Homeless individuals and families can access emergency shelters, transitional housing, food assistance, healthcare, job training, and other support services through government programs and nonprofit organizations. The key first step is connecting with local resources through the 211 helpline, your local Continuum of Care, or nearby shelter.
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Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters provide immediate overnight housing for homeless individuals and families. Most communities have shelters operated by the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, local churches, or community organizations. Many shelters also provide meals, showers, laundry, case management, and referrals to other services.
Homeless Housing Programs
Housing Options
- Emergency shelters: Immediate overnight housing
- Transitional housing: Temporary housing (up to 2 years) with support services
- Rapid rehousing: Short-term rental assistance to quickly house homeless families
- Permanent supportive housing: Long-term housing with ongoing support services
- Emergency hotel vouchers: Temporary hotel stays through social services
Food Resources
Soup kitchens provide free hot meals daily. Food pantries distribute free groceries. SNAP benefits are available for homeless individuals. Many shelters provide meals. Churches and community organizations offer free meals throughout the week. Call 211 to find food resources near you.
Healthcare for Homeless
Federally Qualified Health Centers provide healthcare to homeless individuals regardless of ability to pay. Health Care for the Homeless programs operate in over 300 communities. Medicaid covers healthcare for homeless individuals who meet income requirements. Many free clinics specifically serve homeless populations.
Employment Assistance
Homeless employment programs provide job readiness training, work experience, job placement, and support services. American Job Centers serve all job seekers including homeless individuals. Many shelters offer employment programs. Organizations like Goodwill and the Salvation Army provide job training and employment opportunities.
Important Hotlines
Call for Help
- 211: Local resources for housing, food, and services
- National Homeless Hotline: 1-800-786-2929
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (press 1)
- SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (substance abuse)
Frequently Asked Questions
Call 211 for shelter referrals, visit the Salvation Army, contact Catholic Charities, or search HomelessShelterDirectory.org. Most communities have emergency shelters that accept walk-ins, especially during cold weather.
Homeless individuals can access emergency shelters, transitional housing, rapid rehousing, food assistance (SNAP, food banks, soup kitchens), free healthcare at FQHCs, job training, and support services through local Continuum of Care programs.
Contact your local Continuum of Care or call 211 for housing resources. Rapid rehousing programs provide short-term rental assistance. Section 8 vouchers give preference to homeless individuals. Permanent supportive housing provides long-term housing with support services.
