If you need help finding shelter tonight, you're not alone. This page is designed for people in urgent housing situations. The resources here are real, accessible, and ready to help right now. Whether you're about to lose your home, sleeping outside, or in a dangerous housing situation, there are people and programs ready to support you.
If You Need Shelter Tonight
The fastest way to find emergency shelter is through 211 or your local Continuum of Care. These systems are designed to quickly connect you to available beds and services.
Call 211. This is the single most important number to know. You can call 211 anytime, anywhere in the United States. Tell them you need emergency shelter tonight. They'll connect you to available emergency shelters in your area, tell you how to get there, and help you understand what to expect. If you can't call, you can text your zip code to 898211 for the same service.
What 211 can help with: Emergency shelters, transitional housing, rapid rehousing programs, benefits applications, mental health and substance use services, food assistance, healthcare, utility assistance, and more. The counselors on 211 are trained to help people in crisis and will help you navigate options specific to your situation.
SAMHSA's Homeless Resources. If you also have substance use or mental health concerns, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) maintains a directory of emergency services, shelters, and supportive housing programs. Call 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7) or visit findtreatment.gov to search for resources near you.
Local emergency shelters. Every city and county has emergency shelters or warming centers. These are typically free and available nightly or on cold weather nights. When you call 211, they'll tell you which shelters have beds available and how to access them. You don't need appointments, ID, or documentation — just show up.
What to expect at an emergency shelter: When you arrive, you'll go through an intake process where staff ask about your situation, any immediate safety concerns, and connect you to services. Most emergency shelters provide a bed, meals, and a safe place to sleep. Typical rules include no alcohol or drugs on premises, check-in times, and a curfew. Most shelters don't turn people away for not meeting these rules—they focus on getting you safe. Many emergency shelters also provide case management, help applying for benefits, and connection to longer-term housing programs. Typical stays range from a few nights to 30 days while longer-term housing is arranged.
What to Expect at a Shelter
Once you've called 211 and been directed to a shelter, it helps to know what actually happens when you arrive. Shelters work quickly, and understanding the process makes it less stressful.
Intake hours and timing. Most shelters have specific intake hours—typically in the afternoon or early evening. It's important to ask 211 what time you need to arrive. Many shelters open their doors at 4 or 5 PM and close intake by 8 or 9 PM. Some shelters are open 24/7 for people in immediate crisis. Don't worry about being perfectly on time—shelters are used to people arriving when they can. If you're running late or can't make it that day, you can call back and try again.
The intake process. When you arrive, staff will ask you questions: Your name, where you're from, whether you have ID, your medical history, whether you're taking medications, any safety concerns or threats, whether you have family or connections they should know about. Most shelters ask for ID but many don't require it—if you don't have it, that's okay. Be honest about your situation. The staff aren't judging; they're trying to help and make sure the shelter is safe for everyone.
What to bring. If you have time, bring: medications (critical), important documents (birth certificate, social security card, passport, rental history if you have it), a phone charger, and a change of clothes. But be realistic—if you're in crisis, you might only have what's on you. That's fine. Shelters can help you get copies of documents later.
Shelter rules and structure. Emergency shelters typically have straightforward rules: no alcohol or drugs on premises, quiet hours (usually 9 PM to 7 AM), a curfew (usually 11 PM or midnight), and sometimes a check-in time. These rules exist to keep everyone safe. If you can't follow a specific rule for a medical or legitimate reason, tell staff—they usually have flexibility. You're provided meals (breakfast and dinner at minimum) but eating times are fixed, so you'll need to be there during meal service. Some shelters provide a packed lunch.
Privacy and accommodations. Privacy varies widely. Some shelters have private rooms or cubicles; others are large dormitories where multiple people sleep in one room. You might have a locker for your belongings. Shower facilities and bathrooms are shared but typically have multiple stalls. If you need privacy for medications, changing clothes, or other reasons, ask staff—they can often help.
Accessibility and special needs. If you have accessibility needs—mobility issues, vision or hearing impairments, or other disabilities—tell intake staff immediately. Shelters that receive federal funding must provide ADA accommodations. This might mean a bed on a lower floor, accessible bathroom facilities, or other adjustments. Don't hesitate to ask.
Case management and planning. Most shelters assign you a case manager or counselor. This is your person—they help you think through next steps, apply for benefits, look for housing, address barriers, and connect you to other services. Be honest with your case manager about what you need. They can help with job training, mental health services, substance use treatment, legal issues, family reunification, or whatever will help you stabilize.
Most Important Numbers (Call 24/7)
211 — Emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, local resources
988 — Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
1-800-799-7233 — National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-877-424-3838 — Veterans Crisis Line
1-800-662-4357 — SAMHSA National Helpline (substance use & mental health)
Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV)
Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) were created as part of the American Rescue Plan in 2021. These are federal vouchers specifically designed to help people exit homelessness quickly. The federal government issued 70,000 EHV vouchers to public housing authorities (PHAs) across the country. If you're experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, you may qualify for an EHV.
Who qualifies for Emergency Housing Vouchers:
- People currently experiencing homelessness (living in shelter, car, or on the streets)
- People at imminent risk of homelessness (eviction notice, domestic violence, loss of housing)
- People fleeing domestic violence or human trafficking
- People experiencing chronic homelessness (12+ months of homelessness or four or more episodes in three years)
How Emergency Housing Vouchers work: An EHV is similar to a Section 8 voucher but with special provisions for people in crisis. With an EHV, you receive rental assistance to move into an apartment in the private market. The assistance covers a portion of the rent, and you pay the rest (typically 30% of your income). EHVs come with supportive services case management to help you find housing, maintain your tenancy, and connect to other services you need.
Important: The EHV program is facing a critical challenge. In 2025, HUD announced that public housing authorities have received their final funding allocation for new EHV vouchers. This means funds may be depleted by the end of fiscal year 2026. Currently, more than 56,000 families are receiving assistance through EHV. These families are at risk of losing their housing when EHV funding ends unless Congress approves additional funding. This is a real, ongoing crisis. If you're considering EHV, apply immediately if you qualify—don't wait. (Note: EHV funding status is subject to change. We monitor this and will update this page as new information becomes available. Last reviewed March 2026.)
How to access Emergency Housing Vouchers: You cannot apply directly to HUD for an EHV. Instead, you work through your local Continuum of Care (CoC), which is the coordinating body for homeless services in your area. When you call 211 and explain you're experiencing homelessness, the counselor can connect you to your local CoC coordinated entry system. The CoC will assess your situation, determine your priority, and connect you to an EHV program if you qualify and if vouchers are available. Time matters here—apply as soon as you're eligible.
Find your Continuum of Care: Visit hudexchange.info, click "CoC Program," and search by city or county. This will give you the contact information for the coordinating agency in your area. You can also call 211 and ask to be connected to your local CoC coordinated entry system.
Rapid Rehousing
Rapid Rehousing is a program designed to help people exit homelessness quickly. Unlike traditional shelter, which is temporary and congregate, Rapid Rehousing helps you move into your own apartment with rental assistance and case management support.
What Rapid Rehousing is: It's short-term rental assistance combined with case management. The program covers a portion of your rent (or helps you pay application fees and deposits) while you stabilize your income and housing situation. Case managers help you find safe housing, work with landlords, access benefits, find employment, and address barriers to housing stability. Most Rapid Rehousing programs provide assistance for 3 to 24 months, though the average is closer to 12 months.
How it works: You're matched with a Rapid Rehousing provider who helps you search for an apartment. Once you find a place, the program may pay your security deposit, first month's rent, or the entire rent for a set period. As you stabilize (through employment, benefits, or other income), you gradually take on more of the rent payment. During the program, your case manager helps you navigate any issues—landlord conflicts, employment problems, access to benefits, health issues, or other barriers. The goal is to help you become stably housed and self-sufficient before the assistance ends.
Who it's for: Rapid Rehousing is available to people experiencing homelessness or those at imminent risk. You don't need to have been homeless for a set amount of time—if you're in shelter or about to lose your housing, you likely qualify.
How to access Rapid Rehousing: Rapid Rehousing programs are funded through your local Continuum of Care (CoC) and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program. Call 211 or contact your local CoC coordinated entry system. Tell them you need rapid rehousing assistance. If you're in an emergency shelter, staff there can connect you to Rapid Rehousing programs. The process is designed to be fast—your goal is to move from shelter to your own apartment as quickly as possible.
Transitional Housing
Transitional housing is the bridge between emergency shelter and permanent housing. If you've been in emergency shelter and need more stability and support before you're ready for your own apartment, transitional housing can be the right next step.
What transitional housing is: Transitional housing provides stable housing for 6 to 24 months (usually 12 to 18 months) while you work toward permanent housing. Unlike emergency shelter, you typically have your own room or apartment within a program community. You're expected to participate in case management, may have chores or program responsibilities, and work toward goals: securing employment, getting your documents in order, building rental history, or addressing barriers that kept you housing-unstable.
What's included: Your rent is covered by the program (you might pay a small amount based on your income). Housing is accompanied by case management, employment assistance, life skills training, mental health support, and connection to benefits you're eligible for. Some programs are trauma-informed, others specialize in particular populations. The goal is concrete: by the time you leave, you'll have the income, documents, job, and stability to maintain permanent housing on your own.
Specialized transitional programs: Some programs are designed for specific populations. Veterans have access to GPD (Grant and Per Diem) transitional housing programs. There are programs specifically for families, for young people aging out of foster care, for people in recovery from substance use, for survivors of domestic violence, and for women with children. Ask your case manager or 211 counselor about specialized programs that match your situation.
How to access transitional housing: You typically access transitional housing through your local Continuum of Care's Coordinated Entry system, often after or in parallel with emergency shelter. Your shelter case manager can refer you, or when you call 211, you can ask specifically about transitional housing programs. The timeline varies—some programs fill quickly, others have immediate openings. Don't get discouraged if the first program can't take you right away; your case manager can keep trying other options.
For Specific Situations
If you're a veteran: The military recognizes that veterans face unique barriers to housing. SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) provides Rapid Rehousing specifically for veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. SSVF programs prioritize veteran households and provide housing assistance plus support services. Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-877-424-3838 to find SSVF programs near you. You can also call 211 and specify that you're a veteran seeking housing assistance.
If you're fleeing domestic violence: The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 (you can also text or chat online). They can connect you to emergency shelters, safety planning, legal assistance, and housing programs specifically designed for people fleeing abuse. Many emergency shelters have specific DV units. Additionally, under VAWA (Violence Against Women Act), if you're on Section 8 or public housing and fleeing domestic violence, you may be eligible for an emergency transfer to another unit or jurisdiction without losing your voucher. The National DV Hotline can help you navigate these options.
If you're a young person (under 25) experiencing homelessness: Federal funding supports Runaway & Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) programs in every state. These programs provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services designed specifically for young people. Covenant House operates emergency shelters in major cities with services including meals, counseling, job training, and education support. Find RHYA programs through 211 or by searching "runaway homeless youth services [your city]."
If You Have Pets
Fear of losing a pet can sometimes keep people from seeking shelter—but it shouldn't. There are more options than you might think.
Pet-friendly shelters: Some emergency shelters and transitional housing programs are pet-friendly. When you call 211, specifically ask: "Are there any shelters in my area that allow pets?" Some will let you keep your pet with you; others have accommodations nearby. Don't assume your pet disqualifies you from shelter—ask first.
Emergency pet fostering. If your shelter doesn't allow pets, ask about emergency foster programs. Many humane societies and animal rescue organizations offer free temporary fostering for people experiencing homelessness. Your pet stays in a safe home while you stabilize, and you can be reunited once you're in permanent housing. Call your local animal shelter or humane society and ask if they have this program. This is a real, no-cost option.
Service animals and emotional support animals. Service animals (dogs and miniature horses trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities) must be allowed in all housing under the Fair Housing Act, even if the shelter or program has a "no pets" policy. The same applies to emotional support animals if you have documentation from a healthcare provider. If you have a service animal or legitimate emotional support animal, tell intake staff—they are legally required to accommodate you.
Never let fear of losing a pet prevent you from getting to safety and shelter. These programs exist specifically because we understand that pets are family. Ask about options—most communities have them.
Planning Your Next Steps
Getting into emergency shelter is the first priority—it gets you safe and stable. But shelter is temporary. From day one, the work is toward longer-term housing. Here's how to think about the next phase.
Shift from crisis to stability. Once you're in shelter and your immediate safety needs are met, your focus shifts. You're no longer in crisis mode; you're in stabilization mode. This is when you start building the foundation for permanent housing: income, documents, a rental history, a job, or benefits. Your case manager will help guide this, but you're driving it.
Understand Coordinated Entry. Every community's homeless services system uses something called Coordinated Entry. It's how people are assessed and prioritized for housing programs like Rapid Rehousing, Emergency Housing Vouchers, and transitional housing. When you're in shelter, your case manager will help you through this process. Ask them to explain where you fit in the priority order. Understanding this helps you know what to expect and what to work toward.
Start gathering documents. Landlords and housing programs ask for specific documents. Start collecting now while you're in shelter and staff can help: A government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, state ID), Social Security card, birth certificate, tax returns or income verification, employer information, references (previous landlords if you have them). Staff can help you get replacements if you don't have originals. Don't wait until you're applying for housing to think about this.
Learn about programs you qualify for. There are different housing pathways: Rapid Rehousing (get into an apartment quickly with temporary assistance), Emergency Housing Vouchers (federal voucher for rent assistance), transitional housing (longer-term stability with support services), VAWA protections (if you're fleeing domestic violence), veteran-specific programs (SSVF), or subsidized housing. Ask your case manager which programs you're eligible for and what each looks like. Some offer rent assistance; others offer longer-term stability. Know your options.
Build your application record. When you apply for housing programs or apartments, keep records of every application. Document the date you applied, which program or property, the contact person, and the outcome. This record helps you and your case manager track progress and prevents duplicate efforts. If you're rejected from a program, ask why—sometimes there are specific barriers you can work on (bad credit, eviction history, etc.).
Think about what stability looks like for you. Do you need employment support? Mental health services? Substance use treatment? Are you working on family reunification? Do you have a disability that requires accessible housing? Be clear with your case manager about what you need. There's no shame in this—addressing barriers head-on is how you succeed.
Preventing Homelessness Before It Happens
If you still have housing but are at risk of losing it, acting early is the single most important thing you can do. Preventing homelessness is easier, faster, and less traumatic than recovering from it. If you're behind on rent, facing eviction, or watching your situation deteriorate, there are programs designed to help you stay housed.
Emergency Rental Assistance. Many cities and states offer emergency rental assistance programs that can pay several months of back rent directly to your landlord. These programs were massively expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and while some have ended, many continue. Call 211 and ask specifically about emergency rental assistance. Your local Community Action Agency or United Way may also distribute funds. Don't wait until you've been evicted — apply the moment you fall behind. See our Emergency Rental Assistance guide for details.
Talk to your landlord. This feels hard, but most landlords prefer a payment plan over an eviction. Evictions cost them time and money too. If you're behind on rent, contact your landlord in writing and explain the situation. Propose a realistic payment plan — even partial payments show good faith. If you can get a commitment from an assistance program, tell your landlord that help is on the way. Many landlords will work with you when they see you're making an effort.
Know your eviction timeline. Eviction doesn't happen overnight. In most states, landlords must give written notice (often 3-14 days to pay or quit), then file with the court, then wait for a hearing, then get a court order. This process takes weeks or months. During that time, you can apply for assistance, negotiate with your landlord, or find legal help. Understanding the timeline in your state gives you room to act. See our How to Avoid Eviction guide for the full process.
Legal aid can help. If you've received an eviction notice, contact your local legal aid office immediately. Many legal aid organizations specialize in housing and can represent you in court for free. They may be able to negotiate with your landlord, delay the eviction, or connect you to assistance programs. You can find free legal aid at lsc.gov or by calling 211.
Utility assistance prevents housing loss too. Unpaid utility bills can lead to shut-offs, which can trigger lease violations. LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps with heating and cooling costs, and many utility companies offer hardship programs. Call your utility company and ask about payment plans or hardship programs before you get disconnected. Visit our Benefits & Financial Support page for more on LIHEAP and other assistance.
Hidden Homelessness: When You Don't Have Your Own Place
Not everyone who lacks stable housing is sleeping on the street or in a shelter. Many people are experiencing what's called "hidden homelessness" — staying with friends, sleeping in a car, couch-surfing, doubling up with family, or staying in motels week by week. If this is you, you're not alone, and you still qualify for help.
You count as homeless. Under HUD's definition, people living doubled up, in hotels/motels, in cars, or in other temporary arrangements are considered homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness. This means you're eligible for the same programs listed on this page — Emergency Housing Vouchers, Rapid Rehousing, Coordinated Entry, and more. Don't assume you need to be sleeping outside to qualify for help.
If you're staying with friends or family. This is the most common form of hidden homelessness, and it can last for months or years. While it's better than sleeping outside, it's not stable — you're one argument, one lease violation, or one change in circumstances away from being on the street. If you're doubled up, call 211 and explain your situation. Tell them you don't have your own lease and are staying temporarily with someone else. You may qualify for Rapid Rehousing, housing vouchers, or other assistance.
If you're living in a car or vehicle. Many communities have safe parking programs that provide a legal, monitored place to park overnight with access to restrooms, case management, and housing navigation. Ask 211 about safe parking in your area. While you're in your vehicle, you're still eligible for homeless services — tell 211 you're living in your car and they'll connect you to appropriate resources.
If you're staying in a motel week to week. Extended motel stays are expensive and unstable, but many people end up there when they don't have the deposit for an apartment. You likely qualify for housing assistance. Rapid Rehousing programs can often help with deposits and first month's rent to move you from a motel into an apartment. Call 211 and explain your situation.
If you're a young person couch-surfing. Young adults (18-24) who are couch-surfing, staying in unstable situations, or aging out of foster care have access to special programs under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. These programs provide transitional housing, life skills training, education support, and case management. Many cities have drop-in centers specifically for young people. Call 211 or search for "youth homeless services" in your area.
Documenting your situation matters. When you apply for housing programs, you'll need to show that you're homeless or at risk. Keep records: save text messages about your living arrangement, get a letter from whoever you're staying with confirming the situation is temporary, keep receipts from motels, or document your car living situation. Your case manager can help, but starting documentation early strengthens your applications.
Taking the First Step
If you need shelter or housing assistance tonight, here's what to do:
- Call 211 (or text your zip code to 898211) and tell them you need emergency shelter tonight.
- If you're in a mental health or substance use crisis, also call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 or 988.
- If you're fleeing domestic violence, call the National DV Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
- Go to the shelter or location 211 directs you to. Bring important documents if you have them (ID, birth certificate, social security card), but don't let not having them stop you from getting to safety. Shelters can help you get replacements.
- Once you're in shelter, connect with your case manager about longer-term options—Emergency Housing Vouchers, Rapid Rehousing, or other housing programs.
The most important step is the first one. Reaching out for help is not weakness—it's the right choice. The system is designed to help you, and people are ready.