If you have children and you are in risk of becoming homeless in CA

When I realized that I might be homeless, I tried to gather as much information possible. One way was in CA, there are homeless assistance which can use for once in life time. I went to DPSS(Department of Public Social Service) and asked to the information worker about homeless assistance, they told me to wait until homeless case worker come and talk to me.

The homeless case worker said, DPSS will assist you 16(2 week +2day) days and pay $500 towards security deposit if you find place to move within that time frame. They will give you $455.0 for 1week check which you can stay at motel(65 * 7), when you come back the following week with receipt, they will give another check for 1week. After that you can get $130.0 for 2 days. You are usually need to bring 3 days notice or if you live with someone else and the lease is in their name, your word alone "I don't have no place live" works too.

After my situation changed so I was no longer in risk of homeless, I look through craigslist and there are many people who are renting room for 450.0-500.0. I thought that if I became homeless use that check from DPSS to rent a room for 1month, then another check for another month. Well, that is 2 month off the street if it comes to that. They usually ask for some form of deposit, so you might have to sell whatever you have and get that money.

I am sharing with this so if anyone be in that situation they should check with their state DPSS before any other place. I was told that all states have similar program but the amount could be less or more depends on the state.

I am not sure if this apply to single person or people without dependent children but don't hurt to ask, I think they have something in place for those without children since this is Once in a Life time only assistance.

Wow, that is great info! Thanks for sharing! I'm sure it will be useful to many.

I agree... thanks so much hCA. Personally I'm really grateful you've joined and contributed so much already.

Thank you.