You may not be familiar with the Longitudinal Systems Analysis (LSA) report. However, it’s one of the many important (and required) types of data we gather to help us better understand homelessness in Sacramento and ensure adequate funding and informed policymaking for our region. While the Point-In-Time (PIT) Count counts the number of people experiencing homelessness, and the Housing Inventory Count (HIC) counts the number of beds available in shelters and permanent housing resources, the annual LSA reviews how the people who are experiencing homelessness are using the resources available to them. This includes the number of days that people stay in shelters, where they went after exiting shelters, and much more.
This information, which is gathered by Sacramento Steps Forward through the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), is then submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and to congress as part of the Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR). This report then informs and influences funding and policy making decisions. You can find the most recent AHAR here.