Getting Started

Before beginning a search for assistance available to you, it will be helpful to make a plan. Think about what it is that you need. Do you need medical, substance abuse or mental health care? Are you ready to work or do you need to learn a job skill? Do you have legal issues that need to be resolved? Do you need to reapply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or VA benefit checks?

Make a list of your needs. This list is a tool to help you get organized and to help you figure out where to look for the kinds of help you may need. A sample list might look like this:

1. I need a place to live today.
2. I need a job.
3. I need clothing to wear to work.
4. I want to get counseling for PTSD.
5. I owe child support.
6. I need to find out what federal benefits I can get as a veteran.

Think about your list as you read through these web pages. Who do you think can help you with each of your needs? There may be one organization able to work with you on many issues, or you may need to contact several agencies. Keep track of the steps you take, including the dates and names of people you contact for information or assistance. This will help you explain your situation and make sure you don’t repeat steps you have already taken. Although this website provides national addresses for many organizations, we recommend you check your phone book for local, county and state agencies that can direct you to help that is available in your area.

Requesting Information

If writing a letter or email to request information, be clear. Keep it short, to the point, and write legibly. Include the following information:

• Your name and contact information.
• A brief statement about your current situation.
• Your specific request.
• What you have done so far (Example: I have written to ________  organization and they suggested I contact you.)

When contacting an agency for help by mail, phone or email, be persistent and polite in order to get results. Ask questions if information is not clear to you. Remember that organizations are often staffed by volunteers who are eager to help, but may not have the answers you are looking for. If someone cannot help you, ask them to tell you who can.

Mailing Address

If you are not enrolled in a residence program you may not have a fixed address, which means receiving mail and phone calls may be a problem. If staying at a shelter, ask to use that address and telephone number as your contact information. If moving around, ask to receive mail and phone calls for the short term at a local drop-in center, shelter, VA regional office or clinic, local veteran service organization (VSO), or your church. Enrolling in a transitional housing program as soon as possible will give you a fixed address and phone number to use while applying for and receiving employment assistance and other supportive services.