The struggle to end homelessness in Canada is hampered by a general inaccessibility of information on the subject. This has meant that decision makers in government and the community are often left to develop responses to homelessness without access to the best research knowledge available.

For research to be effective, it has to be easily accessible, AND easily understood. In an effort to address the gap between research, policy and practice, the CHRN brings together researchers, governments, non-profit service providers and community groups to establish effective mechanisms for mobilizing research to inform and support decisions that contribute to solutions on homelessness.

The CHRN believes that research CAN contribute to ending homelessness. By focusing our activities on networking, education and knowledge mobilization, the CHRN will provide opportunities for sharing and collaboration between national and international researchers, service providers, and policy makers. Enhancing the linkages between research and action will help us move towards effective long-term solutions to homelessness.