Homelessness in Ohio
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How the Ohio BoSCoC Homeless Response System Serves People

How Coordinated Entry Works in the Ohio BoSCoC

The Ohio BoSCoC Coordinated Entry (CE) system is designed to ensure people experiencing homelessness can quickly and fairly access the support they need. Standardizing how people access and move through the system helps ensure efficient provision of resources and prioritization of most intensive resources for those with the most need. The CE system makes it easier for people to find the help they need by replacing a confusing maze of programs with one clear path. Across Ohio’s 80-county Balance of State Continuum of Care, providers work together to assess each person’s situation, prioritize based on need, and connect people to housing and services without unnecessary delays or roadblocks.
Shared assessment tools and referral pathways improve access and consistency.
Prioritization ensures those with the greatest needs are served first
Overview

Components of Coordinated Entry

Coordinated Entry in the Ohio BoSCoC is based on a shared, structured process that brings together local providers. Each core component plays a crucial role in enabling individuals and families to quickly access the right housing support in a fair, consistent, and timely manner.

Access

Community providers serve as access points where individuals and families can begin the CE process.

Assessment

Trained staff complete standardized assessments, such as the HARP tool, to understand individual needs and vulnerabilities.

Prioritization

Providers use prioritization criteria to serve those with the most urgent needs first.

Referral

The referral process connects prioritized households to available resources.
Tools AND Policies

Coordinated Entry Guidance and Tools

Explore the latest guidance, evaluation materials, and practical tools that help providers deliver consistent, equitable Coordinated Entry services across the Ohio Balance of State Continuum of Care.
Requirements

Provider Requirements and Participation

Any homeless services provider offering services in the Ohio BoSCoC is expected to follow the Coordinated Entry Standards.

CE Participation Requirements

Providers taking part in Coordinated Entry are expected to follow Ohio BoSCoC policies, use CE tools like the HARP assessment correctly, and complete required training. They’re also responsible for working closely with system partners. Meeting these CE requirements helps ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness can access housing and support in a timely and equitable manner.
Participate in required CE trainings
Use the designated common assessment tool
Follow referral protocols and documentation guidelines
Ensure data entry is accurate and timely in HMIS
Need Help with Coordinated Entry?
Contact the Ohio BoSCoC Team

Provider Forms & Templates

Access downloadable forms, templates, and outreach materials to support eligibility documentation, compliance, and program consistency across the Ohio BoSCoC.

Outreach & Marketing Materials

The Ohio BoSCoC Coordinated Entry Team has developed a set of marketing materials for use by CE Access Points to provide information to people in need, community stakeholders, and others regarding how to access the CE system.

Materials are available in several sizes and formats. Please download and add your local information.
Updates AND Public Notices

Recent Ohio BoSCoC Updates and Announcements

Stay informed about the latest policy updates, training opportunities, funding announcements, and systemwide changes across the Ohio Balance of State Continuum of Care.

Get Involved in the Ohio BoSCoC

From statewide initiatives to local workgroups, there are many ways to contribute to ending homelessness across Ohio.

Signup for the Ohio BoSCoC Listserv

Want to stay in the loop? Join the BoSCoC listserv to receive key updates on funding opportunities, training events, policy changes, and important deadlines. Use the "Sign Up for COHHIO News & Alerts" form at the bottom of this page.

Join Local Workgroups and Committees

Help shape policies, improve programs, and elevate lived experience by joining a BoSCoC committee or workgroup.
Performance & Outcomes Committee
Enhance accountability and support system-wide success metrics.
Youth Action Board (YAB)
Share youth voice and insight into policies that impact young people.
Veterans Workgroup
Coordinate efforts to end veteran homelessness across the state.

Help Make a Difference

Your donation helps provide housing and advocacy for Ohio families in need.
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