Skip to content

How to Get Help in DC

Connecting individuals and families to shelter, housing, and support.

Access & Intake

DC Department of Human Services – Homeless Services Hotline

Connects you to shelter, transportation, and support services.

Visit The Website
Call the Hotline
DC Support Type
Filter services
DC Support Type
Medical & Mental Health

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Help is available. Speak with someone today.
Call
Web
Access & Intake

Catholic Charities DC – New York Ave Men’s Shelter

Emergency Shelter. 24-hour shelter for adult men.
Call
Web
Medical & Mental Health

Christ House

24/7 medical care.
Call
Web
Access & Intake

Covenant House Washington

Youth Shelter (18–24). Shelter, meals, and support for youth.
Call
Web
Medical & Mental Health

DC Department of Behavioral Health

Mental health + crisis support. Crisis line: 1-888-793-4357.
Call
Web
Day Centers

Everyone Home DC (Shirley’s Place)

Showers, laundry, daytime shelter, case management.
Call
Web
Housing & Long-term Support

Friendship Place

Housing placement + employment help.
Call
Web
Access & Intake

Homeless Services Hotline

DC Department of Human Services. Connects you to shelter, transportation, and services.
Call
Web
Food & Basic Needs

Miriam’s Kitchen

Meals and help getting housing.
Call
Web
Food & Basic Needs

So Others Might Eat (SOME)

Daily breakfast & lunch, plus showers and clothing.
Call
Web
Food & Basic Needs

United Way NCA

Find Homeless Shelters & Resources in DC.
Call
Web
Access & Intake

Virginia Williams Family Resource Center

Families Only. Central intake for family shelter placement.
Call
Web
Our Programs

SNAP Employment & Training Program

The Coalition for the Homeless Employment Program supports individuals enrolled in programs that we provide services to as they work toward economic stability. Through a comprehensive, client-centered approach, the program provides tailored job training, employment placement, and ongoing support to help participants secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Core services include résumé development, interview coaching, transitional job opportunities, and individualized support to address employment barriers.

Pathways to Opportunity
  • Job Readiness Workshops
  • Interview Preparation Training
Support That Moves People Forward
  • Workforce Development Referrals
  • Workforce and Job Center Connections
Employment Assistance
×

DC Shelter Hotline test

The Homeless Services Hotline is open every day from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

If you are in need of free, accessible transportation to shelter, or you see someone outside in need of shelter or a welfare check, call the Homeless Services Hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311. If there is an immediate risk to safety, call 911. When calling, please include the time, the address or location of the sighting, and a description of the person’s appearance. 

Call 311
During hypothermia season (November 1 - March 31), the Homeless Services Hotline is open 24 hours a day and transportation to shelter is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.