What to Do If You Need Shelter Now in LA and Orange Counties
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing shelter in Los Angeles or Orange County, it's important to know that there are resources available to provide immediate assistance. Below are some of the key emergency housing resources and shelters in these areas that can help you find a safe place to stay.
1. Los Angeles County Emergency Shelters and Resources
Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)
LAHSA operates the largest network of emergency shelters and resources in Los Angeles County. They provide access to shelter, emergency housing services, and support programs to help individuals transition into stable housing.
AHA can assist you with LAHSA's affordable housing application.
Contact: 1-800-548-6047 or visit LAHSA's website to find the nearest shelter or access services.
Winter Shelter Program
During the colder months, LAHSA operates a Winter Shelter Program, offering temporary overnight shelter and transportation to people experiencing homelessness.
Contact: 1-800-548-6047 for locations or visit the Winter Shelter Program page.
211 LA County
211 LA County is a comprehensive resource hub for emergency shelters and other housing assistance programs. If you're facing homelessness or need immediate shelter, you can call 211 or visit their website to access information about services in your area.
Contact: Dial 211 or visit 211 LA.
The Salvation Army – Los Angeles County
The Salvation Army provides emergency shelter services for individuals and families in need. They also offer meal services and case management to help residents transition into more stable housing situations.
Contact: (213) 896-9160 or visit The Salvation Army’s website.
2. Orange County Emergency Shelters and Resources
Orange County Housing Authority (OCHA)
OCHA works to provide emergency housing assistance and transitional housing services to individuals and families facing homelessness. They can connect you with shelters and offer long-term support to help you regain housing stability.
Contact: (714) 480-2700 or visit the OCHA website.
Orange County Rescue Mission
Orange County Rescue Mission offers emergency shelter, food, and other support services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Orange County. They focus on both immediate needs and long-term solutions, including job training and medical care.
Contact: (714) 247-4300 or visit Orange County Rescue Mission.
Illumination Foundation
The Illumination Foundation provides emergency and transitional housing, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as families with children and individuals with chronic health issues. Their program includes case management and health services.
Contact: (949) 273-0555 or visit Illumination Foundation’s website.
211 Orange County
Similar to LA County, 211 OC connects individuals in need to shelter and emergency housing services across Orange County. This service is available 24/7 and can direct you to the closest available shelter.
Contact: Dial 211 or visit 211 Orange County.
3. Additional Resources
Local Churches and Nonprofits
Many churches and nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles and Orange County offer emergency shelter and assistance to those in need. Contact local places of worship or community centers to inquire about temporary housing options.
Family and Domestic Violence Shelters
If you are experiencing domestic violence, there are specific shelters and hotlines that can provide a safe and secure place to stay. Organizations like Rainbow Services in Los Angeles (310-547-9343) and Human Options in Orange County (877-854-3594) specialize in providing support for those escaping domestic violence situations.
If you find yourself in immediate need of shelter in Los Angeles or Orange Counties, know that help is available. Reach out to one of the resources above to access emergency shelter, and don’t hesitate to connect with a local organization that can offer support beyond immediate housing.
