Experiencing a Housing Crisis?

How Shelter Placement Works

HavenHomes does not accept walk-in or self-referred residents. Every placement — at both Safe Haven House and Westhaven House — begins with an assessment by the Nassau County Department of Social Services (DSS), which determines eligibility and issues the referral.

1. Go to Nassau County DSS60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Uniondale, NY — Monday through Friday, 8:00am–4:00pm. A DSS emergency services worker will assess your housing needs. There may be a wait before a referral for emergency housing placement is issued.
2. After hours, weekends, or holidaysCall the DSS Emergency Night Services Unit at (516) 573-8626 if your housing crisis happens after 5:00pm on a weekday, anytime on a weekend, or on a holiday.
3. If you can't reach DSS that nightGo to the nearest hospital emergency room for the evening, then return to DSS the following morning to apply for ongoing assistance in person.
4. Follow up is requiredIndividuals and families are generally required to return to DSS the next day to apply for ongoing assistance after an emergency placement.

What to Expect Once Referred

Once DSS issues a referral to Safe Haven House or Westhaven House, our on-site team completes intake and assigns each resident a dedicated case manager. From there, residents work with case management and social work staff on an individualized plan covering benefits coordination, employment readiness, and next steps toward permanent housing.