Quick Guide: Going to a Homeless Shelter

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Phase 1: Before You Go (Preparation)

1. Find a Shelter & Call Ahead:

   • Use resources like 211 to find shelters with available beds.

     • CRUCIAL: Always call first. Ask:

       • "Do you have beds available tonight?"

       • "What are your intake hours?" (Many only do intake in the afternoon/early evening).

       • "Are there any eligibility requirements? (e.g., sober, ID, families only)"

       • "What is the address and check-in process?"

2. What to Bring (If Possible):

   • Identification:

     • Driver's license, state ID, passport. (Some shelters can help you without one, but it's preferred).

   • Important Documents:

     • Social Security card, birth certificates, insurance cards.

   • Medications:

     • In their original bottles.

   • Essential Items:

     • A change of clothes, warm jacket, sturdy shoes.

   • Comfort Items:

     • A book, journal, or small personal hygiene items.

3. What to Expect to Leave Behind:

   • Large Items:

     • Suitcases, large bags, shopping carts. Most shelters have limited storage.

   • Restricted Items:

     • Alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons, and sometimes even over-the-counter medications will be confiscated and may lead to being banned.

   • Pets:

     • Most shelters do not allow pets, except for certified service animals.

 

Phase 2: The Intake Process (What to Expect Upon Arrival)

This can feel invasive, but it's for the safety and organization of the shelter.

1. Check-In:

   • You'll likely sign in with your name and time of arrival.

2. Bag Search:

   • A staff member will search your belongings for prohibited items. This is a standard safety procedure.

3. Intake Interview: You'll meet with a staff member or case manager to discuss:

   • Your basic information (name, DOB, etc.).

   • The reason for your homelessness.

   • Any immediate needs (medical, mental health, etc.).

   • Your goals (getting housing, a job, etc.).

4. Rules Orientation: You will be given a clear list of rules. Listen carefully. Rules often cover:

   • Curfew: When you must be in and cannot leave.

   • Chores: You may be assigned a simple task like sweeping.

   • Respect: No violence, threats, theft, or harassment.

   • Sobriety: Most are drug and alcohol-free.

   • Lights Out: When quiet hours begin.

   • Smoking: Designated areas or not allowed at all.

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Phase 3: Life Inside the Shelter

• Sleeping Arrangements:

  • Dorm-style rooms with bunk beds are common. There may be separate areas for men, women, and families. Privacy is very limited.

• Meals:

  • Most provide dinner and breakfast. Some have lunch or bagged lunches. Meal times are strict.

• Hygiene:

  • Access to showers, toilets, and sometimes laundry facilities. There may be limited time slots.

• Security:

  • Shelters have staff and often security measures to ensure safety, but it's still a communal living situation. Keep valuables on you or ask about secure storage.

• Case Management:

  • This is the most valuable part. Case managers can help you create a plan to find housing, apply for benefits (SNAP, Medicaid), and get a job. Engage with them if you can.

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Quick Guide: Assisting Someone Going to a Shelter

​If you are helping a friend, family member, or someone you've met, your role is to be a supportive advocate.

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1. Help with the "Legwork”:

• Make the calls to 211 or individual shelters to find availability.

• Look up bus routes or offer a ride if you are able and it's safe.

• Help them gather the important documents listed above.

2. Set Realistic Expectations:

• Gently explain the process (bag searches, rules, lack of privacy) so they are mentally prepared. This can prevent them from feeling disrespected and leaving.

• Emphasize that the goal is temporary safety and a stepping stone to stability.

3. Provide Practical Support:

• A pre-paid phone card is invaluable.

• A backpack with snacks, a water bottle, socks, and travel-sized toiletries.

• Moral support by accompanying them to the intake, if the shelter allows it and the person wants you there.

4. Maintain Boundaries and Safety:

• You cannot force someone to go to a shelter. The decision must be theirs.

• Do not put yourself in an unsafe situation. Offer help within your own personal boundaries.

5. Follow Up:

• Check in on them if you can. The first few nights are the hardest. Knowing someone cares can make a huge difference.

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Key Takeaways for Everyone:

• It's Okay to Be Nervous: Everyone is. Shelter staff are used to it.

• Follow the Rules: This is the key to maintaining your spot and a peaceful environment.

• Use the Resources: The real goal is to get back on your feet. Engage with case managers.

• It's Temporary: Shelter life is challenging, but it is a temporary safe harbor designed to help you move forward.

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Thank you for using this guide, whether for yourself or to help another person. Taking this step is an act of courage and strength.