Homeless Assistance in Washington
Locate emergency shelters, federal programs, state assistance, financial aid, healthcare, and employment support available to Washington residents.
Emergency Housing & Shelter
Immediate options for Washington residents who need a safe place to stay tonight.
Emergency Shelters
Find available shelter beds tonight across Washington. Contact us for help locating the nearest open shelter and available resources in your area.
Get StartedFamily & Youth Shelters
Specialized shelters for families with children and unaccompanied youth in Washington. Safe environments with case management and wraparound support.
Get StartedVeterans Emergency Housing
Dedicated emergency housing for Washington veterans. HUD-VASH vouchers and VA-funded supportive services are available statewide. Call 1-877-4AID-VET.
Get StartedFederal Assistance Programs
Federal programs available to eligible Washington residents regardless of city or county.
HUD Continuum of Care
Primary federal program organizing housing and services for homeless individuals in Washington. CoC regions provide transitional and permanent supportive housing.
Get StartedEmergency Solutions Grants
Funds emergency shelters, street outreach, homeless prevention, and rapid re-housing. Washington receives federal ESG funding distributed through local providers.
Get StartedHousing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
Rental assistance vouchers for very low-income families, elderly, and disabled individuals. Apply through your local Washington Public Housing Authority.
Get StartedHUD-VASH (Veterans)
Combines Section 8 housing vouchers with VA supportive services for veterans experiencing homelessness. Available across multiple Washington locations.
Get StartedPATH Program (Mental Health)
Outreach, case management, and mental health support for homeless individuals. Operated through Washington community mental health centers statewide.
Get StartedSNAP Food Assistance
Helps low-income Washington residents buy food. Apply at your local benefits office. No permanent address required to apply.
Get StartedWashington State Programs
Programs funded or operated specifically by Washington for residents experiencing homelessness.
Washington Housing & Essential Needs (HEN)
State program providing housing assistance, utility support, and essential supplies to adults with disabling conditions while they apply for disability benefits.
Get StartedTANF – Washington (WorkFirst)
WorkFirst provides cash assistance and employment services to eligible Washington families with children. Apply at washingtonconnection.org or any DSHS office.
Get StartedApple Health (Washington Medicaid)
Washington’s Medicaid program covering low-income adults, children, families, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. Apply at wahealthplanfinder.org.
Get StartedWashington Housing Programs
Washington State Housing Finance Commission provides affordable housing resources, rental assistance, and housing grants for low-income Washington residents.
Get StartedWashington Workforce & Employment
Free job training, resume help, and career placement through Washington’s Workforce Development programs. Find your nearest office at the link below.
Get StartedLIHEAP Energy Assistance
Helps low-income Washington households pay heating and cooling bills. Distributed through local community action agencies. Contact us to find your nearest provider.
Get StartedLocal Resources by City
Major Washington cities with dedicated homeless services and housing authorities.
Seattle
DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center) — homeless services, shelter placement, and housing assistance for Seattle area residents experiencing homelessness.
Get StartedSpokane
Spokane County CoC — emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rapid re-housing services for individuals and families in the Spokane area.
Get StartedTacoma
Catholic Community Services — housing resources, case management, and emergency assistance for Tacoma area residents experiencing homelessness.
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about getting homeless assistance in Washington.
- HUD-VASH — Section 8 vouchers specifically for veterans with VA case management
- SSVF — Rapid re-housing and prevention for veteran families
- Washington Veterans Housing — Affordable housing and support for Washington veterans
Assistance by State
Select a state to view its specific homeless assistance programs and resources.
