Search Housing Grants by typing your county

Over 2,000 programs and adding every day.

While friends and family may be the popular answer, several other resources may be even better, especially if you find that you’re all alone.

What’s one of the first thoughts that can pop into your head if you become homeless? “How did I get here?” And while you may spend a ton of time trying to figure that out, here’s what’s more important: Finding solutions to get off the streets and into a home.

Whether that home is a temporary shelter or a place of your own later on, let’s look at some resources for the homeless that are at your disposal:

1. Homeless Shelter Directory

Use it to find homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and more near you. At the very least, finding a place to stay at the beginning can give you some stability.

2. State Social Services Agency

Find the one nearest you to get help with housing, food, and other necessities.

3. Local Homeless Assistance

The HUD can help you find homeless assistance via emergency rental help, hotlines, food banks, homeless service groups, housing counselors, and more. When using this option, be sure to ask about long-term solutions to your problems, such as Section 8 vouchers, public housing, etc., so you don’t have to worry about homelessness again.

4. Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH)

This program can help if you have mental illness and are on the verge of homelessness or are already living on the streets.

5. Homeless Veteran Resources from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

If you’re a veteran, use this option for emergency housing help. You can also call 1-877-4AID-VET, which is the number for the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans.

6. Transitional Living Program for Homeless Youth

If you’re between the ages of 16 and 22, you can use this program to enjoy a safe living environment for up to 21 months.

The resources above can help if you’re currently homeless, but what if you’re not quite there yet? If you’re on the verge of eviction or living on the streets, here are some quick tips to get ready for that transition. Then, once you’re there, use the resources above so you can get your life back to normal.

1. Gather your essentials.

You’ll need a bag with your important documents and any medication for yourself and anyone in your family. Be sure to pack lightly, as most shelters place limits on what you can bring with you due to a lack of space.

2. Store your things.

Once your essentials are out of the way, you’ll need to figure out where the rest of your possessions will go. This can either be at a storage facility or with friends and family.

3. Forward your mail.

If you can, have your mail sent to a friend or family member until you get your own place. If not, ask the post office if they can hold your mail since you’re homeless.

4. Don’t forget your ID.

This may be the most important prep tip when it comes to homelessness. Without a valid ID, you may have trouble getting accepted into a shelter or assistance program.