In times of crisis, finding emergency housing could feel daunting. If you need immediate shelter here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, don’t think you’re alone.
Suddenly losing housing due to unpredictable circumstances can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. However, Tulsa offers several resources and voucher programs that are designed to provide temporary housing solutions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. This blog post explores the available options, eligibility requirements, and application processes for emergency housing in Tulsa, ensuring you have the information necessary to secure a suitable place to stay during and after this challenging time.
Shelter Resources in Tulsa Oklahoma
If you’re facing a housing crisis in Tulsa, Oklahoma, several emergency shelters are available to provide temporary refuge. The Salvation Army Center of Hope offers immediate shelter for men, women, and families, providing a haven and necessities. The Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless also runs a night shelter program that offers a place to sleep and access to support services.
Shelters to Combat Domestic Violence
For those fleeing domestic violence, Tulsa has specialized shelters that offer protection and support. The Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS) provides emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for survivors and their children. These shelters maintain confidentiality to ensure the safety of their residents.
Youth Services
Tulsa’s Youth Services runs an emergency shelter for youth ages 12-18 who could be either chronically homeless or experiencing family crises. This facility offers a temporary home, meals, and access to education and counseling services. For families with children, The Family Safety Center could provide guidance on finding suitable emergency housing options.
Accessing Shelter
To access these emergency housing services, you can contact the shelter directly or reach out to Tulsa’s 2-1-1 helpline. This free service can connect you with shelters and information.
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8 Housing Program)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as the Section 8 program, could be a valuable resource if you’re seeking emergency housing in Tulsa, OK. This federally funded housing program helps low-income families, the elderly, and disabled individuals in securing safe and affordable housing in the private market.
How The Program Works
This program provides members with non-emergency housing vouchers that cover a good portion of their rent. You’re responsible for finding suitable housing, and the Tulsa Housing Authority (THA) pays the landlord directly the agreed-upon amount. This allows you to choose housing that meets your needs and preferences.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the program, The THA considers factors such as:
Family size
Total income
Citizenship status
Eviction history
Application Process
Contact Tulsa’s Housing Authority
Complete the pre-application form
Wait for your name to be selected from the waiting list
Attend a briefing session
Receive your non-emergency housing voucher and begin your housing search
While the waiting list can be long, emergencies may be prioritized. It’s essential to keep your contact information up to date with the THA to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities.
Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)
The Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program is an essential resource for families facing housing crises in Tulsa, OK. RAFT aims to prevent chronic homelessness by providing emergency financial assistance and support services to eligible households. This program serves as an important safety net, helping families maintain appropriate housing during these challenging times.
To qualify for RAFT assistance, you must be a Tulsa resident who’s facing imminent homelessness or housing instability. The program offers various forms of support, such as:
Short-term rental assistance
Utility payments
Moving expenses
Security deposits
RAFT’s comprehensive approach addresses multiple facets of housing insecurity to ensure that families receive the necessary support to regain housing stability.
Accessing RAFT
If you need emergency housing, contacting RAFT should be a priority. To begin the process:
Call the RAFT hotline for initial screening
Complete an application with the required documentation
Meet with a case manager to assess your situation
Receive tailored assistance based on your needs
Remember, RAFT’s resources are limited, so reach out as soon as you find yourself in a housing crisis. Early intervention can be made when trying to end homelessness and maintain family stability.
The Habitat For Humanity Organization
Habitat For Humanity organization is a global nonprofit organization that has been working tirelessly to provide affordable housing solutions since 1976. Their mission is to build strength, stability, and self-reliance with suitable shelter. If you’re facing a housing crisis in Tulsa, OK, Habitat for Humanity could be valuable.
How Habitat For Humanity Works
The Habitat For Humanity Organization takes on a unique model that combines community volunteers, donations, and partnerships with struggling families.
They don’t just simply give away free homes — instead, they work alongside families in need to build or renovate houses. These families would then purchase the homes with no-profit mortgages.
Tulsa's Habitat For Humanity
The Tulsa County chapter of Habitat for Humanity has been serving the community since 1988. They offer various programs that could be helpful in your situation:
Home Construction: If eligible, you could partner with Habitat to build and purchase a new home.
Home Repair: This program helps homeowners with necessary repairs they can’t afford.
While Habitat for Humanity does not provide immediate emergency housing, it could be a valuable long-term solution for your housing needs in Tulsa. Contact their local office to learn more.
Using The Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF) Program to Cover Housing Costs in Oklahoma
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program can be a valuable resource if you’re facing a housing crisis in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This program, administered by the state, offers financial support to eligible low-income families, which can be used to cover many different expenses, such as housing costs.
Application Process
To qualify for TANF in Oklahoma, you must be a resident of the state and have a child that’s 18 years old (or 19 if they’re a full-time student). You’re going to need to meet income requirements and participate in work-related activities. To apply, visit the Oklahoma Department of Human Services website or a local DHS office.
Housing Assistance
TANF funds can be used for:
Rent or mortgage payments
Security deposits
Utility bills
Costs of Emergency Shelter
Additional Support
Beyond assistance, TANF provides:
Work training
Employment services
Childcare assistance
Transportation help
Remember, TANF is designed as a short-term solution. While it can assist individuals in weathering a housing emergency, it’s crucial to work with your case manager to develop a long-term stability plan.
Trying to Find Emergency Housing? Receive a FREE PHONE as Well!
We have great news if you’re trying to qualify for one of these housing programs. Did you know that you could also qualify for a free phone? That’s right, and it’s thanks to EASY Wireless and Lifeline!
How The Program Works
When you qualify for the Federal Government’s Lifeline Assistance Program on tribal lands with providers such as EASY Wireless, you receive the following connectivity benefits:
EASY Wireless Phone Offer:
FREE Smartphone
6 GB High-Speed Data
FREE Unlimited Talk
FREE Unlimited Text
FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
Applying With EASY Wireless
The easiest way to start with EASY Wireless is to apply online by clicking below:
Start Saving Today!
Find Your Nearest EASY Wireless Store
Another way is to come to one of EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where its customer service support team helps you apply for the benefits.
Either way, the first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the income requirement.
