Homeless children and parents are often denied state-funded shelter because there is literally no room available. As a result, families often resort to boarding in emergency rooms, their cars or other places unfit for human habitation.

Since 2020, with support from Jeffrey Bezos’ Day 1 Families Fund, FamilyAid diverts families from the streets and ERs to alternative housing resources.

Focused on engaging homeless families in identifying possible housing solutions based on their resources and strengths, we help families move past the immediate barrier they face in obtaining safe housing. Such barriers may include help with transportation to work, resolving a lingering landlord dispute and supporting a family with their move to a new home or community.

Diversion programs have been an effective way to help more than 50% of homeless families find a safe and permanent alternative to emergency shelter.