Worried about becoming homeless?
There can be many reasons why people fear becoming homeless. Losing a job or a family member, experiencing landlord harassment, being behind on rent, fleeing domestic violence, and other factors can all lead to housing instability. Explore the resources below to help you find address common issues that can cause a housing crisis. Click the buttons below if you are in immediate need.
Safety First
Your immediate safety safety is a top priority when addressing any crisis.
If you need to leave a violent or abusive household, click here.
If you or someone you know are experiencing a mental health crisis, including being at risk of suicide, click here.
Behind on rent
There may be resources available to help you pay rent that you owe, especially if you fell behind due to COVID-19. Check out rental arrear programs here.
If you have already have an eviction submitted to the court because you are behind on rent, make sure connect to legal services.
If you are to be evicted within the next 21 days because you are behind on rent, some additional resources may be available to you.
Loss of income
If you lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, help paying past due rent may be available to you. Check out those resources here.
If you lost your income need help increasing it in order to afford your rent, check out employment services and vocational training resources here.
Explore resources to obtain and maximize government benefits, including unemployment, here.
At risk of eviction
If you have received an eviction notice, make sure you are connected to legal services. Explore resources for free legal information and services here.
Know your rights as a tenant. Legal evictions must go through the court. Check out resources and more information here.
If you are having issues with your mortgage and are facing foreclosure, check out some resources here.
Need help paying bills
If you cannot afford basic necessities such as food and clothing, explore resources here.
If you need help paying for utilities, check out resources here.
Check if any housing voucher (Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher) lists are open nationwide here. Find information on local public housing authorities here.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for government benefit programs. Explore related resources here.
Other information about help is available at needhelppayingbills.com and through 211.
Finding housing
Finding affordable housing is a challenge on Long Island. At this time, there are no free services available to help locating units, unless you are enrolled in another program.
Check out sites with affordable housing listings here.