Shelter

DHS administers both local and federal grant funds to provide single adults, victims of domestic violence, and families with emergency and transitional shelter during the hypothermia (winter and summer) seasons. Available shelter space can be identified by calling the shelter hotline at (800) 535-7252.

Supportive Housing

• DHS and the Commission of Mental Health Services (CMHS) provide matching funds for rental assistance and support services under the Shelter Plus Care and Home First Programs for persons with mental illness, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS. Call (202) 543-5298.
• The Housing Authority manages permanent and Section 8 assisted housing: Call (202) 535-1500.
• The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides housing for special needs populations such as the mentally ill, medically frail and elderly, ex-offenders, and the chemically addicted. Call (202) 442-7290.

Prevention

• DHS supports for the Homeless Prevention Program with rent, mortgage, and utilities grants. Call (202) 347-0511.
• The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers the Emergency Shelter Grant.
• The Housing Authority funds Family Investment Centers at public housing complexes.
• DHS provides rental assistance and support services to prevent shelter overcrowding. Call (202) 724-3932.

Health

• The Department of Health (DOH) offers nutrition counseling, education, and other services including the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program and Commodities Food Program. Call (202) 645-5663.
• DOH provides primary and preventive health education and other supportive services for homeless persons. Call (202) 442-5913.
• DOH provides grant funds for maternal and child health services. Call (202) 442-5925.

Mental Health

The Commission on Mental Health Services (CMHS) funds Mobil Community Outreach Treatment Teams for mentally ill homeless people. Call (202) 673-9302 or (202) 282-0330.

CHMS also:

• Provides emergency psychiatric assessments in the community. Call (202) 673-9300.
• Supports Our House, a drop-in center, which opens daily. Call (202) 667-6001.

Day Care

DHS provides day care assistance to families in transition from welfare to work and for mothers in training. Call (202) 667-727-0284.

Support

• DHS and DOH assist homeless individuals with Medicaid. Call (202) 698-4220.
• DOH offers TB services and preventive education for the homeless and shelter providers. Call (202) 698-4040.