How can I support someone who has been evicted?

Being evicted can surface many concerns and cause a lot of worry. If someone you are in a relationship with has been evicted, don't panic - use this article to help organize your thoughts on how best to support them.  If they have just received an eviction-notice, but have not yet attended a court proceeding, check out this article.  If they haven't already received a notice, but are worried about possible eviction down the road, check out this article on preventing eviction before it starts.

Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed.

Ask Coaching Questions

Seek Clarity:

1. When is the last day you can stay in your home?
2. Do you have someone you can stay with?
   • How long can you stay there? (make sure you set expectations up front!)
   • Have you clarified whether you’re allowed to stay there? (Often public or subsidized housing has strict rules about how many people can live in each apartment)
3. Do you have any chronic health or mental health challenges that would make staying in a shelter dangerous?

Get to the Root:

1. What got you behind in payments?
2. Has there been a change in your income or expenses?
3. Were you working with any eviction prevention program?
4. If not, was there some barrier that prevented you from being able to work with one?

Ask About Options:

1. Who have you asked for help?
2. What have you tried so far?
3. Have you experienced homelessness before? If so, how did you handle it?
4. Do you know anyone who has experienced homelessness before? If so, how did they handle it
5. Are you willing to/interested in exploring shelters? 

Take Steps to Advocate

Click here for comprehensive Know your Rights housing information. 

1. You should receive a warning providing 4 days notice of your eviction.
2. If you have a medical condition that would make it dangerous for you to leave, you can get a doctor’s note, which may get you an extension of at least 15 days.
3. You should STILL get your security deposit back as long as you leave it “broom clean”.
   • Know your rights regarding your security deposit.

Connect to Resources

Specific advice or information:

Review Thread’s Eviction Guide

Addressing an immediate need:

1. Call 211, which has the most up-to-date resources
2. Call the local DSS Office and ask about the following programs:
   • Homelessness Prevention Program
   • Emergency Assistance for Families and Children
3. Call these organizations and ask about “eviction prevention programs”
4. Call the Baltimore Department of Social Services at (410) 853-3451 OR (410) 853-3810

Attempt to prevent future crises:

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