentities to find out about how to apply for the FFY15 HUD CoC fundingopportunity with written guidance and a funding chart of existing & potentialHUD CoC project options. Factors that VT BoS CoC used for including newprojects on project listing: Local CoC/Community Priorities, Project Type (higherneed for RRH/HMIS, less for PSH-CH/CES), CoC/Geographic/SubpopulationNeed (PIT), Compliance/Threshold (utilize HMIS-non DV & Coordinated Entry,eligible entity, accounting/capacity/good standing, cost effective, otherperformance).

1B-5. How often does the CoC invite newmembers

to join the CoC through a publicly availableinvitation?

Quarterly



1C. Continuum of Care (CoC) Coordination


1C-1. Does the CoC coordinate with other Federal, State, local, private andother entities serving homeless individuals and families and those at riskof homelessness in the planning, operation and funding of projects? Only

select "Not Applicable" if the funding source does not exist within theCoC's geographic area.

Funding or Program SourceCoordinates with

Planning, Operation and Funding of

Projects

Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Yes

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Yes

Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Yes

HeadStart Program Yes

Other housing and service programs funded through Federal, State and local government resources.

Yes

1C-2. The McKinney-Vento Act, as amended, requires CoCs to participatein the Consolidated Plan(s) (Con Plan(s)) for the geographic area servedby the CoC. The CoC Program interim rule at 24 CFR 578.7(c)(4) requiresthat the CoC provide information required to complete the Con Plan(s)

within the CoC’s geographic area, and 24 CFR 91.100(a)(2)(i) and 24 CFR91.110(b)(1) requires that the State and local Con Plan jurisdiction(s)

consult with the CoC. The following chart asks for information about CoCand Con Plan jurisdiction coordination, as well as CoC and ESG recipient

coordination.CoCs can use the CoCs and Consolidated Plan Jurisdiction Crosswalk to assist in answeringthis question.

Number

Percentage

Number of Con Plan jurisdictions with whom the CoC geography overlaps 1

How many Con Plan jurisdictions did the CoC participate with in their Con Plan development process? 1 100.00%

How many Con Plan jurisdictions did the CoC provide with Con Plan jurisdiction level PIT data? 1 100.00%

How many of the Con Plan jurisdictions are also ESG recipients? 1

How many ESG recipients did the CoC participate with to make ESG funding decisions? 1 100.00%



How many ESG recipients did the CoC consult with in the development of ESG performance standards and evaluation process for ESG funded activities?

1 100.00%

1C-2a. Based on the responses selected in 1C-2, describe in greater detailhow the CoC participates with the Consolidated Plan jurisdiction(s)located in the CoC's geographic area and include the frequency, extent,and type of interactions between the CoC and the Consolidated Planjurisdiction(s).(limit 1000 characters)

VT Dept. of Housing/Community Development (DHCD) prepares solejurisdiction Con Plan, is member of VT BoS CoC Board & Project RankingCommittee (S.Gilpin) & monthly CoC meeting updates. 2015 Con Plan Processincluded CoC Co-Chair (NE Kingdom Community Action-K.Metras),Collaborative Applicant (VT State Housing Authority-R.Williams) & CoC BoardMember/ESG recipient (VT Agency of Human Services-S.Phillips) who all sit onCitizen Advisory Board that guided process, witnessed public comment, review& feedback. Advisory Board took public comments via two 2-hour publichearings, online survey, & seven 2-hour community events coordinated withmunicipal officials throughout VT. VSHA & VT AHS/OEO help write homelesssections of Con Plan (PIT/HIC data, planning, etc.). VSHA (D.Blankenship) &DHCD (A.Hamlin) collaborate with Con Plan Consistency Certification as part ofannual CoC application. VSHA, VT AHS/OEO, and DHCD are all Boardmembers of the Vermont [Interagency] Council on Homelessness.

1C-2b. Based on the responses selected in 1C-2, describe how the CoC isworking with ESG recipients to determine local ESG funding decisionsand how the CoC assists in the development of performance standardsand evaluation of outcomes for ESG-funded activities.(limit 1000 characters)

A 20-member VT BoS CoC Board includes the VT Agency for HumanServices/Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO)-ESG recipient/administratorwho reviews PIT count/HMIS data, regularly presents ESG information at CoCgeneral membership meetings & facilitates the Coordinated Entry Workgroup.OEO solicits CoC & public input on ESG performance measures & fundingpriorities at public meetings and by conducting an annual survey to the VT BoSCoC (CoC Board, local CoC reps, and all members/stakeholders via the CoCemail list serve). Collaborative Applicant & primary CoC recipient (VT StateHousing Authority-D.Blankenship) meets regularly (more than biennially) withESG recipient (OEO-S.Phillips) to assess general ESG/CoC projectperformance and to systematically assess performance of all ESG/CoC projectsusing a score card developed by both agencies and approved by the CoC. AHSis also an active member of the CoC Project Ranking Committee & VT HMISAdvisory Board (CoC committee).



1C-3. Describe the how the CoC coordinates with victim service providersand non-victim service providers (CoC Program funded and non-CoCfunded) to ensure that survivors of domestic violence are providedhousing and services that provide and maintain safety and security.Responses must address how the service providers ensure and maintainthe safety and security of participants and how client choice is upheld.(limit 1000 characters)

VT Network Against Domestic/Sexual Violence (G.Merwanji) recruited/electedto CoC Board. VT Network & DV/SV Providers protect client confidentiality withclear policies & protocols to address document control, handling personallyidentifying information (PII), fulfilling report requirements, conflict of interest &effective assessment/intervention/referrals. Providers uphold client choice &support clients with empowerment, informed decisions, and safety planning.

People seek help thru a statewide DV hotline, 14 VT DV Providers and/or theCoC Coordinated Entry System & VT 211 to access mainstream emergencyhousing when DV shelter full or not chosen. Mainstream providers use 1-pageScreening Tool to assess needs/safety & seek permission to contact DV hotline.Individuals may decline DV assistance & continue to receive mainstreamassistance, but only non-identifying data is entered in HMIS. CoC approvedHMIS Policies & Procedures address data sharing, confidentiality & protectingPII.

1C-4. List each of the Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) within the CoC'sgeographic area. If there are more than 5 PHAs within the CoC’s

geographic area, list the 5 largest PHAs. For each PHA, provide thepercentage of new admissions that were homeless at the time of

admission between October 1, 2014 and March 31, 2015, and indicatewhether the PHA has a homeless admissions preference in its PublicHousing and/or Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. (Full creditconsideration may be given for the relevant excerpt from the PHA’s

administrative planning document(s) clearly showing the PHA's homelesspreference, e.g. Administration Plan, Admissions and Continued

Occupancy Policy (ACOP), Annual Plan, or 5-Year Plan, as appropriate).

Public Housing Agency Name

% New Admissions into PublicHousing and Housing Choice

Voucher Program from 10/1/14to 3/31/15 who werehomeless at entry

PHA has General or

LimitedHomelessPreference

Vermont State Housing Authority 15.58% Yes-HCV

Brattleboro Housing Authority 3.00% No

Rutland Housing Authority 0.00% No

Bennington Housing Authority 0.00% No

Barre Housing Authority 0.00% No

If you select "Yes--Public Housing," "Yes--HCV," or "Yes--Both" for "PHAhas general or limited homeless preference," you must attach

documentation of the preference from the PHA in order to receive credit.



1C-5. Other than CoC, ESG, Housing Choice Voucher Programs andPublic Housing, describe other subsidized or low-income housingopportunities that exist within the CoC that target persons experiencinghomelessness.(limit 1000 characters)

Summer 2015, the VT Governor signed an updated Qualified Allocation Plan(QAP) that directs VT LIHTC to elevate projects that pledge a 25%+ set-asideof units as PSH to serve homeless households. VT is one of only states thatdoes not “score” its Tax Credit applications, but instead requires that projectsmeet a certain # of “top” & “lower” tier criteria; including PSH units to a projectwas added as “top tier.” Also, in 2013, VT changed its QAP that allows projectsto earn extra funds by setting aside 10%+ of the units for PSH; results showthat most developers structure their projects to take advantage of this incentive.Additional programs: VT Dept. of Health/VT State Housing Authority (state-funded HOPWA/$200K); VT Rental Subsidy Program (state-funded RRH/299subsidies); VT Housing Opportunity Program (non-ESG, state-fundedRRH/$1.1m); VA-GPDs (4)/VASH (192 vouchers); HUD-HOPWA (30 vouchers)& VT Dept. of Mental Health-Subsidy & Care Program (100 PSH subsidies/at-risk of homeless).

1C-6. Select the specific strategies implemented by the CoC to ensure thathomelessness is not criminalized in the CoC's geographic area. Select allthat apply. For "Other," you must provide a description (2000 character

limit)Engaged/educated local policymakers:

X

Engaged/educated law enforcement:X

Implemented communitywide plans:

No strategies have been implemented:



1D. Continuum of Care (CoC) Discharge Planning


1D-1. Select the systems of care within the CoC's geographic area forwhich there is a discharge policy in place that is mandated by the State,the CoC, or another entity for the following institutions? Check all that

apply.Foster Care:

X

Health Care:X

Mental Health Care:X

Correctional FacilitiesX

None:

1D-2. Select the systems of care within the CoC's geographic area withwhich the CoC actively coordinates to ensure that institutionalized

persons that have resided in each system of care for longer than 90 daysare not discharged into homelessness. Check all that apply.

Foster Care:X

Health Care:X

Mental Health Care:X

Correctional Facilities:X

None:



1D-2a. If the applicant did not check all boxes in 1D-2, explain why there isno coordination with the institution(s) and explain how the CoC plans tocoordinate with the institution(s) to ensure persons discharged are notdischarged into homelessness.(limit 1000 characters)

Not applicable.



1E. Centralized or Coordinated Assessment(Coordinated Entry)


CoCs are required by the CoC Program interim rule to establish aCentralized or Coordinated Assessment system – also referred to asCoordinated Entry. Based on the recent Coordinated Entry Policy Brief,HUD’s primary goals for coordinated entry processes are that assistancebe allocated as effectively as possible and that it be easily accessibleregardless of where or how people present for assistance. Mostcommunities lack the resources needed to meet all of the needs of peopleexperiencing homelessness. This combined with the lack of a well-developed coordinated entry processes can result in severe hardships forpersons experiencing homelessness who often face long wait times toreceive assistance or are screened out of needed assistance. Coordinatedentry processes help communities prioritize assistance based onvulnerability and severity of service needs to ensure that people who needassistance the most can receive it in a timely manner. Coordinated entryprocesses also provide information about service needs and gaps to helpcommunities plan their assistance and identify needed resources.

1E-1. Explain how the CoC’s coordinated entry process is designed toidentify, engage, and assist homeless individuals and families that willensure those who request or need assistance are connected to properhousing and services.(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC Coordinated Entry System Committee, facilitated by the VT AHS-Office of Economic Opportunity (ESG recipient) implemented a partnershipmodel for all 11 local CoCs, two currently activated. Each local CoC designatesa Lead Agency, Referral Partners & Housing Assessment Partners. 1) ReferralPartners complete Housing Screens and refer people to the Lead Agency forassistance. Referral Partners include Vermont 211, health & mental healthcenters, DV providers, school homeless liaisons, and others; 2) The LeadAgency completes Housing Assessments and provides direct help or connectspeople to Assessment Partners for specialized services and housing; 3)Housing Assessment Partners receive Lead Agency referrals and conductHousing Assessments for people who approach the Partner directly and can beserved in-house. Lead Agency & Housing Assessment Partners meet regularlyfor case coordination and resource prioritization. The Lead Agency managescentralized CoC-PSH/RRH waitlists.



1E-2. CoC Program and ESG Program funded projects are required toparticipate in the coordinated entry process, but there are many other

organizations and individuals who may participate but are not required todo so. From the following list, for each type of organization or individual,

select all of the applicable checkboxes that indicate how that organizationor individual participates in the CoC's coordinated entry process. If the

organization or person does not exist in the CoC’s geographic area, select“Not Applicable.” If there are other organizations or persons that

participate not on this list, enter the information, click "Save" at thebottom of the screen, and then select the applicable checkboxes.

Organization/Person Categories

Participates inOngoingPlanning

and Evaluation

Makes Referralsto the

CoordinatedEntry

Process

ReceivesReferralsfrom the

CoordinatedEntry

Process

Operates AccessPoint for

CoordinatedEntry

Process

Participates inCase

ConferencingNot

Applicable

Local Government Staff/OfficialsX

CDBG/HOME/EntitlementJurisdiction X

Law EnforcementX X

Local Jail(s)X

Hospital(s)X X X X

EMT/Crisis Response Team(s)X

Mental Health ServiceOrganizations X X X X X

Substance Abuse ServiceOrganizations X X X X X

Affordable Housing Developer(s)X X X X X

Public Housing AuthoritiesX X X X X

Non-CoC Funded YouthHomeless Organizations X X X X X

SchoolAdministrators/HomelessLiaisons

X X X X

Non-CoC Funded Victim ServiceOrganizations X X X X X

Street Outreach Team(s)X X X X X

Homeless or Formerly HomelessPersons X



Vermont 211 [Statewide]-UnitedWays of VT X X

Community Action AgenciesX X X X X

State of Vermont Human ServiceDistrict Offices X X X X X



1F. Continuum of Care (CoC) Project Review,Ranking, and Selection

InstructionsFor guidance on completing this form, please reference the FY 2015 CoC Application DetailedInstructions, the CoC Application Instructional Guides and the FY 2015 CoC Program NOFA.Please submit technical questions to the HUDExchange Ask A Question.

1F-1. For all renewal project applications submitted in the FY 2015 CoCProgram Competition complete the chart below regarding the CoC’s

review of the Annual Performance Report(s).

How many renewal project applications were submitted in the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition? 11

How many of the renewal project applications are first time renewals for which the first operating year has not expired yet?

4

How many renewal project application APRs were reviewed by the CoC as part of the local CoC competition project review, ranking, and selection process for the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition?

7

Percentage of APRs submitted by renewing projects within the CoC that were reviewed by the CoCin the 2015 CoC Competition?

100.00%

1F-2. In the sections below, check the appropriate box(s) for each sectionto indicate how project applications were reviewed and ranked for the FY

2015 CoC Program Competition. (Written documentation of the CoC'spublicly announced Rating and Review procedure must be attached.)

Type of Project or Program(PH, TH, HMIS, SSO, RRH, etc.) X

Performance outcomes from APR reports/HMIS

Length of stayX

% permanent housing exit destinationsX

% increases in incomeX

% accessing non-cash benefitsX



Monitoring criteria

Participant EligibilityX

Utilization ratesX

Drawdown ratesX

Frequency or Amount of Funds Recaptured by HUDX

Unit Cost EffectivenessX

Need for specialized population services

YouthX

Victims of Domestic ViolenceX

Families with ChildrenX

Persons Experiencing Chronic HomelessnessX

VeteransX

CSA; Prior Entry (% streets/shelter)X

None

1F-2a. Describe how the CoC considered the severity of needs andvulnerabilities of participants that are, or will be, served by the projectapplications when determining project application priority. (limit 1000 characters)

For the FFY2015 HUD CoC NOFA, the VT BoS CoC full membership reviewed& approved a CoC Project Ranking Policy and Scoring Tool (see attachment),developed by the CoC NOFA committee, that considers whether a projectincludes serving current or future participants with the most severe needs andvulnerabilities. The measure for this criteria was determined by whether aproject prioritized serving persons that met the HUD definition of ChronicHomelessness, percentage of persons entering a project that came from thestreet or shelter [Literal Homelessness], and whether a project does/will activelyparticipate in the VT BoS CoC Coordinated Entry System that includes aprioritization of needs. The CoC Project Scoring Tool and ranking process alsoincluded an assessment of whether or not a project served vulnerable homelesspopulations, including: Youth, Persons Fleeing Domestic Violence, Familieswith Children, Chronic Substance Abuse, Veterans, and ChronicHomelessness.



1F-3. Describe how the CoC made the local competition review, ranking,and selection criteria publicly available, and identify the public medium(s)used and the date(s) of posting. In addition, describe how the CoC madethis information available to all stakeholders. (Evidence of the publicposting must be attached)(limit 750 characters)

VT BoS CoC implemented several measures to ensure public availability ofproject review/ranking/selection criteria processes with several public postings,with attachments of all funding options chart/policy/scoring tool/rankingcommittee, at www.helpingtohousevt.org & email list serve blasts (4/29, 5/17,6/15, 7/1, 7/20, 7/22, 8/17, 9/21, 9/28, 10/15) & Collaborative Applicant emailblasts to all local CoCs & known VT eligible entities (6/26-27, 6/29, 7/1, 7/14,9/28, 10/15, 10/20), two VT CoC live webinars-recorded (7/7 & 10), and verbalnotices/education during public meetings: VT BoS CoC (5/19, 6/16, 7/21, 8/18,10/20); local CoC counties (Franklin-7/7, Washington-7/15, Addison-7/16);NOFA committee (open conference call-10/13).

1F-4. On what date did the CoC andCollaborative Applicant publicly post all partsof the FY 2015 CoC Consolidated Application

that included the final project applicationranking? (Written documentation of the

public posting, with the date of the postingclearly visible, must be attached. In addition,evidence of communicating decisions to the

CoC's full membership must be attached.)

11/10/2015

1F-5. Did the CoC use the reallocationprocess in the FY 2015 CoC Program

Competition to reduce or reject projects forthe creation of new projects? (If the CoC

utilized the reallocation process, evidence ofthe public posting of the reallocation process

must be attached.)

Yes



1F-5a. If the CoC rejected projectapplication(s) on what date did the CoC andCollaborative Applicant notify those project

applicants their project application wasrejected in the local CoC competition

process? (If project applications wererejected, a copy of the written notification to

each project applicant must be attached.)

11/04/2015

1F-6. Is the Annual Renewal Demand (ARD) inthe CoC's FY 2015 CoC Priority Listing equal

to or less than the ARD on the final HUD-approved FY 2015 GIW?

Yes



1G. Continuum of Care (CoC) Addressing ProjectCapacity


1G-1. Describe how the CoC monitors the performance of CoC Programrecipients.(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC Collaborative Applicant (major CoC recipient) reviews APRs on bi-annual basis for ALL CoC projects; majority of CoC projects also reviewed onregular basis, dependent upon performance measure, for timely draws,participant eligibility/documentation, housing stability, bed utilization, homelessLOS, income/employment outcomes. Collaborative Applicant & ESG recipientconduct general & project-specific evaluations via in-person meetings, calls,and via email on a regular basis to assess performance, capacity and otherindicators. CoC Project Ranking Committee monitors & evaluates performanceof all CoC recipients and individuals projects on annual basis including bedutilization, % participants literally homeless prior to entry, housing stability,increases in participant income & access to mainstream benefits, recapturedfunds, findings, and regular draw down of funds. VT AHS (DMH & OEO) alsomonitor projects & assess capacity. New CoC Planning funds will enhancemonitoring.

1G-2. Did the Collaborative Applicant reviewand confirm that all project applicants

attached accurately completed and currentdated form HUD 50070 and

form HUD-2880 to the Project ApplicantProfile in e-snaps?

Yes

1G-3. Did the Collaborative Applicant includeaccurately completed and appropriately signed form HUD-2991(s) for all project

applications submitted on the CoC Priority Listing?

Yes



2A. Homeless Management Information System(HMIS) Implementation

Intructions:For guidance on completing this form, please reference the FY 2015 CoC Application DetailedInstructions, the CoC Application Instructional Guides and the FY 2015 CoC Program NOFA.Please submit technical questions to the HUDExchange Ask A Question.

2A-1. Does the CoC have a governancecharter that outlines the roles and

responsibilities of the CoC and the HMISLead, either within the charter itself or byreference to a separate document like anMOU? In all cases, the CoC’s governance

charter must be attached to receive credit. Inaddition, if applicable, any separate

document, like an MOU, must also beattached to receive credit.

Yes

2A-1a. Include the page number where theroles and responsibilities of the CoC andHMIS Lead can be found in the attached

document referenced in 2A-1. In addition, inthe textbox indicate if the page number

applies to the CoC's attached governancecharter or the attached MOU.

pages 4 through 7 of the Goverance Charter

2A-2. Does the CoC have a HMIS Policies andProcedures Manual? If yes, in order to receive

credit the HMIS Policies and ProceduresManual must be attached to the CoC

Application.

Yes

2A-3. Are there agreements in place thatoutline roles and responsibilities between the

HMIS Lead and the Contributing HMISOrganizations (CHOs)?

Yes



2A-4. What is the name of the HMIS softwareused by the CoC (e.g., ABC Software)?

Applicant will enter the HMIS software name(e.g., ABC Software).

ServicePoint

2A-5. What is the name of the HMIS softwarevendor (e.g., ABC Systems)?

Applicant will enter the name of the vendor(e.g., ABC Systems).

Bowman Systems



2B. Homeless Management Information System(HMIS) Funding Sources


2B-1. Select the HMIS implementationcoverage area:

Single CoC

* 2B-2. In the charts below, enter the amount of funding from each fundingsource that contributes to the total HMIS budget for the CoC.

2B-2.1 Funding Type: Federal - HUDFunding Source Funding

CoC $30,572

ESG $50,000

CDBG $0

HOME $0

HOPWA $0

Federal - HUD - Total Amount $80,572

2B-2.2 Funding Type: Other FederalFunding Source Funding

Department of Education $0

Department of Health and Human Services $3,000

Department of Labor $0

Department of Agriculture $0

Department of Veterans Affairs $16,000

Other Federal $0

Other Federal - Total Amount $19,000



2B-2.3 Funding Type: State and LocalFunding Source Funding

City $0

County $0

State $0

State and Local - Total Amount $0

2B-2.4 Funding Type: PrivateFunding Source Funding

Individual $0

Organization $42,000

Private - Total Amount $42,000

2B-2.5 Funding Type: OtherFunding Source Funding

Participation Fees $0

Other - Total Amount $0

2B-2.6 Total Budget for Operating Year $141,572



2C. Homeless Management Information System(HMIS) Bed Coverage


2C-1. Enter the date the CoC submitted the2015 HIC data in HDX, (mm/dd/yyyy):

04/28/2015

2C-2. Per the 2015 Housing Inventory Count (HIC) indicate the number ofbeds in the 2015 HIC and in HMIS for each project type within the CoC. If a

particular housing type does not exist in the CoC then enter "0" for allcells in that housing type.

Project TypeTotal Beds

in 2015 HICTotal Beds in HICDedicated for DV

Total Bedsin HMIS

HMIS BedCoverage Rate

Emergency Shelter beds 248 51 161 81.73%

Safe Haven (SH) beds 4 0 4 100.00%

Transitional Housing (TH)beds

226 15 79 37.44%

Rapid Re-Housing (RRH)beds

299 0 0 0.00%

Permanent SupportiveHousing (PSH) beds

389 0 243 62.47%

Other Permanent Housing(OPH) beds

0 0 0

2C-2a. If the bed coverage rate for any housing type is 85% or below,describe how the CoC plans to increase this percentage over the next 12months.(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC voted/selected a new HMIS Lead Agency & Administrator thatstarted on 6/15/15. Since that time, the CoC leadership and HMIS Lead havestarted working to increase the bed coverage across every category. The CoChas started with increasing shelters & transitional programs funded through theVT Agency of Human Services. On 6/6/15, VT BoS CoC convened a specialmeeting of Federal Homeless Programs to assess current HMIS bed coverageand planning steps to include additional programs including VT Coalition ofRunaway & Homeless Youth-FYSB/RHY programs; U.S. VA-VASH & GPDprograms; as well as discussions to add state-funded RRH and other programs.Since 6/1/15, the number of VT HMIS users has increased by 15%, with manynew ESG providers and more anticipated in the next 6 months, with a CoC goalof 86% bed coverage in all categories by 10/1/2016.



2C-3. HUD understands that certain projects are either not required to ordiscouraged from participating in HMIS, and CoCs cannot require this ifthey are not funded through the CoC or ESG programs. This does NOTinclude domestic violence providers that are prohibited from enteringclient data in HMIS. If any of the project types listed in question 2C-2

above has a coverage rate of 85% or below, and some or all of these ratescan be attributed to beds covered by one of the following programs types,

please indicate that here by selecting all that apply from the list below.(limit 1000 characters)

VA Domiciliary (VA DOM):

VA Grant per diem (VA GPD):X

Faith-Based projects/Rescue mission:X

Youth focused projects:X

HOPWA projects:X

Not Applicable:

2C-4. How often does the CoC review orassess its HMIS bed coverage?

Semi-Annually



2D. Homeless Management Information System(HMIS) Data Quality


2D-1. Indicate the percentage of unduplicated client records with null ormissing values and the percentage of "Client Doesn't Know" or "Client

Refused" during the time period of October 1, 2013 through September 30,2014.

UniversalData Element

PercentageNull orMissing

Percentage Client

Doesn'tKnow

or Refused

3.1 Name 0% 0%

3.2 Social Security Number 7% 5%

3.3 Date of birth 11% 0%

3.4 Race 12% 0%

3.5 Ethnicity 13% 0%

3.6 Gender 10% 0%

3.7 Veteran status 4% 0%

3.8 Disabling condition 3% 3%

3.9 Residence prior to project entry 3% 0%

3.10 Project Entry Date 0% 0%

3.11 Project Exit Date 0% 0%

3.12 Destination 35% 0%

3.15 Relationship to Head of Household 37% 0%

3.16 Client Location 7% 0%

3.17 Length of time on street, in an emergency shelter, or safe haven 22% 0%

2D-2. Identify which of the following reports your HMIS generates. Selectall that apply:

CoC Annual Performance Report (APR):X

ESG Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER):X

Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) table shells:X



SSVF Export, RHY Export, PATH APR and QPRX

None

2D-3. If you submitted the 2015 AHAR, howmany AHAR tables (i.e., ES-ind, ES-family,

etc) were accepted and used in the last AHAR?

4

2D-4. How frequently does the CoC reviewdata quality in the HMIS?

Quarterly

2D-5. Select from the dropdown to indicate ifstandardized HMIS data quality reports are

generated to review data quality at the CoClevel, project level, or both?

Both Project and CoC

2D-6. From the following list of federal partner programs, select the onesthat are currently using the CoC's HMIS.

VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF):X

VA Grant and Per Diem (GPD):X

Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY):

Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH):X

None:

2D-6a. If any of the federal partner programs listed in 2D-6 are notcurrently entering data in the CoC's HMIS and intend to begin enteringdata in the next 12 months, indicate the federal partner program and theanticipated start date.(limit 750 characters)



After recent guidance from both the U.S Dept. of Veteran Affairs and U.S. Dept.of Health & Human Services/Family & Youth Services Bureau, and theselection/start of a new HMIS Lead Agency, the VT BoS CoC is conductingextensive planning and technical assistance to support the remaining VA-GPDprograms (estimated date of 2/1/16 to start entering data into VT HMIS) and allHHS/FYSB-RHY youth providers (estimated date of 12/1/15 to start enteringdata into VT HMIS).



2E. Continuum of Care (CoC) Sheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count


The data collected during the PIT count is vital for both CoCs and HUD.Communities need accurate data to determine the size and scope ofhomelessness at the local level so they can best plan for services andprograms that will appropriately address local needs and measureprogress in addressing homelessness. HUD needs accurate data tounderstand the extent and nature of homelessness throughout thecountry, and to provide Congress and the Office of Management andBudget (OMB) with information regarding services provided, gaps inservice, and performance. This information helps inform Congress'funding decisions, and it is vital that the data reported is accurate and ofhigh quality.

2E-1. Did the CoC approve the final shelteredPIT count methodology for the 2015 sheltered

PIT count?

Yes

2E-2. Indicate the date of the most recentsheltered PIT count (mm/dd/yyyy):

01/28/2015

2E-2a. If the CoC conducted the sheltered PITcount outside of the last 10 days of January

2015, was an exception granted by HUD?

Not Applicable

2E-3. Enter the date the CoC submitted thesheltered PIT count data in HDX,

(mm/dd/yyyy):

04/28/2015



2F. Continuum of Care (CoC) Sheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count: Methods


2F-1. Indicate the method(s) used to count sheltered homeless personsduring the 2015 PIT count:

Complete Census Count:X

Random sample and extrapolation:

Non-random sample and extrapolation:

2F-2. Indicate the methods used to gather and calculate subpopulationdata for sheltered homeless persons:

HMIS:

HMIS plus extrapolation:

Interview of sheltered persons:X

Sample of PIT interviews plus extrapolation:

2F-3. Provide a brief description of your CoC's sheltered PIT countmethodology and describe why your CoC selected its sheltered PIT countmethodology.(limit 1000 characters)



VT BoS CoC chose virtually the same methodology for the 2015 shelteredcount to ensure uniformity & data accuracy. PIT committee reviewed/editedsurvey, CoC trainings/instructional guides to providers, providers (sometimeswith homeless households) completed one survey per household based uponin-person interviews and/or a review of pertinent agency database to assesspreviously provided data. Minor methodology changes: minimal survey formatedits, new question (Is this the first time you have been homeless?) & onlysurveys used to count all sheltered households-none derived from HMIS.Collaborative Applicant & PIT committee physically reviewed each completedsurvey to ensure data accuracy & conducted follow-up when needed to verifyany questionable data with surveyors, shelter providers, websites/internetsearch, VT 211 database & other sources. All survey data entered into HMIS forde-duplication/reports and reviewed by local CoCs/full CoC membership beforeHUD submission.

2F-4. Describe any change in methodology from your sheltered PIT countin 2014 to 2015, including any change in sampling or extrapolationmethod, if applicable. Do not include information on changes to theimplementation of your sheltered PIT count methodology (e.g., enhancedtraining and change in partners participating in the PIT count).(limit 1000 characters)

For the January 2015 count (both sheltered/unsheltered conducted during thesame timeframe), the VT BoS CoC made virtually little change to methodologyto ensure uniformity & data accuracy. Minor methodology changes included:minimal edits to survey format to contrast it from previous years; a new question(Is this the first time you have been homeless?) to better understand/compareseverity & lengths of homelessness; and only the use of physical surveys for thesheltered/unsheltered counts due to lack of accurate/consistent data whenpreviously derived from HMIS for the few participating sheltered programs.

2F-5. Did your CoC change its providercoverage in the 2015 sheltered count?

Yes

2F-5a. If "Yes" in 2F-5, then describe the change in provider coverage inthe 2015 sheltered count.(limit 750 characters)

During the January 2015 sheltered count, the VT BoS CoC changed providercoverage through an increased inclusion and clarification of several HHS-FYSBRunaway & Homeless Youth Programs: Counseling Service of Addison County(Basic Center Program & Transitional Living Program); Addison County ParentChild Center (Transitional Living Program); Northeast Kingdom Youth Services(Transitional Living Program); and Rutland County Parent Child Center(Transitional Living Program).



2G. Continuum of Care (CoC) Sheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count: Data Quality


2G-1. Indicate the methods used to ensure the quality of the data collectedduring the sheltered PIT count:

Training:X

Provider follow-up:X

HMIS:

Non-HMIS de-duplication techniques:X

2G-2. Describe any change to the way your CoC implemented its shelteredPIT count from 2014 to 2015 that would change data quality, includingchanges to training volunteers and inclusion of any partner agencies inthe sheltered PIT count planning and implementation, if applicable. Do notinclude information on changes to actual sheltered PIT countmethodology (e.g., change in sampling or extrapolation method).(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC made few changes to the already successful sheltered countprocess to ensure uniformity and high data quality. One noticeableenhancement included the PIT committee conducting a GoToMeeting webinar,with assistance from VT Agency of Human Services-OEO (ESG recipient),provided to all interested entities and recorded for use after the date of the live,virtual 2015 PIT training. Also, VT BoS CoC strengthened collaboration with theVT Coalition of Runaway & Homeless Youth Programs to clarify the inclusion ofHHS-FYSB Basic Center & Transitional Living Programs.



2H. Continuum of Care (CoC) Unsheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count


The unsheltered PIT count assists communities and HUD to understandthe characteristics and number of people with a primary nighttimeresidence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarilyused as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings, including acar, park, abandoned building, bus or train station, airport, or campingground. CoCs are required to conduct an unsheltered PIT count every 2years (biennially) during the last 10 days in January; however, CoCs arestrongly encouraged to conduct the unsheltered PIT count annually, at thesame time that it does the annual sheltered PIT count. The last official PITcount required by HUD was in January 2015.

2H-1. Did the CoC approve the finalunsheltered PIT count methodology for the

most recent unsheltered PIT count?

Yes

2H-2. Indicate the date of the most recentunsheltered PIT count (mm/dd/yyyy):

01/28/2015

2H-2a. If the CoC conducted the unshelteredPIT count outside of the last 10 days of

January 2015, was an exception granted byHUD?

Not Applicable

2H-3. Enter the date the CoC submitted theunsheltered PIT count data in HDX

(mm/dd/yyyy):

04/28/2015



2I. Continuum of Care (CoC) Unsheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count: Methods


2I-1. Indicate the methods used to count unsheltered homeless personsduring the 2015 PIT count:

Night of the count - complete census:

Night of the count - known locations:X

Night of the count - random sample:

Service-based count:X

HMIS:

2I-2. Provide a brief description of your CoC's unsheltered PIT countmethodology and describe why your CoC selected its unsheltered PITcount methodology.(limit 1000 characters)

For the January 2015 count (both sheltered/unsheltered conducted during thesame timeframe), the VT BoS CoC made virtually little change to methodologyto ensure uniformity & data accuracy. Minor methodology changes included:minimal edits to survey format to contrast it from previous years; adding a newsurvey question (“Is this the first time you have been homeless?”) to betterunderstand/compare severity & lengths of homelessness; and only usingphysical surveys for both the sheltered/unsheltered counts to reduce potentialdata inaccuracy as the result of HMIS capacity challenges at the time.



2I-3. Describe any change in methodology from your unsheltered PITcount in 2014 (or 2013 if an unsheltered count was not conducted in 2014)to 2015, including any change in sampling or extrapolation method, ifapplicable. Do not include information on changes to implementation ofyour sheltered PIT count methodology (e.g., enhanced training andchange in partners participating in the count).(limit 1000 characters)

For the January 2015 count (both sheltered/unsheltered conducted during thesame timeframe), the VT BoS CoC made virtually little change to methodologyto ensure uniformity & data accuracy. Minor methodology changes included:minimal edits to survey format to contrast it from previous years; a new question(Is this the first time you have been homeless?) to better understand/compareseverity & lengths of homelessness; and only the use of physical surveys forboth the sheltered/unsheltered counts to reduce potential data inaccuracy asthe result of challenges with HMIS capacity at the time.

2I-4. Does your CoC plan on conducting an unsheltered PIT count in 2016?

Yes

(If “Yes” is selected, HUD expects the CoC to conduct an unsheltered PIT count in 2016. Seethe FY 2015 CoC Program NOFA, Section VII.A.4.d. for full information.)



2J. Continuum of Care (CoC) Unsheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count: Data Quality


2J-1. Indicate the steps taken by the CoC to ensure the quality of the datacollected for the 2015 unsheltered population PIT count:

Training:X

"Blitz" count:

Unique identifier:X

Survey question:X

Enumerator observation:

None:

2J-2. Describe any change to the way the CoC implemented theunsheltered PIT count from 2014 (or 2013 if an unsheltered count was notconducted in 2014) to 2015 that would affect data quality. This includeschanges to training volunteers and inclusion of any partner agencies inthe unsheltered PIT count planning and implementation, if applicable. Donot include information on changes to actual methodology (e.g., changein sampling or extrapolation method). (limit 1000 characters)



VT BoS CoC made few changes to the already successful unsheltered countprocess to ensure uniformity and high data quality. One noticeableenhancement included the PIT committee conducting a GoToMeeting webinar,with assistance from VT Agency of Human Services-OEO (ESG recipient),provided to all interested entities and recorded for use after the date of the live,virtual 2015 PIT training. Same as the 2015 sheltered count, VT BoS CoC alsoused unique identifiers to reduce duplication with a new, added survey question(Is this the first time you have been homeless?) to better understand severityand lengths of homelessness.



3A. Continuum of Care (CoC) SystemPerformance


3A-1. Performance Measure: Number of Persons Homeless - Point-in-TimeCount.

* 3A-1a. Change in PIT Counts of Sheltered and Unsheltered HomelessPersons

Using the table below, indicate the number of persons who were homeless at a Point-in-Time(PIT) based on the 2014 and 2015 PIT counts as recorded in the Homelessness Data Exchange(HDX).

2014 PIT(for unsheltered count, most

recent year conducted)

2015 PIT Difference

Universe: Total PIT Count of sheltered andunsheltered persons

1,027 1,052 25

Emergency ShelterTotal

691 756 65

Safe Haven Total 6 4 -2

Transitional HousingTotal

257 224 -33

Total Sheltered Count 954 984 30

Total Unsheltered Count 73 68 -5

3A-1b. Number of Sheltered Persons Homeless - HMIS.Using HMIS data, CoCs must use the table below to indicate the number of homeless personswho were served in a sheltered environment between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014.

BetweenOctober 1, 2013

andSeptember 30, 2014

Universe: Unduplicated Total sheltered homeless persons

1,025

Emergency Shelter Total 820

Safe Haven Total 10

Transitional Housing Total 205



3A-2. Performance Measure: First Time Homeless.

Describe the CoC’s efforts to reduce the number of individuals andfamilies who become homeless for the first time. Specifically, describewhat the CoC is doing to identify risk factors for becoming homeless forthe first time.(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC identifies risk factors: CoC & State monthly review of HMIS data &emergency overflow shelter utilization reports; added 2015 PIT survey question(“First Time Homeless?”) to better understand # & type of impacted households;year-round provider conversations with households. Major factors: few livablewage jobs, domestic violence, high cost of living, unaffordable/unavailablehousing, chronic health issues, generational behaviors.

CoC works to reduce 1st time homeless factors with: current roll-out of CoCCoordinated Entry including a needs assessment screening tool & connectionsto VT 211, VT ESG/CSBG/Crisis Fuel, and VT Health Navigators to providecomprehensive information/referrals, benefits counseling, prevention services,access to short/medium RRH, employment training, housing search/casemanagement, landlord-tenant mediation, money management, financial assist(security deposits, utility payments/deposits, moving costs, rental arrearages) &follow-up services.

3A-3. Performance Measure: Length of Time Homeless.

Describe the CoC’s efforts to reduce the length of time individuals andfamilies remain homeless. Specifically, describe how your CoC hasreduced the average length of time homeless, including how the CoCidentifies and houses individuals and families with the longest lengths oftime homeless.(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC efforts & tools to track/record homeless length of stay (LOS): new2015 PIT survey question (Is this the first time you have been homeless?);monthly Housing Review Teams; CoC-PSH prioritization policy to serve firstserve those with highest needs & longest histories of homelessness. Needsassessment tool used by new CoC-RRH providers to first serve householdswith longest histories of homelessness & highest needs; and state-funded RRHwith points scale to determine vulnerability.

VT BoS CoC plans & strategies include: Coordinated Entry being rolled-out in11 local CoCs to streamline housing placement (LOS & priority-based waitlists);analyzing/recreating landlord outreach models; three local CoCs secured fundsfor landlord liaison & retention work; HMIS planning (new HMIS lead/increasedbudget/strong leadership/increased ESG utilization) & single/shared HMIS withboth VT CoCs to strengthen statewide data and improve evaluation of HMISdata to determine LOS statistics.



* 3A-4. Performance Measure: Successful Permanent Housing Placementor Retention.

In the next two questions, CoCs must indicate the success of its projectsin placing persons from its projects into permanent housing.

3A-4a. Exits to Permanent Housing Destinations:In the chart below, CoCs must indicate the number of persons in CoC funded supportiveservices only (SSO), transitional housing (TH), and rapid re-housing (RRH) project types whoexited into permanent housing destinations between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014.



Universe: Persons in SSO, TH and PH-RRH who exited

66

Of the persons in the Universeabove, how many of those exited to permanent destinations?

46

% Successful Exits 69.70%

3A-4b. Exit To or Retention Of Permanent Housing:In the chart below, CoCs must indicate the number of persons who exited from any CoC fundedpermanent housing project, except rapid re-housing projects, to permanent housing destinationsor retained their permanent housing between October 1, 2013 and September 31, 2014.



Universe: Persons in all PH projects except PH-RRH

272

Of the persons in the Universe above,indicate how many of those remained in applicable PH projects and how many of those exited to permanent destinations?

255

% Successful Retentions/Exits 93.75%

3A-5. Performance Measure: Returns to Homelessness:

Describe the CoC’s efforts to reduce the rate of individuals and familieswho return to homelessness. Specifically, describe at least threestrategies your CoC has implemented to identify and minimize returns tohomelessness, and demonstrate the use of HMIS or a comparabledatabase to monitor and record returns to homelessness.(limit 1000 characters)



All VT BoS CoC-funded programs implement Housing 1st practices focused onclient-driven/voluntary services to maintain housing (strengths-based need-barrier assessments/mutual rescission of lease/voluntary unit transfer); somepartners provide after-care/ongoing services. VSHA-PHA homeless preferencesprovide high need households with long-term rental assistance to strengthenhousing stability. VT SOAR implementation has allowed several providers theskills to increase participant incomes with successful SSDI/SSI applications.

After extensive strategic planning & HUD TA, VT BoS CoC selected a newHMIS Lead/Administrator on 6/1/15 with capacity & plans to allow all of Vermontthe ability to evaluate CoC-wide performance for returns to homelessness andother measures. Current efforts include creating an adequate HMIS budget(new CoC-HMIS application), increasing VT HMIS utilization of ESG/GPD/RHYand other providers; & incorporating HMIS into the VT BoS CoC CoordinatedEntry System.

3A-6. Performance Measure: Job and Income Growth.

Describe specific strategies implemented by CoC Program-fundedprojects to increase the rate by which homeless individuals and familiesincrease income from employment and non-employment sources (includeat least one specific strategy for employment income and one for non-employment related income, and name the organization responsible forcarrying out each strategy).(limit 1000 characters)

One VT BoS CoC strategy to help homeless households obtain employmentrelated income is led by VT AHS-DAIL (VocRehab VT-JOBS Program/Youth16-21; VR&E collaboration with VA for veterans; supported employmentservices through Designated Mental Health Agencies) which partners with astatewide private non-profit (VABIR), participates in CoC meetings & partnerswith many CoC-funded & other homeless providers to help homeless personswith disabilities attain jobs through vocational training, assistive technology &connecting people with employers.

Vermont was awarded SAMHSA SOAR TA to implement a statewide program(VT Dept. of Mental Health lead agency/CoC Board Member/VT PATH recipientagency) to support homeless individuals & families increase non-employmentincome. VT SOAR includes 7 local leads & 5 trainers from several homeless &psychiatric service provider organizations (3 CoC Board Members) which trainsother agencies and assists homeless households with SSDI/SSI applications.

3A-6a. Describe how the CoC is working with mainstream employmentorganizations to aid homeless individuals and families in increasing theirincome.(limit 1000 characters)



VT DAIL-Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is the state agency spearheadingthe Creative Workforce Solutions initiative for the VT Agency of HumanServices to recruit community businesses & collaborate with communityproviders (including CoC-funded projects) to participate in job training programsoffered, through a referral service from providers, to employers willing to hirehigher needs households (criminal background, recent institution discharges,disabilities, low skills) with on-the-job training.

VT BoS CoC-funded and other homeless projects also support homelesshouseholds to increase mainstream employment income with referral processesto VT Dept. of Labor-Career Resources Center for resume building, worksearch groups, computer access; as well as to TANF (VT Reach Up), SNAP &the Community College of Vermont to access ABE & GED classes, risk free trialjob placements, on the job training, job search & counseling assistance, lifeplanning & other job training programs.

3A-7. Performance Measure: Thoroughness of Outreach.

How does the CoC ensure that all people living unsheltered in the CoC'sgeographic area are known to and engaged by providers and outreachteams?(limit 1000 characters)

VT Coalition of Runaway/Homeless Youth teams, VA SSVF/GPD providers,and many other participating VT BoS CoC agencies conduct regular outreach:streets/woods, riverbanks/railroads, abandoned buildings/campgrounds & other;VA/WRJ Medical Center sponsored Veteran Stand Down events; CoC service-based contacts/service referrals (VT 211, homeless education liaisons,hospitals/emergency responders, annual PIT volunteers, soup kitchen/foodshelf visits & other CoC participating agencies).

VT AHS-DMH (PATH recipient) leads 4 outreach providers who visitencampments & known areas of living/congregation to engage individuals, buildtrust & encourage service access; DMH & PATH providers are all current/formerCoC Board members. 4 seasonal shelters plus day shelters providemeals/showers/laundry facilities with low-barrier entry points allowing CoC staffengagement with unsheltered persons. All participating CoC agencies involvedwith CoC Coordinated Entry: PSH/RRH referrals & other services.

3A-7a. Did the CoC exclude geographic areas from the 2015 unsheltered PIT count where

the CoC determined that there were nounsheltered homeless people, including

areas that are uninhabitable (e.g., deserts)?

Yes

3A-7b. What was the the criteria and decision-making process the CoCused to identify and exclude specific geographic areas from the CoC'sunsheltered PIT count?(limit 1000 characters)



During the 2015 unsheltered count, VT BoS CoC excluded areas that areconsidered uninhabitable, particularly the deep forest.



3B. Continuum of Care (CoC) Performance andStrategic Planning Objectives

Objective 1: Ending Chronic Homelessness


Opening Doors, Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness(as amended in 2015) establishes the national goal of ending chronichomelessness. Although the original goal was to end chronichomelessness by the end of 2015, that goal timeline has been extended to2017. HUD is hopeful that communities that are participating in the Zero:2016 technical assistance initiative will continue to be able to reach thegoal by the end of 2016. The questions in this section focus on thestrategies and resources available within a community to help meet thisgoal.

3B-1.1. Compare the total number of chronically homeless persons, whichincludes persons in families, in the CoC as reported by the CoC for the

2015 PIT count compared to 2014 (or 2013 if an unsheltered count was notconducted in 2014).

2014(for unsheltered count,

most recentyear conducted)

2015 Difference

Universe: Total PIT Count ofsheltered and unsheltered chronically homelesspersons

128 65 -63

Sheltered Count of chronicallyhomeless persons

110 53 -57

Unsheltered Count of chronicallyhomeless persons

18 12 -6

3B-1.1a. Using the "Differences" calculated in question 3B-1.1 above,explain the reason(s) for any increase, decrease, or no change in theoverall TOTAL number of chronically homeless persons in the CoC, aswell as the change in the unsheltered count, as reported in the PIT countin 2015 compared to 2014. To possibly receive full credit, both the overalltotal and unsheltered changes must be addressed.(limit 1000 characters)



The number of chronically homeless (CH) persons decreased from 2014 to2015 due to successful efforts of both CoC-PSH program administrators (VTState Housing Authority & Brattleboro Housing Authority) & HUD-VASHprogram for homeless veterans (VSHA/VASH statewide administrator inpartnership with VA/WRJ Medical Center) to prioritize all available CoC-PSHunits upon turnover to first serve CH, in addition to strong encouragement ofproviders to practice Housing 1st. A long-standing VSHA-Sect. 8 HCV/CoC-PSH preference allowed several new CH households to be served due tosuccessful attrition. VT BoS CoC & Collaborative Applicant regularly emphasizeimportance of first serving CH households, including thru increased coordinationwith CoC Coordinated Entry/HMIS, emergency shelter referrals, review of localCoC/PIT data for CH, and community CH identification. Monitoring ofappropriate provider services & APR performance (exits to PH/incomeincreases/access to mainstream resources).

3B-1.2. From the FY 2013/FY 2014 CoC Application: Describe the CoC'stwo year plan (2014-2015) to increase the number of permanent supportivehousing beds available for chronically homeless persons and to meet theproposed numeric goals as indicated in the table above. Response shouldaddress the specific strategies and actions the CoC will take to achievethe goal of ending chronic homelessness by the end of 2015.(read only)

VT BoS CoC will prioritize 100% of CoC-funded PSH beds, upon turnover, foruse by chronically homeless (CH) households. This will be achieved withcontinuation of two CH household prioritization policies: VT State HousingAuthority (VSHA) S+C effective August 2012 & Brattleboro Housing AuthorityS+C effective December 2013. Both policies will remain in effect until CH isended in VT. PSH programs will continue partnership with PATH providers, andother staff, to conduct extensive street & shelter outreach to locate CH personsand refer to available PSH units. VSHA S+C prioritizes subrecipients to utilize ahousing first model to quickly & successfully engage CH households into safe,stable housing with wrap around services and will partner with Pathways toHousing VT to provide at least one Housing First training to other serviceproviders. VT BoS CoC will continue to partnership with VA which prioritizesVASH vouchers to serve CH veterans.

3B-1.2a. Of the strategies listed in the FY 2013/FY 2014 CoC Applicationrepresented in 3B-1.2, which of these strategies and actions wereaccomplished?(limit 1000 characters)



All of the above strategies were accomplished including: Pathways Vermonttraining & technical assistance to Rutland County service providers of a newCoC-funded PSH-Chronic Homeless only (CH) project to ensure adherence toHousing First Model; both CoC-funded PSH administrators (VT State HA &Brattleboro HA) continue to successfully prioritize first serving CH householdsupon turnover of PSH subsidies; continued emphasis of outreach and servingCH first among local service providers (VT211, PATH providers, shelters, localCoCs, all CoC-funded PSH partner providers); PIT data reviewed to identifygeographic areas with highest # of CH; continued successful partnership withlocal VA-WRJ Medical Center & VT State Housing Authority to supportutilization of HUD-VASH vouchers; & extensive efforts to successfullyimplement the VT BoS CoC Coordinated Entry System, HMIS utilization, whichprioritizes first serving those with the most severity of needs & longest historiesof homelessness.

3B-1.3. Compare the total number of PSH beds (CoC Program and non-CoC Program funded) that were identified as dedicated for use by

chronically homeless persons on the 2015 Housing Inventory Count, ascompared to those identified on the 2014 Housing Inventory Count.

2014 2015 Difference

Number of CoC Program and non-CoC Program funded PSH beds dedicated for use by chronically homelessness persons identified on the HIC.

165 191 26

3B-1.3a. Explain the reason(s) for any increase, decrease or no change inthe total number of PSH beds (CoC Program and non CoC Programfunded) that were identified as dedicated for use by chronically homelesspersons on the 2015 Housing Inventory Count compared to thoseidentified on the 2014 Housing Inventory Count.(limit 1000 characters)

2014 HIC = 165; 2015 HIC = 191. The increase is due to a new reallocationproject dedicated to chronically homeless (CH) under-development at time of2015 HIC; an increase in VASH beds due to a new HUD award & higherutilization of existing funds; and the result of one CoC-PSH/CH project (VSHAS+C UVH) serving a larger household (with children).

100% of CoC-funded PSH are either dedicated or prioritized to first serving CH.VT BoS CoC & CoC-PSH programmatic policies predominantly supportprioritization, not dedication, in first serving CH as it offers more flexibility toaddress rural challenges, locate a sufficient number of eligible CH households,and ensure full utilization of beds/funds in a timely manner. A noticeablereduction of CH persons in the PIT from 2014 to 2015 is the result of CoC-PSHprioritization as well as to serve Persons Fleeing Domestic Violence, Veteransineligible for VA services, and especially households/persons with the longesthistories of homelessness.



3B-1.4. Did the CoC adopt the orders ofpriority in all CoC Program-funded PSH as

described in Notice CPD-14-012: PrioritizingPersons Experiencing Chronic Homelessness

in Permanent Supportive Housing andRecordkeeping Requirements for

Documenting Chronic Homeless Status ?

Yes

3B-1.4a. If “Yes”, attach the CoC’s writtenstandards that were updated to incorporate

the order of priority in Notice CPD-14-012 andindicate the page(s) that contain the CoC’s

update.

page 1

3B-1.5. CoC Program funded Permanent Supportive Housing Project Bedsprioritized for serving people experiencing chronic homelessness in

FY2015 operating year.Percentage of CoC Program funded PSH beds

prioritized for chronic homelessnessFY2015 Project

Application

Based on all of the renewal project applications for PSH, enter the estimated number of CoC-funded PSH beds in projects being renewed in the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition that are not designated as dedicated beds for persons experiencing chronichomelessness.

174

Based on all of the renewal project applications for PSH, enter the estimated number of CoC-funded PSH beds in projects beingrenewed in the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition that are not designated as dedicated beds for persons experiencing chronic homelessness that will be made available through turnover in the FY 2015 operating year.

16

Based on all of the renewal project applications for PSH, enter theestimated number of PSH beds made available through turnover that will be prioritized beds for persons experiencing chronic homelessness in the FY 2015 operating year.

16

This field estimates the percentage of turnover beds that will beprioritized beds for persons experiencing chronic homelessnessin the FY 2015 operating year.

100.00%

3B-1.6. Is the CoC on track to meet the goal of ending chronic homelessness by 2017?

Yes

This question will not be scored.



3B-1.6a. If “Yes,” what are the strategies implemented by the CoC tomaximize current resources to meet this goal? If “No,” what resources ortechnical assistance will be implemented by the CoC to reach the goal ofending chronically homeless by 2017?(limit 1000 characters)

VT BoS CoC strategies implemented to meet ending chronic homelessness(CH) goal: Pathways Vermont technical assistance to Rutland County providersof new CoC-funded PSH-CH project to ensure Housing 1st Model adherence;VT State HA & Brattleboro HA committed to dedication or prioritization of 100%of all CoC-PSH subsidies; continued emphasis on outreach & communityawareness to locate/serve CH persons; data review to identify number andhigh-need geographic areas of CH; ongoing partnership with local VA-WRJ tosupport 100% utilization of HUD-VASH vouchers with statewide administrator(VT State HA); increase HMIS utilization; strengthen VA/SSVF partnerships tomake referrals for VA non-eligible veterans to CoC-PSH; 2016 completeimplementation of VT BoS Coordinated Entry in all local CoC counties withCoC-PSH waitlists prioritized to first serve persons with highestvulnerability/longest histories of homelessness, including CH & Veteransineligible or not interested in VA services.



3B. Continuum of Care (CoC) Strategic PlanningObjectives

Objective 2: Ending Homelessness Among Households with Children andEnding Youth Homelessness


Opening Doors outlines the goal of ending family (Households withChildren) and youth homelessness by 2020. The following questions focuson the various strategies that will aid communities in meeting this goal.

3B-2.1. What factors will the CoC use to prioritize households withchildren during the FY2015 Operating year? (Check all that apply).

Vulnerability to victimization:X

Number of previous homeless episodes:X

Unsheltered homelessness:X

Criminal History:

Bad credit or rental history (including not having been a leaseholder): X

Head of household has mental/physical disabilities:X

Domestic violence victim unable to access DV shelterX

N/A:



3B-2.2. Describe the CoC's plan to rapidly rehouse every family thatbecomes homeless within 30 days of becoming homeless on the street orentering shelter.(limit 1000 characters)

VT Housing Opportunity Program ($4.7m mostly state funds, some federal)supports prevention/shelters/medium-term RRH with a 70% goal of permanenthousing placement within 28 days; similar goals for CoC-funded RRH projects($400K+) based upon individual household situations.

VT State Housing Authority offers several PHA homeless preferences to servefamilies: 100 homeless families per year; HH exiting CoC-funded RRH or state-funded RRH; HH exiting Domestic Violence TH; and HH exiting CoC-PSH (10%currently active families).

VT adopted (3/2015) a 5-Year Plan to End Family Homelessness withcommitments to significantly increase housing production (30% AMI families);create partnerships between property owners/service providers; encouragesubsidized housing homeless preferences; support Family ConnectionFramework-Coordinated Entry; and expand Interventions-prevention/RRH/increase PH access/PSH target to high needs families andLinkage to benefits/employment/services/education.

3B-2.3. Compare the number of RRH units available to serve families fromthe 2014 and 2015 HIC.


RRH units available to serve families in the HIC: 128 343 215

3B-2.4. How does the CoC ensure that emergency shelters, transitionalhousing, and permanent housing (PSH and RRH) providers within the CoC

do not deny admission to or separate any family members from othermembers of their family based on age, sex, or gender when entering

shelter or housing? (check all strategies that apply)CoC policies and procedures prohibit involuntary family separation:

X

There is a method for clients to alert CoC when involuntarily separated:

CoC holds trainings on preventing involuntary family separation, at least once a year:

None:



3B-2.5. Compare the total number of homeless households with children inthe CoC as reported by the CoC for the 2015 PIT count compared to 2014

(or 2013 if an unsheltered count was not conducted in 2014).

PIT Count of Homelessness Among Households With Children2014

(for unsheltered count,most recent year conducted)

2015 Difference

Universe:Total PIT Count of sheltered and unsheltered homelesshouseholds with children:

518 480 -38

Sheltered Count of homeless households with children:

508 480 -28

Unsheltered Count of homeless households with children:

10 0 -10

3B-2.5a. Explain the reason(s) for any increase, decrease or no change inthe total number of homeless households with children in the CoC asreported in the 2015 PIT count compared to the 2014 PIT count.(limit 1000 characters)

The Vermont BoS CoC PIT decrease among households with children from2014 to 2015 is primarily due to a robust state-funded (medium-term rentalassistance) Rapid Rehousing (VT Rental Subsidy Program) which alsoconnects to a Vermont State Housing Authority/Sect. 8 HCV homelesspreference. Additional state-funded initiatives have also contributed to areduction of homeless families: VT Family Supportive Housing Program & VTHousing Opportunity Program (prevention & Rapid Rehousing assistance) witha 70% targeted goal of permanent housing placement within 28 days. Duringthe same time period, several families were also served by expanded VermontSSVF (VT Veteran Services-Pathways VT/Veterans Inc.), additional awards ofHUD-VASH (VA-WRJ/VT State Housing Authority) and increased awareness ofCoC-PSH capacity/eligibility (VT State Housing Authority/Brattleboro HousingAuthority) to serve families.

3B-2.6. Does the CoC have strategies to address the unique needs ofunaccompanied homeless youth (under age 18, and ages 18-24), including

the following:Human trafficking and other forms of exploitation? Yes

LGBTQ youth homelessness? Yes

Exits from foster care into homelessness? Yes

Family reunification and community engagement? Yes

Positive Youth Development, Trauma Informed Care, and the use of Risk and Protective Factors in assessing youth housing and service needs?

Yes



Unaccompanied minors/youth below the age of 18? Yes

3B-2.6a. Select all strategies that the CoC uses to address homeless youthtrafficking and other forms of exploitation.

Diversion from institutions and decriminalization of youth actions that stem from being trafficked:

Increase housing and service options for youth fleeing or attempting to flee trafficking:X

Specific sampling methodology for enumerating and characterizing local youth trafficking:

Cross systems strategies to quickly identify and prevent occurrences of youth trafficking:X

Community awareness training concerning youth trafficking:

N/A:

3B-2.7. What factors will the CoC use to prioritize unaccompanied youth(under age 18, and ages 18-24) for housing and services during the FY2015

operating year? (Check all that apply)Vulnerability to victimization:

X

Length of time homeless:X

Unsheltered homelessness:X

Lack of access to family and community support networks:X

N/A:

3B-2.8. Using HMIS, compare all unaccompanied youth (under age 18, andages 18-24) served in any HMIS contributing program who were in an

unsheltered situation prior to entry in FY 2013 (October 1, 2012 -September 30, 2013) and FY 2014 (October 1, 2013 - September 30, 2014).



FY 2013(October 1, 2012 -

September 30, 2013)

FY 2014 (October 1, 2013 -

September 30, 2104)Difference

Total number of unaccompanied youth served in HMIS contributing programs who were in an unsheltered situation prior to entry:

43 52 9

3B-2.8a. If the number of unaccompanied youth and children, and youth-headed households with children served in any HMIS contributingprogram who were in an unsheltered situation prior to entry in FY 2014 islower than FY 2013, explain why.(limit 1000 characters)

Not applicable.

3B-2.9. Compare funding for youth homelessness in the CoC's geographicarea in CY 2015 to projected funding for CY 2016.

Calendar Year 2015 Calendar Year 2016 Difference

Overall funding for youthhomelessness dedicated projects (CoC Program and non-CoC Program funded):

$3,255,956.00 $3,704,937.00 $448,981.00

CoC Program funding for youthhomelessness dedicated projects:

$57,005.00 $57,005.00 $0.00

Non-CoC funding for youthhomelessness dedicated projects (e.g. RHY or other Federal, Stateand Local funding):

$3,198,951.00 $3,647,932.00 $448,981.00

3B-2.10. To what extent have youth housing and service providers and/orState or Local educational representatives, and CoC representatives

participated in each other's meetings over the past 12 months?Cross-Participation in Meetings # Times

CoC meetings or planning events attended by LEA or SEA representatives: 8

LEA or SEA meetings or planning events (e.g. those about child welfare,juvenille justice or out of school time) attended by CoC representatives:

0

CoC meetings or planning events attended by youth housing and service providers (e.g. RHY providers):

12

3B-2.10a. Given the responses in 3B-2.10, describe in detail how the CoCcollaborates with the McKinney-Vento local eduction liaisons and Stateeducational coordinators.(limit 1000 characters)



Vermont Dept. of Education-State Homelessness Coordinator & DeputyCommissioner for Child Development Division are members of Governor’s 22-member Interagency Council on Homelessness, along with VSHA (VT BoS CoCCollaborative Applicant) and OEO (ESG Administrator & BoS CoC BoardMember). All 3 agencies attend bimonthly meetings, at which VT Stateagencies coordinate to implement 2012 VT Plan to End Homelessness, issuedDecember 2012, and the March 2015 VT 5-Year Plan to End FamilyHomelessness. Both Plans align with Opening Doors goals, strategies, andtimelines. OEO & State Homeless Coordinator frequentlycommunicate/coordinated funding streams and strengthen ties betweenhomeless liaisons & CoC/ESG providers. 2016 planned events: regionalmeetings & statewide AHS webinar with homeless school liaison panel todescribe best practices and highlight current school liaison& CoC-ESG providerpartnerships in Vermont; increase collaboration (non CoC-funded DVshelters/school liaisons).

3B-2.11. How does the CoC make sure that homeless participants areinformed of their eligibility for and receive access to educationalservices? Include the policies and procedures that homeless serviceproviders (CoC and ESG Programs) are required to follow. In addition,include how the CoC, together with its youth and educational partners(e.g. RHY, schools, juvenilee justice and children welfare agencies),identifies participants who are eligible for CoC or ESG programs.(limit 2000 characters)

Federal law and VT BoS CoC policy requires every CoC & ESG-funded agencyserving homeless families to explain McKinney-Vento educational rights tofamilies at intake. Homeless Provider/case managers are responsible forcontacting homeless liaisons & arranging transportation to town of origin ortransfer to new school. Case managers work with liaisons to ensure parents areable to communicate with teachers, social worker, and principal, as needed,and that children receive needed supports to fully participate in school.Homeless liaisons in each 11 local CoC are Referral Partners to identify ahomeless or at-risk youth/family, complete Coordinated Entry screen, sendscreen to Lead Agency, Lead Agency connects with the family/youth (in personor on the phone) & links to prevention/shelter/RRH depending on need. Caseconferencing between service agencies & Referral Partners occurs asdetermined by the household to prioritize high need households & facilitateappropriate placement.



3B. Continuum of Care (CoC) Performance andStrategic Planning Objectives

Objective 3: Ending Veterans Homelessness


Opening Doors outlines the goal of ending Veteran homelessness by theend of 2015. The following questions focus on the various strategies thatwill aid communities in meeting this goal.

3B-3.1. Compare the total number of homeless Veterans in the CoC asreported by the CoC for the 2015 PIT count compared to 2014 (or 2013 if an

unsheltered count was not conducted in 2014).2014 (for unsheltered count, most recent

year conducted)2015 Difference

Universe: Total PIT count of sheltered and unsheltered homeless veterans:

89 94 5

Sheltered count of homeless veterans: 84 89 5

Unsheltered count of homelessveterans:

5 5 0

3B-3.1a. Explain the reason(s) for any increase, decrease or no change inthe total number of homeless veterans in the CoC as reported in the 2015PIT count compared to the 2014 PIT count.(limit 1000 characters)



VT BoS CoC & Veteran Affairs/WRJ Medical Center have been working toreduce statewide # of homeless veterans to functional zero. From 2014 to 2015,# of homeless veterans remained virtually the same (increase of 5 shelteredpersons) as a result of expanded outreach with VT SSVF & other providers. Asof 11/1/15, VT BoS CoC estimates having 6 unsheltered veterans, 113sheltered homeless veterans (72 in Emergency Shelter & 41 in Grant Per Diem& other TH programs). An additional 153 veterans were housed with HUD-VASH vouchers and additional veterans served with VT SSVF services & RRH.In Fall 2015, VT BoS CoC requested/received HUD TA (Vets@Home Initiative);recruited/elected a Veterans representative to the CoC Board; and created anew Veterans Committee (led by VA/WRJ J.Bastien), to strengthen CoCplanning to end Veteran homelessness (functional zero, assess Veteranhomelessness data, review VA programs, HMIS integration & coordination withCoC Coordinated Entry System.

3B-3.2. How is the CoC ensuring that Veterans that are eligible for VAservices are identified, assessed and referred to appropriate resources,i.e. HUD-VASH and SSVF?(limit 1000 characters)

Veterans Service officers/SSVF staff, PATH outreach staff & CoC providersconduct outreach & referrals to local VA social workers. VA-White RiverJunction Medical Center works with both VT CoCs on placement of clinicalsocial workers in 7 outpatient health centers. VA cross-trains clinical socialworkers to work with unsheltered/sheltered veterans & provide casemanagement in SSVF/GPD/VASH programs. Social workers conduct eligibilityassessments & locate lost records or unrecorded missions. Two VA homelessliaisons (one GPD expert/one VASH expert) support local VA homeless teamsand non-VA funded partner agencies within the VT CoCs (VT 211, VT AHSstate-funded programs, VT State Housing Authority-VASH/HCV, shelters andother service/housing agencies). VA social workers attend monthly 11 localCoC meetings and other planning events & participate in CoC CoordinatedEntry Systems. A Veterans rep was recruited/elected to CoC Board; statewideSSVF recipient (Pathways VT) also on CoC Board.

3B-3.3. For Veterans who are not eligible for homeless assistance throughthe U.S Department of Veterans Affairs Programs, how is the CoCprioritizing CoC Program-funded resources to serve this population?(limit 1000 characters)



VA social workers assist homeless veterans to assess eligibility of all VAresources. However, if any Veteran is determined to be non-eligible or averse toreceiving VA services, he/she is immediately referred to VT BoS CoCCoordinated Entry with an assessment screen that includes veteran status.Lead CoC Coordinated Entry providers conduct assessment of all availableservices with appropriate referrals & placements on waitlists for CoC-PSH,CoC-RRH, and other housing services. All CoC-PSH projects are stronglyencouraged to outreach/serve veterans who are not eligible for VA services aspart of subsidy prioritization. All new CoC-RRH projects include a targetedpopulation of serving Veterans not eligible for VA services. At least one CoC-PSH project (Rutland #2) dedicates at least 50% of subsidies to serve Veterans,especially those otherwise not eligible or averse to receiving VASH/SSVF orother VA resources, through a partnership with local VA office and the SSVFprovider.

3B-3.4. Compare the total number of homeless Veterans in the CoC ANDthe total number of unsheltered homeless Veterans in the CoC, as

reported by the CoC for the 2015 PIT Count compared to the 2010 PITCount (or 2009 if an unsheltered count was not conducted in 2010).

2010 (or 2009 if anunsheltered count wasnot conducted in 2010)

2015 % Difference

Total PIT count of sheltered andunshelteredhomeless veterans:

78 94 20.51%

Unsheltered count of homelessveterans:

9 5 -44.44%

3B-3.5. Indicate from the dropdown whether you are on target to end Veteran

homelessness by the end of 2015.

No

This question will not be scored.

3B-3.5a. If “Yes,” what are the strategies being used to maximize yourcurrent resources to meet this goal? If “No,” what resources or technicalassistance would help you reach the goal of ending Veteranhomelessness by the end of 2015?(limit 1000 characters)



Although unlikely to end veteran LITERAL homelessness in 1.5 months,Vermont is committed to achieving functional zero in the near future withcompletion of a By Name List of all homeless veterans (2015 PIT = 6unsheltered) & connecting them with services & priority waitlist placements. VTVeterans Committee, under the auspices of VT Coalition to End Homelessness& VT Interagency Council on Homelessness, oversees: current HUD TA(Vets@Home Initiative); VA-WRJ Medical Center & VT State Housing Authorityadministration of VASH (192 vouchers); VT SSVF coordination with all localCoCs to provide prevention/RRH assistance & make referrals to CoC-PSH/RRHprojects for Veterans ineligible or uninterested in VA services; VT Con PlanAdvisory Group & Lead (DHCD) set 5-year targets for construction of housingfor homeless households in 2016-2020 Plan; Joint Committee on Tax Creditsupdated VT QAP (August 2015), creating new incentive for developers whocreate PSH units for homeless households.



4A. Accessing Mainstream Benefits


4A-1. Does the CoC systematically provideinformation

to provider staff about mainstream benefits,including

up-to-date resources on eligibility andmainstream

program changes that can affect homelessclients?

Yes

4A-2. Based on the CoC's FY 2015 new and renewal project applications,what percentage of projects have demonstrated that the project isassisting project participants to obtain mainstream benefits, which

includes all of the following within each project: transportation assistance,use of a single application, annual follow-ups with participants, and SOAR-

trained staff technical assistance to obtain SSI/SSDI?

FY 2015 Assistance with Mainstream BenefitsTotal number of project applications in the FY 2015 competition (new and renewal):

13

Total number of renewal and new project applications that demonstrate assistance to project participants to obtain mainstream benefits (i.e. In a Renewal Project Application, “Yes” is selected for Questions 3a, 3b, 3c, 4, and 4a on Screen 4A. In a New Project Application, "Yes" is selected for Questions 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, and 6a on Screen 4A).

13

Percentage of renewal and new project applications in the FY 2015 competition that have demonstrated assistance to project participants to obtain mainstream benefits:

100%

4A-3. List the healthcare organizations you are collaborating with tofacilitate health insurance enrollment (e.g. Medicaid, Affordable Care Actoptions) for program participants. For each healthcare partner, detail thespecific outcomes resulting from the partnership in the establishment ofbenefits for program participants.(limit 1000 characters)



Vermont is a Medicaid expansion State with one of the highest U.S. healthinsurance rates. VT Health Connect (state health insurance marketplace) trainsNavigators placed at community sites including health clinics, state offices, andat all five VT Community Action Agencies (CAA). Placement of Navigators atCAAs ensures health insurance integration with the prevention & homelessservice system. Each CAA is an active member of the local CoC and a providerof homelessness prevention & homeless services. VT BoS CoC works with 8federally qualified health centers/12 rural clinics/12 free care clinics to secureinsurance & care. Along with hospitals, these health care organizations act asReferral Partners within each local Coordinated Entry System & receivereferrals from Lead Agencies/Housing Assessment Partners. Best practiceexample: collaboration (MOU) between a CoC-PSH Chronic Homeless Onlyproject/VT SOAR trainer & Rutland Regional Medical Center with a Housing 1stimplementation.

4A-4. What are the primary ways that the CoC ensures that programparticipants with health insurance are able to effectively utilize the

healthcare benefits available?Educational materials:

X

In-Person Trainings:

Transportation to medical appointments:X

Not Applicable or None:



4B. Additional Policies


4B-1. Based on the CoC's FY 2015 new and renewal project applications,what percentage of Permanent Housing (PSH and RRH), Transitional

Housing (TH) and SSO (non-Coordinated Entry) projects in the CoC arelow barrier? Meaning that they do not screen out potential participants

based on those clients possessing a) too little or little income, b) active orhistory of substance use, c) criminal record, with exceptions for state-

mandated restrictions, and d) history of domestic violence.

FY 2015 Low Barrier DesignationTotal number of PH (PSH and RRH), TH and non-Coordinated Entry SSO project applications inthe FY 2015 competition (new and renewal):

12

Total number of PH (PSH and RRH), TH andnon-Coordinated Entry SSO renewal and new project applicationsthat selected “low barrier” in the FY 2015 competition:

12

Percentage of PH (PSH and RRH), TH andnon-Coordinated Entry SSO renewal and new project applications in the FY 2015 competition that will bedesignated as “low barrier”:

100%

4B-2. What percentage of CoC Program-funded Permanent SupportiveHousing (PSH), RRH, SSO (non-Coordinated Entry) and Transitional

Housing (TH) FY 2015 Projects have adopted a Housing First approach,meaning that the project quickly houses clients without preconditions or

service participation requirements?

FY 2015 Projects Housing First DesignationTotal number of PSH, RRH, non-Coordinated Entry SSO, and TH project applications in the FY 2015 competition (new and renewal):

12

Total number of PSH, RRH, non-Coordinated Entry SSO, and TH renewal and new project applications thatselected Housing First in the FY 2015 competition:

12

Percentage of PSH, RRH, non-Coordinated Entry SSO, and TH renewal and new project applications inthe FY 2015 competition that will be designated asHousing First:

100%



4B-3. What has the CoC done to ensure awareness of and access tohousing and supportive services within the CoC’s geographic area to

persons that could benefit from CoC-funded programs but are notcurrently participating in a CoC funded program? In particular, how does

the CoC reach out to for persons that are least likely to request housing orservices in the absence of special outreach?

Direct outreach and marketing:

Use of phone or internet-based services like 211:X

Marketing in languages commonly spoken in the community:X

Making physical and virtual locations accessible to those with disabilities:X

Not applicable:

4B-4. Compare the number of RRH units available to serve any populationfrom the 2014 and 2015 HIC.


RRH units available to serve any population in theHIC:

128 343 215

4B-5. Are any new proposed projectapplications requesting $200,000 or more in

funding for housing rehabilitation or newconstruction?

No

4B-6. If "Yes" in Questions 4B-5, then describe the activities that theproject(s) will undertake to ensure that employment, training and othereconomic opportunities are directed to low or very low income persons tocomply with section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968(12 U.S.C. 1701u) (Section 3) and HUD’s implementing rules at 24 CFR part135? (limit 1000 characters)



Not applicable.

4B-7. Is the CoC requesting to designate oneor more

of its SSO or TH projects to serve familieswith children

and youth defined as homeless under otherFederal statutes?

No

4B-7a. If "Yes" in Question 4B-7, describe how the use of grant funds toserve such persons is of equal or greater priority than serving personsdefined as homeless in accordance with 24 CFR 578.89. Description mustinclude whether or not this is listed as a priority in the ConsolidatedPlan(s) and its CoC strategic plan goals. CoCs must attach the list ofprojects that would be serving this population (up to 10 percent of CoCtotal award) and the applicable portions of the Consolidated Plan.(limit 2500 characters)

Not applicable.

4B-8. Has the project been affected by amajor disaster, as declared by President

Obama under Title IV of the Robert T. StaffordAct in the 12 months prior to the opening of

the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition?

No

4B-8a. If "Yes" in Question 4B-8, describe the impact of the naturaldisaster on specific projects in the CoC and how this affected the CoC'sability to address homelessness and provide the necessary reporting toHUD.(limit 1500 characters)

Not applicable.

4B-9. Did the CoC or any of its CoC programrecipients/subrecipients request technicalassistance from HUD in the past two years

(since the submission of the FY 2012application)? This response does not affect

the scoring of this application.

Yes



4B-9a. If "Yes" to Question 4B-9, check the box(es) for which technicalassistance was requested.

This response does not affect the scoring of this application.

CoC Governance:

CoC Systems Performance Measurement:

Coordinated Entry:

Data reporting and data analysis:

HMIS:X

Homeless subpopulations targeted byOpening Doors: veterans, chronic,

children and families, and unaccompanied youth:

X

Maximizing the use of mainstream resources:

Retooling transitional housing:

Rapid re-housing:

Under-performing program recipient, subrecipient or project:

Not applicable:

4B-9b. If TA was received, indicate the type(s) of TA received, using thecategories listed in 4B-9a, the month and year it was received and thenindicate the value of the TA to the CoC/recipient/subrecipient involved

given the local conditions at the time, with 5 being the highest value and a1 indicating no value.

This response does not affect the scoring of this application.

Type of TechnicalAssistance Received

DateReceived

Rate the Value of the Technical Assistance

VT BoS CoC HMIS evaluation, committee coordination to develop RFPprocess/tools, cross-partnership with other VT CoC, selection of new HMISLead/Administrator & CoC-HMIS MOU and other governance.

04/01/2015 5

Vets@Home Initiative to formally incorporate Veteran providers withrecruitment/election to VT BoS CoC Board and VA-White River JunctionMedical Center enlisted to form a Statewide Veterans Committee toaddress ending veteran homelessness (Functional Zero, needsassessment, HMIS integration, etc.).

09/26/2015 5



4C. Attachments


For required attachments related to rejected projects, if the CoC did not reject any projects thenattach a document that says "Does Not Apply".

Document Type Required? Document Description Date Attached

01. 2015 CoC ConsolidatedApplication: Evidence of theCoC's Communication toRejected Projects

Yes VT BoS CoC Commun... 11/04/2015

02. 2015 CoC ConsolidatedApplication: Public PostingEvidence

Yes VT BoS CoC Consol... 11/10/2015

03. CoC Rating and ReviewProcedure

Yes VT BoS CoC Rating... 11/06/2015

04. CoC's Rating and ReviewProcedure: Public PostingEvidence

Yes VT BoS CoC Rating... 11/06/2015

05. CoCs Process forReallocating

Yes VT BoS CoC Proces... 11/10/2015

06. CoC's Governance Charter Yes VT BoS CoC Govern... 11/10/2015

07. HMIS Policy andProcedures Manual

Yes VT BoS CoC HMIS P... 11/06/2015

08. Applicable Sections of ConPlan to Serving PersonsDefined as Homeless UnderOther Fed Statutes

No

09. PHA Administration Plan(Applicable Section(s) Only)

Yes VSHA Administrati... 11/04/2015

10. CoC-HMIS MOU (ifreferenced in the CoC'sGoverance Charter)

No VT BoS CoC & HMIS... 10/30/2015

11. CoC Written Standards forOrder of Priority

No CoC Written Stand... 11/10/2015

12. Project List to ServePersons Defined as Homelessunder Other Federal Statutes

No

13. Other No HUD 2991 Form & F... 10/28/2015

14. Other No VT Plan to End Fa... 11/10/2015

15. Other No VT BoS CoC Coordi... 11/10/2015



Attachment Details

Document Description: VT BoS CoC Communication to RejectedProjects

Attachment Details

Document Description: VT BoS CoC Consolidated Application FINALposting 11.10.15

Attachment Details

Document Description: VT BoS CoC Rating & Review Policy &Procedures

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Document Description: VT BoS CoC Rating & Review POSTINGS

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Document Description: VT BoS CoC Process for Reallocation

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Document Description: VT BoS CoC Governance Charter



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Document Description: VT BoS CoC HMIS Polices & Procedures Manual10.20.15

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Document Description:

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Document Description: VSHA Administration Plan and applicablepreference sections

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Document Description: VT BoS CoC & HMIS Lead MOU

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Document Description: CoC Written Standards for Order of CH Priority

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Document Description: HUD 2991 Form & FFY15 Project Listing[VTBOSCOC]- signed

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Document Description: VT Plan to End Family & All Homelessness

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Document Description: VT BoS CoC Coordinated Entry documentation



Submission Summary

Page Last Updated

1A. Identification 10/30/2015

1B. CoC Engagement 11/10/2015

1C. Coordination 11/09/2015

1D. CoC Discharge Planning 10/30/2015

1E. Coordinated Assessment 11/03/2015

1F. Project Review 11/10/2015

1G. Addressing Project Capacity 10/30/2015

2A. HMIS Implementation 10/30/2015

2B. HMIS Funding Sources 11/05/2015

2C. HMIS Beds 11/10/2015

2D. HMIS Data Quality 11/04/2015

2E. Sheltered PIT 11/04/2015

2F. Sheltered Data - Methods 11/10/2015

2G. Sheltered Data - Quality 10/30/2015

2H. Unsheltered PIT 11/04/2015

2I. Unsheltered Data - Methods 11/10/2015

2J. Unsheltered Data - Quality 10/30/2015

3A. System Performance 11/10/2015

3B. Objective 1 11/10/2015

3B. Objective 2 11/10/2015

3B. Objective 3 11/10/2015

4A. Benefits 11/03/2015

4B. Additional Policies 11/03/2015

4C. Attachments 11/10/2015

Submission Summary No Input Required



2015 CoC Consolidated Application: Evidence of VT BoS CoC's Communication to Rejected Projects

*No CoC project proposals were “rejected” due to applicant & community consensus to voluntarily non-

renew three current projects to allow for reallocation to new projects.

POSTED 11/3/15 TO VT BOS COC [VCEH] WEBSITE (www.helpingtohousevt.org) WITH NOTICE SENT ON

COC EMAIL LIST SERVE and EMAILED BY COLLABORATIVE APPLICANT (Vermont State Housing Authority)

TO 82 APPLICANTS, PARTNER AGENCIES, LOCAL COCS, AND ALL KEY VT STAKEHOLDERS.

http://www.helpingtohousevt.org/

Posted on CoC HTH website and emailed via CoC HTH list serve on 11/3/15 to full CoC membership, CoC Board, Ranking Committee, and all current CoC Program recipients/subrecipients.

Dear CoC Project Recipients/Subrecipients, CoC Members and all Entities: On Oct. 22, the Ranking Committee prioritized projects in rank order. The Collaborative Applicant (VT State Housing Authority) offered the opportunity for each project applicant to appeal the score and/or priority number. The VT BoS CoC received no appeal requests with the FINAL Project Priority Listing, to be submitted to HUD, as follows: Tier 1 (CoC project funding up to $2,318,400; HUD may defund/change prioritization): 1. Brattleboro Housing Authority Shelter Plus Care [2 partners] Mental Health+ $221,530

2. VSHA Rapid Rehousing1 (Windham/Rutland) $96,234

3. VSHA Rapid Rehousing2 (Caledonia/Windsor So/Rutland) $165,663

4. ICA HMIS renewal project $30,572

5. VSHA Shelter Plus Care [HPC] Rutland1/Mental Health+/Chronic Homeless Only $63,719

6. VSHA Shelter Plus Care [HPC] Rutland2/Mental Health+/CH only/Veterans $63,719

7. ICA HMIS new/expansion project $28,845

8. VSHA Transitional Housing [TPHT/Overlook/Windsor]-Families $39,269

9. VSHA Transitional Housing [BCH/McCall/Bennington]-Families $56,064

10. VSHA Transitional Housing [NEKCA/Orleans]-Youth $57,005

11. VSHA Safe Haven [CMC/Orange]-Mental Health $113,736

12. HOPE Transitional Housing [CSAC/Hill House/Addison]-Mental Health $133,027

13. VSHA Shelter Plus Care [16 partners] Statewide/Mental Health+ $1,502,860 (full amount)

Tier 1 = $1,249,017 *Project application straddles Tier 1 & 2. Tier 2 (Projects subjected to higher scoring criteria): 14. VSHA Shelter Plus Care [16 partners] Statewide

Tier 2 = $253,843 *Project application straddles Tier 1 & 2. 15. VSHA Rapid Rehousing3 (Washington/Lamoille/Franklin) $155,286

*Reallocated funds from non-renewing TH projects: NCSS (Franklin) & GSH (Washington). 16. VSHA Rapid Rehousing4 (6 partners/5 counties)- New/PH BONUS $407,169

Tier 3 (not included in ranking process): 17. VSHA CoC Planning Project $81,826 *See INITIATIVE – “HUD Funding and Regulations” section of VCEH website www.helpingtohousevt.org. **Additional guidance on this year’s FFY2015 HUD CoC NOFA competition can be found at: https://www.hudexchange.info/resource/4708/fy-2015-coc-program-competition-nofa-broadcast/

ffy2015 vt bos coc consolidated application – submitted (1 of 2)

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