Housing & Shelter

How housing help works in Atlanta

Be honest with yourself about which problem you have — they have different doors. No place to sleep tonight: shelter beds fill by mid-afternoon, so call early in the day. Men's, women's, and family shelters are usually separate. Downtown, the Gateway Center is the front door into the shelter system for many people. Behind on rent: rent and utility assistance funds run out fast every month — apply the first week if you can, and bring your lease and ID. Eviction papers: you usually have only 7 days to answer after you're served. File an answer at the courthouse and call legal aid immediately — it's free and it can buy you time.

What to expect when you call a shelter: they'll ask who's with you (kids? partner?), and tell you intake hours and what you can bring. If they're full, ask who has beds tonight — they keep track.