Continuum of Care (CoC) Homeless Assistance

About This Program

The Continuum of Care program is HUD's primary mechanism for funding local organizations that serve people experiencing homelessness. CoC grants support a range of housing interventions: street outreach to unsheltered individuals, emergency shelter, transitional housing, rapid re-housing (time-limited rental assistance to move people from shelter or the street into permanent housing quickly), and permanent supportive housing (long-term housing with wraparound services for people with chronic homelessness and disabilities). CoC programs are organized locally — each community has a CoC collaborative that coordinates the local homeless services system, conducts the annual Point-in-Time count of homeless individuals, and allocates funding to member organizations. The quality, capacity, and approach of CoC systems vary significantly from community to community. Permanent Supportive Housing, which combines long-term affordable housing with mental health, substance use, and case management services, has the strongest evidence base of any intervention for people experiencing chronic homelessness — particularly those with serious mental illness or substance use disorders. Research consistently shows it is also more cost-effective than cycling people through emergency services and jails. To access CoC services, contact your local homeless services coordinated entry system. Most communities have a centralized intake process (often called "coordinated entry") where people can be assessed and connected to appropriate housing and services. Dial 211 or visit findhelp.org to locate homeless services in your area.

Eligibility Requirements

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