Things to Do if You May Become Homeless in a Few Days
If you only have a few days before you may become homeless, it is helpful to start making plans*. The goal should be either to avoid going to an emergency shelter, or, if that can't be avoided, to make your stay there as short as possible. Depending on how much time you have before you might become homeless, try one or all of the following:
#1 Try to locate an assistance program near you: Some agencies provide homeless prevention assistance. These programs may have waiting lists, require an appointment/interview, or have certain restrictions on who they serve. For these reasons, the sooner you can find a program that may be able help you, the better. If you do not know of any programs near you, click here for general area resources.
In the greater Grand Traverse region, contact the Northwest Michigan Human Services Agency at 231-947-3780 for prevention and emergency assistance programs.
For shelter, contact the Goodwill Inn at 231-922-4890 or the Women's Resource Center shelter at 231-946-1210. Other resources can be found at the Website of the Northwest Michigan Information and Referral System through the Michigan Assistance and Referral System or in the Goodwill Inn's Community Resource Guide - Grand Traverse. Other shelters in the State of Michigan may be found at the Michigan Coalition for the Homeless Website.
#2 Apply for Public Housing and/or Section 8 Housing: In the Greater Grand Traverse region: There are currently two Section 8 rental assistance programs in the five-county area: One program is administered by SEE-CON (MSHDA) and is headquartered in Bellaire, MI. This program serves Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau counties.
A second Section 8 rental assistance program is administered by the Traverse City Housing Commission and serves Grand Traverse County only. Applications for both programs may be obtained from the Goodwill Inn, 231-922-4890, or directly from the agencies themselves: MSHDA - 231-377-7155. Traverse City Housing Commission - 231-922-4915. If you need assistance in applying for Section 8, please contact a Case Manager at the Goodwill Inn, 231-922-4890.
Waiting lists for public and Section 8 housing vary across the country. Although public and Section 8 housing have very long waiting lists, you need to apply now if you are not already on their waiting lists. You can find out how to apply by looking for the number of your local public housing authority in the government section of the phone book.
Some people say they don't want to live in public or Section 8 housing, but there are two things to remember: first of all, it is the only housing that many people can afford. Secondly, you do not have to take it when your name comes up, as you may have other options at that time. The point is that you want to have a range of choices available to you in as short a time as possible. Single men and women can apply for public and Section 8 housing. However, if you are not disabled, the waiting period for Section 8 will be much longer.
#3 Apply for Transitional Housing: In some communities, transitional housing is an option for people who are homeless. Transitional housing programs vary greatly across the country as far as who they serve and what their requirements are. Again, many transitional houses will tell you they have a waiting list, but remember to tell them that you are calling so that you can get on that list. The sooner you apply, the sooner your name comes to the top of the list. You will have to fill out an application and make an appointment for an interview. Follow through with as many of these programs as possible.
In the Greater Grand Traverse region, the following agencies may be able to assist you with transitional housing:
- Women's Resource Center, 231-941-1210
- Addiction Treatment Center, 231-922-4810
- Miracle Manor, 231-941-9378
#4 Make sure your ID is current and available: Set up a P.O. Box for delivery and mail if that is possible. Many shelters and employers have strict ID requirements, and it will make things easier if you have these things ready or in process.
If your driver's license has expired or been taken for a traffic ticket, etc., reapply or get your State ID processed. Click here for a listing of Michigan State ID-Driver's License Requirements.
If you only have a print-out of your Social Security Card, get a new card to replace it as soon as possible. Click here for the location and hours of the Social Security office nearest to you.
#5 Make an Emergency Pack: If you have more than two bags for yourself, or one for each child, try to find someone you know who can and will hold your things for you or try to arrange for a storage unit. Almost every shelter has limits on the amount of baggage people can carry with them because they don't have enough space. Pack the things you can take with you. Try to arrange a ride or some sort of transportation for the day you'll have to leave. If there is anyone who can lend you some money, now would be the time to borrow it. Try to keep at least $20-$50 with you in a safe place just for emergencies. Make sure your ID is in a safe and accessible place -- you will want to take it with you. Most shelters have strict ID requirements.
#6 Other Strategies: Please read General Sources of Help and Things to Do if You May Become Homeless in a Few Weeks, as these pages may contain advice that can help you in the long or short term.
* Adapted from National Coalition for the Homeless Website
** Housing services available through an agreement with Goodwill Industries of Northern Michigan, Inc.
* These services are provided to Inn guests through an agreement with Goodwill Industries of Northern Michigan, Inc.
Phone 231-922-4890. For directions to the Goodwill Inn, click here
