Are you at risk of becoming homeless? Is your housing secure? If you lost your job tomorrow or were injured in an accident and unable to work for a few months, would you become homeless? Or are you already in a tenuous predicament, living in an informal situation without a lease? Homeless numbers have risen but the number of individuals and families who are housing insecure has grown even faster.
Who is Homeless?
These statistics may change your perception of the homeless population:
- Infants are more likely to experience a stay in a homeless shelter than individuals of any other age.
- Young families are more likely to experience homelessness. Over half of the adults (51.3%) in families experiencing homelessness were between the ages of 18 and 30.
- Only 5% of adults over age 50 experience homelessness.
- Almost half the children who experienced homelessness were under age 6 (49.6%).
- Of the total number of people in families who experienced homelessness in 2016, 59% were children.
After speaking with many people who are or have been homeless at one point in time, it is clear that the old persona associated with being homeless only accounts for a small percentage of those who end up homeless today.
According the UCLA’s William Institute, homeless youth that aren’t members of homeless families identify as LGBT and the majority of them (68%) are homeless because their families rejected them as the result of their LGBT status. Additionally, of all homeless youths including LGBT youth, 54% indicated that abuse was an important factor that contributed to their homelessness.
Disability rates for adults and children in the homeless population are much higher than they are in the general population. Disabilities strain a family’s resources which can make it more likely they will become homeless. Disabilities are both more likely and more financially devastating than the death of a breadwinner because the income is lost but expenses increase as the result of a disability. A child’s disability can make it impossible for one of the parents to work and care adequately for the child which also removes the safety net of having two incomes.
About half a million people are homeless on any given day. Over the course of a year, 2 million men, women, and children in the United States experience homelessness.
Victims of fires, accidents, and violence are more likely to become homeless.
In this post, we’ll cover what you need to know if you’re in danger of being homeless and how to get help to prevent losing your home, obtain temporary shelter, as well as getting back into a home of your own. We’ll also provide information you can use to help solve this problem by insisting that your elected officials address root causes and don’t do things that make it harder for affected individuals to recover from homelessness.
Facing Homelessness?
If you’re facing homelessness, the first thing you need to know is that there are people with resources who want to help you. The thing is, they don’t know your situation. You have to let them know so they can help you. There are many things you can do to reduce your risk and, if you’re currently homeless, to improve your situation. Don’t wait until the last minute to reach out for help. The earlier you ask for help, the easier it is to help you and to keep you in your home, or at least keep you off the streets.
The old view of a homeless person was the bum or alcoholic male who lacked the self-discipline to care for himself. That view is not an adequate representation of today’s homeless population. Many homeless people are families, elderly people, teens, young adults, and individuals who have fallen on hard times. The Mckinney-Veto Homeless Act defines homelessness as:
“Individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes those who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals, and those whose primary nighttime residence is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. This includes living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings.”
If you’re worried about becoming homeless, reach out for help before it happens. If you can use any money you have to stay in your home, do so. But, if the writing is on the wall and you’ve exhausted the resources in this article and friends and family who might help you out, it might be best to use any cash you have to do other things.
- Try to find someone who will allow you to store your possessions even if they are unable or unwilling to let you stay with them. Get a written agreement so you have documentation of your agreement.
It’s better to store them with someone you trust than public storage facilities because those facilities often use teaser rates to attract business and raise the rate substantially a few months later. If you don’t pay, they will auction your belongings off to the highest bidder. Cedar shavings is an inexpensive way to prevent bug damage to your stored possessions.
A few communities are providing small storage containers to help their homeless population keep track of their possessions. Other communities are confiscating items belonging to their homeless populations including wheelchairs and needed medications.
- Set up a way to get your mail and initiate a forwarding order with your post office if you become homeless. Some post offices will allow you to receive mail addressed to you at “General Delivery” which would be less expensive than a P.O. box.
- Make sure you have a valid state ID or driver’s license. You may need it to get into a shelter.
- Pack a backpack or wheeled suitcase for you and everyone in your family. Remember medications. Use layering and bring items that are easily washed and sturdy shoes. If you have a travel money belt, you may want to use it to protect any money you have.
- Try to store valuables in a safe place. Keeping irreplaceable valuables, whether sentimental or of actual value with you when you are homeless puts them at risk of being lost, stolen, or damaged by exposure to the elements. Some credit unions will provide a safety deposit box for as little as $40 a year.
- If your home area has life-threatening weather, consider taking a bus to a more hospitable area.
Homeless vs Housing Insecurity
The visible homeless population is more likely to be single men and women because they receive the lowest priority when it comes to shelters and many are turned away because shelters routinely deny access to individuals with criminal records, addiction issues, no identification, and those with certain illnesses like tuberculosis. However, there are homeless shelters that specialize in helping hard-to-place individuals.
The invisible homeless population are more likely to be families and individuals who are admitted to shelters, live in their vehicle, with relatives, in cheap motel rooms, or squat in an abandoned building where they are less visible. Some of them are always in temporary drug rehabilitation residential facilities or involuntarily committed to psychiatric wards. Some of these people can technically be referred to as experiencing housing insecurity because they have a roof over their heads, but it is not theirs. These situations are often tenuous situations that can change quickly.
Despite a robust economic recovery, the number of homeless families has remained relatively stable. In 2012, 36% of the homeless population was comprised of families. In 2018, homeless families still accounted for 33% of the overall homeless population.
As you can see in the following graph, most homeless families are sheltered.
Domestic Violence and Homelessness
More than 80% of women with children who experience homelessness have experienced domestic violence. Although there are many shelters that assist women and their children who are escaping a violent environment, many women have to begin their lives again from scratch. Abused men rarely have access to a shelter and stigma prevents the majority of abused men from reporting the crimes they experience in their homes.
Homelessness during childhood increases the risk that an individual will be abused as an adult, as does child abuse in situations where the housing situation is secure.
Providing more resources to address abusive homes and childhood homelessness would strategically reduce homeless populations now and in the future.
Homeless Shelter Rules and Services
The rules at shelters vary considerably. Finding a shelter that provides services that will help you get back on your feet can speed your return to stable housing. While immediate shelter may be your first priority, learning about other shelters with broader services and relocating when a spot opens up can make a big difference.
Some shelters assist with rapid re-housing. Others provide case managers who can help you identify and obtain all the services you need from a variety of providers including medical, dental, mental health, income, training, job hunt assistance, and day care for your children.
Before heading to a shelter, it’s a good idea to know the rules, especially if you have issues that might make a shelter turn you away. There are all types of shelters available, here are rules that apply to some shelters:
- There are shelters that won’t accept convicted felons or recent felons while other shelters that focus on helping individuals released from prison.
- Provide ongoing shelter for a year or more while others are first come, first served on a daily basis.
- Require sobriety and a drug test for admittance.
- Help addicts get clean.
- Require a tuberculosis (TB) test.
- Require you to be a resident of the county where the shelter is located.
- Assist people with psychological counseling.
- Prohibit occupants with mental health disorders.
- Prohibit children.
- Provide daycare so the parent can work.
- Require everyone to leave early in the morning and stay away most of the day.
Case Managers
If you’re homeless or in danger of homelessness, you want a case manager. Your case manager will know about resources that may help you which can save you hours or days of searching. A case manager will connect you with resources and advocate on your behalf. You won’t be completely alone anymore. When you have a case manager, you have knowledgeable help. Your case manager can help you access housing, employment opportunities, educational, medical, behavioral health, and other services and step in with assistance if something isn’t working well for you.
Transitional Housing
Transitional housing provides an opportunity to solve the problems that led to homelessness. The usual definition includes temporary living quarters for up to two years combined with services, whether educational, medical, mental health. behavioral health, or other services the individual needs so they can establish a stable living situation.
Individuals suffering from disability can have time to qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. People escaping violent environments will have time to establish themselves in jobs that provide the support they need.
Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters are generally short-term. They may provide only a place to sleep or a host of services to assist those in a housing crisis.
People who May Experience Greater Difficulty Finding Shelter
Some individuals will have a more difficult time finding shelter than others. Individuals with a criminal record won’t be welcome at all shelters although there are shelters that will provide for them. If the record includes a crime that puts them on the sex offender registry, it will be more difficult. While this may seem logical for rapists and pedophiles, keep in mind that urinating in public can be considered indecent exposure which can land someone on the sex offender list. When someone is homeless, they often lack a private place to use the bathroom.
If you abuse or are addicted to drugs or alcohol, some shelters will refuse to shelter you when you are under the influence.
If you have a pet, it can be difficult to find a shelter that will take you and your beloved animal.
Adults without children, whether single or a couple, will have a more difficult time finding shelter than an adult with a child or children.
Finally, many shelters require ID and if you don’t have one, you can face difficulty finding a shelter that will accept you. Many will, however, refer you to a social worker who can assist you with obtaining ID.
Nationwide Assistance
For the Homeless
Domestic Violence
If you are experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available to provide 24/7 support when you call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and chat will help keep you safe.
Crisis Text Line – Text 741741
Child Abuse
Many children end up homeless because they are running away from an abusive home. Other homeless youth are minors whose parents kick them out of the home. Parents are required to provide their children with a home until the child is 18 and child abuse is not legal. Calling the national child abuse hotline (800) 4-A-Child (800) 422-4453 will help you find an adult who can assist you. If your home is not safe for you, they can move you to a foster care facility. Being on the street is risky. Make the call.
Rape Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) Hotline — 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Youth
If you have run away or think it is your best option, call the National Runaway Switchboard at call 1-800-621-4000.
National Runaway Safeline (NRS) at 1-800-RUNAWAY or 1800RUNAWAY.org.
Parents can find runaway prevention resources.
Free Ride Home on Greyhound
Housing programs and street outreach
Community Resources
- 2-1-1 is a hotline that helps you tap into community resources like shelters, health care, food, and other social programs. They are staffed 24/7.
- HUD, the Department of Housing and Urban Development maintains a list of Continuum of Care (CoC) resources based on your location. Follow this HUD link to get the phone number and email address for the resources nearest your current location.
Food Resources (Free Meals and Groceries)
- Input your zip code and find a food bank in your area.
- Women and Infants WIC program
- SNAP – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Call 800-221-5689 or look up the local office or call your county’s health and human services department
Veterans Services
In addition to the VA, your county may have a veteran’s services department that will help you tap into local services for veterans as well as help you obtain benefits you are entitled to receive. Additional resources for veterans include:
- Veteran’s Assistance for Homeless Veterans
- America Serves helps to coordinate services for Veterans. They make navigating veterans services easier. With the support of major donors like Wal-Mart, they are making a difference. If they provide services near you, reach out. It will make your life and recovery from homelessness easier.
- National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877-424-3838)
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV) – The DAV Homeless Veterans Initiative
- IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America)
- National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (800-VET-HELP)
- S. Vets
- Volunteers of America – services for veterans
- Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) (for older veterans)
Prevention of Veteran Homelessness
The VA provides loans and grants that can prevent homelessness.
- VA cash-out refinance loan to get money from your home’s equity
- For age-related or service-connected disabilities, veteran housing grants
Native American Resources
- Indian Housing’s Office of Native American Programs (ONAP)
- Indian Housing Grant Programs
- Housing Improvement Program (HIP)
- Tribal Green Building
- Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH)
- Tribally Designated Housing Entity (TDHE)
Services for Seniors
Mental Health Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Veterans Crisis Line (800-273-8255 (press 1) or Text 838255
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – 800-662-HELP (4357)
- Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH)
Disabled Individuals
If you become disabled, reach out for help right away – don’t wait for a crisis. There are local as well as federal programs that may be able to assist you in modifying your home (even if you rent), finding affordable housing, and developing skills that allow you to continue living independently.
A disability can take away a great deal but there are programs that give disabled people benefits they wouldn’t qualify for without the disability. If your life has taken a detour as the result of a disability, learning about those benefits makes a tremendous difference in your quality of life.
Housing Resources for People with Disabilities
A variety of federal, state, and local housing programs can help you find and afford a place to live, modify an existing home for disabilities, or help you develop skills to live independently.
Each program has its own eligibility rules and application process.
If you rent, being disabled means you qualify for rental assistance or subsidized housing, public housing programs, and Housing Choice (Section 8) voucher programs. You may also qualify for senior housing even if you are not a senior. Disabled individuals are protected from discrimination in housing. If your rights are violated you can file a complaint. Often, simply letting a landlord know you are aware of your rights is enough to make them back down or comply with accommodation requests.
If you are or want to be a homeowner, being disabled means you may qualify for Homeownership Vouchers that can help you keep your house or modify it to accommodate your needs. In rural areas, contact The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development program for information on funds (loans and grants) that support home ownership, removing hazards, and making needed modifications.
Healthcare Resources for the Homeless
- Health Center Program
- National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics Locator
- Homeless People with Pets – Contact Pets of the Homeless for veterinary care, food, and pet-friendly shelters.
Resources for Those Who Help the Homeless
- Community Action Partnership
- NHCHC – Community Health Partners
- National Coalition for the Homeless
- Department of Health and Human Services
State-by-State Statistics and High-Level Resources
>>Quick Navigation By State
A – H:
ALABAMA | ALASKA | ARIZONA | ARKANSAS | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | DELAWARE | FLORIDA | GEORGIA | HAWAII
I – N:
IDAHO | ILLINOIS | INDIANA | IOWA | KENTUCKY | LOUISIANA | MAINE | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN | MINNESOTA | MISSISSIPPI | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW HAMPSHIRE | NEW JERSEY | NEW MEXICO | NEW YORK | NORTH CAROLINA | NORTH DAKOTA
O – T:
OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | RHODE ISLAND | SOUTH CAROLINA | SOUTH DAKOTA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS
U – W:
UTAH | VERMONT | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON | WEST VIRGINIA | WISCONSIN | WYOMING
More than half of all homeless people (56%) reside in just five states:
- California (24% or 129,972 people)
- New York (17% or 91,897 people)
- Florida (6% or 31,030 people)
- Texas (5% or 25,310 people)
- Washington (4% or 22,304 people)
ALABAMA
2 Walker Run
Alabaster, AL 35007
(205) 663-6301
This day shelter offers accommodation and shelter services for homeless families and children, as well as homeless youth. There is also overnight housing and additional services, from meals, clothing, and toiletries, to showering and laundry facilities access. For families with children, there is also school-based counseling, and for the youth and adults struggling with addiction, there is also drug prevention education. Family Connection, Inc. focuses on strengthening communities by focusing on building strong families and youth and looks out for those struggling and in need for decades now.
900 Maxwell Boulevard
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 269-2018
This day and night shelter offers accommodation and shelter services for homeless families, single parents, children, homeless youth, homeless veterans and people struggling with the aftermath of a natural disaster or addiction. The shelter provides community kitchen, holiday assistance, social services, youth programs, and disaster services. Moreover, this homeless shelter may be able to help in some Rent assistance situations, but the clients must be employed. Also, checking in is done before 4 pm, and during the weekend the shelter does not accept new clients. An identification card is required, and since there is usually a waiting list, the potential client should call first or pay a visit.
5850 Hwy 431
Albertville, AL 35810
(256) 891-3928
The Downtown Rescue Mission provides transitional housing services as well as an overnight shelter. The shelter serves both men and women and offers free housing over 15 days a month. In order to extend the stay at the shelter, the clients need to have proof of job search. Other than shelter and housing services, this shelter provides meals and clothing, as well as shower and laundry facilities access. The shelter also provides an array of other support services, like emergency services, recovery programs, transitional assistance, community outreach, and thrift stores. The recovery programs last up to 12 months and are only for clients and residents.
Family Promise of Coastal Alabama Mobile
1260 Dauphin Street
Mobile AL, 36604
(251) 441-1991
This shelter provides temporary accommodation and services. It is located in the Mobile and Baldwin area and strives to serve homeless families on their way to obtaining sustainable independence. The Family Promise of Coastal Alabama also provides Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program that is funded by qualifying families. In order to become a client or a temporary resident, it is important to make a call, in advance. This way the person will know what the admittance procedure is and what is additionally required. Of course, identification is the main requirement.
ALASKA
755 A St
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 272-1255
When it comes to Alaska, Covenant House Alaska is the largest provider of services to homeless and runaway youth. This teen-shelter-only provides services and support to homeless youth and strives to provide stability to their lives. The programs the shelter provides focus on reconciliation with family, providing a safe and stable living environment and promote a self-sufficient lifestyle through employment. The shelter overall focuses on transitional living programs, health care as well as employment and education assistance.
Anchorage Gospel Rescue Mission
2823 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 563-5603
This shelter welcomes homeless men, women and homeless families. It serves as an emergency shelter, but also offers a six-month accommodation for women who are returning to the workforce or are transitioning to permanent housing. For men, this shelter offers an addiction recovery and reintegration program as well as groups that support sobriety. When it comes to other offers and services, this shelter provides a two-year Life Skill program as well as a Creative Beginnings Art Recovery class. The shelter provides food, worship services, medical clinic, and educational services.
100 W 13th Ave
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 272-0100
AWAIC (Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis) provides safe shelter for homeless women and children. It also provides intervention and prevention in cases of domestic violence and serves as the largest domestic violence safe shelter in Alaska. This shelter strives to empower those affected by domestic violence by promoting compassion, safety, understanding, positivity, dignity, and reliability. AWAIC provides short-term stays, that last up to 1 month. In cases of domestic violence, the shelter provides legal assistance. Not to mention that it also serves as a safe haven for pets and abused animals too.
4110 Spenard Rd
Anchorage, AK 99517
(907) 563-4545
Clare House is a 24-hour emergency shelter, offering shelter to women with children and expectant mothers over the age of 18. It also offers shelter to families and transitional housing for up to 2 years. The families, mothers, and children at the shelter receive daily meals, as well as medical care in case of substance abuse or mental health. The shelter also takes care of employment opportunities for those who are jobless but are looking for a job. Moreover, Clare House provides programs for addiction recovery and promotes educational opportunities. Apart from an identification card, there don’t seem to be any further admission requirements, but it is important to get informed beforehand.
ARIZONA
116 E Pinal St
Cottonwood, AZ
(938) 634-7869
The Old Town Mission shelter provides offers and services to homeless men, women, and families. It has an emergency shelter that is available during the winter. However, other services, like lunch or shower facilities are available during the week. A free Community Lunch is served on Wednesday and Friday at noon, and the food pantry is available on Monday and Thursday. The shelter also has a clothing boutique, where clients and residents receive blankets, pillows, sheets and other sleeping aid. When it comes to homeless resources, the shelter provides sleeping bags, tents, backpacks, bug sprays and other items people can use to get a good night’s sleep. There is also a vision clinic, a hair salon, free legal consultation, and a grocery rescue program.
Address kept private to protect against domestic violence
Flagstaff, AZ
(928) 527-1700
This shelter provides accommodation and services to women and children, especially those suffering from domestic violence. This is an emergency shelter that also provides services in transitional housing. Because it provides safety for domestic violence victims, this shelter’s address is kept private, therefore it is necessary to contact via phone. The shelter provides meals, medical services, and health care as well as job assistance and numerous other support programs. Some of those programs include legal and counseling services, community education, a youth shelter and program/initiative against trafficking.
Central Arizona Shelter Services
230 South 12th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 256-6945
This shelter is a part of the Arizona Housing Inc. which helps homeless men, women, families, and youth achieve self-sufficiency and independence. It has a goal to help homeless people end their homelessness by providing shelter and supportive services, as well as by creating a community where everybody can feel at home. The shelter also provides services to homeless veterans, seniors as well as disabled people through numerous programs intended for each group of people. CASS provides rapid re-housing assistance, one-time deposit assistance, employment training, job-seeking assistance, education in finance and budgeting, hygiene kits, clothing bank, childcare, and food pantry. For this shelter, there is an application process and there are several restrictions; if a person is a convicted murderer or sexual offender, they won’t be admitted into the shelter.
125 E. University Dr.
Mesa, AZ 85201
(480) 898-0228
The Save the Family shelter deals with family homelessness, accepting homeless children but also adults and families. It promotes ideas like overcoming poverty and achieving self-sufficiency. The shelter provides rapid re-housing, transitional housing and shelter care for homeless families. Because 55% of all clients in this shelter are children, there is a special focus on creating stability for homeless children through consistent housing, stable schooling, tutoring, and extracurricular activities. Since 2015, this shelter requires applications for Save the Family transitional or rapid re-housing programs. This all is handled through the Family Housing Hub. Therefore, for more information and application requirements it is important to contact the shelter directly.
ARKANSAS
Seven Hills Homeless Shelter Center
112 West Center St
Fayetteville, AR 72702
(479) 966-4378
This shelter provides accommodation and shelter services to homeless men, women, and families. It is a day shelter, open during the weekdays from 8 am to 4 pm, where members of the shelter work with homeless on education and job opportunities. The Day Center also provides meals, showers, storage lockers, laundry, clothing, blankets, mailing address, bus passes, and transportation. It also provides day labor opportunities, service referrals, telephone, and computers. Seven Hill Homeless Shelter is one of the most effective shelter service organizations in Arkansas, which means there is probably a waiting list or an application procedure.
Donald W. Reynolds Crisis Intervention Center
5603 South 14th St
Fort Smith, AR 72901
(479) 782-4956
This shelter is an emergency safe house that serves women and children. It provides transitional housing and legal counseling for victims of domestic violence who are now homeless and jobless. The shelter provides meals, toiletries, showers, clothing, and laundry facilities. The staff at the shelter also provides services in transition, safety planning, one-on-one case management services, legal advocacy, and childcare. Since the focus of this shelter is domestic violence and sexual assault, the shelter also provides a private location for the victims, where they can receive free and confidential support.
3618 W. Roosevelt Road
Little Rock, AR 72204
(501) 296-9114
The Little Rock Compassion Center is the largest homeless shelter in Arkansas. Even though it usually provides services to men, the shelter surely provides services to all homeless people or people in need. The shelter provides meals, accommodation, as well as numerous programs that help in job search and education of the clients. There is also clothing assistance, food pantry, computer training, a drug and alcohol addiction program, and Bible study. There are regular church services on Wednesday and Sunday, daily open kitchen for breakfast and lunch and more than 200 beds for residents and clients. Just last year this shelter enabled 200,000 beds for homeless men and women in Arkansas. This means that there are a waiting list and admission procedure. In order to find out what the admission requirements are, it is important to make a call or pay a visit.
302 E Roosevelt Rd
Little Rock, AR 72206
(501) 374-7383
This shelter offers accommodation and shelter services to homeless men, women, children, and families. It is an emergency shelter that also offers transitional housing services for up to two years. The shelter strives to help homeless and near-homeless individuals and families succeed in the workforce, school, and life. Therefore, their programs focus on providing education and training as well as active participation in the community, promoting wise decision-making and productivity. For homeless women, there is a prison re-entry program as well as case management and legal advocacy. The shelter, of course, also provides meals, showers, blankets and sleeping bags, medical and legal services as well as childcare.
CALIFORNIA
1600 E Truxtun Ave
Bakersfield, CA 93305
(661) 322-9199
The Bakersfield Homeless Center provides accommodation for homeless men, women, and families, as well as at-risk individuals. The shelter fosters self-sufficiency by offering basic shelter as well as tools that help the homeless maintain independence. It also provides emergency shelter as well as the transitional housing program. The shelter offers hot meals for the residents, medical and dental healthcare as well as daycare and afterschool programs for children, under the Discovery Depot Licensed Child Care Center. Moreover, there are drug and alcohol addiction counseling programs, as well as housing and job assistance for those wanting to get back to the workforce.
1175 N East St
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 300-0600
The Eli Home shelter offers shelter and accommodation services to women and children. It focuses on victims of domestic violence and child abuse as well as children neglected by their families. The shelter offers transitional housing for abused children and their mothers, 24-hour emergency shelter with the staff, extended services up to one year and assistance with obtaining permanent housing. There is also individual and group counseling for mother and their children with the focus on improving self-esteem, respect for others, love and logic for effective parenting, as well as management of emotions, like anger or fear. The shelter, of course, also offers meals, sleeping space, toiletries and other day-to-day necessities for both mothers and children.
San Diego Rescue Mission Men’s Center
120 Elm Street
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 819-1826
The San Diego Rescue Mission shelter offers shelters as well as a 12-month residential recovery program for homeless men. The recovery program is intended for homeless men dealing with mental health problems and/or drug or alcohol addiction. Alongside the regular offers of the shelter that include accommodation, food, and hygiene, the shelter focuses on fulfilling physical and spiritual needs of the clients through therapy, addiction recovery programs and assistance in housing and job search. The shelter’s mission is to help homeless men obtain housing, employment, gain independence, and a self-sufficient lifestyle. There is also a focus on faith and building a relationship with God as a way of finding the right path in life.
1851 Tyburn Street
Glendale, CA 91204
(818) 246-7900
The Ascencia shelter offers services and accommodation to homeless single adults and homeless families. The shelter offers emergency shelter as well as transitional housing for the aforementioned groups, as well as war veterans. The emergency shelter is available to these groups for up to three months, and during the winter the stay at the shelter can be extended. At Ascencia, people can get meals, sleeping space, sleeping bags, blankets, toiletries, and other day-to-day necessities. When it comes to this shelter, it is important to bear in mind the application hours, which are after 7 am, Monday through Thursday. Only a few people are interviewed and accepted per day, so arriving early should be a priority. Regarding any admission requirements, future residents need to pass a drug test.
COLORADO
913 State Ave
Alamosa, CO 81101
(719) 589-5909
This shelter offers accommodation for homeless men, women and homeless families or families at risk. The focus of this shelter is to fight poverty, hunger, homelessness and other factors that lead to destabilizing families. That is why it offers emergency shelter, food, housing with supportive services, after-school youth-stabilization services, homeless prevention resources, and educational programs. The objective of La Puente Home is to help individuals in need and crisis, as well as to help them strengthen their lives and establish independence and self-sufficiency. The is also an array of programs this shelter offers, one of them being per diem program for veterans.
Lawrence Street Shelter, aka Denver Rescue Mission
1130 Park Ave West
Denver, CO 80205
(303) 294-0157
The Denver Rescue Mission shelter accepts and provides services to homeless men, women, families, and children. At the Denver Rescue Mission, there are emergency services that help the homeless get food, shelter, water, clean restrooms, showers, and laundry services. The shelter offers also a group of services called ‘Next Step Services’, which are a long-term program for establishing a self-sufficient life. The program and services include a temporary bed, regular meals, basic assistance and education as a springboard for a new, stable and dignifying life. There are also Bible study programs, addiction recovery programs, medical clinic as well as basic case management assistance.
1680 Sherman St.
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 831-4910
The New Genesis shelter and accommodation is the only facility in Denver that allows homeless clients to actually work at the shelter. Apart from offering shelter, meals, bed, showers, toiletries and laundry services to their clients, the New Genesis shelter wants to also offer them a sense of accomplishment. The focus in this shelter is on productivity and helping people get off the streets and back into society and the workforce. Therefore, the working program is a unique yet extremely effective approach to reaching the aforementioned objectives. Those working at the shelter work approximately 5,000 hours each year; they help the clients go through the working program and guiding them into the fresh, new and bright start as self-sufficient individuals in the society.
Boulder Shelter for the Homeless
4869 N. Broadway
Boulder, CO 80304
(303) 442-4646
The Boulder Shelter for the homeless is the best solution for the harsh, cold winter days and nights in Colorado. The shelter offers accommodation, food, and other day-to-day necessities for individuals during the winter months, from October 15th to April 15th. During these months, the shelter accepts clients daily from 5 pm until 10 am. This is a housing-focused shelter, which offers permanent supportive housing, rapid re-housing, and transitional housing. The Boulder Shelter requires homeless individuals to submit to a TB test to ensure the safety of everyone in the shelter. The clients also need to follow a set of behavioral rules that are set by the staff.
CONNECTICUT
211 Wethersfield Ave
Hartford, CT 06114
(860) 808-2040
The Mercy Housing shelter provides accommodation, housing assistance, and supportive services to homeless men, women and families, or individuals at-risk. The shelter advocates changes that will help homeless individuals live and work in dignity and respect. It fosters values like respect, compassion, productivity and responsibility through an array of programs and services. Mercy Housing provides intensive case management, short-term recovery housing, veterans program, and supportive housing services. The day shelter provides access to two meals, showers, laundry, toiletries, and medical care. There is also a permanent supportive housing for those disadvantaged, those with alcohol and/or drug addiction as well as those with HIV/AIDS.
75 Main St
Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 724-0071
The South Park Inn provides shelter and accommodation services to homeless individuals, with an emphasis on veteran’s services. The shelter also provides emergency services and transitional housing for veterans, up to two years. The emergency shelter is a safe, temporary residence which remains open for 24 hours, 7 days a week. This shelter never closes its doors and always has room for up to 100 people. The South Park Inn always provides meals and toiletries, as well as health care screening and addiction support groups for those with alcohol and/or drug addiction. Not to mention that there are also transportation services as well as job and housing assistance.
473 Sheldon Street
Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 525-3447
The Open-Heart Association is a shelter for homeless men, intended to help them achieve self-respect, self-help, dignity and full potential for an independent and self-sufficient life. The shelter always accepts up to 25 homeless men to get a bed for the night, a hot meal, or a nice shower. Alongside the regular, basic offers, the shelter fosters productivity, responsibility, and wise-decision making through employment and counseling services. Moreover, men who are staying at this shelter are offered training in OSHA standards, which can help them get jobs in manufacturing and construction.
Pacific House Shelter for Homeless
597 Pacific St
Stamford, CT 06902
(203) 348-2792
This shelter offers accommodation for homeless men and women, with an emphasis on providing emergency shelter and services for men. It also offers rapid re-housing services for homeless veterans, homeless families or families at risk. There are also transitional housing services for the youth, from 18 to 24 years of age. The shelter provides the standard, day-to-day necessities like meals (breakfast and dinner) as well as health care and an array of programs. Those programs are usually educational in nature, some of them including education in computers or job readiness and opportunity finding. There are also services of intense case management.
DELAWARE
115 E 14th St
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 652-5523
This shelter offers services to homeless men, women, and families, just like the majority of other shelters. However, this one has multiple emergency shelters and services throughout Wilmington that is available up to 45 days. The shelter overall provides meals and other day-to-day necessities, like toiletries, shower and laundry services. When it comes to other offers and programs, The Ministry of Caring provides addiction recovery counseling, mental health services, as well as housing and job search assistance. For those looking to evaluate their lives thoroughly in search of independence and self-sufficiency, this shelter offers intensive case management.
2901 Northeast Blvd
Wilmington, DE 19802
(302) 764-4713
Sojourners‘ Place is a shelter that assists homeless men and women, with the purpose of helping them achieve independence and self-sufficiency through case management and an array of residential programs. The shelter offers transitional housing services, as well as job training and life skills workshops. For those struggling with alcohol and/or drug addiction, there is also an addiction recovery program, as well as mental health counseling. There is also a veteran program and re-entry services, that help homeless and jobless individuals reintegrate into the society and workforce successfully. The re-entry program works with ex-offenders where their success and progress are closely monitored. This, in turn, helps them in their future employment as there is proof of their commitment and hard work. Sojourners’ Place offers up to 42 comfortable beds for men and women, alongside everything else an individual need. The staff is lovely and welcoming, and for those who go through the entire program this shelter offers, there is permanent housing and an established job.
People’s Place Ruth N. Dorsey Relief Shelter
381 College Road
Dover, DE 19904
(302) 734-0319
The People’s Place is a shelter that offers accommodation to poor, homeless and low-income families. The focus is, however, on homeless families as well as the victims of domestic violence and child abuse. Homeless individuals can stay at this shelter up to 30 days, where transitional housing is available for applicants who meet all the requirements. There is little information about what the requirements are, so it is important to call or pay a visit. Moreover, this shelter offers 10 transitional homes and housing in this area, which are usually available up to 2 years. When it comes to additional shelter programs, there are employment and housing services and assistance.
The Shepherd Place “Friends Helping Friends”
1362 S. Governors Avenue
Dover, DE 19904
(302) 678-1909
Shepherd Place is a shelter for homeless families or families at risk. The objective of this shelter is to provide housing, case management, food and other basic needs, like clothing and house supplies, to those in need. For clients who qualify, there is transitional housing available as well as employment and job assistance. Some qualifying clients also receive help in finding a permanent job as well as housing. The shelter accepts up to 500 people, mostly children and single mothers. The focus is on accepting victims of domestic violence, substance abuse and victims of personal tragedy. For this shelter, there is a waiting list, therefore, the applicants should apply as soon as possible. Clients are allowed to stay up to 30 days at the shelter.
FLORIDA
1163 Howell Ave
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 799-2912
This emergency shelter provides temporary accommodation to homeless men and women who are in immediate need of a place to stay. The shelter offers four shelter facilities and it does not require the clients to join any programs for short-term stays. However, there are recovery programs clients can join for 36 weeks. These individuals will, as a part of the program, receive spiritual mentorship, life classes, job training, and accountability. For every client, the shelter provides food and hot meals at the Food Barn on Tuesdays and Fridays, between 9 am and 12 noon. Moreover, the shelter provides clothing, toiletries, and shower facilities for every client.
The Salvation Army Florida Division
1445 W. Broward Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 524-6991
For many years now, the Salvation Army at Fort Lauderdale is serving as a safe haven for homeless men, women, and families. The shelter offers a place to stay, comfortable and cozy bed and well as breakfast. There is also an emergency shelter with services that can be only provided for one night per person. Because there is small capacity of up to 50 people per night, it might be difficult to get a place. Therefore, it is important to contact the shelter staff directly or pay a visit to the shelter. This shelter is also nice enough to help homeless individuals find a place at some other shelters in case this one is full. The shelter, nevertheless, welcomes homeless individuals if they simply want to leave the homeless lifestyle and are in need of a more permanent, safe place to stay.
Pinellas Safe Harbor Homeless Shelter
14840 49th St N
Clearwater, FL
(727) 464-8058
The Pinellas Safe Harbor homeless shelter provides accommodation to homeless men and women, as well as individuals who were involved in the criminal justice system in Pinellas County. The shelter serves as a transitional site for inmates re-entering the Florida community from the Pinellas County Jail. The shelter provides a safe environment, meals, clothing, laundry facilities, and transportation services. Moreover, the clients can take advantage of medical, dental and mental health care free of cost. At Pinellas Safe Harbor there are also program clients can join; there are substance abuse support groups as well as life skills and work readiness programs. For those looking for a thorough evaluation of their lives, in search of independence and self-sufficiency, there is also intensive case management.
Homeless Empowerment Program, Inc.
1120 N Betty Lane
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 442-9041
This shelter provides shelter and accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families, or families and individuals at-risk. It is also an emergency shelter as well as transitional housing. The shelter also offers permanent and permanent supportive housing for qualifying individuals and families. At the shelter, the clients can find meals, clothing, laundry facilities as well as medical, dental and mental health care. The Homeless Empowerment Program also provides substance abuse support groups, as well as life skills and work readiness programs. When it comes to other programs, clients can join the relapse prevention groups, as well as the computer training center. There are also transportation services, and for the most committed ones, even case management.
GEORGIA
275 Pryor St SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 215-6600
The Gateway Center offers shelter and accommodation to homeless men, women, and families. It also offers an emergency shelter for those in immediate need for a place to stay. The shelter offers meals, clothing, shower facilities, and medical care. For those struggling with alcohol and/or drugs, there is an addiction recovery program as well as mental health care. Among other programs and services, there is job training and employment assistance, as well as a computer lab and chapel services. The shelter focuses on 5 keys to success, relying on family and community engagement, housing, job training, health, and financial literacy. There is a great demand for this shelter, so it is important to contact the shelter directly and look into the admission requirements.
1559 Johnson Rd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 589-0163
The Covenant House Georgia is a shelter that offers accommodation services to youth, aged 18 to 24. It is also an emergency shelter for those looking for an emergency place to stay the night. The shelter provides basic, day-to-day necessities including meals, clothing, shower facilities as well as health and medical care. For those looking for independence and self-sufficiency, there is a youth job-readiness program, as well as GED and adult education classes. To keep everyone active and healthy, the shelter also provides recreational activities. The focus of the shelter is to help the youth reach its full potential, therefore it also offers intensive case management, job, and employment assistance as well as counseling regarding wise decision making.
The Elizabeth Inn of Must Ministries
Elizabeth Church Rd.
Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 472-9862
The Elizabeth Inn provides shelter and accommodation for homeless men, women, and families, or up to 64 individual per night. The shelter offers a warm and comfortable place to stay, where clients can also enjoy a nice, warm meal as well as food pantry, clothing and a chance for employment services and opportunities. Around 40 beds at the shelter are reserved for men, and 24 for women and children (as statistically there are more male clients). Clients are required to arrive promptly, at 4:30 and wait in line until the shelter is filled for the day/night. The house rules of the shelter are simple and there are no other special requirements. It is only important to check in the shelter sober, clean and well-behaved. Also, it is important to bear in mind that return guests are given first priority for re-entry into the shelter.
3427 Duluth Hwy 120
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 497-1888
The Rainbow Village shelter offers accommodation to homeless, low-income and at-risk families. The shelter also offers transitional housing services for qualifying families. When it comes to other services and programs, families can join life skills workshops, GED training as well as adult education classes. For struggling parents, there are also parenting classes, financial and economic education classes, as well as an afterschool program and a playground for children. There are also medical and childcare the families can take advantage of. Overall, the shelter focuses on breaking the cycle of homelessness, poverty and domestic violence, so there is a priority when it comes to victims of violence and child abuse.
HAWAII
670 Waiale Rd
Waikuku, HI 96793
(808) 242-7600
This homeless resource center offers shelter and meals to homeless men, women, and families in Hawaii. This shelter is different from other shelters in that clients are also offered an assessment of their needs. Once the assessment is done, the staff at the shelter determines whether the client should join any of their programs and services and whether that would be beneficial for them. The programs and services clients can join range from substance abuse programs to educational assistance and opportunities. At the shelter, there is also an emergency shelter program and rental assistance program. Overall, the shelter accepts over 3000 clients every year, so it is important to check whether and when one can join this resource center.
7405593 Pawai Place
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 933-6062
The Hope Services shelter offers accommodation for homeless men and women, with an emphasis on permanent housing for veterans. There are also services in emergency shelter and transitional housing for qualifying individuals. The shelter provides the basic necessities, like meals, place to stay, toiletries and showers. Other than this, there are numerous programs and services clients can join. Some of them include the outreach programs, residential housing programs, homeless prevention services, prison re-entry services and much more. The shelter also provides disaster relief and supportive services for veterans and their families. For those looking for a life of independence and self-sufficiency, there is also case management services.
245 N Kukui St
Honolulu, HI 96817
(808) 548-7478
This shelter offers shelter and accommodation to homeless families. It also offers emergency shelter to homeless families up to one week. The shelter has provided services to more than hundreds of homeless families in Hawaii and helps them transition from the stress into affordable and dignifying housing. The Family Promise of Hawaii also provides the basic necessities for their clients; from meals to shower and laundry facilities, this shelter has everything covered. Unlike other shelters, however, this one provides something called After Care. These are the follow-up services for families who have graduated from the Shelter programs. This is a rather unique approach that enables these families to achieve and remain self-sufficient and independent.
Pier 1 off Forrest Avenue in the Kakaako area
Honolulu, HI 96808
(808) 5855-8800
Located in a warehouse, the Next Step shelter might not be the best one Hawaii has to offer. However, it is the inside that counts, and judging by the staff and the lovely, friendly atmosphere, this shelter is simply wonderful. The Next Step shelter offers basic necessities, like hot meals, warm beds, toiletries and showers to clients arriving between 1 am and 4 am from Mondays through Thursdays. The shelter also has certain admission requirements, which include a TB clearance card, homeless verification letter, and an identification card for each homeless individual. Each guest, upon admittance, is given an ID card that allows them to enter and leave the shelter as they need.
IDAHO
Boise Rescue Mission – River of Life
575 S 13th St
Boise, ID 83701
(208) 389-9840
This River of Life provides shelter and accommodation services to only homeless men. For the homeless men in immediate need of a place to stay, there is an emergency shelter. Other than the shelters, at Boise Rescue Mission one can get meals, clothing and mental health counseling. Furthermore, there is also substance abuse and addiction recovery program, as well as job training and employment assistance. For men who are single fathers, with children, there is also a children’s program. For men looking for a thorough insight into their life and potential, there is also intensive case management.
Boise Rescue Mission – City Light Home for Women and Children
1404 W Jefferson St
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 368-9901
This shelter provides emergency shelter and accommodation services to women and children. It is a part of the Boise Rescue Mission, and it focuses on providing a safe haven for women and children who are poor, homeless, a victim of domestic violence or abuse. The shelter provides basic necessities like meals, shelter, and clothing. Other programs and services include education, work-search assistance, and employment opportunities, mental health counseling and addiction recovery programs. For women with children, there is also assistance in childcare and well as a children’s program.
620 Woodruff Ave.
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 592-4673
Club Inc offers shelter and accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families. Homeless individuals can stay at this shelter for up to two months while being able to look for a more permanent housing option. After the two months stay, families can look into the transitional housing offers provided by Club Inc. The clients of this shelter are encouraged to further their education and deal with their addiction through many programs and services. This shelter has been in function since 1988 and has helped thousands of people through counseling and employment/housing opportunities.
1620 W. River Street
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 343-2630
This shelter mainly provides support and shelter services to men. However, the shelter is always open to provide services to homeless families, men, women, and children whenever they can. More than 150 people are admitted into the shelter every night. The shelter always provides dinner, mental health services, medical services, and opportunities to expand one’s education and skills. During the day, unfortunately, the shelter is closed, as the focus is on providing a nice play to get a good night’s sleep. Therefore, it is open throughout the night, every night of the week (Mondays through Saturdays until 7 am, Sundays until 8 am).
ILLINOIS
659 S River St
Aurora, IL 60506
(630) 897-2156
The Hesed House shelter is the second-largest shelter in the State of Illinois and offers shelter and accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter offers emergency services, as well as rapid re-housing and transitional housing services. For qualifying adults, there is also a permanent supportive housing service. The shelter offers numerous other programs and services clients can join, like adult education or job training/employment assistance classes. There is also a medical clinic, and for those struggling with substance abuse, there is addiction recovery counseling as well.
1140 W 79th St
Chicago, IL 60620
(312) 747-0200
This shelter is intended to provide services to homeless men, women, families, low-income or at-risk families as well. The Englewood Center is a day center that offers emergency services, alongside the transitional housing placement services. The shelter also offers the basic, day-to-day necessities like meals and clothing. In regards to the programs the shelter offers, clients can undergo job training, employment assistance and placement in the workforce. The clients with a criminal past can join the prison re-entry program, and there is also domestic violence support for the victims and abused. If the clients are looking for a thorough analysis of their lives so that they can change for the better, there are also case management services.
Franciscan House of Mary & Joseph – Franciscan Outreach
2715 W. Harrison
Chicago, IL 60612
(773) 287-6724
The Franciscan Outreach shelter has been active for over 30 years now and has served 7,000 clients. The shelter provides accommodation services homeless men, women and families regularly, every night. Because of the high demand, sometimes the shelter runs out of space. However, the shelter provides separate accommodation at the Franciscan Annex at 200 S. Sacramento. The shelter provides meals (breakfast and dinner), clothing, shower, and laundry facilities. Other than the basic offers, the shelter also enables clients to seek professional, medical help. The admission requirement is arriving on time as well as drug-free.
South Tier
414 W. Lincoln Highway
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
708-332-7700
Wellness Center
4411 W. Gatling Blvd.
Country Club Hills, IL 60478
708-550-4411
The SSPADS is a nonprofit organization that provides shelter to homeless individuals and families in the ‘southland’ region of Chicago. The shelter offers a chance for homeless individuals to stay overnight, or in case of an immediate need for a place to stay, there is also an emergency shelter. The SSPADS also offers numerous programs to their clients; when it comes to housing, there is a focus on providing housing through the permanent supportive housing program. Regarding the supportive services, there is a support center for children and families, a re-entry program as well as the Culinary Arts program alongside other life skills programs and services. The shelter, of course, provides meals, comfortable beds, clothing, and shower facilities to their clients.
INDIANA
600 Williams St.
Angola, IN 46703
(260) 665-9191
The Turning Point Shelter offers shelter and housing services to homeless men, women, and families. However, unlike other shelters, this one works proactively on actually improving the lives of the homeless individuals at the shelter. Through numerous programs, support services, and active assistance, the Turning Point shelter strives to take people off the streets into a more self-sufficient and independent living situation. The shelter, however, does have certain admission requirements; a potential client cannot have any sexual or violent crime convictions and they must be a resident of Steuben County. Clients are allowed to stay at the shelter for up to 60 days. During that time clients are allowed to prepare meals in two kitchens, as well as use the items in the food pantry. The shelter also provides, alongside meals and beds, laundry and shower facilities.
Fort Wayne Rescue Mission/The Rescue Mission
301 W Superior St
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
(260) 426-7357
This shelter offers shelter and accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families. There is a men-only emergency shelter, as well as a separate shelter location for women and children. The shelter focuses on a short-term program that usually revolves around supporting permanent housing as well as employment assistance and vocational preparation. Nevertheless, there are long-term recovery programs for those dealing with substance abuse. The shelter provides meals three times a day. There is a medical and mental health assessment for the clients, as well as faith-based programs to help clients make wiser life decisions and find strength and motivation. The shelter does have certain admission requirements; for example, women need to call for bed space (260 426 8123).
6815 US 50
Aurora, IN 47001
812-926-4890
The Heart House Inc. offers shelter and accommodation services to homeless individuals as well as homeless families. The shelter serves as a transitional housing environment as well, and anyone can come in. The shelter can provide services for up to 70 people when it comes to having a place to stay the night. For those who are looking for a chance to change their lives, the 12-unit apartment transitional housing is there to help. The shelter provides meals, comfortable beds, and numerous support programs like; educational services, substance abuse programs, job, and employment assistance.
321 W Mulberry St
Kokomo, IN 46901
(765) 456-3838
The Kokomo Rescue Mission provides shelter and accommodation to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter also provides emergency services for up to 5 night and serves as transitional housing for qualifying individuals. The shelter offers the basic, day-to-day necessities, like meals, beds, clothing and shower facilities. Moreover, the shelter provides numerous support services and programs, that include addiction recovery programs, life skills workshops as well as GED and computer classes. The shelter also offers individual and group counseling as well as worship services which have proven to be life-changing for the shelter’s clients.
IOWA
1247 4th Ave SE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
(319) 362-7555
The Willis Dady shelter provides accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families. For those with an immediate need for a place to stay, this shelter also provides emergency services. The shelter also provides basic necessities that include meals, clothing, toiletries and laundry services. Unlike other shelters, Willis Dady provides transportation and bus tickets for their clients and regular residents. There are also support services for veterans and veterans’ families, as well as case management services for those with a wish to change their lives completely by achieving self-sufficiency and financial independence.
429 Southgate Ave
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 351-0326
This shelter provides accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families, as well as to low-income and at-risk families. The shelter can serve as an emergency shelter for up to 45 days, but also offers rapid re-housing and permanent housing services to qualifying individuals and families. The shelter provides, of course, the basic necessities that include meals, shower and laundry facilities. Moreover, among the supportive services and programs, there is a computer lab, numerous activities program as well as job training, employment assistance and placement in the workforce. The shelter also provides services to veteran and their families.
The Victory Center Rescue Mission
505 9th Ave. S.
Clinton, IA 52732
(563) 242-9016
The Victory Center shelter provides housing and services to homeless individuals and families as well. The shelter can welcome up to 50 individuals per night, offering a warm bed and nice, hot meals. Unlike other shelters that usually serve one to two meals per day, this shelter serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The shelter welcomes both, regular residents as well as people passing by, in need for a place to stay the night or some food. This shelter has no admission or stay requirements; everyone is welcome. For those who are looking for a more long-term, life-changing opportunity, there is a 28-week long program that helps people get them off the streets, back into the workforce.
KANSAS
3655 E 25th St
Lawrence, KS 66046
(785) 832-8864
The Lawrence Community Shelter provides shelter and accommodation services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter can also serve as an emergency stay for those in immediate need for a place. It also provides regular meals, warm and comfortable beds, clothing, transportation, and numerous utilities. The Lawrence Community Shelter is also known for its numerous supportive programs and services that include mental and physical health care, substance abuse recovery program, court and legal services as well as services for the disabled and elderly. There is also job training and employment assistance, as well as intensive case management for the shelter’s residents.
Johnson County Interfaith Hospitality Network
6315 W 110th St
Overland Park, KS 66211
(913) 345-2121
The JoCo IHN is a shelter that provides shelter and housing services to homeless families. This shelter also has a service of rotating emergency shelter for up to 90 days. The shelter provides the basic, day-to-day necessities including meals, clothing, showers and laundry facilities. Among numerous supportive services and programs, the shelter provides life skills workshops, job search, and employment assistance as well as education classes. For single parents or parents in general, there are parenting and childcare classes. And, for individuals looking for a thorough change of the current lifestyle, there is also intensive case management with legal and professional assistance.
2100 N. 13th St.
Kansas City, KS 66104
(913) 321-2206
The Shalom House is a shelter that provides housing and supportive services only to men. The shelter provides meals, beds and overall a safe place to stay to homeless, men, and has been doing so ever since 1982. The Shalom House offers emergency and transitional housing services, a chance to use medical, mental and physical, care, as well as a chance to further education needs of the homeless men at the shelter. The shelter is faith-based and focuses on helping men find betterment through faith-based programs and prayer.
KENTUCKY
2400 Crittenden Dr
Louisville, KY 40217
(502) 635-5233
The YMCA Safe Place provides shelter to the youth of Kentucky. The shelter provides emergency services to those in immediate need for a place to stay. Of course, the shelter also provides meals, clothing, shower and laundry facilities, as well as transportation services. For those willing to improve and better their lives, there are also life skills workshops, family mediation services as well as intensive case management. The shelter clients are also offered medical and dental care. There are no special admission requirements but it would be good to call or pay a visit in advance.
1034 S. Jackson St.
Louisville, KY 40203
(502) 584-2480
Even though it is characterized as a men’s shelter only, Ozanam Inn is more than willing to provide support and housing services to all homeless individuals. The goal of this shelter is to provide aid to the poor and those in need, offering food, shelter, and clothing. The shelter can house up to 100 homeless individuals, mostly men, offering warm beds and a nice warm meal. During the day, there is also food offered, however, without the housing services. The shelter does have a special program that is offered to men; up to 30 men are given educational services and substance abuse help. Nevertheless, every single guest is given a meal, a warm bed to spend the night, clean clothes, showers and access to laundry facilities.
Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky
634 Scott St
Covington, KY 41011
(859) 291-4555
The Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky provides support and housing services to men and women. The shelter provides emergency services during the winter months in the form of warm breakfast and dinners, as well as a cozy, comfortable bed. When it comes to other supportive services, the shelter provides clothing, toiletries, shower, and laundry facilities. Since this is an emergency shelter, after all, there are no long-term programs and supportive services, but potential clients should call and check if there are new regarding the shelter’s program and admission requirements.
LOUISIANA
Address kept confidential
Lafayette, LA
(888) 411-1333
This shelter provides accommodation and support services to homeless women and children. It also provides emergency, transitional housing or permanent supportive housing services to its clients. With this shelter, there is a focus on providing and a safe space for the victims of domestic violence and child abuse, therefore women and children are kept at a confidential address. Therefore, it is important to make a call first in order to get a place at this shelter. Other than this, the shelter provides dinner, shower and laundry facilities as well as a playroom for children. For women looking for a change, there is legal assistance and advocacy, as well as case management.
1134 Baronne St
New Orleans, LA 70113
(504) 523-2116
The New Orleans Mission shelter provides housing and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. It also serves as an emergency or transitional shelter. The shelter provides the basic, day-to-day necessities, like meals, clothing and shower facilities. At New Orleans Mission, there are numerous programs intended to help clients get back on the right track. Some of the programs include life skills workshops, GED classes, and chapel services. For those looking for a thorough change of lifestyle, there are counseling and case management services.
425 St John St
Lafayette, LA 70501
(337) 233-6816
The St. Joseph shelter provides shelter and supportive services to homeless men. The shelter provides services every day and accepts clients from 7:30 pm until all the beds are filled. The shelter provides breakfast and dinner, a nice, warm bed and possibly shower facilities. There are also support services and programs at the shelter, some of them including employment and job finding assistance as well as addiction recovery programs. The only admission requirement for this shelter is not in the sex offender registry and not to have any active warrants. Clients need to have some sort of identification or ID to get admitted.
MAINE
147 Shaker Hill Rd
Alfred, ME 04002
(207) 324-1137
The York County shelter has been serving homeless individuals and families for over 40 years now. The shelter provides emergency, transitional and permanent housing services to men, women, and families. At the shelter, clients can receive meals, clothing, shower, and access to laundry facilities. Among the supportive services and programs, there is a residential addiction recovery program, as well as mental health treatment services. For those willing to participate, the shelter offers individual and group counseling, as well as job training and employment assistance. The admission requirements for this shelter require clients to be sober and mentally stable.
38 Preble St
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 775-0026
The Preble Street shelter provides support and housing services to homeless men, women, families, low-income and at-risk individuals/families. The shelter also provides emergency shelter services to homeless or runaway teenagers. The Preble Street shelter provides transitional and permanent supported housing to its clients, alongside the basic, day-to-day necessities (which include meals, clothing, toiletries, shower, laundry facilities, food pantry). Among supportive services and programs, the shelter provides a program for veterans, as well as addiction recovery program. For those willing to take a thorough look at their lives, there is also case management services.
209 Lincoln St
Lewison, ME 04240
(207) 783-6086
This homeless shelter is known for not only providing accommodation services to homeless individuals but also for focusing on the root cause of one’s homelessness and joblessness. The shelter provides, of course, immediate help to those in need, but through a variety of supportive programs, the shelter focuses on their client’s self-sufficient and independent future. The Hope Haven shelter welcomes clients from 5:30 pm, Monday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 4 pm. The clients are given evening meals, and a warm, cozy bed to stay the night. Those individuals who really want change are allowed to stay at the shelter up to 60 days and actively join the programs at the shelter.
MARYLAND
Address kept confidential
Baltimore, MD
(410) 285-7496
The Family Crisis Center provides housing and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter also provides emergency shelter and services up to 90 days, as well as transitional housing services for up to six months. At the shelter, clients will receive meals, a nice, warm bed, clothing, shower, and access to laundry facilities. There are also supportive programs, like individual and family counseling as well as victim advocacy services. Because the shelter focuses on providing a safe haven to the victims of domestic violence and child abuse, the address is kept confidential. Therefore, clients need to contact the shelter in advance via phone.
Collington Square Non-Profit Corporation
1211 N Chester St
Baltimore, MD 21213
(410) 342-6858
The CSNPC shelter provides housing and supportive services to mainly women and children, but it also accepts other homeless individuals and people in need. The CSNPS facilities (as there are numerous entities in different parts of the city) can serve as emergency shelter, as well as a transitional housing option. The shelter provides basic necessities, that include meals and clothing, for example. However, there are also numerous supportive programs clients can join, like residential addiction recovery program, substance abuse counseling or job and computer training. For residentials, there is also medical, physical and mental, care.
The National center for Children and Families
6301 Greentree Rd
Bethesda, MD 20817
(301) 365-4480
This center provides accommodation, housing, and supportive services to homeless families and children. The shelter serves as an emergency shelter as well as transitional housing for qualifying families. At the shelter, clients can receive meals and clothing, as well as access to shower and laundry facilities. However, the shelter does not only provide the basics but also offer an array of supportive programs. These programs include individual, group and family counseling, life skills workshops, childcare, and substance abuse counseling. For those willing to make some thorough lifestyle changes, there is case management, computer and job training, and employment assistance.
St. Ann’s Center for Children, Youth and Families
4901 Eastern Ave
Hyattsville, MD 20782
(301) 559-5500
The St. Ann’s Center serves as a shelter for homeless pregnant women, mother, and children. The shelter provides emergency services, as well as supportive and transitional housing to these women and children, with an emphasis on victims of domestic violence and child abuse. The shelter provides meals, beds, toiletries, shower, and laundry to all women, regardless of the length of their stay. For women looking for life betterment and self-sufficiency, there are educational classes, life skills workshops as well as individual and family counseling. Women are also offered parenting classes and childcare.
MASSACHUSETTS
529 Main St
Charlestown, MA 02129
(617) 547-1885
The Heading Home shelter provides housing and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter provides emergency services but also serves as transitional and permanent supported housing for qualifying individuals. The shelter provides basic necessities for all clients, however, only enables day center for women, providing meals, clothing, and counseling. Among other supportive programs and services, the clients can also join the residential addiction recovery program. There is also an Economic Mobility Center, where residents can join in on financial education and career development services.
812 Merrimack St
Lowell, MA 01854
(978) 458-2870
The House of Hope shelter provides accommodation and emergency help to homeless families, with an emphasis on admitting homeless women and children. Alongside the emergency shelter, this shelter provides transitional and permanent supportive housing to qualifying individuals. Moreover, it, of course, provides basic necessities like meals, beds, and clothing at the thrift shop. There are also numerous supportive programs, like job readiness training, employment assistance, and youth enrichment program.
91 Liberty St
Lynn, MA 01901
(781) 581-0739
The Lynn Shelter Association provides support and housing services to men, women, and families. This place serves as an emergency shelter for adults, but also as transitional housing for families. The shelter makes sure to provide basic necessities to its clients, including three meals per day, a bed to sleep in, clothing, shower, and laundry facilities. For families and single parents at the shelter, there are parenting classes and childcare. For those looking for a more concrete lifestyle change, there are housing and job searching services and assistance, as well as case management. The shelter offers transportation services too.
The Lifebridge Northshore Campus
56 Margin St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 744-0500
At the Lifebridge Campus, homeless men and women can get emergency service and permanent supportive shelter. The shelter provides meals, clothing, and toiletries, alongside access to shower and laundry facilities. For the residents, there is basic health and medical care. Among numerous supportive programs, the shelter provides job training, employment assistance, AA and NA programs, and even English language classes. For the residents at the shelter, there is a thrift shop where they can look for clothes. And, for those looking for a more thorough change in life in regards to self-sufficiency and independence, there is intensive case management. Overall, the shelter focuses on providing the best possible service to their clients, as well as an opportunity for them to better their lives.
MICHIGAN
Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries
150 Stimson St
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 993-4700
The Detroit Rescue Mission shelter provides support and housing services to homeless men, women, and families, as well as individuals/families that are at-risk or low-income. The shelter serves as immediate help, or rather an emergency shelter to many homeless individuals. However, for qualifying individuals, this shelter offers transitional housing for up to 2 years, as well as permanent supportive housing. At the shelter, residents can join mental health counseling programs, addiction recovery programs as well as job training and workforce placement. There are also adult education classes for those who want to build their knowledge, as well as case management for a more self-sufficient and independent life.
924 Cedar St
Flint, MI 48503
(810) 239-5433
The Shelter of Flint provides shelter and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. It can serve as an emergency shelter for a month, and there are also transitional and permanent supportive housing services. The shelter provides basic, day-to-day necessities like meals, toiletries, showers, transportation and access to laundry facilities. Among many supportive programs, residents at the shelter can join the life skills workshops as well as employment education and training. There is also counseling and case management. The emergency shelter usually fills to maximum capacity every night, so it important to make a call or pay a visit in advance. Women and children are a priority when it comes to admission, as well as regular clients. However, around 40% of daily clients are homeless and at a shelter for the first time.
1040 Francis St.
Jackson, MI 49203
(517) 612-2102
The Grace Haven Center is an organization that strives to provide homeless individuals, families, and children with immediate help. The Center provides emergency shelter and immediate services to around 25 people every night. It provides a meal, a nice, warm bed, and other basic necessities, like clothing. The shelter does not have any special admission requirements, other than the requirement that the children must be with their parents or legal guardian. Other than this, everybody is welcome at this shelter. The shelter also offers few supportive programs, like job training, employment assistance as well as permanent housing options for qualifying individuals. There is no known admission requirement, but clients are advised to contact the shelter in advance due to a small number of people that can actually be admitted.
MINNESOTA
314 3rd St S
Minneapolis, MN 55415
(612) 332-4500
The People Serving People shelter provides its supportive and housing services to homeless, low-income or at-risk families. For families with an immediate need for a place to stay, this shelter also provides emergency services and affordable housing. Clients can find at this shelter the basic amenities, from regular, three meals per day, to toiletries, diapers, showers and laundry facilities. Among numerous supportive programs, the clients can join the childcare and childhood development program, culinary arts training, job readiness program, family activities program and life skills workshops. For qualifying residents, the shelter offers transitional and permanent supported housing in the form of private apartments. The shelter really focuses on not only providing a meal and a bed but also a chance for these families to thrive and live the life they deserve.
10065 3rd St NE
Blaine, MN 55434
(763) 780-2830
In the hope to put an end to domestic and sexual violence, the Alexandra House shelter accepts homeless, jobless women and their children. This shelter provides emergency services and offers to all of its residents’ access to basic amenities like meals, clothing, toiletries, and diapers. There are also shower and laundry facilities in the hope to enable these women and children to function normally and have access to all the basic, day-to-day necessities. Since this is a shelter with a domestic violence focus, there are therapy and support groups, legal advocacy and case management. For women who are seeking a more thorough change in their lives, there is also job training and employment assistance.
3300 4th Ave N
Anoka, MN 55303
(763) 323-7006
The Stepping Stone shelter provides support and housing services to homeless men and women. To these individuals, this place can serve as an emergency shelter for up to 7 days, or as transitional housing for up to 90 days. The shelter provides regularly three meals a day, clothing, toiletries as well as shower and laundry facilities. Unlike other shelters, the Stepping Stone provides individual rooms for its residents, instead of a bed in a hall or a larger room shared with other people. For the resident looking for a more substantial change of lifestyle, there is also intensive case management.
MISSISSIPPI
328 S Gallatin St
Jackson, MS 39207
(601) 353-5864
The Gateway Rescue Mission shelter provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. For those in immediate need of a place to stay, this place can serve as an emergency shelter for up to 3 days, as well as transitional housing for women. Among numerous supportive programs, clients can also join the residential addiction recovery program, as well as life skills workshops. At the shelter, clients are provided with meals, a nice, warm bed, and other daily necessities. There is also a soup kitchen at the shelter, providing meals for the clients passing by, as well as Bible study for those with the need for spiritual betterment.
110 Presto Ln.
Jackson MS, 39206
(601) 982-4881
The Salvation Army in Jackson, also known as the Center of Hope, provides housing and supportive services to homeless men and women. The shelter provides programs like transitional and permanent supported housing but can serve as an emergency shelter for up ten consecutive days. During the bad weather, when it’s freezing or too hot, the shelter offers one-night stays as well. At the shelter, the residents are provided with two meals (breakfast and dinner), as well as access to shower and laundry facilities, toiletries and other daily necessities. For resident wishing for a more self-sufficient and independent lifestyle, there is counseling, as well as job training and employment assistance.
800 Raymond Rd
Jackson, MS 39204
(601) 720-5078
At God’s Haven shelter, homeless men, women, and children can receive supportive and housing services. The shelter provides emergency services as well, for those in immediate need for a place to stay the night. At God’s Haven, they don’t only accept homeless individuals, but also people who are at-risk or on the verge of becoming homeless, offering the spiritual, emotional and physical strength to fight against poverty and homelessness. The shelter provides transitional housing for qualifying individuals and families, but to others offers credit repair as well as first-time homebuyers programs as well. The shelter, of course, provides the daily necessities, from meals to beds, clothing, and showers. It also enables clients to join adult programs that include life skills workshops, parenting classes, and job training.
MISSOURI
918 E 9th St
Kansas City, MO 64106
(816) 472-5664
The reStart shelter provides shelter and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The place can serve as an emergency shelter, as well as transitional or permanent housing for qualifying individuals. The shelter provides daily necessities, including meals, bed, clothing, showers and occasional access to laundry facilities. At the shelter, clients and residents can join some of the adult programs, including life skills workshops, activities programs, addiction recovery program as well as job training and workforce placement. There are no known admission requirements for this shelter, but it is important to check in advance, just in case.
1520 Cherry St.
Kansas City, MO 64108
(816) 421-7643
At the Kansas City Rescue Mission shelter, homeless men, women, and families can find housing and supportive services. This used to be a men’s shelter, but the staff recognized the need to expand and welcome everyone who is struggling or in need of a place to stay. Therefore, this shelter provides meals, beds, clothing, and shelter to homeless individuals, admitting up to 80 clients every night. The client can use the emergency services and stay at the shelter for up to two night or can start working with a caseworker and extend their stay. At the shelter, the resident can join numerous adult programs, like educational programs or addiction recovery programs.
800 N Tucker Blvd
St. Louis, MO 63101
(314) 802-0700
This shelter provides shelter and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families, as well as to low-income or at-risk individuals and families. The St. Patrick Center can also serve as an emergency shelter, as well as a transitional housing option for qualifying individuals. At the shelter, the residents are provided with daily necessities, like meals, clothing, and access to shower facilities. Moreover, they can also join some of the supportive programs at the shelter, like job readiness training or life skills workshops. The shelter also provides support and housing services to homeless veterans and their families.
MONTANA
Women’s Resource Community Support Center
221 ½ S Idaho St
Dillon, MT 597256
(800) 253-9811
This woman’s center provides shelter and support to homeless women and children, as well as the victims of domestic violence and sexual or child abuse. The place can also serve as an emergency shelter or transitional housing for the victims of domestic violence. The shelter always makes sure to provide meals, beds, toiletries, diapers, shower, and laundry to the women residing there. There are also several support programs for the women at the shelter that include support groups, legal advocacy, counseling and case management. The shelter also focuses on providing educational classes as well as job training and employment assistance.
1110 W Broadway
Missoula, MT 59802
(406) 728-1809
The Poverello Center provides accommodation and supportive service to homeless men, women, and families. It serves as a short-term, housing-focused, emergency shelter. The shelter provides meals, beds, toiletries, bathrooms, and shower facilities, as well as emergency laundry services. Unlike other shelters, this one also provides mail, phone and messaging services, together with access to their computer lab. There is also medical service as well as the 12 step meetings and other addiction recovery services. For dedicated residents, there are education classes, job readiness program, and employment assistance. The shelter provides housing and supportive services to veterans and their families too.
2520 1st Ave. N.
Billings, MT 59101
(406) 259-3105
The Montana Rescue Mission is a shelter that provides shelter and accommodation to homeless families. The families are allowed to stay at this emergency shelter for up to 30 days. Qualifying families are allowed to extend their stay at the shelter with special permission and under particular circumstances. Residents, in general, are provided with delicious meals (breakfast and dinner) as well as with cozy beds, toiletries, and access to shower and laundry facilities. At the shelter, residents can join support groups, counseling sessions, educational classes, employment assistance, and chaplain services. The shelter has no special admission requirements, other than having an identification card.
NEBRASKA
414 E. 6th St.
North Platte, NE 69101
(308) 532-5050
The Connection Homeless Shelter provides emergency accommodation and support services to homeless individuals. It is an emergency facility that allows its residents to stay from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the urgency and seriousness of the situation. The shelter also enables transitional housing where stays are allowed for up to 2 years. At the shelter, residents are provided with a warm and secure place to stay the night, a hot meal and depending on the resources, they can be provided with clothing and other daily necessities. The Connection Homeless Shelter also provides educational classes and addiction recovery programs to their residents who are willing to make a substantial change. There are no special admission requirements, other than having to undergo drug tests, background checks and breathalyzers.
110 Q St
Lincoln, NE 68508
(402) 475-1303
The People’s City Mission is a shelter that provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The place can also serve as an emergency shelter as well as transitional housing for homeless women and families. At the shelter, the residents are provided with three meals per day, clothing, access to shower and laundry facilities as well as toiletries. The shelter also enables clients to join some of their supportive programs, like life skills workshops, job readiness program as well as youth activity program. Because there is a high admission demand for this shelter, it is important to contact the place in advance and look into any possible admission requirements.
2828 N 23rd St E
Omaha, NE 68110
(402) 422-1111
At this shelter, homeless men, women, and families are provided with shelter, accommodation and support services. The shelter also serves as an emergency shelter, as well as permanent supportive housing for the qualifying individuals. At the shelter, homeless individuals are provided with meals, warm and cozy beds and clothing. The residents can also join some of the adult supportive programs, that include the residential addiction recovery program, substance abuse counseling, GED classes, and job training program. The shelter strives to provide their residents with experience and skills to achieve self-sufficiency and financial independence, therefore residents can also join life skills workshops and case management services.
NEVADA
1 W Owens Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 385-0072
The Shade Tree shelter is probably one of the best ones in the state. It provides shelter, accommodation and supportive services to homeless women and children, as well as their pets. The place provides emergency shelter up to 90 days, transitional housing up to 1 year and can also serve as a day shelter. The shelter provides daily necessities, like meals, place to stay, clothing, as well as access to shower and laundry facilities. Just like other shelters, this one provides supportive services and programs too; residents can join the life skills workshops, job readiness training, and other support groups. For families and parents with children, the shelter provides daycare and children’s activity program. Every resident at the shelter can have access to basic health care clinic as well.
2915 W Charleston Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89102
(702) 877-0133
The Safe Nest shelter provides shelter and supportive services to homeless women and children. The focus at the shelter is on the victims of domestic violence and victims of child and sexual abuse. The shelter provides emergency services for those with an immediate need for help and a place to stay. Overall, residents at the shelter can enjoy a nice, warm meal, clothing, and access to shower and laundry facilities. Since this is a place for women and children, there are also toiletries and diapers provided. Residents at the shelter can join numerous supportive programs like parenting classes, life skills workshops, children’s program, and job/housing assistance.
480 W Bonanza Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89106
(702) 382-1766
At this shelter and accommodation facility, homeless individuals are provided with housing and supportive services and programs. The shelter provides emergency services as well as extended or transitional stay. Residents are usually allowed to stay at the shelter for up to 7 night, with extension permitted only to qualifying individuals. The shelter provides regular meals (breakfast and dinner), warm and cozy beds, as well as access to showers and laundry facilities. Unfortunately, the shelter functions on a ‘first-come-first-serve’ principle, therefore it is important to contact the shelter and save a spot. Residents who manage to get admitted into the shelter are offered the opportunity to work with a social worker in order to help them obtain employment, permanent housing, and financial stability.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
122 Market St
Manchester, NH 03101
(603) 641-9441
Families in Transition shelter provides housing and supportive services for homeless individuals and families. The shelter focuses on providing a true sense of home to all their residents, as well as a sense of community. Therefore, FIT provides a number of housing and supportive programs options. For example, to meet diverse individuals’ needs, the shelter provides permanent affordable housing, permanent supportive housing, transitional and recovery housing as well as a hope house and a resource center and shelter. Other than this, the supportive programs offer residents a chance to join the addiction recovery program, job readiness program as well as case management services. The shelter, of course, provides the daily necessities, including meals, beds, clothing, and toiletries.
Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter
42 Chestnut St.
Nashua, NH 03061
(603) 889-7770
The Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter is a facility that provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The services can be emergency or long-term, even though the shelter used to only offer short-term services. Now, the shelter provides nice, warm meals, cozy beds, clothing, and bathrooms to homeless individuals on a daily basis, up to several months. The residents at the shelter are able to join some of the supportive programs as well; from employment and educational programs to life skills workshop and addiction recovery counseling, each program is designed to help individuals and families achieve independence and self-sufficiency.
45 High St
Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 882-3616
The Harbor Homes shelter provides an array of housing and supportive services to homeless adults and families, as well as those who are at risk of homelessness or are living with disabilities. The shelter offers emergency services, as well as transitional housing or permanent supportive housing options. At the shelter, the residents can receive medical care, and also join the program/groups for those dealing with a mental illness. Moreover, the residents can join the homeless reintegration programs and employment services that are valid for homeless individuals, especially homeless veterans. At the shelter, there is also a unique employment program where residents are working with a professional employment specialist. This specialist helps people write their resume, look for a job and work on their personal and professional development. Of course, the shelter also provides meals, a cozy bed, clothing, and access to shower/laundry facilities.
NEW JERSEY
929 Atlantic Ave
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
(609) 348-4070
The Covenant House is a shelter that provides supportive services and housing to youth up to age 21. The shelter is a residential care center that admits young people who have suffered abuse, neglect, abandonment, homelessness and human trafficking. The shelter offers emergency and transitional housing, as well as the basic, daily necessities like meals, beds, clothing, shower and laundry facilities. The young people at the shelter are also able to join some of the numerous supportive programs, that include GED classes, life skills workshops, job readiness programs, parenting classes as well as substance abuse counseling. Moreover, the medical center at the shelter provides mental health services in the hope to help young people make more wise decisions.
Family Promise of Morris County
51 Washington St
Morristown, NJ 07960
This shelter provides emergency and supportive services, as well as housing to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter provides emergency shelter program, as well as the community support program, alongside the transitional housing option. The shelter serves as a day center, drop-in center and as a place where people can stay short-term. The residents are provided with meals, beds, clothing, shower and laundry facilities. The shelter also provides phone and computer access. Among the supportive programs at the shelter, residents can join the life skills workshop, educational program, and adopt-a-family program. There is also an opportunity for intensive case management with licensed social workers for those willing to receive more substantial and long-term help.
393 Main St
Paterson, NJ 07501
(973) 523-6220
At Eva’s Village, homeless men, women, and families are welcomes and provided with accommodation and support services. The place serves as an emergency shelter, transitional or permanent affordable housing option. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, beds, clothing as well as showers and laundry facilities. There are several adult supportive programs residents can join, like job training and placement in the workforce, substance abuse counseling, mental and dental clinic, etc. For families and single parents with children, there is the after school program as well as childcare.
NEW MEXICO
10300 Constitution Ave
Albuquerque, NM 87112
(505) 243-4887
This place provides shelter and accommodation to homeless women and children. The Barrett Foundation provides shelter and rapid re-housing programs as well as enables rental assistance to qualified individuals. The shelter also features several permanent supportive housing programs for women and families experiencing chronic homelessness. At the shelter, the residents are provided with regular meals (three meals per day), cozy beds, clothing, shower, and laundry facilities, as well as toiletries and diapers for children. The shelter also provides supportive services in the form of job search assistance and job training program, as well as case management with licensed social workers.
Las Cruces Gospel Rescue Mission
1050 W. Amador
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 523-7727
The LCG Rescue Mission is a facility that provides shelter and supportive services to homeless individuals and families. The shelter strives to end homelessness and poverty; therefore, it provides a safe place for up to 130 people, alongside numerous support programs. At the shelter, the residents are provided with three meals per day, bed, clothing, shower, and laundry facilities. They are also are able to join the employment and job training programs, counseling services and educational resources. The staff at the shelter believes that these programs will keep their clients off the street and help them find their way back to self-sufficiency and independence in society. The shelter is also able to admit homeless children and teenagers, under the age of 18.
Youth Emergency Shelters and Family Services
5686A Agua Fria St
Santa Fe, NM 87507
(505) 438-0502
As the name is self-explanatory, the shelter provides support and housing services to homeless youth, aged 10 to 17, as well as homeless families with children. The place provides emergency shelter for up to 4 months, as well as transitional and rapid re-housing services to homeless families and qualifying individuals. The shelter always makes sure to provide healthy and nutritious meals, as well as comfortable beds, clothing, shower and laundry facilities as well as transportation services. The residents at the shelter are free to join some of the supportive programs, that include life-skills workshops, art, and cooking classes as well as educational programs.
NEW YORK
38 Seward Ave
Middle town, NY 10940
(845) 343-7115
This shelter facility provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also offers transitional and permanent housing options for qualifying individuals. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, beds, clothing and other daily necessities, including transportation services. The residents can also join some of the shelter’s supportive programs, like residential addiction recovery program as well as counseling and case management services. There are no known admission requirements, but it should be checked in advance, just in case.
90 Lafayette St
New York, NY 10013
(212) 226-6214
The NYC Rescue Mission provides housing and supportive services to homeless men and women. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also provides short-and long-term residential housing programs. At the shelter, individuals are provided with meals, food, clothing, showers and laundry facilities. Furthermore, the shelter provides medical and optical services at the shelter’s medical clinic. There are also numerous supportive programs residents can join that include residential addiction recovery programs, career and learning center, chapel and faith-related services and well as workforce readiness assistance and preparation programs. Because homelessness is a big problem in this area, it is important to check with the shelter in advance whether there are any admission requirements.
227 Bowery
New York, NY 10002
(212) 674-3456
At the Bowery Mission, homeless individuals and families are provided with shelter and supportive services and programs. The shelter ensures that each individual receives the basic amenities, from the shelter and safe place to stay to the meals, clothing, toiletries, and access to shower and laundry facilities. This shelter believes that homelessness is a state of mind, rather than a physical issue, therefore it works on transitioning homeless people from the street into permanent housing. The shelter also focuses on providing employment opportunities and job readiness training to willing residents. The shelter can house up to 260 men, women and children per night. During the winter month, the shelter expands the number of beds for an additional 150 ones for men.
NORTH CAROLINA
410 Liberty St
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 682-0538
The Urban Ministries of Durham provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The emergency shelter is available for homeless individuals up to 2 weeks, and there is a referral required for admission. Other than this, the shelter provides meals, clothing, and toiletries, when there are available resources. At the shelter, the residents can join an array of adult supportive programs, that include job training and workforce placement, addiction recovery programs, veterans’ services, as well as case management. At the shelter’s medical clinic, the residents can also join the mental health counseling program.
314 E Hargett St
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 828-9014
At the Raleigh Rescue Mission, housing and supportive services are provided to homeless men, women, children, and families. The place usually serves as an emergency shelter, but as of recently, there are other, transitional or permanent supportive housing options. The shelter always makes sure to provide breakfast and dinner, clothing toiletries and access to shower facilities. At the shelter, the residents can join supportive programs like residential addiction recovery program, life skills workshops and parenting classes. There is a medical center at the shelter where residents can also use medical, dental and eye care services. This shelter also offers a program called A New Life Plan, which is basically a program consisting of six steps in which individuals can achieve self-sufficiency and independence; there is also a program for children called Children’s New Life Plan.
903 Method Rd
Raleigh, NC 27606
(919) 832-6024
This shelter provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless, low-income or at-risk families. The shelter serves as a rotating emergency shelter, but there are also transitional housing options for qualifying families. At the shelter, the residents receive the basic amenities, like meals, access to shower and laundry facilities as well as transportation services. The resident can also join some of the supportive programs and services that include life skills workshops, employment assistance, counseling, and case management. There are no known admission requirements for this shelter, but an ID is probably a must.
NORTH DAKOTA
205 3rd Ave SE
Minot, ND 58701
(701) 838-1812
The YWCA Minot provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless women and children. The place can serve as an emergency shelter for homeless individuals for up to two months. There is also a permanent supportive housing option for qualifying individuals. The shelter provides the basic amenities that include meals, clothing, and access to shower and laundry facilities. Moreover, there are also medical and health care services, life skills workshops, job search assistance and case management for all the women residing at the shelter. The shelter focuses on providing these women with new life opportunities, therefore admits not only homeless women but also survivors of rape and/or domestic violence.
420 Division Ave.
Grand Forks, ND 58201
(701) 722-6609
The Northlands Rescue Mission serves as an emergency shelter for homeless men and women. The shelter provides up to 100 beds every night for homeless individuals, 25 beds for women and rest is for men. Both men and women are allowed to stay at this emergency shelter up to 30 days free of charge. After that, residents are required to pay a fee $4 to $6 per night or could work at the shelter 3 to 4 hours every day. This is a rather interesting concept that should make these individuals more accustomed to having an obligation, a job and what it means to be financially stable and responsible. The shelter, of course, provides meals, beds, clothing and hygiene stuff. The residents can also join some of the adult supportive services, like job readiness program, employment assistance, and life skills workshops.
1406 2nd St NW
Bismarck, ND 58554
(701) 220-8315
The Welcome House shelter provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless, low-income or at-risk families. The place can serve as an emergency shelter for these families up to 90 days, however, the shelter also provides rapid re-housing and transitional housing services for qualifying families. The shelter makes sure to provide meals, clothing, comfortable beds, toiletries, showers, and other amenities according to the available resources. The residents can join some of the shelter’s supportive programs that include life skills workshops, computer training, parenting classes, and Bible study. There are no known admission requirements, but clients should check with the shelter directly or over the phone just in case.
OHIO
The City Mission – Laura’s Home
18120 Puritas Ave
Cleveland, OH 44135
(216) 472-5500
At Laura’s Home shelter, homeless women and children can find a safe place to stay, but also take advantage of the numerous support services. The shelter strives to provide these women with stability, self-sufficiency, and independence by offering them meaningful solutions. At the shelter, the residents are provided with the basic amenities, like meals, clothing, toiletries, and diapers. However, the main focus is on the support groups, job readiness training, and adult education cases. There are things that the shelter’s staff believes to provide a long-term change. In addition, women can use the childcare services, chapel services as well as case management. The shelter can provide a short-term stay, but it also offers the transitional housing option.
1805 Dalton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45214
(513) 241-5525
At the City Gospel Mission, homeless men, women, and children are provided with housing and supportive services. The shelter functions an emergency, overnight shelter, but also offers a transitional housing option for the qualifying individuals. The residents at the shelter are provided with the basic, day-to-day necessities that include meals (breakfast and dinner), clothing, toiletries, and showers. Other than the basic amenities, there are several support and recovery programs for men and women; residential substance abuse recovery, life skills training, job readiness programs, and employment assistance. Clients need to arrive by 4 am, and the only admission requirement is that they are not on the sex offender registry.
Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Cincinnati
137 N. Detroit St.
Xenia, OH 45385
(937) 372-0705
The Interfaith Hospitality Network is an organization that provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless, low-income or at-risk families. The organization offers emergency shelter as well as transitional housing services. At the shelter, the families can stay up to 60 days, however, during that time they are given work to do, usually helping around the shelter. Alongside the work, the shelter offers employment and educational classes, as well as parenting classes and childcare services. The shelter also provides basic amenities, like meals, beds, clothing, toiletries, and bathrooms. There are several admission requirements, therefore, there are interviews performed every day between 8 am and 5 pm.
OKLAHOMA
104 W Comanche
Norman, OK 73069
(405) 360-4954
At this facility, homeless men, women, and families are provided with shelter, housing, and supportive services. The Food and Shelter facility provides emergency shelter, day shelter, as well as rapid re-housing and transitional housing programs, that are available for families up to 2 years. The shelter provides meals, beds, clothing, toiletries as well as shower and laundry facilities. Residents at the shelter can also join some of the supportive programs as services, like activities program, employment, and educational classes as well as case management services.
Carter Crane Emergency Homeless Shelter
1203 Sw Texas Ave.
Lawton, OK 73501
(580) 248-0936
At the Carter Crane emergency homeless shelter, homeless individuals and families are provided with accommodation and support services. The residents are allowed to stay at the shelter for up to 6 weeks. Every resident at the shelter is provided with strong case management, employment assistance, and housing support. The shelter, of course, provides meals, beds, clothing, shower and laundry facilities. There is also a medical center at the shelter where residents can undergo health check-ups. The shelter also provides transportation services, by providing bus ticket for the local bus line.
1724 NW 4th St
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
(405) 415-8500
The Homeless Alliance strives to end homelessness and poverty by providing shelter and supportive services to homeless individuals and families. The place functions as a day shelter, but it also offers short- and long-term stays for qualifying individuals. At the shelter, residents are provided with meals (breakfast and lunch), beds, clothing (if available), access to shower facilities as well as a barbershop and a salon. Moreover, the residents can also join some of the supportive programs, that include educational and employment classes, job training and readiness programs as well as AA/NA support groups.
OREGON
The Union Gospel Mission of Salem
345 Commercial St NE
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 362-3983
At the Union Gospel Mission of Salem, all homeless individuals and families are admitted if they’re looking for a safe place to stay, a program to join or an opportunity for a new life. The shelter (or rather, the shelter’s separate facilities) always make sure to provide their clients with meals, additional food, clothing, bathrooms, and comfortable beds. Everyone is welcomed at this shelter, during the winter months especially. The shelter’s multiple facilities accept over 800 residents per year. The shelter provides a short-term stay, however, for those looking for more substantial help, there are employment and educational services, as well as the transitional housing program for the qualifying individuals.
1542 W First Ave
Eugene, OR 97402
(541) 344-3251
The Eugene Mission shelter is a shelter and wellness center for the homeless men, women, and families. The place can also serve as an emergency shelter, but it also provides transitional housing programs to those who qualify. Overall, the shelter provides meals, clothing, toiletries, as well as access to the shower and laundry facilities. Among the supportive programs, the residents are encouraged to join the addiction recovery program, educational and employment classes, as well as take advantage of counseling and case management services.
Community Outreach Emergency Shelter, Inc.
8655 NW Reiman Ave.
Corvallis, OR 97330
(541) 758-3000
The Community Outreach emergency shelter provides housing, accommodation, and support to homeless men, women, and families, as well as to low-income or at-risk families. The shelter provides an emergency stay and emergency services, however, there is also a transitional housing program. At the shelter, the residents are provided with the basic amenities, like meals, clothing and a comfortable bed. Residents are also encouraged to join some of the supportive programs, like employment and job training programs or educational classes. Unlike other shelters, this one has numerous admission requirements; all guest have to be checked, as well as their belongings before they enter the shelter. The potential residents cannot have a history of violent crimes and cannot be on the national sex offender registry. Moreover, no resident can be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
PENNSYLVANIA
Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission
302 N 13th St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 922-6400
The Sunday Breakfast shelter facility provides accommodation and support to homeless men, women, and families, as well as low-income and at-risk families and individuals. This place provides emergency shelter for men and a transitional housing program for women. At the shelter, residents are provided with regular meals (three meals per day provided to the public), as well as beds, clothing, and bathrooms. Residents can also join the supportive programs and services at the shelter, including employment and job readiness training, residential addiction recovery program (for men) and much more. At the shelter, there are also weekly medical check-ups.
141 E High St
Phoenixville, PA 19460
(610) 933-9305
The Good Samaritan Services used to serve only homeless men but now provides housing and support services to all homeless individuals, families, and children. The place serves as an emergency shelter for up to 45 days, and the transitional housing programs are available up to 1 year, free of charge. The shelter provides basic amenities, like meals, clothing, toiletries, and showers. Other than this, there are numerous supportive programs residents can join, like the job-readiness program, life skills workshops, GED prep classes, and substance abuse counseling. For all residents, there is also intensive case management with licensed social workers.
Hope for Reading – Hope Rescue Mission
645 N Sixth St
Reading, PA 19601
(610) 375-4224
The Hope Rescue Mission is a place that provides housing and support services to homeless men of Berk County, PA. The focus of this shelter is to enable men to work through their transition back into the community, by making them productive, self-sufficient and independent. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also provides transitional housing programs up to 6 months. At the shelter, residents are provided with meals, clothing, and access to the shower and laundry facilities. Residents can also join the local gym, as well as the computer lab, job readiness program, educational program and chapel services.
RHODE ISLAND
627 Cranston St
Providence, RI 02907
(401) 274-8861
The Providence Rescue Mission offers shelter, accommodation and support services to homeless men and women. The place functions as an emergency shelter, but there is a transitional housing program for qualifying individuals. At the shelter, residents are provided with two meals per day, breakfast and dinner, as well as with access to the food pantry, shower facilities, and dental clinic. For homeless men at the shelter who are struggling with addiction, there is a residential addiction recovery program they can join. There are no known admission requirements, but one should check with the shelter in advance, just in case.
8 North Rd.
Peace Dale, RI 02883
(401) 782-4770
The Welcome House is a shelter facility that provides accommodation and support to homeless men and women. The shelter serves as an emergency shelter from 30 to 90 days but admits homeless individuals every day of the year. The residents at the shelter are provided with dinner, a bed and other basic amenities, depending on the availability of the resources. Those who decide to stay at the shelter longer than 90 days are required to contribute at least 10 hours of community services, by cleaning or doing maintenance around the shelter. In turn, the shelter’s staff provides employment assistance and job readiness training, as well as help in acquiring permanent housing.
SOUTH CAROLINA
3425 N Main St
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 779-4706
At the Women’s Shelter, homeless women are provided with housing and support services. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also offers a transitional housing program for homeless women up to 2 years. At the shelter, women are given meals and provided with clothing. They also have access to shower and laundry services, as well as the dental health clinic and transportation services. The women at the shelter are also able to join the activity program, Bible study, parenting classes, counseling and case management with a licensed social worker.
2025 Main St
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 708-4861
The Transitions, the homeless center is one of the most comprehensive shelter facilities in the country. The shelter is divided into different centers and shelters; the day center welcomes homeless individuals and provides basic amenities, like meals, clothing, and toiletries. Here, residents can join different classes and programs every day of the week, as well as enjoy a courtyard with a garden. The long-term shelter offers more to their qualifying residents; they are able to stay at this shelter up to 6 months, receive three meals a day and are provided with more beds for male and female residents. The residents are also provided with substance abuse programs, classes in job readiness, literacy, GED prep. And Bible studies. There is also employment and school assistance, as well as technical training programs. For all of the shelter’s residents, there are transportation services, bus passes, and job/health fairs.
1005 Osceola St.
Myrtle Beach, SC 28577
(843) 945-4902
The Street Reach Mission shelter provides shelter, housing, and support services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter is able to provide emergency services for up to 60 individuals each night. Here, residents are able to stay 30 days, during which time they can undergo case management and counseling. This can enable them 30 more days of an emergency stay until there is a possibility for the individuals to lead more self-sufficient and independent lives. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, additional food, clothing, showers, and laundry facilities. There are also numerous programs the residents can join, including job readiness programs, life skills workshops and employment assistance.
SOUTH DAKOTA
301 Fox Run Dr
Rapid City, SD 57701
(605) 721-7860
The Cornerstone Rescue Mission is an organization that provides shelter, housing, and support services to homeless men, women, families, children as well as veterans. The place functions as an emergency shelter that also offers transitional housing programs. Unlike other shelters, however, this one requires a staying fee, which is $7 per night, but only if the potential resident has employment of at least 35 hours per week. In case an individual is unemployed, the shelter has a solution. Unemployed people are required to do chores around the shelter to make up for their inability to pay the fee. The shelter staff believes this is a great way to teach the residents financially and work ethics, as well as provide them with experience for future jobs. At the shelter, residents receive basic amenities, like three meals a day, clothing, toiletries, transportation and a chance to join the Bible study and the case management services.
220 N. Weber Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57102
(605) 334-6732
At the Union Gospel Mission, homeless men, women, families, and veterans are provided with accommodation and support services. The shelter offers emergency services, that allows homeless individuals to stay at the shelter as long as they need to. The length of the stay is usually determined on a case by case basis, with a licensed caseworker. The shelter also offers transitional housing programs to qualifying individuals. The residents at the shelter are provided with meals, beds, clothing, and bathrooms. There are also few supportive programs and services the residents can join, like the employment assistance and job readiness training, educational classes and counseling.
TENNESSEE
Family Promise of Greater Chattanooga
1184 Baldwin St
Chattanooga, TN 37403
(423) 756-3891
At the Family Promise, homeless, low-income and at-risk families are provided with shelter, housing, and support services. The place functions as a rotating emergency and a day shelter, but there is also a transitional housing program for qualifying families. The shelter makes sure to provide the residents with meals, clothing, transportation services, and access to shower and laundry facilities. Residents at the shelter are also able to join some of the supportive programs, like life skills workshops, computer lab, employment assistance and intensive case management with a licensed social worker. There are no known admission requirements, but the potential residents should check with the shelter in advance, just in case.
The Chattanooga Community Kitchen
727 E 11th St
Chattanooga, TN 37401
(423) 756-4222
The Chattanooga Community Kitchen strives to meet the most basic needs of those in need, who are struggling, homeless or vulnerable. The place welcomes homeless men, women, families, and children and provides them with emergency services at their day shelter. Alongside the emergency and day center, the place also offers transitional and permanent supportive programs to the qualifying individuals. At the shelter, the residents are provided with three meal per day, clothing, toiletries and other basic amenities depending on the availability of resources. The residents can also join some of the supportive programs and services, like life skills workshops, health care services, employment assistance and case management services provided by licensed social workers.
Haven of Mercy Homeless Shelter
123 W Millard
Johnson City, TN
(423) 929-0616
The Haven of Mercy homeless shelter used to provide their housing and supportive services to homeless men, but now they’ve expanded their offers to all homeless individuals and families. The focus of the shelter is to feed the hungry and offer them a safe place to stay and start a new chapter in their lives. The place functions as an emergency shelter, but there are also transitional housing programs that last up to 2 years, as well as the permanently affordable housing programs for qualifying individuals. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, clothing, a comfortable bed, and access to shower facilities. The residents can also partake in the shelter’s supportive programs, like job readiness program, life skills workshops, residential addiction recovery program and counseling.
TEXAS
821 Gunter St
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 385-5571
The Casa Marianella shelter provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless immigrant men, women, and children. The place functions as an emergency shelter for homeless immigrant men and women but requires a staying fee of $16.49 per night. There are also transitional housing programs for women and children at the shelter. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, clothing, and access to the shower and laundry facilities. There are also numerous supportive programs the residents can join that include the computer lab, ESL classes, employment and assimilation assistance. There are also services of legal advocacy and case management.
513 Sam Rankin Ave
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
(361) 883-7372
The Mother Theresa shelter provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men and women. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also offer transitional housing programs for men that last up to 24 months. At the shelter, the residents are, of course, provided with meals (breakfast and snacks), as well as clothing, and access to shower and laundry facilities. The shelter also offers a variety of supportive programs the residents can join, like life skills workshops, job readiness training, employment assistance, counseling and case management.
224 W Page Ave
Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 941-8578
The Promise House shelter is one of the most comprehensive youth shelters in the State. The place provides emergency shelter for the youth aged 10 to 24, as well as transitional housing for the youth aged 16 to 24. The youth at the shelter is regularly provided with three meals a day, clothing, toiletries, as well as with medical and dental health care. The youth can also join the supportive programs as services at the shelter, that include activity program, life skills workshops, job readiness program, substance abuse treatments, counseling and case management. The shelter’s staff believes that such an array of programs will help these young people become more responsible, self-sufficient and independent in the years to come.
UTAH
1151 S Redwood Rd
Salt Lake City, UT 84110
(801) 355-6310
At the Salt Lake City Mission, homeless men, women, and families are provided with shelter, housing, and support services. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also offers a transitional housing program to the qualifying individuals. At the shelter, residents are provided with breakfast, a clothing closet, toiletries and other basic amenities depending on the availability of resources. The residents are also able to join supportive programs, like GED classes and college education support, job readiness program, life skills workshops, and chapel services. There is also individuals and family counseling, as well as intensive case management provided by licensed social workers.
463 S 400 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
(801) 355-1302
The Rescue Mission of Salt Lake is an emergency shelter that provides a safe haven and support services to homeless women and men of the State. The shelter is known for its highly successful residential addiction recovery program and emergency services (which include day and night shelter, three meals a day, clothing, showers, and laundry services). At the shelter, residents are able to join numerous supportive services and program, that include job and housing placement services, life skills training, crisis counseling end employment assistance. There is also a special food pantry and a day room (during inclement weather) for the returning residents. There are no known admission requirements, but it is better to check with the shelter directly for more information.
VERMONT
John Graham Housing and Services
69 Main St.
Vergennes, VT 05491
(802) 877-2677
The John Graham emergency shelter provides housing and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. Everybody that needs a safe place to stay and a nice hot meal to eat is welcome at this shelter. The place can house up to 25 people at a time, however, the transitional housing program accepts up to 75 people, with the help of landlords at different locations throughout the county. The shelter provides a counselor and counseling services to each resident and families in hope to help them have a more self-sufficient and independent life. There are also employment assistance and job training programs that have proven very successful in putting an end to homelessness in this county.
VIRGINIA
471 Central Rd
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
(540) 899-9853
The Brisben Center provides shelter, housing, and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but also offers transitional housing programs. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, clothing and other basic amenities, depending on the availability of resources. There are also numerous adult supportive programs and services residents can partake in, like the computer lab, parenting classes, life skills workshops, and GED classes. The are no known admission requirements, but that should be checked directly with the shelter, just in case.
130 Brooke Ave.
Norfolk, VA 23514
(757) 427-1500
At the Union Mission Ministries shelter, homeless men, women, and families are offer shelter, housing, and supportive services. The shelter provides emergency services, but unlike other shelters, there is no limit regarding how long one can actually stay at the shelter. However, there is a catch; single men who are staying at the shelter more than one night are required to actively seek employment. Of course, the staff at the shelter provides job training and employment assistance to encourage these men to seek job, self-sufficiency, and independence. The residents at the shelter are provided with three meals per day, clothing, a comfortable bed, and other basic amenities, in accordance with resource availability. For those willing to change their lives more thoroughly and substantially, there are counseling services, case management, and educational classes as well.
11 E Main St
Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 648-4177
The Home Again shelter facility provides accommodation and supportive services to homeless men, women, and families. The facility functions like emergency shelter, however, qualifying individuals can join the transitional and permanent supportive housing programs as well as the rapid re-housing programs. There is a special focus on providing a transitional housing option for veterans. The residents at the shelter are provided with meals, cozy beds, clothing, as well as access to the bathrooms and showers. There are also several supportive programs residents can join that include life skills workshops, employment assistance, job training and of course, case management with a licensed social worker.
WASHINGTON
Serenity House of Clallam County
2203 W 18th St
Port Angeles, WA 98363
(360) 452-7224
At the Serenity House, homeless women, men, and families are provided with shelter, housing, and supportive services/programs. The place serves as a day center and as an emergency shelter for up to 45 days, but there are also transitional and rapid re-housing programs. For the qualifying individuals, the shelter even offers permanent supportive housing options. At the shelter, the residents are provided with meals, clothing, and access to showers and laundry facilities. There are also interesting and useful support program residents can join, like life skills workshops, job readiness training, case management, parenting classes, and childcare.
1501 N. 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98103
(206) 694-6700
The Solid Ground shelter facility strives to provide the community with more than just a place to stay and a meal to eat. The shelter has a mission to end poverty and undo racism by encouraging people to thrive. At this shelter, homeless men, women, and families are provided with the basic amenities, like meals, clothing, toiletries, and access to showers and laundry facilities. The shelter also provides several housing programs that focus on preventing house loss, providing transitional or permanent supportive housing, as well as building a better housing system. The residents at the shelter are allowed to stay as long as they want and need. However, they do need to have proof of active job/employment search.
Interfaith Works Overnight Shelter
701 Franklin St
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 918-8424 – phone answered 4pm-8am, daily
Email [email protected]
At the IW shelter, everybody is welcome. The place accepts homeless, struggling, vulnerable and in need men, women and families. Per night the shelter provides up to 42 bed to those who arrive first, unfortunately. At the shelter, single adults, couples without children, their pets as well as individuals with physical and mental challenges are prioritized. The shelter provides basic amenities, like food and clothing, as well as bathroom and other necessities, depending on the availability of the resources. The shelter does not have any special admission requirements, other than the individual must be over 18. Residents are not required to undergo sobriety tests, nor do they need to have an ID on them.
WEST VIRGINIA
540 5th Ave
Huntington, WV 25701
(304) 675-1840
The Mason County homeless shelter provides accommodation and support services to homeless men, women, and families. The shelter functions primarily as an emergency shelter, but there are also transitional housing programs. The residents at the shelter are regularly provided with meals, clothing and transportation services, as well as bathrooms and showers. The shelter also focuses on encouraging and enabling their residents to start living a more self-sufficient a substantial lifestyle. Therefore, there are many supportive programs residents can join, like life skills workshops, employment assistance, job readiness training, parenting classes, and of course, case management with licensed social workers.
624 10th St.
Huntington, WV 25701
(304) 523-0293
The Huntington City Mission shelter is a place where homeless men, women, families and married couples are welcomed. The shelter has a dormitory-style setting and is able to house up to 20 people per night. At the shelter, residents are provided with the basic amenities, like meals, additional food, clothing and access to bathrooms. There are also few supportive services/program residents can join, like employment assistance, job readiness training, counseling and case management for those looking for a more thorough change. Moreover, the shelter does not have any admission requirements, other than a proof of active employment search. Of course, residents are always expected to be at their best behavior while at the shelter.
Address kept confidential
Beckley, WV
304-255-2559
At the Women’s Resource Center, women and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual or child abuse are accepted. They’re provided with a safe place to stay, as well as with the basic amenities, like meals, clothing, toiletries, and access to shower and laundry facilities. The women at the shelter are also provided with support programs and services that include case management, legal advocacy, court assistance, parenting classes, and counseling. The Women’s Resource Center is very strict about their focus and policy, so their address is kept confidential. Therefore, it is important to contact the center directly, for more information.
WISCONSIN
Milwaukee Rescue Mission – Safe Harbor
1530 W Center St
Milwaukee, WI 53206
(414) 935-0500
The Safe Harbor provides shelter, housing and support service to homeless men, men in need or men struggling with substance abuse. This place serves mostly as an emergency shelter, but also provides the transitional housing program to its residents. At the shelter, men are provided with meals, clothing as well as access to bathrooms and shower facilities. The residents at the shelter are also encouraged to join the supportive programs/services, like job readiness program, GED prep classes, employment assistance, educational classes, and the Bible study.
Milwaukee Rescue Mission – Joy House
830 N 19th St
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 344-2211
At the Joy House, homeless women and children are provided with shelter, housing, and support services and programs. The shelter functions as an emergency shelter, but also provides the option of transitional housing for the women in need. At the shelter, the residents are provided with basic amenities, like meals, clothing, toiletries as well as access to shower and laundry facilities. Women are also encouraged to join the shelter’s supportive programs/services, like life skills workshops, job training, adult education classes, Biblical counseling, and case management. For women with older children, there is also the youth enrichment program. The shelter does not have any known admission requirements, but that should be checked directly with the shelter, just in case.
New Beginnings Homeless Shelter
134 S. Spring St.
Beaver Dam, WI 53916
(920) 885-9559
The New Beginnings Homeless Shelter is a private, non-profit organization that provides emergency and temporary shelter to homeless men and women. The shelter provides its housing and support services to 10 individuals per night. There are, however, 14 beds at the shelter; 10 are for the permanent guest and 4 beds are reserved for the emergency cases. The shelter provides meals, clothing, and access to bathrooms, shower and laundry facilities. The only admission requirement for this shelter is that the residents are actively searching for employment, as well as that they’re willing to help around the shelter. The shelter also prioritizes families, so they’re allowed to stay longer while single men, for example, are moved to the local motel rooms in the area.
WYOMING
919 N Durbin St
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 577-8026
At the Seton House, homeless families are provided with accommodation and support services that will help them achieve self-sufficiency and independence. The place serves as an emergency shelter, but offer transitional and permanent supportive housing programs for the qualifying families. The shelter always makes sure to provide the basic amenities to the families, like meals, comfortable beds, clothing and access to shower and laundry facilities. Parents and youngsters at the shelter are able to join numerous supportive programs, like parenting classes, after school tutoring, life skills workshops, employment, and job training as well as case management.
1504 Stinson Ave
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 632-3174
The COMEA shelter offers to homeless men, women and families shelter, housing and supportive services. Homeless individuals can use this place as an emergency shelter or can join the transitional housing program if they’re qualified. At the shelter, the residents are served with meals and provided with the basic amenities that include clothing, toiletries and access to the shower facilities. The residents are also encouraged to join the shelter’s numerous supportive program that includes the job-readiness program, employment, and housing assistance, case management and educational classes. There are no known admission requirements but potential resident should check with the shelter directly, for more information.
918 E 2nd St
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 235-2814
The Self-Help Center is an emergency center and a domestic violence safe haven serving homeless men, women, and families. Even though the focus of the shelter is protecting the victims and those in need, it still pays attention to those struggling with poverty and homelessness by providing transitional housing programs. These are usually intended for men, but women and families can also partake. The shelter makes sure to provides nutritious meals, as well as other basic amenities, like clothing, toiletries and access to bathrooms, shower, and laundry facilities. The residents at the shelter are encouraged to use supportive services as a way of finding betterment and achieving a more self-sufficient lifestyle. The programs at the disposal include case management with licensed social workers, educational classes, job readiness training, as well as addiction recovery programs and mental health counseling.
Unseen Avoidable Costs of Homelessness
As long as most people believe that homelessness is something that happens to people who deserve it, the problem of homelessness won’t be solved. Remember, that the age at which someone is most likely to end up in a homeless shelter is less than one year old. How can an infant deserve to be homeless?
Researchers have identified solutions, but public opinion is usually unaware of them, leading to a lack of funding and draconian approaches to helping the homeless.
Sleep Deprivation
We documented the effects of sleep deprivation in a separate article. To summarize, sleep deprivation has significant adverse effects on health supporting behaviors, self-control, physical and mental health, and relationships. Problems caused or worsened by sleep deprivation include:
- Obesity
- Impulsive behavior
- Low self-control
- Memory problems
- Mood swings
- Crankiness and irritability
- Decreased immune function
- Endocrine problems
- Heart disease
- Skin conditions including eczema
- Marital difficulties
- Increased hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods
- Impairments that resemble intoxication
- Trouble concentrating
- Increased focus on the negative
- Decreased reaction times
- Tremors
- Clumsiness
- Accident proneness
- Increased risk of diabetes
- Less interest in sex
- Less attractive
- Hormone imbalances
- Hallucinations
- Injuries
- Depression
If you assume a homeless person exhibiting strange behavior is mentally ill, intoxicated, or on drugs, you may be mistaking symptoms of sleep deprivation with those problems. Sleep deprivation affects a large percentage of Americans and can contribute to causes of homelessness by decreasing work performance and self-control, increasing the risk of an accident, contributing to poor decision-making and chronic illnesses, as well as increasing relationship discord, violence, and impulsive behavior.
Many cities and counties have passed laws that make it nearly impossible for homeless people, especially unsheltered homeless people, to obtain the rest they need. It is important to remember that depriving someone of sleep is a form of torture and sleep deprivation can drive someone to the point where they are no longer sane.
Additionally, when individuals stay in a shelter, they may not be able to get enough sleep for a variety of reasons including:
- Snoring by other people sleeping in the shelter
- Loud talking
- Doors opening and closing
- Phones ringing
- Trash pickups early in the morning
- Fear of being violated or robbed
Cruel and Unusual Punishment
Cities have been aggressively banning camping in public, sleeping in cars, begging or panhandling, and sitting and laying down in public. These bans make it impossible for unsheltered homeless people to sleep. In some cities, they make the rounds and herd them out of areas where they are sleeping, waking them up repeatedly throughout the night. Given the importance of sleep for cognition and health, these laws ensure that homeless people don’t have the psychological resources they need to recover from homelessness.
In Boise, Idaho, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals determined:
Homeless shelters with rules that inhibit use of the shelter, such as mandatory religious services that may not be consistent with an individual’s beliefs or situations where the person has already exceeded the number of allowed nights at the shelter can make a shelter unavailable to a specific individual even when the shelter has room to provide shelter.
Healthcare
Since most homeless people are uninsured and don’t have the resources to pay for their healthcare, taxpayers bear the burden of paying for the additional healthcare needed as the result of sleep deprivation among the homeless. This cost should be weighed against the cost of providing safe places to sleep. When it is, providing safe sleeping spaces saves money—a lot of money.
Safe Storage of Medications and Possessions
An additional problem with healthcare among the homeless is the lack of a safe place to store medications. Many medications require refrigeration. Those that require injections like insulin, require sanitary conditions. Several programs that provide affordable housing have been successfully implemented, leading to lower costs.
Toll of Being a Homeless Child
According to the National Center on Family Homelessness:
- Homeless children experience worse outcomes, on average, than children with secure housing. They are far more likely to experience violence with 83% being exposed to at least one serious violent event by the time they are 12 years old. This adversely affects their tendency to exhibit violent tendencies which can set them up for failure.
- They are ill more often, reporting five times more gastrointestinal problems, twice the number of ear infections, and four times as many respiratory infections as children with secure housing.
- They are twice as likely to have emotional disturbances as young children, with almost one out of six preschoolers exhibiting hostility and aggression. By the time they are school aged, 47% are experiencing mental illnesses including anxiety, depression, and withdrawal and 36% developing delinquent and aggressive behaviors.
- Developmental delays and learning disabilities are much higher in homeless children. They commonly miss out on pre-school learning advantages, and struggle to develop proficiency in math and reading, partially because of disruptions in their education. By high school, homeless youth are seriously behind and are more likely to have repeated a grade.
Health Risks in Shelters
In addition to sleep deprivation, shelters can expose occupants to violence, theft, and health risks such as tuberculosis, bed bugs, lice, hepatitis, colds, flu, scabies, and athlete’s foot. While bed bugs, lice, colds, the flu, and athlete’s foot aren’t usually that terrible to deal with when you can stay home in a warm, safe bed, when you are homeless and penniless, treatment options may not be available to you.
Prevention is Better than Cures
Many homeless situations could be prevented with proactive approaches. Preventing homelessness is less expensive than curing it after it happens. Becoming homeless almost always means a loss of one’s possessions, things that will have to be replaced when a new home is found.
We’ve already covered many of the physical and mental health problems that can be exacerbated by homelessness as well as developmental and social problems with children exposed to homelessness that can adversely affect them throughout their lives.
SAMSHA provides background information from research into better alternatives than what is currently being done.
Unfortunately, such discussions tend to become political instead of relying on factual, evidence-based research to direct resources.
Solutions that Work
Housing First helps individuals with serious mental health or substance abuse problems secure housing before their problems are well-managed. In the past, they’ve had rules that mandated that they fix their problems before they can be helped with housing. The problem is that it is nearly impossible to get a handle on those problems when you’re homeless. For example, sleep deprivation decreases self-control. Self-control is necessary to beat addiction.
Rapid Re-Housing
Rapid re-housing reduces the amount of time affected individuals are homeless which reduces the recurrence rate. As we’ve described, being homeless tends to increase long-term problems.
Conclusion
We hope you never end up homeless. If you are homeless or facing homelessness, we hope the resources provided in this article help you get secure housing quickly and provide you with skills and resources that help you maintain your housing once you are secure. We’re rooting for you and we believe in you.
If you would like to share a story about how any of these resources helped you, we’d love to hear it.
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