there are approximately 8.5 new requests for shelter intake per day. The breakdown by shelter service provider is as follows.

Average new requests for intake per day

Service Provider	Number
Salvation Army	2.8
Welcome Centre- singles	1.3
Welcome Centre- families	2.05
Downtown Mission	2.4
Total	8.55

Source: admissions statistics provided by the shelter service providers

There is no “best” access model. Although, the following are important elements of an effective access model:

• All shelter service providers are aligned with the system’s overall goals and adhere to shared procedures

• Access points are easy for clients to connect with, they are well-defined and well-publicized, and have the capacity to connect clients both to any services that is offered directly by the access point, as well as other services within the system

• All people have fair and equal access to services regardless of where, when or how they present for services

• Access points should be able to share information between access points, shelter service providers (if different), and ideally, other homelessness services

• Diversion services should be provided consistently, using a standardized approach, to support individuals seeking homelessness assistance to address their housing needs without necessarily having to accessing emergency shelter.

Different approaches may be needed in different communities, depending on factors such as physical geography, the range of programs within the service system, and the capacity of partners in the community. Options include a combination of the following:

• A single physical access point for all shelter services or for a specific client group

• A single “virtual” access point for all shelter services or for a specific client group (typically a single phone line)

• A “no-wrong door” approach in which all shelter service providers function as access points for the entire service system, using a standard process to identify each person or family’s needs and connect them to an appropriate service

A single, physical access point is an effective way to integrate all aspects of the intake and referral process, including diversion services and admission to shelter. It also allows for more in-depth face to face interaction between the shelter seeker and the intake/diversion worker, which can help ensure that the individual or family is connected with the most appropriate service. A single physical location is