Hotel Vouchers for Homeless Washington State

Homelessness remains a serious problem throughout Washington state, affecting thousands of individuals and families each year. While long-term housing solutions take time, hotel vouchers can serve as immediate, temporary support. These vouchers provide temporary lodging in hotels or motels for people experiencing homelessness, helping them stay safe and stable while they seek permanent housing or additional support.

What Are Hotel Vouchers?

Hotel vouchers are emergency lodging assistance offered by government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and religious organizations. They can be used to stay at a local motel or hotel for a few nights or weeks, depending on the provider’s policies and available funds. Vouchers are typically distributed to families with children, veterans, senior citizens, and people fleeing domestic violence or extreme weather conditions.

Who Qualifies for Hotel Vouchers in Washington State?

The requirements for obtaining hotel vouchers vary by program and location, but in general, applicants must:

• Be homeless or at imminent risk of losing their housing.
• Have no other available housing options.
• Provide identification and basic personal information.
• Sometimes, meet income or residency requirements.
• Priority is generally given to families with children, pregnant women, seniors, or people with disabilities.

Where to find hotel vouchers in Washington State

Several organizations throughout Washington State offer hotel voucher assistance programs. Here are some key resources:

1. Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)

DSHS provides emergency assistance to people experiencing homelessness through its local Community Service Offices. They can connect you with temporary housing programs or refer you to nearby shelters.

Phone: 1-877-501-2233

Website: www.dshs.wa.gov

2. Catholic Community Services of Western Washington (CCSWW)

CCSWW manages several emergency shelter programs in Seattle, Tacoma, and other areas. They occasionally provide motel vouchers or arrange short-term stays for people in crisis.

Phone: 1-800-377-0517

Website: www.ccsww.org

3. The Salvation Army of Washington

The Salvation Army provides emergency shelter, food, and clothing throughout the state. Many local branches can issue hotel vouchers during emergencies, especially during the winter months.

Phone: 1-800-728-7825

Website: www.salvationarmyusa.org

4. Snohomish County Human Services Department

This department offers limited hotel vouchers through its network of emergency shelters, especially during severe weather.

Website: www.snohomishcountywa.gov

5. Churches and Local Religious Groups

Many churches throughout Washington, especially in Spokane, Tacoma, and Seattle, offer relief programs that provide temporary hotel accommodations for people in crisis. These programs often rely on donations and availability may be limited.

6. Shelters and Hotlines for Victims of Domestic Violence

If you are a victim of domestic violence, organizations such as the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV) can help, including providing hotel vouchers as part of their emergency housing assistance.

Phone: 1-800-562-6025

7. Continuity of Care (CoC) Systems

Many counties in Washington State have Continuity of Care programs developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These programs are funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These programs often include hotel vouchers as part of their assistance to prevent homelessness.

Phone: 1-800-767-4663

These are the main organizations that provide assistance to people in need in Washington State. If you need help, you can call them directly or visit their official website.

How to Apply for a Hotel Voucher

Contact 2-1-1 Washington:

Call 2-1-1 or visit wa211.org to connect with local agencies that offer emergency shelter or vouchers.

Visit a local shelter or support center:

Many shelters coordinate directly with voucher programs and can refer you if there are no beds available.

Prepare basic documentation:

Bring identification, proof of income (if you have it), and any relevant documents about your situation.

Explain your urgent need:

Clearly communicate your housing crisis and any special circumstances (children, disability, etc.) to increase your chances of approval.

Organizations and Programs that Help People Experiencing Homelessness

We researched and found the best programs in Washington that offer immediate hotel vouchers for people experiencing homelessness. Here we describe these programs and include their contact information.

NEWCAP Inc.

For over 50 years, NEWCAP Inc. has helped people experiencing poverty who need to improve their lives. They provide support to those in need, including immediate temporary housing in nearby motels or hotels.

Contact: 800-242-7334

Tacoma Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness

Do you need shelter tonight? The Tacoma and Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness partners with local shelters, hotels, and motels that accept hotel vouchers. This program allows people experiencing homelessness to stay at these locations free of charge.

Contact: (253) 426-1710

Northwest Community Action Center

This center offers seasonal hotel vouchers during emergencies, especially in winter. If you are facing extreme cold and need a warm, safe place to stay, contact them for immediate assistance.

Contact: (509) 865-7630

If you are suddenly facing domestic violence, eviction, and are on the verge of homelessness, you may need immediate shelter, and these programs can provide immediate assistance.

Conclusion

Hotel vouchers for people experiencing homelessness in Washington State provide immediate, short-term relief to those in crisis. While not a permanent solution, they can offer essential security and stability during difficult times. If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk of homelessness, contacting local organizations, calling 211, or visiting DSHS offices can be the first step toward finding safe shelter and long-term housing assistance.