HOW DO I FIND TRANSITIONAL HOUSING?



Transitional Housing for Domestic Violence Survivors
Domestic violence (DV) transitional housing programs provide survivors and their children with longer-term stability while offering the heightened level of security that is often required. In transitional housing, survivors typically focus on gaining financial stability so that they can obtain permanent housing. On-going supportive services at these programs address the many underlying issues related to experiencing abuse, such as post traumatic stress disorder, depression and chronic illness. Program advocates provide intensive support around securing employment, achieving financial stability, resolving legal issues and identifying and achieving other goals for long-term stability.

Families in transitional housing programs usually have their own apartments and stay for typically one to two years, depending on the program.

Click Here > for a list of transitional housing options specifically for DV survivors in DC.

Transitional Housing (Not Specifically for Domestic Violence Survivors)
When there are no other options or available space in DV transitional housing programs and you are homeless as a result of DV, you may want to consider transitional housing programs that are not specifically for DV survivors. These programs are typically not in confidential locations, and the application process varies from DV transitional housing programs.

For single women, these programs may require you obtain a referral from an advocate at one of the emergency housing programs, or from a nonresidential program. For women with children, many of the programs require applicants to have a "declaration of homelessness" letter. This letter can be provided by:

• a domestic violence advocate;
  
• an outreach worker;
  
• a soup kitchen employee; or
  
• a caseworker at the Virginia Williams Family Resource Center (FRC).

Click Here > for a list of some of the transitional housing options for women in DC.

The FRC is the central intake office for all homeless families requesting housing and assistance in DC through the Department of Human Services. Many of the transitional housing programs for women and their children require that you obtain a direct referral from the FRC, which is located at this new location:

920-A Rhode Island Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20018
Phone: 202.724.4208
(Near the Rhode Island Ave. metro stop on the red line.)

It is advised that you bring: a letter verifying that you’re homeless, a picture ID, birth certificate and social security cards for all family members, documentation of income, and eviction
notice if available.