Learn how to find help immediately if you are facing or experiencing homelessness. The government offers programs that can help you find short-term housing.
Dial 211 to find emergency housing
In most areas of the U.S., you can dial 211 to connect with local social services and get referrals for emergency housing.
Find shelters and temporary housing near you
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers programs and resources to find shelter, get temporary housing, or avoid homelessness.
- Check HUD's local homeless assistance list for shelters and housing in your state.
- Ask a homeless continuing care program provider for help. They can help you find temporary or permanent housing.
- Contact your local public housing agency (PHA) for help moving from homelessness to more permanent housing.
Emergency housing for teens and youth
National Runaway Safeline hotline
The National Runaway Safeline offers free, confidential, and non-judgmental support 24 hours a day. It also provides free transportation home or to other safe, stable housing.
- Call 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)
- Text, live chat, or email an agent for help
Emergency housing for veterans
The Office of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers specialized programs for veterans facing or experiencing homelessness.
- Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838) for free and confidential support 24 hours a day.
- Find safe housing and other supportive services through the VA’s housing programs.
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Find more government programs that can help during tough financial times.
Facing financial hardship
LAST UPDATED: September 7, 2024
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