Finding free housing for homeless California residents can be overwhelming, but there are resources available to help you secure permanent housing and regain stability. Whether you are a veteran, single mom, disabled individual, or low-income resident, several federal, state, and local housing programs provide support.
This guide covers everything you need to know, including:
- Federal and state housing assistance programs
- Local and nonprofit organizations offering housing support
- Online search tools and resources
- What proof you need to apply
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, keep reading to find the best options for housing assistance in California.
Federal Housing Assistance Programs in California
HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV), commonly known as Section 8, helps low-income residents secure affordable housing by covering a portion of their rent. If you qualify, you’ll receive a voucher to use for a private rental property that meets HUD’s safety standards.
Eligibility for Section 8 in California
To qualify, you must:
Have a household income below HUD’s income limits
Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
Pass a criminal background check
Apply through your local housing authority
Since waiting lists can be long, it’s best to apply as soon as possible through the HUD website or your local Public Housing Authority (PHA).
CalWORKs Housing Support Program
The CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) is designed to help homeless families receiving CalWORKs benefits find and maintain permanent housing. This program provides:
- Short- and medium-term rental subsidies
- Help with security deposits and last month’s rent
- Wraparound case management to ensure housing stability
If you are an eligible CalWORKs recipient or an apparently eligible CalWORKs applicant, you may qualify for housing assistance through HSP. The program works with local public social services agencies to provide rental assistance and supportive housing services.
How to Apply:
Visit your local CalWORKs office
Call 211 California for assistance
Apply through your county’s social services department
Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) for Chronically Homeless Individuals
The Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program provides stable housing for individuals who have been homeless long-term and need mental health or disability support.
Who qualifies for PSH?
- Individuals with mental health conditions or disabilities
- Those experiencing chronic homelessness
- People who need supportive services (substance abuse counseling, job training, etc.)
To apply, contact a local homeless services organization or your county’s housing support office.
VA Supportive Housing for Homeless Veterans (HUD-VASH)
If you’re a veteran experiencing homelessness, the HUD-VASH program provides rental assistance and case management. This program is a partnership between HUD and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
How to Apply for HUD-VASH
Contact your local VA medical center
Apply through the VA Homeless Programs Office
Work with a case manager to find a rental
This program is specifically designed to help veterans obtain permanent housing and access supportive services.State Housing Programs in California
State Housing Programs in California
CalWORKs Homeless Assistance Program
The CalWORKs Homeless Assistance Program provides temporary shelter, security deposits, and rental assistance for eligible families with children. If you are a single mom, disabled individual, or low-income family, you may qualify for this housing support program.
Who qualifies?
Families receiving CalWORKs benefits
Those at imminent risk of homelessness
Eligible CalWORKs recipients who need help paying up to two months’ rent
Contact your local CalWORKs office to apply.
Bringing Families Home Program
This program provides homeless assistance to families struggling with housing instability. If you’re a single mom, parent, or guardian, this program can help with:
Security deposits
First and last month’s rent
Medium-term rental subsidies
Check with your local Department of Public Social Services to see if your family qualifies.
Home Safe Program
The Home Safe Program supports elderly and disabled individuals at risk of homelessness. If you or someone you know is a senior facing eviction, this program may cover:
Emergency housing
Rental assistance
Wraparound case management
To apply, contact Adult Protective Services in your county.
Local and County Housing Assistance Programs
Coordinated Entry System (CES)
Each county in California has a Coordinated Entry System (CES) that prioritizes homeless families, individuals, and veterans based on need.
How to access CES?
Call 211 California to get connected
Visit your local housing authority
Apply through a homeless shelter or outreach program
CES programs help people obtain permanent supportive housing, temporary shelters, and other homelessness programs.
Affordable Housing and Emergency Shelters by County
Each county in California offers different housing resources for those experiencing homelessness. Some major programs include:
Los Angeles County Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) – Provides housing assistance and emergency shelters
San Francisco Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) – Offers immediate shelter and rental assistance
San Diego Housing Commission – Helps residents find affordable housing
To find housing resources in your area, visit 211 California or your local public housing authority.
Nonprofit Organizations Providing Free Housing Assistance
Salvation Army Housing Programs
The Salvation Army offers:
Emergency shelters
Transitional housing
Rental assistance programs
Catholic Charities Homeless Services
Catholic Charities provides:
Housing support for homeless families
Financial assistance for rent and utilities
Case management services
Online Search Tools and Resources
Looking for permanent housing or temporary shelter? These tools can help:
HUD Resource Locator – Search for affordable housing and Section 8 properties
California Housing Partnership – Find permanent supportive housing options
211 California – Get connected with homeless assistance programs
These online tools make it easier to find housing resources that fit your needs.
What Proof is Needed to Apply for Free Housing?
When applying for housing assistance, you’ll need:
Government-issued ID (Driver’s License or Passport)
Proof of income (pay stubs, Social Security benefits, or CalWORKs documentation)
Homeless verification letter (from a shelter or caseworker)
Medical or disability documentation (if applying for supportive housing)
Finding the Right Housing Assistance in California
Finding free housing for homeless California residents is challenging, but help is available. Whether you need permanent housing, emergency shelter, or rental assistance, there are resources to help you get back on your feet.
Free Monthly Cell Phone Service for Qualifying Applicants
If you qualify for programs like CalWORKs, Section 8, or disability benefit programs, you may also be eligible for FREE monthly cell phone service through StandUp Wireless.
Get:
Unlimited Monthly Talk & Text
6 GB of Data Every Month
A FREE Smartphone
Visit a StandUp Wireless store or tent location in California to enroll today!