So you wake up on the street with nowhere to go. Your belongings fit in your backpack. Money is typically scarce. You’re hungry, tired, and unsure what to do. This is an overwhelming situation, but resources exist to help. Government assistance programs provide support for people experiencing homelessness. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Help is available if you know where to search.
This blog post is going to point you toward organizations ready to offer a helping hand up. Whether you’re homeless because of mental illness, domestic violence, health issues, or you’re struggling financially, we’re going to cover food assistance, emergency shelters, transitional housing, and more. Take the first step and seek assistance. Better days are ahead.
What is Causing Your Homelessness?
If things such as serious mental illness, substance abuse, or domestic violence contributed to your homelessness, make addressing these underlying causes a priority. Reach out to local mental health clinics, shelters, and support groups for affordable or free counseling as well as other mental health services. Speaking with a professional counselor can help you with trauma, help you find some coping strategies, and get connected to additional resources for recovery and stability.
Apply For Disability Benefits
If your homelessness was caused or exacerbated by either a physical or mental disability, look into applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs provide monthly benefits to those who’re unable to work due to a disability. The application process can take time, so start as soon as possible. Local homeless shelters or legal aid organizations may be able to assist you with the application and appeals process.
Contact Domestic Violence Organizations
If you fled from a domestic violence situation and have become homeless as a result of that, contact local shelters or advocacy groups that specialize in helping survivors of domestic violence such as National Domestic Violence Hotline. They could connect you to safe housing, counseling, legal advocacy, job assistance, and other critical services to establish security and independence. Rebuilding your life after leaving an abusive relationship is difficult, but through the support of these organizations, you can find the strength and resources to get back on your feet.
Finding Shelter - Transitional or Emergency Shelter
If you find yourself homeless, seeking shelter should be your number 1 priority. Transitional housing provides temporary housing assistance for up to two years so you could get back on your feet. Emergency shelters offer a place to stay for a short time, usually 30 to 90 days.
Transitional Housing
Transitional housing programs provide housing and other homeless services to help you become self-sufficient again. They may offer things like job training, healthcare, childcare, and some financial counseling. To qualify, you typically need to meet income requirements and complete an application process. Some are specifically made for homeless veterans, families with children or people with disabilities.
Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters provide temporary housing for a limited time. They offer basic necessities like a bed, meals and a place to shower. Most operate on a first-come — first-serve basis. Some shelters cater to specific populations like victims of domestic violence or homeless youth. Shelters can be crowded, so be prepared for little privacy. However, they do provide an immediate solution if you have nowhere else to go.
Finding Options in Your Area
Contact local homeless advocacy organizations to find transitional housing and emergency shelter options in your area. Check with groups like the National Alliance to End Homelessness, the Salvation Army, and Catholic Charities. Also search online for “homeless shelters” or “transitional housing” along with your city and state name. Many have information on their websites about eligibility criteria and how to apply for their programs.
With persistence, you’re bound to find shelter and get the help you need. Staying in a transitional living program likely isn’t ideal, but having a roof over your head is a step towards improving your circumstances. There are people and organizations that want to help you, so don’t lose hope!
Finding Food - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides monthly benefits to help pay for food for low-income families. As someone experiencing homelessness, you absolutely qualify for SNAP and should apply right away.
Applying For SNAP Benefits
To apply for SNAP, contact your local SNAP office. Most states allow you to apply for SNAP benefits online, over the phone, in person at local SNAP offices, or at many food banks and food pantries.
When applying, you will need to provide information about your income, expenses, and family size. Since you are homeless, you’d want to report $0 income and ensure the application reflects your living situation. You will also need to provide identification, but many states have waivers for people experiencing homelessness. It typically takes between 7 to 30 days to process a SNAP application.
Using Your SNAP Benefits
Once approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to use at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and some restaurants to purchase food items. SNAP benefits can be used to buy staples like bread, cereal, meat, poultry, produce, and dairy. Some states also allow SNAP to be used for prepared meals from select restaurants.
Homeless Shelters and Soup Kitchens
Homeless shelters and soup kitchens offer temporary housing and meals. Shelters provide basic accommodation, usually in a dormitory-style setting, for up to 90 days. Some shelters also offer additional services like job placement assistance and healthcare. Soup kitchens and food pantries supply free meals and groceries to those in need. Contact local shelters and kitchens directly to inquire about availability and any intake procedures. Some accept walk-ins while others require appointments or referrals.
Maintaining Health and Hygiene While Homeless
One of the biggest challenges of homelessness is staying healthy and maintaining good hygiene. Without regular access to showers, toilets, and healthcare, it can be difficult to keep yourself and your surroundings clean. However, prioritizing health and hygiene is critical.
Use Public Facilities Strategically
Public places like libraries, your local community centers, and parks may have restrooms, showers, sinks, and other amenities available for use. Time your visits to these places for when they are less busy so you have privacy and ample time to get cleaned up. Be courteous to others using the facilities.
Practice Good Hygiene Habits
Even without regular access to showers and toilets, you could maintain good hygiene. Wipe down sweaty or dirty areas of your body with baby wipes or washcloths. Apply deodorant and change your clothes, especially underwear, socks and shirts regularly. Brush your teeth at least once or twice a day and floss if possible. Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
Keeping your body and living area clean is challenging when homeless, but should remain a top priority. Make use of any resources available to you, establish a hygiene routine, and practice good habits every day. Your health and wellbeing depend on it. Staying clean will also help you feel more humanized, build confidence, and increase your chances of employment or stable housing. Focus on self-care – you deserve to be healthy and hygienic.
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