The membership of the Homeless Services Network of Rochester, New York (HSN) is composed of 50+ individuals and organizations who are committed to ending homelessness in this community. HSN members represent a range of interests including homeless shelter and/or support service providers, health care, mental health, chemical dependency, veterans groups, the faith based community, law enforcement, feeding programs, local government, youth services providers, neighborhood groups, the business community and interested individuals.

The HSN takes an active role in issues in this community that affect the homeless:

• Homeless Information Management System (HMIS)
• Local government budgets; zoning codes, etc.
• Working with the Rochester/Monroe County Homeless Continuum of Care Team to establish annual community priorities
• Institutional discharges
• Mental health and substance abuse issues, etc.

In October, 2003 the HSN conducted a Homeless Needs Assessment Survey of more than 250 homeless persons. The Homeless Persons Needs Survey Report was released in 2004, providing a comprehensive report on the characteristics of homeless persons, identification of needs as well as the strengths and gaps of the services that the community provides. The HSN plans to conduct this survey every three years.

By identifying needs in the community the HSN has been able to design and provide monthly education and training to its members and the community to continuously improve the quality of services/care. In addition the HSN plans and hosts an annual Homeless and Hunger Symposium to further educate the membership and the community at large on issues that affect the homeless, best practices, etc.

HSN meets at 9AM on the third Wednesday of the month from September through June at 100 West Avenue. Meetings are open to anyone who wishes to help the homeless living among us.