When traditional shelters are full or inaccessible, hotel vouchers offer immediate, safe, and private shelter to homeless families in Georgia. These vouchers are offered by government programs, local nonprofits, and faith-based organizations to assist families in crisis.
Organizations across Georgia offer temporary hotel vouchers to homeless families as an interim measure while they search for permanent housing or a place in a shelter.
Who is eligible for hotel vouchers for homeless families in Georgia?
- Eligibility for hotel vouchers varies by program or organization, but generally includes:
- Demonstrating homelessness or risk of becoming homeless in the immediate future.
- Having at least one child or dependent living in the household.
- Meeting specific income requirements, often based on federal poverty levels.
- Being a Georgia resident, although this requirement may be less stringent in emergency situations.
- Lacking access to other housing options or immediate shelter.
- Be willing to collaborate with case management and housing search services to address the underlying causes of homelessness.
Where to Find Hotel Vouchers for Homeless Families in Georgia
Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG)
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) administers ESG funds, which include hotel/motel voucher programs. This assistance is available statewide and is typically provided when emergency shelters are full or unavailable.
Who is eligible? Families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness; priority is given to those with children or fleeing violence, eviction, or medical crises.
How to Apply: Through local nonprofit organizations or the statewide Continuum of Care network. ESG applications opened in March, and local agencies distribute vouchers through a coordinated entry process.
Motel-to-Home Program (St. Vincent de Paul, Georgia)
The St. Vincent de Paul Motel-to-Home Program helps families living in motels move into stable housing. While it does not directly provide hotel vouchers, it supports families who have been in extended-stay motels by offering moving assistance of up to $2,000.
Who qualifies? Working families who have stayed in a motel for at least 30 days and earn enough to pay the subsequent rent.
How to apply: Complete an intake application, submit motel receipts for the past 3 months or more, and provide proof of income and ID.
Local Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs
Georgia’s CoC teams, part of HUD’s national initiative, coordinate housing and rapid rehousing. Many CoCs distribute Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) or other temporary housing support (for hotel stays) through local agencies.
How it works: Homeless or at-risk families are referred through coordinated entry systems.
Contact: Call your county CoC’s intake number or 2-1-1 to connect with services.
HOPE Atlanta and other nonprofits
Organizations like HOPE Atlanta offer emergency housing, case management, and, when shelters reach capacity, issue hotel/motel vouchers through local partnerships.
Who benefits? Veterans, families with children, people with disabilities, and homeless individuals experiencing homelessness.
How to apply: Contact them directly or through the Atlanta Gateway Center’s outreach teams.
Other Local Agencies
Another Chance of Atlanta distributes hotel vouchers through Coordinated Entry and Gwinnett County assistance centers.
Family Promise affiliates across the U.S. offer temporary hotel/motel stays as a bridge until stable housing is found.
How to Get Free Hotel Vouchers
Call 2-1-1: This free and confidential helpline connects people with nearby shelters, food banks, and emergency housing services.
Contact local shelters or nonprofits: Organizations such as the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities of Atlanta, United Way 2-1-1, St. Vincent de Paul, Georgia, and local churches often offer hotel vouchers and other housing resources.
Contact the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS): DFCS can refer families to available programs that offer emergency housing assistance, including hotel vouchers.
Visit a Coordinated Entry Center or Assistance Center: These centers can conduct intake assessments and connect families with appropriate housing resources, including temporary hotel stays.
How do I apply for free hotel vouchers?
To get started, call 2-1-1, Georgia’s unified helpline for housing assistance.
Or, contact your local CoC, nonprofit organization, or ESG-affiliated church.
Provide identification, proof of a motel/street stay, income information, and proof of crisis.
If your application is approved, you will receive a voucher valid for 1 to 7 nights, which is typically renewable for several weeks as you move into permanent housing.
What is the typical length of stay?
- Vouchers typically cover between one and seven nights.
- Extensions may be granted based on individual circumstances, housing availability, and specific program policies.
- During the voucher period, families are encouraged to work with case managers to secure more stable housing options.
Important Considerations
The availability of hotel vouchers may vary depending on demand, funding levels, and local resources.
While some organizations assist undocumented individuals, government programs may require proof of legal residency.
It is important to contact a local agency or call 211 to discuss your specific needs and determine the best course of action.
Conclusion
Hotel voucher programs in Georgia offer a vital resource: dignified emergency housing when traditional options prove insufficient. Coordinated efforts across government, nonprofit, and faith-based systems ensure that families in crisis are not left without a safe place.
If you are experiencing homelessness, don’t wait; contact us today. These vital resources will provide you with the stability and support you need to move forward.
