When escaping a dangerous situation, or even when processing trauma in the aftermath, survivors of sexual abuse, assault, or trafficking need secure and supportive shelter. It could be one of their most urgent and overwhelming needs. Emergency housing exists for this very reason. These shelters often provide immediate refuge for people in crisis while helping them access the longer-term support they need to heal and rebuild.
If you or someone you love is in need of emergency housing, you are not alone, and there are resources that can help.
What Is Emergency Housing?
Emergency housing refers to short-term, immediate shelter options for individuals escaping unsafe or unstable living conditions. For survivors of sexual abuse or trafficking, this might mean:
- Domestic violence shelters
- Safe houses or confidential locations
- Transitional housing programs
- Hotel or motel placements through service organizations
- Emergency placement programs in churches or community centers
Emergency housing is meant for anyone experiencing an immediate need for shelter due to abuse, assault, exploitation, or unsafe living conditions. These spaces are designed to be temporary but protective, giving you the safety and time to begin making decisions about your next steps without the pressure of an unsafe environment.
Emergency housing is generally available in most states for:
- Survivors of sexual abuse and assault
- Survivors of sex trafficking or exploitation
- Domestic violence survivors
- LGBTQ+ individuals escaping unsafe homes
- Youth and minors fleeing abuse
- Anyone who is homeless due to fleeing a dangerous or abusive situation
Remember that you do not need to have filed a police report or have legal documentation of abuse to access many emergency housing services. These services are often confidential and judgment-free.
How to Access Emergency Housing
Many emergency housing programs do not publish their addresses publicly to protect the safety of their residents, so reaching out by phone or online is usually the first step. To get emergency housing information, start by contacting a trusted hotline or local advocacy organization, which can include
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Connects you with a local rape crisis center and services, including emergency shelter. - National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text BEFREE
Trained advocates can help survivors of trafficking access housing and legal services. - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788
Available 24/7 to help with shelter and safety planning. - Safe Place Text Line: Text SAFE and your current location (city/state/ZIP) to 4HELP (44357)
Offers help for youth in crisis across the U.S.
These services can connect you with shelters in your area, arrange transportation if needed, and provide emotional support throughout the process.
In addition to the national hotlines listed above, here are some ways to find local shelter services:
- Search for a Rape Crisis Center or Sexual Assault Services Center in your county
- Visit www.womenshelters.org – includes listings for women, families, and men
- Use 211.org or dial 2-1-1 from any phone for referrals to nearby housing resources
- Contact your local YWCA or LGBTQ+ center
- Ask for a referral from a hospital, social worker, or victim advocate
Some faith-based organizations and community centers also operate safe shelters and transitional housing programs that may not be widely advertised online.
What Does It Cost?
Most emergency housing for survivors is free of charge, as these shelters are often funded by government programs, non-profit organizations, and grants so that cost is never a barrier to safety. In some transitional housing programs (which provide longer-term support), there may be a small fee based on your income, but many survivors qualify for full assistance.
Be cautious. If someone asks for upfront payment or large deposits, especially if they are not affiliated with a reputable organization, they may not be a legitimate organization.
What Should You Expect from Emergency Housing?
Every shelter or housing program operates differently, but most emergency housing for survivors includes:
- A secure, confidential location with controlled entry
- Private or shared rooms with basic amenities
- Meals, hygiene supplies, and clothing if needed
- Case management and advocacy services, including help applying for longer-term housing
- Access to trauma-informed care, counseling, and support groups
- Legal referrals, including help connecting to attorneys or filing protective orders
- Transportation assistance for medical appointments or court appearances
Many programs are also equipped to help with childcare, education referrals, and job placement resources. Most importantly, emergency housing providers should treat you with compassion and respect. You should never be made to feel blamed, judged, or unsafe in these spaces.
What to Look Out For: Avoiding Scams and Unsafe Situations
Unfortunately, some people and organizations may try to take advantage of survivors in crisis. Keep the following in mind when seeking emergency housing:
- Always verify that the shelter or organization is legitimate. Use official hotlines or search verified directories like 211.org.
- Never provide payment or banking information upfront for access to shelter.
- Be wary of individuals offering “housing” without affiliation to a known organization, especially online or on social media.
- Avoid any location where you are asked to perform labor or services in exchange for shelter unless clearly laid out in a legal, supported transitional housing agreement.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to ask for another option or reach out to a hotline for a second opinion.
What Comes Next?
Emergency housing is just the beginning of your healing journey. Once immediate safety is secured, you may begin working with an advocate or case manager to explore:
- Transitional housing programs, which can support you for 6–24 months
- Therapy and trauma recovery services
- Legal representation, including help filing a personal injury lawsuit or protective order
- Financial and employment assistance
- Permanent housing solutions, such as affordable housing or rental support
You deserve long-term safety, security, and peace. There are people and organizations ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.
We’re Also Here to Help
At Stronger Than, we offer compassionate guidance for survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking, including referrals to emergency housing, counseling services, and experienced legal partners who can help you seek justice and compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. You are not alone, and you have the right to be safe.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a local hotline, or contact us directly for confidential support and resources.
