Happy Home InsiderWe’ll show you how to prepare for that drastic life change, as well as discuss how a hotel or motel voucher could make the transition a smoother one.
Nobody ever wants to imagine being homeless or living on the streets. But if it becomes your reality, you’ll need to take the necessary steps to fix it and get back on your feet.
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If you’re nearing homelessness, here are some tips to help you prepare for it. And we’ll follow them up with a quick discussion on what a homeless hotel voucher is and how you can get one.
How to Prepare For Homeless Life
Going from having a home to being homeless will be tough. Follow these tips, and you can get on the fast path to getting out of homelessness.
1. Make sure you have a valid ID.
Your ID could be your best friend when you’re homeless, as you’ll likely need it to receive assistance or get into a shelter. If you know you don’t have an ID, or it’s expired, do everything in your power to get one that’s valid now.
2. Store your belongings.
Bringing all of your belongings with you isn’t feasible. Ask friends and family if they can help you store some of your stuff temporarily. Or, if you have a bit of cash on hand, get a storage unit. Homeless shelters are limited in space and availability, so you won’t be able to bring everything with you.
3. Pack a bag with your necessities.
Important documents, medications, and a minimal amount of clothes are a must for everyone coming with you.
4. Find a place to forward your mail.
A friend or family member can hold your mail until you get situated. Some churches also offer this service to the homeless.
5. Find a homeless shelter.
This directory can help you find the nearest homeless shelter so you can gain some stability and have a place to stay. You can also use the Just Shelter website to find community resources near you.
Hotel/Motel Vouchers for the Homeless
Moving into a homeless shelter by yourself or with family can be a stressful and intimidating experience. Some shelters have issues with violence, theft, and drug and alcohol abuse. They may also be unsanitary and won’t provide any privacy. Getting a hotel or motel voucher could make your first few homeless nights a lot easier, as you’ll get to stay in your own room.
Unfortunately, hotel vouchers are limited, so you shouldn’t count on them as being a given. Also, a homeless motel voucher will only last approximately three nights at the most. Once those three nights are over, you’ll need to move into a homeless shelter or find another housing solution.
To find a homeless hotel or motel voucher, contact these resources:
- Continuum of Care (CoC)
- National Healthcare for the Homeless Council
- National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
- National Coalition for the Homeless
- HUD housing counselor
- Catholic Charities
- Salvation Army
- Call 211 on your phone
- Local homeless assistance programs
