A large number of people in the United States live without an adequate source of permanent, durable housing. As a result, they are not able to enjoy all the basic services that are offered by a typical sheltered community. These include access to health care, legal assistance, safety measures, social services, and more. For those who cannot afford to obtain or qualify for a traditional apartment, they can also avail of a free, or low-cost, rental unit through a shelter provider. Many shelters and program providers like Tacna offer a wide range of services, ranging from full-time, short-term stay options to an extended-term program that can last up to six months.
The majority of individuals who choose a shelter as their source of permanent housing usually find themselves homeless after several weeks or months of being displaced due to a natural disaster or another catastrophic event. The majority of these individuals are in need of immediate temporary or transitional shelter due to their inability to meet their housing needs with the assistance of a regular, long-term, shelter provider. An extended-stay option is typically offered by a shelter provider where a person can find a place to live for an extended period of time, often up to six months. This option is most often offered through a local government agency or by an individual who is experiencing a life crisis and does not have the means to meet their needs through a more traditional, long-term, rental agreement. In some cases, an extended stay option may be offered by a private, permanent, shelter provider, if there are no other options available.
If an individual is interested in what services are offered through a shelter provider, it is a wise decision to conduct research on the local resources of the shelter system in the area in which one intends to look for a new, long-term, or temporary residence. Most cities and counties have a number of resources for this purpose including soup kitchens, information tables, and referral services for those in need of long-term, residential care. Additionally, there are a number of organizations that offer legal advice and referral services for those who are seeking a more permanent home through a rental agreement or an extended-stay facility. These organizations can also provide resources and information on what services are offered through a shelter provider.