06.09.2025 By Amy Miller, AFC®

16 Housing Resources for Difficult Times

Life doesn’t always go as planned. Job loss, unexpected expenses, illness, or other crises can disrupt your housing situation and leave you feeling uncertain about what comes next.

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Housing Unhoused

But here’s the truth: your journey is not over—just changing direction.
And no matter where you’re starting from, there is always a next step to take, and you don’t have to take it alone.

Whether you're navigating life after eviction, recovering from homelessness, or rebuilding your finances to regain stability, the path back to "home" is possible—and full of support.

We’ve gathered a list of trusted resources to help guide you on your journey.

Emergency & Transitional Housing Support

  • United Way 211
    A free, confidential service that connects you to local shelters, food assistance, rental help, and crisis support.
    Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org
  • HUD Exchange – Homeless Assistance Programs
    Provides directories for emergency shelters, transitional housing, and rental aid services.
    hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance
  • National Coalition for the Homeless
    Advocacy and support resources for individuals and families experiencing or transitioning out of homelessness.
    nationalhomeless.org

Food Assistance and Support

  • Feeding America A nonprofit that provides emergency food assistance through its network of 200+ food banks and over 60,000 food pantries and meal programs across the country. The organization also helps those in need find long-term assistance through government programs, even helping with the application process.
  • Modest Needs Provides financial assistance for an array of needs, with a special focus on short-term needs, like financial help with housing costs and utility assistance. The organization offers what they call “self-sufficiency grants” to help those struggling to get back on their feet

Financial Counseling & Credit Recovery

  • National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)
    Work with a nonprofit counselor to get help with budgeting, credit repair, and debt repayment. Learn more at: nfcc.org.
  • HUD-Approved Housing Counselors
    Free or low-cost support for renters, homebuyers, and those recovering from housing setbacks. Learn more at: hud.gov/housingcounseling.
  • CFPB Housing Help Educational tools and protections for renters, borrowers, and homeowners navigating housing issues. Learn more at: consumerfinance.gov/housing
  • Operation HOPE provides financial coaching, credit counseling, and resources for debt management, especially for low-to-moderate-income families.

Support for Domestic Violence Survivors

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline
    Access emergency shelter, housing help, and safety planning from trained advocates 24/7.
  • Safe Housing Partnerships
    A powerful resource for survivors in need of trauma-informed housing and supportive services. Learn more at: safehousingpartnerships.org.

Job, Income & Rental Assistance

  • Find Local Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs
    HUD-funded programs offering case management, rapid rehousing, and rental support.
    Check availability through your local housing agency here.
  • Benefits.gov
    Search rental assistance, SNAP, TANF, utility help, and other stability programs by location. Learn more at: benefits.gov.

Long-Term Stability & Homeownership Prep

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You’re Not Alone on This Journey

At America Saves, we believe that rebuilding after housing instability is a brave and hopeful act. It’s not just about finding shelter—it’s about reclaiming peace, security, and a place to call home.

Take it one step at a time. Use the resources above. Ask for help when you need it.
Progress doesn’t happen all at once, but every small win matters.

If you’re ready to commit to a savings goal—no matter how small—we’re here for you.
Take the America Saves Pledge

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