Matrix No Longer Required for MHFA Programs

Though ICA has previously shared an overview of upcoming data standards changes, we also want to share the following announcement from Minnesota Housing that provides additional context on their decision to no longer require the Self-Sufficiency Matrix. The text below is directly quoted from an announcement previously shared by Minnesota Housing.

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“While the Self-Sufficiency Matrix is still required for other funding sources, for both site-based multifamily capital-funded projects serving LTH/HPH households and HTF rental assistance grant recipients serving HPH households, completion of the self-sufficiency matrix (SSM) is no longer required.

Self-Sufficiency Matrix: NO LONGER REQUIRED

For both site-based multifamily capital-funded projects serving LTH/HPH households and HTF rental assistance grant recipients serving HPH households, completion of the self-sufficiency matrix (SSM) is no longer required.

When is this effective?
Now! The self-sufficiency matrix is no longer a required component of data entry for LTH/HPH projects funded through Minnesota Housing.

What if I have other service funding or rental assistance that requires me to complete the self-sufficiency matrix?
If other funders still require the self-sufficiency matrix, you will still need to complete it with participants; however, you are only expected to do so for those funders and not for Minnesota Housing. This includes Department of Human Services (DHS) programs such as Long Term Homeless Supportive Services Fund (LTHSSF) and Housing Support that overlap with site-based multifamily capital projects and HTF rental assistance serving LTH/HPH households.

Will Minnesota Housing replace the matrix with something else to measure improvements for people in supportive housing?
Yes! One of the most important measures of success for supportive housing is whether households experience improvements in their quality of life because of housing. Minnesota Housing is committed to assessing quality of life for people in supportive housing and having a tool to determine where and when changes are needed to better serve LTH and HPH households is critical to that assessment.

We are beginning to explore options for a new tool, and those efforts will include you and the households you serve. We are looking for a tool that is trauma-informed, effectively elevates participant voice and experience, is of value to the participant, provider and Minnesota Housing, and is equitable in its application. You can expect more communication this fall as we work to identify a tool that better meets the needs of the LTH/HPH programs and participants.”