Emergency shelter is available for adults who are experiencing homelessness. The Emergency Shelter program provides beds on a first-come, first-served basis, to anyone who does not have a safe place to sleep. Shelters provide a warm and safe place to sleep as well as on-site assessment and case management. Programs offer various onsite services for those accessing shelter.
Shelter Hotline
The Homeless Services Hotline is open every day from 8 AM - 12 AM. During hypothermia season (November 1 - April 15), the Homeless Services Hotline is open 24 hours a day. Transportation to the shelter is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during hypothermia season. If you are in need of shelter, or you see someone outside in need of shelter or a welfare check, call the Homeless Services Hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311. If there is an immediate risk to safety call 911. When calling, please include the time, the address or location of the sighting, and a description of the person’s appearance.
Low Barrier Shelter Programs
Shelters are operated by non-profit organizations under contract with the Department of Human Services. The below map shows locations of year-round low-barrier shelters. Shelter capacity is expanded during the winter months for residents who are at risk of hypothermia. For more information on shelters open during hypothermia season, please click here.
Map of Low Barrier Shelter Sites
Shelter Complaints
The Office of Program Review, Monitoring, and Investigation (OPRMI) investigates unusual incidents, such as employee misconduct, harassment, and assault, which compromise the integrity of DHS programs or threaten the health or safety of DHS customers, District government employees, and the public.
OPRMI is also responsible for shelter monitoring and evaluating the District of Columbia programs and services within the continuum that are covered by the Homeless Services Reform Act (HSRA) of 2005 as amended. These programs and services include resolving complaints, grievances, and concerns.
Anyone may complete and submit the appropriate form to:
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Submit an allegation of suspected public assistance benefit fraud
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Report an Unusual Incident, or
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Submit a Complaint or Suggestion