Housing & Shelter
Rapid Rehousing
Rapid rehousing moves you from homelessness into a real apartment — fast, usually within a few weeks. A case manager helps you find a unit, negotiate with landlords, and covers first month's rent, security deposit, and short-term rental assistance while you get back on your feet.
What to expect
What happens when you ask for this kind of help
Every program is different, but here is what most people experience when they reach out for rapid rehousing help.
- You need to be literally homeless — sleeping outside, in a shelter, or in a place not meant for housing — to qualify.
- A case manager helps you find an apartment, works with landlords, and handles the paperwork.
- Rental assistance typically lasts 3–12 months, then gradually phases out as you stabilize.
- The lease stays in your name — you keep the apartment after the assistance ends.
- You'll meet regularly with your case manager to troubleshoot problems and plan for when the assistance runs out.
Related help
Other types of help that often go together
Most people need more than one kind of support. These categories are often connected to rapid rehousing.
Not sure where to start?
Enter your ZIP code to find the local resource navigator for your area — a complete guide to every shelter, program, and service near you.
Find my local navigator →