Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. If you need a safe place to sleep tonight, this guide is for you. Take a breath. There are people in Virginia whose job is to help you find a bed.
Start by dialing 211. In the Richmond area, call the Greater Richmond Homeless Connection Line. In Fairfax County, call Coordinated Services Planning. In Hampton Roads and other areas, call your local department of social services.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a bed, money or a spot in any program.
- Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.
Shelters fill up, so start early in the day if you can. Dial 211 and say you need shelter tonight.
Tell them where you are, who is with you, and if you have pets or special needs. 211 can tell you which places may have room.
Sources: https://211virginia.org/
Tonight, in order
- If you're in danger, call 911.
- Dial 211 and ask for shelter near you.
- In the Richmond area, call the Homeless Connection Line at 804.972.0813.
- In Fairfax County, call Coordinated Services Planning at 703.222.0880.
- In Hampton Roads and other areas, call your local department of social services, listed at the back of this guide.
- Write down every name and number you get.
How does shelter work in the Richmond area?
In the City of Richmond and nearby counties like Henrico and Chesterfield, the Greater Richmond Homeless Connection Line is the front door to shelter. Call 804.972.0813 and tell them where you are and who is with you.
Staff can connect you with shelter and outreach when space allows.
If you still have a place but are about to lose it, call the Housing Resource Line at 804.422.5061 instead. They can tell you about programs that may help you stay housed.
Your local department of social services can also help with benefits and referrals while you look for a place.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://homewardva.org/get-help/
What to say when you call
"Hi. I need a place to stay tonight."
"I'm in (town or ZIP code)."
"It's just me," or "I have (number) kids with me."
"Is there anywhere with room tonight? If not, who else should I call?"
What about Northern Virginia and other areas?
In Fairfax County, Coordinated Services Planning is the first call for help with housing, food and other needs. The Office to Prevent and End Homelessness runs the county's shelter and housing programs.
In Prince William, Loudoun and Alexandria, start with your local social services office, listed in this guide.
In Hampton Roads, call your city's human services department. Samaritan House in Virginia Beach runs a 24/7 hotline for people who are homeless or not safe at home.
Everywhere else in Virginia, dial 211, or call your local department of social services.
Sources: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/ https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/
Ask about the weather
On very hot or very cold nights, some cities open extra warming or cooling centers. Ask 211 if any are open tonight.
What should I bring?
Bring what you can carry easily. Shelters often have limited space for belongings.
A small go bag
What if every shelter is full?
It's hard to hear "we're full." Please don't give up. Space can open up during the day, so call back.
Ask each place, "Who else could help?" Day centers can be a safe place to rest, eat and plan your next step.
Coordinated Entry is how many areas connect people to housing programs. You answer some questions once, and staff use your answers to match you with programs that fit. Ask 211 or your local homeless services line how to start.
Say you lost your apartment in Petersburg
You could dial 211 in the morning and ask about shelter and day centers. If you're in the Richmond area, you could call the Homeless Connection Line. If you have kids, you could ask about family shelter. Then you could start a SNAP application on CommonHelp, so food is covered while you get settled.
How do I visit my local social services office for help tonight?
If you're outside the Richmond area or Fairfax County, your local department of social services is often the best next call after 211. Many offices can help with emergency shelter referrals, benefits and next steps.
Find your office on the state's office finder. If it's after hours, dial 211.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dss.virginia.gov/localagency/
What to say when you walk in
"Hi. I don't have a safe place to sleep tonight."
"It's just me," or "I have (number) kids with me."
"Can someone help me find shelter, and tell me what else I can apply for?"
Before you leave the office
How can I stay safer if I'm sleeping outside or in a car tonight?
I hope you get a bed tonight. If you don't, these tips can help you get through until morning, when you can call again.
- Stay near other people and lighted places when you can.
- Let one person you trust know where you are.
- Keep your ID, phone and medicine on your body, not in a bag you set down.
- In cold or wet weather, ask 211 about warming centers. In the heat, look for cooling centers, libraries and other indoor spots.
- Call again in the morning. Beds open up during the day.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://211virginia.org/
Say every shelter in Lynchburg is full tonight
You could ask 211 about a warming or cooling center close by. You could text a friend where you'll be. You could keep your papers in an inside pocket. First thing in the morning, you could call your local social services office and ask to be put on any list for a bed.
Tomorrow is a new day
A full shelter tonight doesn't mean a full shelter tomorrow. Keep calling, friend.
Questions people ask a lot
Can I bring my pet?
Some shelters accept pets or service animals. Ask when you call.
Can my family stay together?
Many family shelters keep families together. Ask 211 about family shelter.
What if I'm under 25?
There are shelters and programs just for young people. Ask 211, or call 1-800-RUNAWAY. See guide 10.
What if I'm not safe at home?
Call the Virginia Statewide Hotline at 800.838.8238, any time. See guide 8.
Do I have to pay?
Most emergency shelters don't charge. Ask when you call.
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency turns you down, read the letter right away. It explains how to ask for a review. Call legal aid if you want help.
- Dial 211, or search 211virginia.org any time, to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across Virginia, then local help in the Richmond area and in Northern Virginia, then help for Hampton Roads and other areas. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
What it offers Private, no cost support 24/7 for anyone hurt or threatened by a partner. Advocates can help you make a safety plan and find local programs and shelter. The Hotline does not give cash or hotel vouchers, but it can connect you to local groups that may.
How to reach Call 800.799.7233. Text START to 88788. Chat at https://www.thehotline.org/
Source https://www.thehotline.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
What it offers Private, no cost calls 24/7 for Veterans who are homeless or at risk. Trained staff connect you to your nearest VA for help.
How to reach Call 877.424.3838. Live chat is linked from https://www.va.gov/homeless/
Source https://department.va.gov/homeless/
Last checked October 22, 2026
National Runaway Safeline
What it offers Private, no cost, nonjudgmental support 24/7 for young people in crisis and the adults who care about them. Staff listen, help you look at options and connect you to local help. Its Home No cost program can give young people ages 12 to 21 a no cost ride to a confirmed safe adult or safe place.
How to reach Call or text 800.786.2929. Chat at https://www.1800runaway.org/
Source https://www.1800runaway.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Virginia
Here are some places to start.
211 Virginia
What it offers A help line and online search for local help with housing, food, utilities, health care and more, anywhere in Virginia.
How to reach Dial 211, or search any time at https://211virginia.org/
Source https://211virginia.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
CommonHelp (Virginia benefits portal)
What it offers Virginia's online site to apply for SNAP (food benefits), TANF cash help, Medicaid, child care help and energy help, and to check your case.
How to reach Apply at https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/ Questions: call the Enterprise Call Center at 855.635.4370.
Source https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
Last checked October 22, 2026
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Virginia)
What it offers Talk to someone right away if you or someone you know is in a mental health or substance use crisis. Open 24/7 for calls, texts and chat. In Virginia, 988 can also connect you to your local community services board.
How to reach Call or text 988, or chat at https://988lifeline.org/
Source https://988lifeline.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Statewide Hotline (Sexual and Domestic Violence)
What it offers A 24/7 bilingual hotline for anyone in Virginia affected by domestic violence, sexual violence or dating violence. They can connect you to a local program and shelter.
How to reach Call 800.838.8238, any time, or chat on the source page.
Source https://vsdvalliance.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Greater Richmond
Here are some places to start.
Greater Richmond Homeless Connection Line (Homeward)
What it offers The front door to shelter and homeless help for the City of Richmond and nearby counties. Call if you are homeless now or about to lose your place.
How to reach Call 804.972.0813.
Source https://homewardva.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Greater Richmond Housing Resource Line
What it offers Help for people in the Richmond area who are behind on rent or at risk of losing housing, with links to prevention programs when funds allow.
How to reach Call 804.422.5061.
Source https://homewardva.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
City of Richmond Department of Social Services
What it offers Applications for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid and energy help for Richmond residents, plus emergency help and referrals.
How to reach Call 804.646.7212.
Source https://www.rva.gov/social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Henrico County Department of Social Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Henrico County residents.
How to reach Call 804.501.4001.
Source https://henrico.gov/dss/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services
What it offers Benefits, energy help and referrals for Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights residents.
How to reach Call 804.748.1100 for general questions.
Source https://www.chesterfield.gov/569/Social-Services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Greater Richmond Regional Hotline (YWCA Richmond)
What it offers A 24/7 hotline for people in the Richmond area affected by domestic violence or sexual violence.
How to reach Call 804.612.6126, any time.
Source https://www.ywcarichmond.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Northern Virginia
Here are some places to start.
Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning
What it offers The first call for help with housing, food, financial help and other needs in Fairfax County.
How to reach Call 703.222.0880.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Fairfax County Office to Prevent and End Homelessness
What it offers Fairfax County's homeless response, with shelter, outreach and housing programs.
How to reach Call 703.246.5000, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. TTY 711.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Fairfax County Department of Family Services
What it offers Benefits, child care help and family services for Fairfax County residents.
How to reach Call 703.324.7500, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. TTY 711.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Prince William County Department of Social Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Prince William County residents.
How to reach Call 703.792.7500 (TTY 711).
Source https://www.pwcva.gov/department/social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Loudoun County Department of Family Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Loudoun County residents.
How to reach Call 703.777.0353.
Source https://www.loudoun.gov/dfs
Last checked October 22, 2026
Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline
What it offers A 24 hour hotline for people in Fairfax County affected by domestic or sexual violence.
How to reach Call 703.360.7273 (TTY 711), any time.
Source https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hampton Roads and other areas
Every Virginia city and county has a local department of social services. If you don't live in the Richmond area or Northern Virginia, start with yours. Here are a few, plus help in Hampton Roads. Find any local office at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/localagency/ or dial 211.
Norfolk Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Norfolk residents.
How to reach Call 757.664.6000.
Source https://www.norfolk.gov/295/Human-Services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Beach Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Virginia Beach residents.
How to reach Call the customer call center at 757.385.4306.
Source https://hs.virginiabeach.gov/financial-assistance
Last checked October 22, 2026
Chesapeake Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Chesapeake residents.
How to reach Call 757.382.2000.
Source https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/358/Chesapeake-Social-Services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Lynchburg Department of Human Services
What it offers Benefits, emergency help and referrals for Lynchburg residents.
How to reach Call 434.455.5850.
Source https://www.lynchburgva.gov/social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Samaritan House (Virginia Beach)
What it offers Shelter and support in Hampton Roads for people affected by domestic violence, sexual violence or homelessness.
How to reach 24/7 hotline: call 757.430.2120. Office: 757.631.0710.
Source https://www.samaritanhouseva.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia
What it offers Civil legal help for people who qualify in Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.
How to reach Call the Community Support Team at 757.827.5078.
Source https://www.laseva.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Virginia Community Action Partnership
What it offers Lists the Community Action Agencies across Virginia. Local agencies may help with emergency needs, job training, Head Start and other programs when funds allow.
How to reach Find your agency at https://vacap.org/ or dial 211.
Source https://vacap.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My plan for tonight
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
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