Shelter Tech

Sheltertech leverages systematic data vetting processes to establish a reliable and up-to-date database, the sf service guide, "sfsg", for quick reference by the homeless community. This resides on a website that the organzation maintains. The data vetting process is facilitated through sheltertech-designed community "datathons" with community representattives and volunteers. As a result of these efforts, finding services is easier with the continued evolution of sf service guide. Monthly average unique sfsg users is 6,682 (trailing 12 months) and 5,751 (trailing 36 months). Link-sf traffic is averaging 95 monthly visitors (trailing 12 months). Sheltertech also gathers and reports on data on the usage of the site, including number of total users, percent accessing site via mobile versus desktop, average length of session, top searches, top pages, and reports back to mohcd on these metrics. These insights help the agency improve delivery and utilization of services.

Sheltertech hosts and partners with other organizations to put on a minimum of 9 outreach events per year (subject to covid restrictions) to get the word out about sfserviceguide.org and teach people how to access and use the database. Sheltertech performs outreach events both for staff at community-based nonprofits and also for people experiencing homelessness themselves. Aside from events aimed at introducing people to sfserviceguide.org, sheltertech hosts events (in-person and remote) to educate the community about issues around homelessness and help bridge the gap between the housed/tech community and individuals who are currently or formerly homeless. These events range from speaker and panel events, interactive dinners and hackathons, and volunteering opportunities. Sheltertech also continues a program with code tenderloin where st community reps participate in periodic street outreach events where they help distribute materials (food, masks, hygiene kits) and information to people in need while also building awareness of sfsg.

The platform which the sfsg resides should be easisly accessible and formatted for smartphones. To facilitate usage, sheltertech distributes wifi access in community spaces and leverages the city visiblity to enhance platform success. Shelterconnect works with community-based organizations, isps like monkeybrains and sf digital fiber and installers like pcs, to install hardware and provide free wireless internet access to shelters, transitional and supportive housing facilities as well as community centers where individuals who are currently homeless congregate. Providing free wifi helps individuals access services through sfsg and other sheltertech products. Currently shelterconnect has wired 22 facilities, including 18 shelters and four sros providing services to 1,800 residents each night.