Shelter is among the most basic needs to satisfy. For those living without an address--let alone access to the cars, computers or phone lines that most take for granted--the challenges are truly daunting. Staying off the street will require some uncommon resourcefulness in accessing social services. It should start with one not readily available in all communities: the homeless shelter.
Instructions
Take Stock of Your Options
1. Get a telephone directory, and find what out services are available in your area. Start by looking in the Yellow Pages under such obvious key headings as "charity," "emergency shelter," "homeless shelter," or "social services."
2. Jot down whatever telephone numbers seem most relevant, and don't neglect addresses--whatever agencies you choose, you'll likely have to visit them personally to get their help.
3. If you face eviction or foreclosure, call from your own phone while it's available. Otherwise, you'll have to make do with the nearest public one. Local libraries are the next option, enabling free access to computers, Internet and phones for nothing more than a sign-up sheet.
4. Consider alternative housing options as a stop gap while you seek more permanent housing--a couple of weeks spent with a distant relative or close friend is worth the time off the street. Boarding houses and church groups are also good potential sources of cheap furnished rooms while you strive to get back on your feet.
Narrow Down The Choices
5. Keep careful tabs on personal papers, which are the coin of the realm in dealing with social service agencies. Your wallet is the best place for your Social Security card, for example, while a paper folder offers sufficient storage of former check stubs, leases and tax returns.
6. Consider the geographic area where your shelter is located--a mission tucked away in the decaying downtown district may be a dicier proposition than its mid-sized cousin in a rural subdivision. Think about how your choice affects other needs, such as disability, proximity to other services and access to public transit, if it's offered locally.
7. Enter a shelter with your eyes open. Keep close tabs on your things. With so many people living in a particular space, it's no surprise that the regimentation of such an environment sparks conflict during the best of times. Tread carefully! Failure to follow the rules may land you back on the street.
Related posts
Finding money for animal shelters is rewarding and challenging.Raising money for animal shelters is a noble cause. When the economy begins to experience a downturn, oftentimes the family pets are...
Finding an inexpensive puppy to love make take a bit of research, but is easy enough to do.Looking for an adorable, inexpensive puppy that will be the right fit for you and your lifestyle is easy...
The cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas sit side-by-side --- even sharing an airport for the area. Both cities have available rental homes, as single-family houses, duplexes and apartments. Wor...
Fainting goats have a condition known as myotonia congenita that causes their muscles to contract in times of high stress. It can cause them to stiffen or fall over. Despite this condition, fainti...
Finding a dog to adopt in Massachusetts is easy.There is no shortage of dogs in Massachusetts looking for good homes through adoption. By adopting a dog from a local animal shelter or private resc...
