The City of Brantford has been formally recognized by Built for Zero Canada for confirming Unsheltered Quality By-Name Data (QBND) 4.0, making it the second community in Canada to achieve the designation under a national homelessness data standard.
The recognition, validated by the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, confirms that Brantford has met rigorous requirements to collect, verify and maintain real-time data on people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
According to the city, the process included a self-assessment completed in December 2025 that reviewed all additional foundational elements required under the QBND 4.0 scorecard.
That assessment was independently verified by Built for Zero Canada in January 2026. Brantford also demonstrated more than three consecutive months of reliable, verified unsheltered by-name data through ongoing monthly submissions.
“This recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of City of Brantford staff who work every day to respond to homelessness in our community,” said Kevin Davis.
“Having reliable, real-time data allows us to better understand the needs in our community and ensures decisions are guided by comprehensive evidence, not assumptions.”
As the Consolidated Municipal Service Manager for both Brantford and the County of Brant, the city is responsible for housing and homelessness services, Ontario Works and children’s services across the two communities.
Officials say the designation confirms the municipality now has a verified and current picture of unsheltered homelessness across its service area.
Maintaining a by-name list allows the city to track individuals experiencing homelessness in real time and better match housing options and supports to specific needs.
Municipal staff say the data will be used to improve coordination among service providers, monitor trends over time, support continuous improvement, and strengthen advocacy for additional funding and resources.
The city credits the achievement to collaboration among local service agencies, community partners and municipal staff, saying the shared data framework is intended to improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness by ensuring responses are informed by accurate and up-to-date information.
