Emergency Housing Resources for Fathers

You Need a Roof Tonight

If you've been ordered out of your home, left a volatile situation, or simply have nowhere to go, there are resources available right now.

Start With 211

Dial 211 from any phone or visit 211.org. This is the national helpline for local emergency assistance — housing, food, utilities, and more. They'll connect you with resources specific to your area.

HUD Housing Counseling

1-800-569-4287 — hud.gov/counseling

Free counseling from HUD-approved agencies on housing options, rental assistance, and avoiding eviction. They can help you understand your options and create a plan.

Emergency Shelters

These organizations provide emergency shelter and can connect you with transitional housing:

Salvation Army: Emergency shelters in most major cities. Some have family units.
Catholic Charities: Emergency assistance regardless of religion. Rent help, utility assistance, shelter referrals.
St. Vincent de Paul: Rent and utility assistance, transitional housing support.

Rent and Utility Assistance

NLIHC Rental Assistance: The National Low Income Housing Coalition maintains a database of rental assistance programs by state.
Local emergency assistance: Dial 211 for programs specific to your county
Churches and community organizations: Many provide emergency rent assistance — call local churches even if you're not a member

Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher Program

Section 8 is a federal program that subsidizes rent for low-income families. The voucher pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord.

Apply through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA)
Reality check: Waiting lists are often months to years long in many areas
Apply NOW even if you don't need it yet — the earlier you're on the list, the better

For Veterans

Veteran fathers have additional housing options:

SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention for veteran families
HUD-VASH: VA housing vouchers combined with case management
VA Homeless Veterans Programs: Contact your local VA medical center

How to Apply

Most programs require:

Photo ID
Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters)
Proof of the emergency (eviction notice, restraining order, etc.)
Social Security cards for you and your children

Tips While Searching

Staying with family or friends temporarily is fine — courts understand transition periods
Keep your children's school and routine stable if at all possible
Document your housing search (applications, calls, visits) — it shows the court you're taking action
A small apartment is perfectly acceptable for custody — you do NOT need a house

Next Steps

Call 211 right now for local resources
Contact your nearest Salvation Army or Catholic Charities
Apply for Section 8 to get on the waiting list
If you're a veteran, contact SSVF today
Keep documenting your housing search for the court