Homelessness is challenging and often stressful, but it’s essential to remember that help and support are available. If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in Washington, DC or Prince George’s County, Maryland, this blog post aims to provide guidance on where to find assistance.
Emergency Shelters: Both Washington, DC, and Prince George’s County have numerous emergency shelters and overnight facilities designed to provide immediate relief to individuals experiencing homelessness. These shelters offer a safe place to sleep, access to meals, and often additional resources such as case management and counseling services.
In Washington, DC, Dialing 311 in Washington, DC, or calling the Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093 is an effective way to access real-time information on available shelter options.
Some well-known shelters include:
- Central Union Mission 202-745-7118
- Open Arms Housing (for LGBTQ+ individuals) 202-745-7118
Housing or Shelter Services FOR YOUTH in DC
Emergency Shelters are short-term housing that expands the availability of youth-friendly shelters and services to youth facing housing instability ranging from one night to up to three months to enable them to grow and move toward independence.
- Sasha Bruce Youthwork – Bruce House (ages 17 & under)
– For entry call (202) 546-4900 - Covenant House Greater Washington – The Sanctuary (18-24 yrs)
– 501 Melon Street SE – (202) 610-9698 - Covenant House Greater Washington – The SHINE (LGBTQ 18-24 yrs)
– 4904 Quarles St NE – (202) 506-2432 - Covenant House Greater Washington – Safe Haven (ages 18-24 yrs)
– 511 Melon Street SE – (202) 610-9600 - Healthy Babies – Muriel House (pregnant/parenting teens 16-21)
– For entry call (202) 396-2809 - Sasha Bruce Youthwork– Phillip Reid’s Home (18-24 yrs)
– 1814 Rhode Island Ave NE – (202) 948-2869
For Prince George’s County, Maryland consider reaching out to organizations like:
In Prince George’s County, you can contact the Emergency Assistance Homeless Hotline toll free in the State of Maryland at 888-731-0999, or at 301-864-7095. may be eligible to receive financial help to pay your rent or mortgage if you are faced with a crisis that may result in an eviction, foreclosure or homelessness. You can also get help by calling the following organizations:
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- Catholic Charities in Forestville – 301-568-9529
- Community Ministries, Seat Pleasant – 301-499-2319
- Laurel Advocacy and Referral in Laurel – 301-776-0442
- United Communities Against Poverty (UCAP) in Capitol Heights at – 301-322-5700
- Interfaith Works Drop-In Center at Progress Place is a day use program that is open to everyone. The Drop-In Center hosts free and daily laundry, showers, case management, computer lab, therapeutic and recreational groups. It’s located at 8106 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910, the Drop-In Center (2nd floor)
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Housing or Shelter Services FOR YOUTH in PG County, Maryland
- Sasha Bruce Promise House Capitol Heights, MD 240-764-8274 or 202-547-7777 for emergencies
- Covenant House 202-610-9600
- Outreach Programs: Numerous outreach teams in both locations actively seek out and provide assistance to homeless individuals. These teams can connect you with resources, including shelter, food, and healthcare services. In Washington, DC, you can contact the DowntownDC Business Improvement District’s Homeless Outreach Team at (202) 347-8870. In Prince George’s County, outreach services are coordinated through the Homeless Services Program.
- Homeless Prevention Programs: Prevention is always better than cure. If you’re at risk of becoming homeless, consider reaching out to organizations like the Coalition for the Homeless or Catholic Charities in Washington, DC, and Prince George’s County for assistance with eviction prevention, rent assistance, and housing support.
- Legal Aid: In some cases, legal issues may contribute to homelessness. If you believe that you are facing eviction unfairly or are dealing with other legal problems related to housing, organizations like the Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia or the Maryland Legal Aid can provide assistance.
Homelessness is a complex issue, and finding help can be overwhelming. However, it’s crucial to reach out to available resources and support systems in Washington, DC, and Prince George’s County. Whether you need a safe place to stay, assistance with housing, or help with legal matters, there are organizations and services dedicated to assisting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Remember that you don’t have to face this challenging situation alone – help is within reach, and there are caring individuals and organizations ready to provide support and guidance on your journey toward stable housing and a brighter future.
We want you to be encouraged! You can overcome homelessness and beat poverty! Connect with FAST Forward Communities to get more resources and know about our housing workshops and events.
