Choice-Based Housing Access System - Update

In 2022, the City launched the Choice-Based Housing Access System ("the system"), a modernized and updated system for allocating rent-geared-to-income (RGI) units. In alignment with the City of Toronto's Digital Infrastructure Strategic Framework, the City recognizes the importance of an equity-focused approach in developing, deploying and maintaining a digital infrastructure. This includes uncovering and learning from digital connectivity gaps to better target equity-seeking, marginalized and vulnerable groups to ensure all people in Toronto can access the system and maximize participation with the necessary supports. This report provides an overview and progress update on the Choice-Based Housing Access System and responds to City Council's request to establish a plan, informed by applicants and community agency partners, to explore options, in alignment with the Human Rights Code, to increase applicant participation in the system. City staff will report to the Economic and Community Development Committee in February 2024 with an evidence-based, targeted implementation plan to further improve and increase applicant participation in the system.