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FAQs

Getting Help

How can I get help if I am experiencing homelessness?

Visit our Get Help page.

Do you provide emergency shelter?

We offer a range of housing solutions to meet individuals where they are—from emergency shelter to transitional housing and, when rentals are available, permanent supportive apartments.

What services do you offer?

Temporary housing (target 6-months), Food, Case Management. Substance Abuse Counseling, Employment, and housing placement assistance, resources and referrals.

Donations & Support

How can I donate?

You can make a secure donation directly through our website using credit/debit cards and other electronic payment methods. All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law, and your support helps us provide critical services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Donation portal.

What does my donation support?

Your donation directly supports our programs that make our work possible. Funds help provide critical services, advance policy solutions, and ensure we can continue serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness effectively and responsibly.

Can I make a recurring gift or planned donation?

Yes, you can donate here. For planned donation, contact Sheila Baker, Development Director at (202) 993-7939.

Getting Involved

How can I volunteer?

For the most up-to-date volunteer opportunities, we encourage you to contact our Development Director directly. As our needs change, this ensures we can connect you with the most meaningful way to get involved. Sheila Baker at (202) 993-7279 or by email at sbaker@dccfh.org.

How can I become a partner organization?

Please get in touch with Sheila M. Baker, Development Director, at (202) 993-7939.

Can I join your board of directors?

We welcome interest in board service. Please complete our Board Member Interest Form to share your background and interests. A member of our team will follow up with the next steps.

About the Coalition

What is the Coalition for the Homeless?

The Coalition for the Homeless is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Washington, DC. Through shelter, housing, employment, and supportive services, we help people build stable and independent futures.

Who do you serve?

We serve individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Washington, DC. Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of the people and communities we support.

What is your mission?

Our mission is to transition homeless and at-risk individuals and families to self-sufficiency through housing programs and supportive services.

How can I support the Coalition's mission?

There are many ways to get involved, including making a donation, volunteering your time, attending events, becoming a sponsor, or partnering with us to support our work in the community.

How can I get help if I am experiencing homelessness?

If you are experiencing homelessness or need housing assistance, visit our How to Get Help page to learn about available resources, shelter options, and support services.

Do you provide emergency shelter?

Yes. The Coalition operates shelter programs that provide safe, supportive environments while clients work toward permanent housing and long-term stability.

What services do you offer?

Our programs include emergency shelter, housing assistance, employment services, case management, and other supportive services designed to help individuals and families achieve stability and self-sufficiency.

How can I get more information about your programs and services?

Visit our Programs & Services pages or contact us directly. Our team is happy to answer questions and connect you with the information you need.

Homelessness in DC

What causes homelessness in Washington, DC?

High housing costs, income inequality, and systemic barriers like limited access to affordable housing, healthcare, and stable employment mainly drive homelessness in DC. Many residents cannot keep up with rising rents and living expenses.

How big is the homelessness issue in DC?

As of the 2025 Point-in-Time Count, about 5,138 people were experiencing homelessness in Washington, DC, on a single night, reflecting a 9% decrease from the previous year.

What is being done to address homelessness locally?

Washington, DC, is addressing homelessness through collaboration between government agencies, nonprofits, and community partners. Efforts include expanding shelter capacity, providing housing vouchers, prevention programs, and supportive services to help people move into stable housing.

Accountability & Transparency

Are you a registered nonprofit?

Yes, the Coalition for the Homeless has a 501(c)(3) status.

Can I see your annual report or financials?

Yes. See page 15 in our 2025 Annual Report.

Contact & Communication

How can I stay updated?

Stay connected with the Coalition for the Homeless by visiting our website, where you can find the latest updates on our programs, services, and impact. You can sign up to receive emails, follow us on social media, and learn about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. For specific inquiries—especially about volunteering—we encourage you to contact our Development Director Sheila Baker (202) 993-7939 or by email sbaker@dccfh.org, as needs can change throughout the year. By staying engaged, you help strengthen our community and support efforts to end homelessness.

Who can I contact for media or partnership inquiries?

For all media or partnership inquiries, please contact Lucho Vásquez, Executive Director, at (202) 207-4229 or via email at lvasquez@dccfh.org.

How can I get more information about your programs and services?

Contact Jon Bolduc at (202) 347-8870 or by email at jbolduc@dccfh.org.

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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. 

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.