In Wichita, Kansas, the homeless families and people get many charitable programs, some of which include hotel or motel vouchers as temporary housing solutions when conventional shelters are full or inaccessible.
In this article, we explore how these hotel or motel voucher programs work, who can access them, what limitations they face, and how families in need or community supporters can find these programs.
What are hotel/motel vouchers?
Hotel or motel vouchers are short-term hotel stays for homeless families facing emergencies. These vouchers are mainly offered by nonprofit organizations or government agencies.
They mainly help during emergencies when a person or family experiencing homelessness cannot be placed immediately into a shelter or longer-term housing.
These vouchers help ensure there is a safe place to stay, particularly in colder months or during emergencies.
Who qualifies for hotel/motel voucher assistance?
Eligibility varies by nonprofit and agency, but some basic eligibility criteria include:
- Experiencing homelessness or being unsheltered (living on the streets, in a vehicle, etc.).
- Being unable to access a standard shelter bed (due to capacity, family size, accessibility issues, or special needs).
- Engaging with a referring agency (case manager, homeless outreach team, etc.) who can assess their need and facilitate the voucher.
- Often being in touch with the local centralized “coordinated entry” system (the point of access for homeless services in Wichita/Sedgwick County).
For example, the HOT (Homeless Outreach Team) provides a lists outreach resources to connect individuals to available housing and shelters with beds near you.
Best Places to find Hotel Vouchers for Homeless Wichita, KS
Below we provide some of the best resources in Wichita, KS, where individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability can find assistance — including hotel/motel vouchers or other emergency housing assistance.
I’ve described how each one works and how to access them.
1. HumanKind Ministries
Location: 829 N Market St., Wichita, KS 67214.
HumanKind Ministries runs the shelter facility known as “The Inn” (60-bed, 24-hour) and “Second Light Shelter” for the winter months.
While they don’t provide “hotel vouchers,” they will help homeless individuals apply for housing vouchers (e.g., the studio apartments via vouchers).
Call the main number (316-264-9303) and ask for outreach or case-management; tell them you’re unsheltered and need emergency placement.
Tip: Because capacity is often full, ask if they coordinate with other agencies for motel/hotel rooms.
2. Catholic Charities Wichita – Rapid Re-Housing Program
Catholic charities provide temporary rental assistance & deposit assistance to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Even though they do not have a hotel voucher program, they help with temporary housing support, which may help someone coming out of an unsheltered state.
You must qualify as homeless per HUD definition; needs referral from a homeless service provider.
Tip: If you are unsheltered and stuck, contact them and ask about “rapid re-housing” or short-term assistance while you transition out of unstable housing.
3. Center of Hope
Center of Hope provides emergency assistance (rent & utility) and case management for people at risk of homelessness.
They act as a referral/gateway to emergency housing resources and may direct you to voucher or motel stay options.
Call 316-267-0222 during business hours for intake.
Tip: When you call, clearly state your situation: “I have no shelter, need an immediate safe place to stay.” They may connect you with agencies offering motel vouchers or emergency placements.
4. Wichita Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (HOT)
Wichita Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) provides outreach to unsheltered people, connects them with services (mental health, substance use, job support, shelter referral).
They can refer you to services, including emergency housing placements and vouchers. They will assess your situation and help navigate to the right agency.
Call 316-854-3013. They also advise calling 2-1-1 as a general resource.
Tip: If you are unsheltered and have not connected with any service, this might be a good first step—they can bring services to you and help with accessing motel voucher options indirectly.
5. Wichita Housing Authority / City of Wichita Housing & Community Services
Wichita Housing Authority / City of Wichita Housing & Community Services provides administered housing vouchers (like the Housing Choice Voucher program) and emergency housing vouchers (EHV) for people experiencing homelessness.
Contact the Housing & Community Services Dept at the City of Wichita (Phone: 316-462-3700) or go to their office at 455 N Main, 10th Floor.
Tip: Ask specifically about “emergency housing vouchers” or “EHV” and whether you can get a referral from a homeless service provider. These often require a referral.
How to Apply for Hotel Vouchers for Homeless Wichita, KS
Suffering from homelessness? Don’t worry! Apply for the hotel voucher assistance available in Wichita, KS.
Step 1: Call United Way 2-1-1
Call 2-1-1 from any phone to connect with the United Way of the Plains.
Tell them: “I’m homeless in Wichita and need help finding a hotel or motel voucher.”
The 2-1-1 operators will assess your situation and refer you to an agency currently providing vouchers or emergency shelter.
Website: https://www.unitedwayplains.org/211/
Step 2: Contact Local Shelter or Outreach Agencies
The following Wichita organizations are key providers or referral partners for motel voucher assistance:
- HumanKind Ministries
- Catholic Charities Wichita – Rapid Rehousing Program
- Center of Hope, Inc.
- Wichita Police Department – Homeless Outreach Team (HOT)
Step 3: Complete an Intake or Referral
Once you reach an agency:
You may be asked to fill out an intake form or speak with a case manager.
Provide identification (if you have it), describe your living situation, and explain your immediate need for shelter.
Case managers will determine if you qualify and issue a hotel voucher or refer you to another provider.
Step 4: Get Transportation and Placement
After approval:
The agency will often contact a partner motel and arrange your stay directly.
You may receive a paper voucher or digital confirmation.
Some programs offer transportation assistance (bus pass, ride, or shuttle) to the motel.
Step 5: Follow Up for Ongoing Support
Hotel vouchers are temporary — usually lasting 1 to 7 days. While using one:
Stay in touch with your case manager.
Ask about transitional or permanent housing programs, such as the Wichita Housing Authority’s Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV).
Look into resources for employment, healthcare, and financial assistance.
Tips for a Successful Application
1. Apply early in the day: Vouchers are limited and often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Be honest about your situation: Agencies use your information to prioritize those most in need.
3. Stay reachable: Provide a phone number or check back in person if possible.
4. Ask about other options: If no motel vouchers are available, request a referral to nearby shelters or transitional housing.
5. Keep documents handy. An ID or proof of local residency (if available) helps speed up the process.
Conclusion
If you are in Wichita and experiencing homelessness or are at immediate risk, motel or hotel voucher assistance may be an option — particularly when traditional shelters are full. The best thing you can do is call 211, connect with the Homeless Outreach Team, and work with a case manager at a local agency.
