Homeless Prevention Programs — What's Available
HUD funds a network of Continuum of Care (CoC) programs in every state. These programs provide short-term rapid rehousing assistance, homeless prevention help for those at imminent risk, emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing for those with chronic needs.
People experiencing homelessness retain important legal rights: the right to vote, access to emergency healthcare, and protection against discrimination. Unhoused individuals may also qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits — you do not need a fixed address to apply for most federal programs.
Free Homeless Prevention Tools
📍
CoC Shelter Locator
Free
All 50 states
Find emergency shelters, transitional housing, and CoC programs near you by ZIP code or city.
Find Shelter Near You →
🏠
Section 8 Voucher Estimator
Up to $2,200/mo
Long-term housing stability
Estimate how much a Section 8 voucher could cover for stable long-term housing.
Use Free Tool →
❓
Benefits Match Quiz
Free
All programs, 2 minutes
Answer 8 questions and get every housing and benefit program you may qualify for.
Start Quiz →
HUD CoC Homeless Programs Overview
HUD CoC Homeless Programs Overview
All programs administered by local CoC lead agencies
| Program Type | Who It Serves | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Rehousing | Currently unhoused | 3–24 months |
| Homeless Prevention | At imminent risk of losing housing | Up to 12 months |
| Emergency Shelter | Anyone experiencing homelessness | Immediate / short term |
| Transitional Housing | People stabilizing toward permanent housing | Up to 24 months |
| Permanent Supportive Housing | Chronically homeless individuals | Long-term / permanent |
Contact your local CoC to find which programs have current openings in your area. Call 211 for immediate referrals.
How to Get Homeless Prevention Help
1
Call 211 Now
211 connects you to local housing assistance, shelter referrals, and emergency services. Available 24/7 in most areas.
2
Contact Your Local CoC
HUD Continuum of Care programs are in every state. Contact the lead agency in your area to be assessed for rapid rehousing or prevention assistance.
Find Local CoC Program →
3
Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance
If you're behind on rent but not yet unhoused, ERA programs can pay your overdue rent and prevent eviction.
Find ERA Programs →
4
Know Your Rights
You have the right to vote, access emergency healthcare, and be free from discrimination regardless of housing status. SNAP and Medicaid do not require a fixed address.
Your Rights While Homeless →
Find Every Program You Qualify For
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — discover Section 8, SNAP, Medicaid, and every benefit program available to you.
All Homeless Prevention Articles
See All →