If you are experiencing homelessness, there is a coordinated process to help match you to resources that are a fit with your situation. You can call the Here4You Hotline in Santa Clara County or go to any Coordinated Entry Access Point in Sonoma County to get help. You will be matched to the housing that best meets your needs—shelter or emergency housing, permanent supportive housing, or rapid rehousing.

Most emergency shelters serve anyone in immediate need—people fleeing domestic violence, those experiencing homelessness, disaster survivors, or people in a housing crisis. Some shelters are specialized (families only, women only, youth, Veterans, etc.).

Call the Here4You Hotline if you are in Santa Clara County or contact Coordinated Entry if you live in Sonoma County.

Certain shelters accommodate children. Pet-friendly shelters can be less common so be sure to state that you have a companion animal. Pets are welcome at all HomeFirst shelters and interim housing sites.

All HomeFirst sites are Low Barrier, but that does not mean “no rules.” Upon entry, staff will discuss expectations, policies, and requirements.

Emergency shelters are free of charge, though some transitional housing programs may have income-based fees later.

Emergency shelter is a crucial step along the road to securing permanent housing. Resident advocates and case managers will work with you to find transitional or permanent housing programs.

Assessment is done through a coordinated entry system. You can enter the system through multiple access points—a hotline, a shelter, a drop-in center, or a street outreach worker. You will be assessed based on how long you’ve been homeless, health and disability factors, risk levels, and other barriers. You will then be prioritized and matched to housing.

At HomeFirst, our shelters and interim housing sites offer meals, case management, mental health support, job assistance, and help obtaining ID benefits.

You will not be asked your status during the assessment process.