Shelters: What to Expect

How shelter intake works

  1. Most shelters open their intake line or doors at a set time in the afternoon or evening.

  2. You will usually give your name, answer a few basic questions, and wait for staff to check available beds.

  3. Some shelters require a short interview to understand your needs and health situation.

  4. If the shelter is full, staff may refer you to another location or a waitlist.

  5. Having an ID helps but most places will still admit you without one.

What you can bring inside

  1. Shelters allow essential items such as clothing, medications, and a small bag.

  2. Large bags, carts, or bulky items may need to be stored separately or may not be allowed.

  3. Weapons, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted in nearly all shelters.

  4. Medications often must stay in their original bottles.

Sleeping arrangements

  1. Most shelters use dorm style rooms with multiple beds.

  2. Some have bunk beds or mats on the floor during high demand.

  3. Lights usually turn off at a set time and staff monitor the rooms throughout the night.

  4. Couples and families may be placed separately depending on the shelter layout.

Safety and rules

  1. Curfews are common and you must return before the set time each night.

  2. Respectful behavior is expected and staff intervene if conflicts start.

  3. Noise is usually limited after lights out.

  4. Some shelters require breathalyzer checks at entry.

  5. You may need to attend a short orientation if you are new.

Meals and daily routines

  1. Many shelters provide dinner and a simple breakfast.

  2. Meal times are fixed so arriving on time matters.

  3. Some locations offer snacks, coffee, or clean drinking water throughout the evening.

  4. In the morning, most shelters require everyone to leave until the next intake time.

Hygiene and showers

  1. Many shelters offer showers but the number of stalls varies.

  2. Towels, soap, and basic hygiene items are often available.

  3. Shower times may be limited during busy nights.

  4. Laundry access depends on the shelter. Some offer tokens or scheduled laundry days.

Services you might receive

  1. Case management to help with housing, employment, or benefits.

  2. Access to mental health support or referrals to clinics.

  3. Help replacing lost identification documents.

  4. Phone charging stations or limited internet access.

  5. Transportation assistance such as bus tokens or passes.

If the shelter is full

  1. Staff may direct you to overflow shelters or warming centers.

  2. Some cities have emergency mats available during extreme weather.

  3. Call or visit multiple shelters to see who has openings for the night.

  4. Outreach teams may know real time availability.