The Quick Guide to Rapid Rehousing Assistance

Understanding Rapid Rehousing: A Direct Path to Stable Housing

Rapid rehousing assistance is a proven intervention designed to help individuals and families quickly exit homelessness and move into permanent housing through short-term financial support and case management services.

What Rapid Rehousing Provides:

Housing Identification – Help finding and securing a rental unit within 30 days
Financial Assistance – Short-term support for security deposits, rent, utilities, and moving costs (typically 4-6 months)
Case Management – Ongoing support to connect you with community resources and build stability
No Preconditions – No requirements for employment, income, sobriety, or clean background

If you’re facing housing instability, sleeping in your car, staying with friends or family temporarily, or fleeing domestic violence, rapid rehousing may offer a path forward. The approach works: 85% of participants successfully move into permanent housing, and in some communities, fewer than 15% return to homelessness.

For veterans like you who are transitioning to civilian life, rapid rehousing offers dignity and choice. You maintain control over where you live and what services you use. The support is custom to your specific situation, not a one-size-fits-all program.

This guide explains how rapid rehousing works, who qualifies, what assistance you can receive, and how to access programs near you. LifeSTEPS provides rapid rehousing and supportive services across California, including Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Southern California, helping individuals and families achieve lasting stability.

What is Rapid Rehousing and How Does It Work?

Rapid rehousing is a short-term intervention designed to quickly move individuals and families from homelessness into permanent housing. It operates on the “Housing First” philosophy: the belief that a stable home is the foundation for addressing other life challenges. Instead of requiring sobriety or employment first, rapid rehousing prioritizes getting people housed.

The core idea is that homelessness is a housing problem, so the most effective solution is to provide housing. The intervention helps people find housing in the private market, offering time-limited financial aid and support services to help them maintain it long-term. This approach preserves dignity and choice, allowing people to select their own home and community.

For a deeper dive into the foundational concepts, you can explore resources like “Back to Basics – What Exactly is Housing First & Rapid Re-Housing?”.

The Guiding Principles of Rapid Rehousing

At LifeSTEPS, we understand that effective rapid rehousing programs are built upon several key principles:

Housing as the Priority: The main goal is to move individuals and families into permanent housing as quickly as possible, providing a stable base to address other challenges.
No Preconditions: Rapid rehousing assistance is offered without preconditions like employment, income, or sobriety. This low-barrier approach meets the immediate need for shelter.
Client-Centered Approach: Resources and services are custom to each household’s unique needs and preferences, honoring their choice and right to self-determination.
Custom Support: Services are customized to help families overcome barriers and achieve long-term stability, from landlord mediation to employment resources.
Voluntary Services: Participation in supportive services is voluntary, respecting individual choice, though engagement is strongly encouraged.
Self-Sufficiency: The ultimate goal is to empower individuals and families to maintain their housing independently after the temporary assistance ends.

Who Qualifies for Rapid Rehousing Assistance?

Rapid rehousing assistance targets individuals and families experiencing homelessness who can maintain housing with short-to-medium term support. Eligibility criteria can vary, but generally include:

Individuals and Families Experiencing Literal Homelessness: People living in shelters, on the streets, in cars, or in other places not meant for human habitation.
Moderate Service Needs: Those who benefit from case management and financial aid but don’t require intensive, long-term support for chronic conditions.
Fleeing Domestic Violence: Individuals and families fleeing domestic violence are often prioritized, as safe housing is critical for their well-being.
Veterans: Many programs, including those from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), target veterans experiencing homelessness, recognizing their unique needs.
Youth Aging Out of Care: Young people leaving foster care or other systems who are at high risk of homelessness and need help securing their first independent home.

Some programs may also serve those at imminent risk of homelessness, depending on funding.

Rapid Rehousing vs. Other Interventions

Understanding how rapid rehousing assistance differs from other homelessness interventions is crucial for appreciating its unique role and effectiveness. Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Rapid Rehousing (RRH)	Transitional Housing (TH)	Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH)
Primary Goal	Quick exit to permanent housing	Prepare for independent living after a structured program	Long-term housing and intensive support for chronic needs
Housing Type	Private market rental units (scattered site)	Program-owned or leased units (often congregate)	Private market or program-owned units (scattered or congregate)
Duration of Support	Short-to-medium term (avg. 4-6 months, up to 24 months)	Time-limited (typically 6-24 months)	Indefinite/Long-term
Intensity of Services	Moderate, custom case management, voluntary	Structured, often mandatory, life skills, counseling	Intensive, often clinical, integrated with housing
Target Population	Individuals/families experiencing homelessness with low-to-moderate service needs, capable of maintaining housing with support	Individuals/families needing structured support to develop skills for independent living	Chronically homeless individuals with disabling conditions and high service needs
Preconditions	No preconditions (e.g., sobriety, employment)	Often has preconditions (e.g., participation in services)	No preconditions (Housing First philosophy)
Cost-Effectiveness	Highly cost-effective (avg. $4,100 per exit to permanent housing)	Higher cost (avg. $22,200 per exit to permanent housing)	Can be cost-effective by reducing emergency service use
Return to Homelessness	Low rates (e.g., 15.6% in Phoenix/Maricopa County)	Higher rates than RRH (4.7 times more likely)	Very low rates due to ongoing support

As the table illustrates, rapid rehousing assistance stands out for its emphasis on quickly moving people into permanent housing with time-limited support. This approach has been shown to be significantly more cost-effective and leads to lower rates of return to homelessness compared to transitional housing. For example, studies have shown that 5 families can be rapidly re-housed ($6,578 per family) for what it costs to house one family in transitional housing ($32,557 per family). This efficiency allows communities to serve more people and make a greater impact on reducing homelessness.

The Three Core Components of Rapid Rehousing

Effective rapid rehousing assistance programs, including those we provide at LifeSTEPS, are built on an integrated support system with three essential components. These components work together to ensure individuals and families not only secure housing quickly but also maintain it long-term. As outlined by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, these core components are Housing Identification, Rent and Move-In Assistance, and Case Management and Services. While a program must make all three available, it’s not always necessary for a single entity to provide them all, nor for a household to use every single service. This flexibility ensures a truly client-centered approach.

For a detailed understanding of these elements, refer to the “Core Components of Rapid Re-Housing” guide.

1. Housing Identification

The first crucial step in rapid rehousing assistance is connecting individuals and families with suitable housing. This involves a dedicated effort to find and secure a rental unit in the private market. Our housing identification specialists play a vital role in:

Landlord Recruitment: We actively build relationships with landlords across California—including Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Southern California—to expand available housing options and address landlord concerns.
Housing Search Assistance: Our teams work with participants to identify appropriate housing based on their needs and preferences, helping with online searches and accompanying them to viewings.
Lease Negotiation: We assist in understanding and negotiating lease agreements to ensure they are fair and manageable.
Addressing Rental Barriers: We help address challenges like poor credit, past evictions, or lack of rental history through mediation and advocacy.
Securing Housing within 30 Days: A key goal is to minimize the time a person spends homeless by helping them move into permanent housing as quickly as possible, ideally within 30 days.

2. Types of Financial Rapid Rehousing Assistance

Once a housing unit is identified, financial assistance helps bridge the gap between homelessness and stable housing. This aid is time-limited and custom to the household’s specific needs, not a one-size-fits-all package. The types of financial assistance typically include:

Time-Limited Rental Subsidies: This is often the most significant component, covering a portion or all of the rent for a specified period, typically 4-6 months, though it can extend up to 24 months based on individual circumstances and funding availability. The goal is to provide enough time for the household to stabilize their income and take over full rental payments.
Security Deposits: Covering the security deposit is crucial, as this upfront cost is often a major barrier for those experiencing homelessness.
Utility Deposits and Payments: Assistance with utility deposits and initial utility payments ensures that essential services like electricity, water, and gas are connected from day one.
Moving Costs: Support can also extend to cover expenses associated with moving, such as truck rentals or professional movers, and even basic household items to help furnish a new home.

At LifeSTEPS, we also leverage programs like CalAIM to provide deposit assistance, further supporting individuals and families in securing their housing. To learn more about how we can help with these initial costs, you can visit our page on More info about first month rent and security deposit assistance.

3. Case Management and Services

Beyond financial aid, comprehensive case management is vital for long-term success. Our case managers work closely with participants to develop individualized plans that promote housing stability. This includes:

Housing Stability Planning: Collaborating with participants to create a personalized plan with goals for maintaining housing, increasing income, and connecting with community supports.
Connecting to Community Resources: Our case managers link individuals and families to local resources such as food banks, childcare, transportation, and legal aid.
Employment Assistance: We help participants access job training, resume building services, and employment opportunities. A Washington State study found that working-age adults who received rapid rehousing were 50 percent more likely to be employed during the quarter they received assistance.
Healthcare Access: Connecting participants to physical and mental healthcare is crucial for well-being and housing retention. Our RN Program, for instance, significantly impacts health outcomes by reducing hospitalizations and saving substantial costs.
Budgeting and Financial Literacy: Providing education on managing finances, creating budgets, and building savings helps participants move towards greater economic stability.

Our comprehensive programs and services are designed to support individuals and families at every step of their journey toward self-sufficiency. You can find more information about our offerings at More info about our programs and services.

The Proven Effectiveness of Rapid Rehousing Assistance

Rapid rehousing assistance has emerged as a cornerstone of modern homelessness response due to its remarkable effectiveness. Its history as a recognized federal strategy began with early experiments in communities like Los Angeles, California, and gained significant traction with key legislative actions. The HEARTH Act of 2009 officially recognized rapid rehousing as an eligible activity for reducing homelessness, solidifying its role in federal funding streams. Further, the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, launched in 2012, significantly expanded rapid rehousing efforts specifically for veterans, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse populations.

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the model’s success in helping households quickly exit homelessness and achieve lasting stability. You can explore more about its impact on the National Alliance to End Homelessness’s page, “Rapid Re-Housing Works”.

Success Rates and Long-Term Stability

The statistics paint a clear picture of the success of rapid rehousing assistance:

High Exit to Permanent Housing: Nearly 85 percent of rapid re-housing program participants exit to permanent housing. This is significantly higher than emergency shelter (16 percent) or transitional housing (42 percent).
Reduced Returns to Homelessness: Studies consistently show low rates of return to homelessness. For example, 77 percent of families that enrolled in rapid re-housing did not return to shelter. In Phoenix/Maricopa County, only 15.6 percent of households returned to homelessness within 12 months, compared to 34.7 percent for those receiving usual care. In Connecticut, 95 percent of families who exited rapid re-housing in 2010 had not returned to shelter three years later.
Veteran Success: The SSVF program has been particularly effective. 93 percent of families and 88 percent of single adult veterans who were rapidly re-housed did not return to shelter for at least one year. At one year post-SSVF exit, 90.6% of families and 84% of individuals remained in their homes, with these rates remaining strong at two years (85% for families, 73.4% for individuals).
Increased Employment and Income: Beyond housing stability, rapid rehousing contributes to economic well-being. Monthly incomes for rapidly re-housed veterans increased 12 percent from program entry to exit. Additionally, working-age adults receiving rapid re-housing were 50 percent more likely to be employed during the assistance quarter and 25 percent more likely over the following year.

At LifeSTEPS, we are proud to contribute to these success rates, consistently seeing a 93% housing retention rate among our program participants. This remarkable outcome reflects our commitment to human-centered support and comprehensive services.

Cost-Effectiveness

Beyond its human impact, rapid rehousing assistance is also a fiscally responsible solution:

Lower Cost Per Household: The average cost per exit to permanent housing for rapid re-housing is significantly lower (about $4,100) compared to emergency shelter (about $10,000) or transitional housing (about $22,200). This means public and private funds can stretch further, helping more people.
Faster Exit from Shelter: Families enrolled in rapid re-housing programs exited shelter in an average of 2 months, which is 3.2 months faster than those who were referred but did not enroll. This reduces the strain on emergency shelter systems and frees up resources.
Reduced Community Costs: By stabilizing individuals in housing, communities see a reduction in the use of costly emergency services, such as hospitals and law enforcement, which are often used by people experiencing homelessness. This efficient use of funds benefits the entire community.

The evidence is clear: rapid rehousing assistance is not just effective in ending homelessness for individuals and families; it’s also a smart investment for communities seeking sustainable solutions.

Accessing Assistance and Overcoming Barriers

Navigating the system to access rapid rehousing assistance can feel daunting, but established pathways are designed to connect individuals and families with the help they need. In California, communities, including Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Southern California, use Coordinated Entry Systems (CES) as the primary way to access most homelessness services.

A Coordinated Entry System (CES) ensures that all individuals and families experiencing homelessness have fair and equal access to assistance, regardless of where or how they enter the system. Instead of navigating multiple agencies, you go through a single assessment process. This system then matches you to the most appropriate housing and service interventions, which could include rapid rehousing, based on your needs and vulnerabilities.

For those in Sacramento, the Coordinated Access System (CAS) is a key resource. You can find more details at “The Coordinated Access System Sacramento – CAS Homelessness …”.

How to Find a Program Near You

If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in California and needs rapid rehousing assistance, here are some practical steps to find a program:

Contact 2-1-1: This is a free, confidential service that connects individuals and families to local health and human services, including homelessness assistance. Dialing 2-1-1 is often the quickest way to get started.
Search Local Government Websites: Your county or city’s housing or social services department website often lists local homeless service providers and instructions on how to access their Coordinated Entry System.
Reach Out to Homeless Service Providers: Organizations like LifeSTEPS work directly with individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Contacting a local homeless shelter, outreach program, or a nonprofit social services agency can provide direct access to services or guide you through the CES process.
VA Resources for Veterans: Veterans have additional resources through the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA offers specific programs, including Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), that provide rapid rehousing assistance and eviction prevention. You can contact your local VA office or a veteran service organization for more information.

Common Challenges and How to Steer Them

While rapid rehousing assistance is highly effective, accessing it and maintaining housing can present challenges:

Limited Program Availability: Demand for rapid rehousing often exceeds the available resources. This can lead to waiting lists, especially in densely populated areas of California.
- How to steer them: Engage with the Coordinated Entry System early and stay connected with case managers. We advocate for increased funding and program expansion to meet community needs.
Competitive Housing Markets: Finding affordable housing in California’s competitive rental markets can be difficult. Landlord reluctance to rent to individuals with limited rental history or past evictions is also a hurdle.
- How to steer them: Our housing identification specialists actively recruit landlords and mediate on behalf of participants, addressing concerns and building trust. We also provide assistance with security deposits and first month’s rent through programs like CalAIM, making participants more attractive tenants.
Documentation Requirements: Proving homelessness status, income, and identity often requires specific documentation, which can be challenging for those without stable housing.
- How to steer them: Our case managers assist participants in gathering necessary documents, navigating bureaucratic processes, and obtaining identification.
Navigating Eligibility Criteria: Understanding the specific eligibility requirements for different funding streams and programs can be complex.
- How to steer them: The Coordinated Entry System simplifies this by assessing needs and matching individuals to appropriate programs. Our staff are experts in these criteria and can guide you through the process.

At LifeSTEPS, we are committed to helping you overcome these barriers. Our human-centered approach ensures you receive the support and advocacy needed to successfully access and benefit from rapid rehousing assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rapid Rehousing

We often hear common questions about how rapid rehousing assistance works. Here, we address some of the most frequent inquiries to provide clarity and empower you with information.

How long does the rental assistance last?

The duration of rental assistance in rapid rehousing programs is designed to be short-to-medium term and is highly individualized. While the goal is to provide enough support for you to stabilize and take over rental payments, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Typically Short to Medium-Term: On average, programs find that four to six months of financial assistance is sufficient for a household to achieve stable rehousing.
Can Extend Up to 24 Months: Depending on individual needs, progress towards self-sufficiency, and the specific funding source, assistance can sometimes be extended for up to 24 months. This flexibility is crucial for those facing greater barriers.
Progressive Engagement Model: Many programs use a progressive engagement model, where initial assistance might be minimal and then increased if greater support is needed. This ensures resources are used efficiently and custom to evolving needs.

Our case managers work with you throughout the program to assess your progress, connect you with income-generating opportunities, and ensure a smooth transition to full financial independence.

Do I need a job to qualify for rapid rehousing?

No, you typically do not need a job to qualify for rapid rehousing assistance. This is a foundational principle of the Housing First model that rapid rehousing is built upon:

Housing First Approach: The philosophy emphasizes that having a stable home is the first step towards addressing other life challenges, including employment. Requiring a job as a precondition would create an impossible barrier for many.
No Preconditions for Income or Employment: Rapid rehousing programs are designed to assist individuals and families regardless of their current employment status or income level at entry. The focus is on getting you into housing first.
Focus on Housing Stability First, Then Other Goals: Once housed, our case managers will work with you to connect with employment services, job training, and educational opportunities to help you secure income and achieve long-term self-sufficiency. For example, families referred to rapid re-housing had incomes 10 percent higher than those referred to usual care. LifeSTEPS also offers educational programs, including a Summer Reading program that has achieved 97% literacy improvement and has helped secure $2.1M in scholarships for participants.

What happens after the assistance ends?

The goal of rapid rehousing assistance is not just to provide temporary shelter, but to equip you with the tools and resources to maintain your housing independently long-term.

Goal is Self-Sufficiency: The entire program is structured to help you develop the skills and connections needed to manage your housing and finances without ongoing rental subsidies.
Case Management Connects to Long-Term Supports: Even as financial assistance phases out, case management continues to connect you with community-based resources for ongoing support. This can include continued access to employment services, healthcare, mental health support, and other social services as needed.
Budgeting Skills and Increased Income: Our programs focus on building financial literacy and helping you increase your income so that you can comfortably afford your rent and other expenses.
Many Households Remain Stable Without Further Aid: The high success rates of rapid rehousing demonstrate that the majority of participants remain stably housed long after the temporary assistance ends. For instance, 93 percent of families and 88 percent of single adult veterans who were rapidly re-housed did not return to shelter for at least one year.

At LifeSTEPS, our commitment extends beyond the assistance period. We provide comprehensive supportive services designed to foster long-term stability and empower individuals and families to thrive in their communities across California.

Conclusion

Rapid rehousing assistance is a powerful, evidence-based tool to end homelessness. It embodies a human-centered approach, prioritizing immediate access to stable housing as the foundation for addressing other life challenges. By offering time-limited financial aid and custom case management, it helps individuals and families quickly exit homelessness and empowers them toward lasting self-sufficiency.

The impact of rapid rehousing is clear: high rates of permanent housing placement, reduced returns to homelessness, and cost-effective use of resources. These outcomes show that investing in housing first is an investment in dignity, stability, and community well-being.

At LifeSTEPS, we provide these essential services across California, including Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Southern California. Our programs, from rapid rehousing assistance to health and educational initiatives, contribute to building stronger communities. We’ve seen how a stable home transforms lives, leading to a 93% housing retention rate among our participants.

If you or someone you know is seeking a path to stability, we are here to help. Contact us to learn more about our supportive services.

LifeSTEPS, 3247 Ramos Cir, Sacramento, CA 95827 | Phone: (916) 965-0110 | lifestepsusa.org