What can I do to help someone who is experiencing homelessness or housing instability?

Housing insecurity is scary for everyone. There's a lot of information to gather before taking formal action - the guidance below will help you be there for them. The most important part, though, is connecting with the person to let them know you're there for them (even if you don't know what to do yet).

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 If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and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. How long have you been experiencing homelessness?
2. How have you been handling it? Where have you been sleeping/staying?
3. Have there been issues with the location where you’ve been sleeping/staying?
4. How many people need housing? Any children?
5. What can you afford in rent each month?
6. Are there any areas you are trying to avoid?

Get to the Root:

1. What led to this period of housing instability?
2. What do you think has made finding or keeping housing difficult?

Ask About Options:

1. Who have you asked for help?
2. What have you tried so far?
3. Have you experienced this before? If so, how did you handle it?
4. Do you know anyone who has experienced this before? If so, how did you handle it?
5. What are your housing goals?
6. Have you been working with any organizations or searching on your own?

Take Steps to Advocate

This is a growing resource, and we don't have any concrete tactics for advocacy in this area. If you have ideas, post a comment for others below! 

Connect to Resources

Address the Immediate Need

1. Call 211 - for have the most up-to-date resources
2. Call the Baltimore Department of Social Services: 410-853-3451 OR 410-853-3810
3. Call the following organizations for support finding housing:
   • St. Ambrose Home Share
   • Springboard Community Services
   • St. Vincent De Paul: 410-662-0500
   • Project PLASE: 410-837-1400 ext. 221 or intake@projectplase.org
   • City of Refuge: 410-355-6707 or info@cityofrefugebaltimore.org
   • Journey Home: 410-396-7543
4. Call the following organizations to get connected with a shelter:
   • Call the Baltimore City Shelter line: 443-984-9540
   • Baltimore Outreach Services: 410-752-1285 or info@baltimoreoutreach.org
   • Loving Arms: 443-415-1174 or lovingarms3@gmail.com