Family homelessness guide
Homeless with children in Los Angeles: what to do
If your family has nowhere safe to stay, you do not need to understand the entire housing system before asking for help. Start with safety, make one connection, and keep a record of every referral.
If anyone is in immediate danger
Call 911. For housing and social-service referrals in Los Angeles County, call 211. Tell the specialist that children are with you, where you are, whether you have transportation, and whether there are medical, disability, domestic-violence, or other urgent safety concerns.
1. Enter the Los Angeles Coordinated Entry System
Los Angeles County's Coordinated Entry System connects people experiencing homelessness with housing and supportive services. LAHSA says families can enter through access centers or access points, including government agencies, outreach teams, Safe Parking sites, and 211.
Official LAHSA Coordinated Entry information
2. Ask for prevention help before losing housing
If you still have a place to stay but expect eviction soon, say that clearly. LAHSA describes prevention services for households facing eviction in less than 30 days. Bring any notice, lease, identification, and income information you already have, but do not delay asking for help because documents are missing.
3. Protect your children's schooling
Children may qualify for McKinney-Vento protections when they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This can include temporarily sharing housing because of housing loss, living in a motel or shelter, or sleeping in a vehicle. Ask the school district for its homeless education liaison.
4. Ask about food assistance
California's CalFresh program provides monthly food benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families. People experiencing homelessness may still qualify. Call the CalFresh Benefits Helpline at 1-877-847-3663.
Official California CalFresh information
5. Keep a referral record
- Date and time of each call
- Agency and staff member
- Confirmation or case number
- Next step and follow-up date
What Angel Housing can do
Angel Housing helps homeless and low-income families pursue stability through housing support, food assistance, employment resources, and compassionate case management. Assistance depends on current capacity, eligibility, and available resources; a request does not guarantee placement or emergency shelter.
Request help from Angel HousingReviewed September 8, 2026. Programs, eligibility, and contact information can change; confirm current details with the agency providing the service.