Why is This Blog for Everyone?
We encounter many people who are homeless, people who once had great jobs, nice cars, and homes, and then suddenly found themselves without a place to live. This could happen to you, a family member, or a friend. Click here
Individuals may reach out to homeless outreach organizations for various reasons, often driven by immediate needs or challenges. Here are the most common reasons someone might seek help from such organizations. This blog is written to show the struggles the homeless face and provide resources and solutions for those who support people in need.
1. Lack of ShelterThe most immediate need is often a safe place to sleep, especially during extreme weather. You’ll need to find out their situation, such as:
How long they have been homeless
Their income level
If they receive DSS benefits
Date of birth (this helps with access to additional resources)
Does the individual want to get off the streets?
We are happy to help people stay comfortable in their homeless situation. here is how we help.
Their immediate needs, like blankets, tents, food, pet food, or a bivy bag. What is a Bivy Bag?
2. Access to FoodMany individuals struggle with hunger and need assistance finding food resources, like food pantries or meal programs. Homeless Long Island has a resource page for both Nassau and Suffolk.
Pantry locator: Text your zip code here to receive a reply with local food pantries.
3. Health ServicesIndividuals may need medical attention, mental health services, or substance abuse treatment. For someone feeling suicidal, call an ambulance rather than transport them yourself.
Ask if they’re suicidal and if you can call 911. If they decline, you can’t force them.
Ask about their medical history and whether they are taking prescribed meds. They may need help accessing a pharmacy. For instance, Talbot House requires clients to bring all prescriptions upon admission.
4. Financial Assistance People may need temporary financial support, like rent or utility payments, to prevent eviction.
View a list of resources to help people in this situation and share the link with anyone in need.
5. Job Assistance Many experiencing homelessness seek job placement, resume writing, or skills training to improve employment prospects.
6. Housing Resources Individuals may seek help finding permanent or transitional housing, as well as information on housing programs and subsidies.
Housing Programs: Section 8, SSDI, SSI, SILO - Click here.
7. Legal Assistance Some may need support with legal issues like eviction notices, custody disputes, or obtaining ID documents.
8. Family Reunification Individuals may seek help reconnecting with family members, especially after years of separation. While we don’t have resources directly, you can try whitepages.com for a few dollars a month. It can get us in touch with family members.
9. Transportation Services Many need help with transportation to job interviews, medical appointments, or shelters. Volunteers and donations make this possible, but using rideshare services like Lyft or Uber is often safer, and economical.
10. Supportive Services Ongoing assistance through case management or supportive services is often needed.
11. Homeless with Pets Homelessness with pets is a growing issue. Without proper documentation, shelters won’t accept pets. Don’t waste money on an online certificate.
12. Detox & Rehabilitation Our detox/rehab web page receives many views, though we don’t get many calls. Often, calls involve other pressing issues, like imminent homelessness. Speaking with the individual often reveals the underlying need.
For more on alcohol and drug topics, visit our Category of Blogs.
13. Veterans Who Are Homeless Though we don’t get many calls from veterans, we offer resources for those who need them, including those with PTSD or a dishonorable discharge.
14. Chronically Homeless Long-term homeless individuals often struggle to adjust to housing, similar to a feral cat needing encouragement to remain in a new environment. They need frequent visits and reminders to stay settled.
15. Faith and Spirituality Most people we meet are hungry for spiritual connection. If you feel comfortable, don’t be afraid to offer to talk or pray with them if called to do so.
Homeless Long Island: A Connection to Vital Resources
Homeless Long Island plays a crucial role in connecting individuals with the right resources and services, helping them address immediate needs and work toward stability and recovery.
Intake form link.
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