District of Columbia

In Washington, DC, a range of programs and resources are available to support pregnant women, mothers, and families in need of housing assistance. These initiatives aim to provide safe, stable living environments during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and early parenting.

District and Local Housing Programs
District of Columbia Department of Human Services (DHS): The DC Department of Human Services (DHS) administers multiple assistance programs for low-income individuals and families, including housing support. Services often work alongside health coverage, food assistance, and employment programs to stabilize families during pregnancy and early parenthood.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): DC TANF provides temporary cash assistance to eligible low-income families with children and to pregnant women in their third trimester who have no other eligible children. TANF benefits can be used to help cover basic needs such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation, while supporting pathways toward self-sufficiency.

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program: Washington, DC participates in the federal Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program, which assists individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. ESG-funded services include emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, street outreach, and rapid re-housing for eligible pregnant women and families.

Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing
DC General Family Shelter System (Short-Term Family Housing): The District operates a Short-Term Family Housing (STFH) system that provides emergency shelter for families with children, including pregnant women. These facilities offer private living spaces, on-site case management, and connections to permanent housing and supportive services. Learn more

N Street Village (Washington, DC): N Street Village provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, and supportive services for women experiencing homelessness, including pregnant women and mothers. Services include housing assistance, healthcare access, counseling, and workforce support. Learn more

Mary’s Center Housing Support Services: Mary’s Center offers housing stabilization services for pregnant women and families, including emergency housing referrals, case management, and connections to prenatal and postpartum healthcare. Learn more

Nonprofit and Community-Based Assistance
Healthy Families America & Home Visiting Programs: Through evidence-based home visiting programs in DC, pregnant and postpartum families may receive support navigating housing instability, accessing social services, and improving family well-being. These programs often serve as a bridge between families and long-term housing resources.

DC 2-1-1: DC 2-1-1 is a free, confidential service available 24/7 that connects residents to local resources, including emergency shelters, transitional housing, rental assistance, and supportive services for pregnant women and families.

Other Resources
Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for 24/7, free, confidential emotional support before, during, and after pregnancy.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: For individuals experiencing domestic violence or unsafe living conditions: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for immediate support and housing-related resources.

These programs and organizations work together to support pregnant women, mothers, and families in Washington, DC by offering emergency shelter, transitional housing, financial assistance, and pathways to stable housing. For personalized help, contacting DC 2-1-1 or the DC Department of Human Services is strongly recommended.