Homelessness is the condition of not having stable, safe, and affordable housing. In New York City,
if you are experiencing homelessness or are at risk, you can call 311 to get connected to resources, report a street-based individual, or access the Prevention and Temporary Housing (PATH) intake center in the Bronx for family shelter.
For other areas, you can call 2-1-1 or visit the National Alliance to End Homelessness website to find your local Continuum of Care (CoC) and access shelter, housing, food, and health services.
Systemic:
- A lack of affordable housing and low incomes are major societal causes of homelessness.
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Life Events:
Individual factors, such as unemployment or unforeseen events, can push people into homelessness.
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Mental and Substance Use Disorders:
Hard-to-treat mental health issues and substance use disorders can also underlie chronic homelessness.
How to Get Help in NYC
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For Immediate Needs:
Call 311 to connect with the NYC Department of Homeless Services (DHS) for a range of services, including shelter, housing placement, and outreach assistance for unsheltered individuals.
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Family Shelter:
Visit the PATH Intake Center in the Bronx to apply for shelter services for your family.
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Prevention:
Homebase centers offer emergency grants and support to help you stay in your home and avoid eviction.
How to Find Help in Other Communities
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Call 2-1-1: This national hotline connects you to local agencies offering help with shelter, housing, food, and health services.
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Contact Your Continuum of Care (CoC): The CoC is the "front door" to homelessness services in your community.
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Visit HUD Exchange: The HUD Exchange provides a resource list to find shelters and housing in your area.
What to Do in a Life-Threatening Emergency
- If you or someone else is in immediate danger, dial 911.
