First Steps

If you are experiencing housing insecurity in the US, tap the link below for information and resources on how to get started with getting help.

The following information is from the National Alliance to End Homelessness website:

STEP ONE: ACCESSING SHELTER OR HOUSING SERVICES

If you are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness, the first step is to get in touch with the shelter system in your community. You may need to call a hotline or go to a community-designated organization for homeless services. Your community may have a “homeless hotline,” “2-1-1,” or other organization/agency that serves as the “front door” to receiving any kind of help.

  • The Continuum of Care (CoC) program is the “front door” for homelessness services across the country. Contact your community’s CoC to learn about access to shelter, housing, and other resources.
    Contact the CoC in your area (after entering an address, click the map to find contact information for your local CoC)

  • A 2-1-1 hotline is available in many communities and offers trained staff 24/7 to help residents access services like shelter, health care, food, and other social services programs.
    Find your community’s 2-1-1 hotline | Call 2-1-1

  • The National Coalition for the Homeless offers basic information on how people experiencing homelessness can get help and access resources.
    Website