Hotel vouchers can help homeless individuals stay in a motel or hotel for a short period of time. In Savannah, Georgia, these vouchers are available, but they are limited, temporary, and not guaranteed. Homeless individuals and families can access emergency hotel vouchers through local non-profit organizations, state agencies, and faith-based organizations.
Organizations Providing Hotel Vouchers & Housing Support in Savannah, GA
United Way of the Coastal Empire (211)
United Way of the Coastal Empire (UWCE) offers access to hotel and motel vouchers through its 211 Information and Referral Service, which connects individuals in crisis with local funding sources and partner nonprofit organizations. Vouchers are issued only when local shelters are at full capacity or for specific high-priority cases, such as families with children or disaster victims.
Family Promise of the Coastal Empire
Family Promise of the Coastal Empire (FPCE) utilizes hotel stays as a specific model of “Scattered Site” sheltering—primarily when its traditional (congregation-based) or static shelters are at maximum capacity or unavailable. These stays are integrated into its Shelter and Diversion programs, rather than serving merely as a walk-in, direct-service voucher program.
According to recent reports, FPCE has faced challenges regarding shelter capacity due to the loss of a key faith-based partner; consequently, it has previously suspended new client intake when operating beyond its functional capacity.
The Diversion Program offers short-term assistance (up to 30 days) to families who have a safe place to stay while they access resources to secure permanent housing.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for emergency housing support—including potential hotel stays—applicants must generally meet the following criteria:
- Families with Children: Services are strictly limited to families with children aged 18 or younger.
- Residency: Applicants must reside in Chatham, Bryan, Effingham, or Liberty counties.
- Crisis Situation: Applicants must be living in unsafe or inadequate conditions, with no other housing options available to them.
How to Apply for Help
Complete the Family Promise “Need Help” form to initiate the application process. Their team typically processes applications within 24 to 48 hours. If you have not received a response within two days, please call the office corresponding to your county:
Chatham County: 912-790-9446
Effingham County: 912-519-0567
Bryan County: 912-445-4021
St. Vincent de Paul Georgia
In Savannah, St. Vincent de Paul Georgia (SVdP) provides hotel vouchers and temporary housing assistance, primarily through local “Conferences” (volunteer groups associated with Catholic parishes). Please remember that assistance is strictly dependent on the availability of local funds at the time of your request.
SVdP does not operate a walk-in office for voucher distribution. You must follow this telephone-based intake process:
- Contact the statewide helpline at 678-892-6163.
- You will be prompted to enter your zip code, which will automatically route your request to the Savannah-area Conference closest to your location.
- A case management volunteer will return your call to conduct an initial assessment. They will determine if you qualify and if funds are currently available for a hotel stay.
Other SVdP Housing Resources
SVdP Georgia administers two distinct programs related to hotels and housing:
Emergency Housing Assistance: This program provides temporary accommodation in hotels or shelters, specifically in cases where eviction cannot be avoided and no other shelter is available.
Motel to Home (M2H): This program is not intended for emergency vouchers. Instead, it helps families already residing in motels transition into permanent housing by providing up to $2,000 for move-in deposits.
Note: As of late 2024, funding for the M2H program is generally prioritized for households that include at least one minor under the age of 18.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a resident of Georgia and be physically located within the service area of the local Savannah conference.
- Most conferences limit financial assistance to once every 12 months.
- Be prepared to present identification, proof of income (if applicable), and documentation regarding your housing crisis (such as an eviction notice or a homelessness verification form).
The Salvation Army of Savannah
In Savannah, The Salvation Army focuses primarily on providing direct housing through the emergency shelter located at its facility, rather than distributing hotel vouchers. However, they do provide emergency financial assistance which, on occasion, may be used for lodging in specific crisis situations.
The surest way to secure immediate housing through The Salvation Army is to visit their Emergency Shelter, located at 3100 Montgomery Street. Generally, admission requires meeting the homelessness criteria established by HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development)—such as residing in a place not meant for human habitation or facing imminent eviction within one week. For many new residents, the first week of their stay is free, and they may receive a clothing voucher for The Salvation Army thrift store.
Catholic Charities of South Georgia
In Savannah, Catholic Charities of South Georgia (formerly known as the Savannah Social Apostolate) serves as a vital hub for community assistance, though it focuses primarily on crisis intervention rather than providing direct, long-term hotel vouchers. They provide vouchers for clothing and immediate necessities, rather than directly paying for hotel rooms, unless specific emergency grant funds are available at the time of your request.
The organization operates a Crisis Intervention Program at its downtown Savannah headquarters to support individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. While they do not include “hotel vouchers” as a standard, ongoing service, they offer the following support that can help you stabilize your situation or find alternative housing:
- Clothing Vouchers: To be used at their thrift store to acquire essential clothing items.
- Assistance with Vital Documents: Help obtaining birth certificates and Georgia ID cards, which are often requirements for accessing other housing programs.
- Food and Essential Items: Access to emergency food assistance, baby supplies, and a daily food pantry.
- Health and Employment Support: Referrals and assistance to facilitate the transition out of homelessness.
You must call 912-233-1877 to schedule a meeting with a case manager.
Other Housing Programs Available in Savannah
Emergency Housing Programs
The City of Savannah receives funds that can be used to issue hotel and motel vouchers for individuals receiving homelessness assistance. Emergency housing in Savannah is managed through a “Continuum of Care” (CoC) model, in which the Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH) coordinates multiple government and non-profit agencies.
Expiration of Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV): The state EHV program, which provided housing assistance during the pandemic era, is scheduled to end on June 30, 2026. After this date, no new vouchers will be issued under this specific program, although current tenants will be able to receive support from Housing Navigators until the deadline.
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
In Savannah, GA, the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program provides federal and state funds to local non-profit organizations to assist individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the City of Savannah act as the primary administrators, allocating these funds to “sub-recipients” (local service providers) rather than providing direct aid to individuals.
Individuals cannot apply directly for an ESG grant; they must contact a local agency that has received a funding allocation.
- Call 2-1-1: The United Way 211 line serves as the central point for completing a mandatory initial assessment to determine whether you meet HUD’s (Department of Housing and Urban Development) definition of a person who is “homeless” or “at risk.”
- Contact the CSAH: Visit the Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless at 761 Wheaton St to complete an intake assessment. Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) Program
This state-level program, administered through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, assists individuals who are experiencing homelessness or fleeing situations of violence; however, it is currently scheduled to close on June 30, 2026.
Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless
The Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH) is the primary coordinating agency for homelessness services in Savannah, responsible for managing the local Coordinated Entry system, as well as various direct housing initiatives.
- The Cove at Dundee: A 46-unit “tiny home” community dedicated specifically to veterans transitioning out of homelessness.
- Dundee Cottages: A new 40-unit “flexible housing” complex, opening in 2026, intended for families with children and individuals in the process of transitioning out of homelessness.
- City 54 Scattered Sites Program: Provides 54 units of permanent supportive housing distributed throughout Savannah for individuals and families with identified special needs, utilizing the “Housing First” model.
- Case Management: CSAH offers intensive case management for residents at various locations, including EOA Austin House, Union Mission Dutchtown, and its own tiny home communities.
To receive a referral to a housing program or a shelter bed, you must complete an assessment through your Coordinated Entry system.
Who Can Qualify for a Hotel Voucher?
Eligibility for hotel vouchers in Savannah depends on several factors. Generally, priority is given to individuals with an urgent need for shelter. This may include families with young children, pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with health issues.
Individuals fleeing domestic violence or those who have recently lost their housing may also be considered. However, due to limited resources, not everyone who applies for assistance will receive a voucher. Agencies often conduct an assessment to determine the level of need and the available options.
How to Apply for Hotel Voucher Assistance
To obtain a hotel voucher in Savannah, individuals typically need to contact a local shelter or social service provider. These organizations will ask questions about your situation, such as your current living conditions, your income, and any immediate risks you may be facing.
In many cases, you may be required to present identification or basic documentation; however, emergency situations are often handled with flexibility. Following the assessment, the organization will decide whether hotel vouchers are available or if another form of assistance would be more appropriate.
When Are Hotel Vouchers Typically Most Available?
Hotel vouchers are typically most available during emergency situations. For example, during severe weather events, local agencies may increase support to ensure that individuals are not left exposed to dangerous conditions.
They may also be offered when shelters are full or when someone has special needs that cannot be met within a traditional shelter environment. However, due to limited funding, vouchers are not always available year-round.
Limitations of Hotel Voucher Programs
While hotel vouchers can be lifesaving, they do not constitute a permanent solution. Most programs have strict time limits, and it is not always possible to obtain extensions. Additionally, some hotels may have specific rules or restrictions for voucher users.
Due to these limitations, individuals are often encouraged to work with case managers during their stay. This helps them explore long-term housing options, employment opportunities, and other support services.
