Where to call to find shelter beds available today
Call 311 from any phone in New York City and tell them you need emergency shelter. They will tell you which shelters have beds open that night and direct you to the nearest one. You do not need to schedule ahead — 311 handles same-day placement.
If you are calling after hours (between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.), 311 will transfer you to the Department of Homeless Services Emergency Intake Line. That line operates 24 hours and can place you when ready. Have your name, date of birth, and any ID ready when you call.
If you do not have access to a phone, walk into any police precinct or fire station and ask for directions to the nearest shelter intake site. Staff at either location can radio ahead to confirm a bed is waiting.
Key Takeaways
- Call 311 during the day or the Department of Homeless Services Emergency Intake Line after 8 p.m. to find out which shelters have beds open tonight.
- You do not need an appointment, referral, or prior contact — shelters accept walk-ins and same-day placements through 311.
- Bring any ID you have, your Social Security number if you know it, and proof of income or benefits if you have it, though lack of documents will not prevent placement.
- Shelters provide a bed, meals, and access to case management; some also offer showers, laundry, and phone charging.
- If you cannot reach 311, visit a police precinct or fire station and ask for the nearest shelter intake site.
What happens when you arrive at a shelter
When you check in, staff will ask for your name, date of birth, and any ID. They will also ask whether you have any medical conditions, mental health needs, or safety concerns — for example, if you need to stay away from a specific person. This information helps staff place you in the right unit and connect you with services.
You will receive a bed assignment, usually in a dormitory-style room with other residents. Most shelters provide clean sheets, a pillow, and a blanket. You will also get information about meal times, shower schedules, and house rules. Curfew times vary by shelter but are typically between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., with wake-up between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m.
A case manager will meet with you within the first few days to discuss your situation and what services might help — job training, mental health counseling, substance use treatment, or help finding permanent housing. You are not required to accept services, but case managers can connect you to resources that exist in the city.
Rules and what to expect in a shelter
Shelters have rules designed to keep residents safe. Common rules include no weapons, no drugs or alcohol, no violence or threats, and respect for other residents' space and belongings. Violations can result in a warning, loss of privileges, or discharge from the shelter.
You can usually store personal belongings in a locker or under your bed. Shelters typically allow you to leave during the day and return by curfew. Some shelters have day programs on-site where you can spend time, use computers, or attend classes. Others are dormitory-only, meaning you check in at night and leave in the morning.
If you have a pet, tell 311 when you call. Some shelters have pet-friendly units or can help you find temporary foster care for your animal while you are in shelter. If you have a car, ask about parking options — some shelters have find parking available.
Shelters for specific populations
New York City operates different shelter systems for different groups. Families with children go through the Department of Homeless Services family shelter system, which provides longer-term placements in apartments or cluster sites rather than dormitories. Call 311 and specify that you have children with you.
Young adults ages 18 to 24 can access the Young Adult Shelter System, which offers smaller, more supportive environments with intensive case management. LGBTQ+ youth have access to affirming shelters that prioritize safety and respect. When you call 311, mention your age and any specific needs.
Veterans have access to shelters run in partnership with the Department of Veterans Services. These shelters often have staff trained in military culture and trauma. If you are a veteran, tell 311 when you call so they can direct you to a veteran-focused site.
Getting connected to housing and longer-term support
Shelters are meant to be temporary — the goal is to help you move into permanent housing. Your case manager will work with you on a housing plan, which might include explore for subsidized apartments, getting on a public housing waitlist, or connecting with nonprofit organizations that help people transition out of shelter.
New York City has several housing programs that prioritize people coming from shelter. These include supportive housing (permanent apartments with on-site services), rapid rehousing (short-term rental information while you find a job), and public housing. Your case manager can explain which programs you may be able to access and what documents you will need.
If you have been in shelter for 30 days or more, you become a priority for some housing programs. Keep track of your shelter stay dates and ask your case manager about programs that prioritize long-term shelter residents.
What to bring and what shelters provide
Bring any ID you have — a driver's license, passport, or state ID makes check-in faster. If you do not have ID, you can still enter shelter; staff will use other information to verify your identity. Bring any medications you are taking and the bottles they came in, so shelter medical staff can continue your prescriptions.
Shelters provide bedding, towels, and basic toiletries like soap and shampoo. You do not need to bring sheets or blankets. Bring a change of clothes if you have one, but lack of clothing will not prevent you from entering. Many shelters have clothing closets where residents can get additional items.
Do not bring weapons, drugs, alcohol, or large amounts of cash. Shelters have find lockers, but valuables are safer left with a trusted person outside the shelter if possible. Most shelters have phones you can use, and many have computer access for job searching or contacting family.
If you are turned away or have a problem at a shelter
Shelters can only turn you away if they are at full capacity. If that happens, 311 will direct you to another shelter with available beds. If a shelter turns you away and says it is full, you can call 311 again to confirm and request a different location.
If you experience abuse, theft, or unsafe conditions at a shelter, report it to the shelter director or call the Department of Homeless Services complaint line at 311. You can also contact the Homeless Services Complaint Line directly — ask shelter staff for the number. Complaints are investigated, and you can request a transfer to a different shelter.
If you are discharged from a shelter for violating rules, ask about the appeal process. Many discharges can be appealed, especially if you believe the decision was unfair. Your case manager or the shelter director can explain the appeal procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a New York City resident to enter a shelter?
No. The shelter system is open to anyone experiencing homelessness in New York City, regardless of where you are from. You do not need to prove residency or have a local address. Call 311 and you will be placed in a shelter that night.
Can I stay in a shelter with my partner or family member?
Families with children are placed together in family shelters. If you are an adult couple without children, you may be placed in the same shelter but possibly in different dormitories depending on the facility. Tell 311 about your situation when you call so they can note it for placement staff.
What if I have a mental health condition or am in crisis?
Tell 311 or shelter intake staff about your mental health needs. Shelters have staff trained to support people with psychiatric conditions, and many have on-site mental health counselors. If you are in acute crisis, you can go to a hospital emergency room instead, and hospital staff can connect you to shelter after you are stabilized.
How long can I stay in a shelter?
There is no set time limit. You can stay as long as you need while working with your case manager on a housing plan. Most people stay between a few weeks and several months, depending on their situation and how quickly housing becomes available. Your case manager will discuss timelines with you.
Can I leave the shelter during the day and come back?
Yes. Most shelters allow residents to leave during the day and return by curfew. Some shelters have day programs on-site if you need a place to spend time. Ask about the specific rules at your shelter when you check in.