Homelessness and Housing Insecurity
Homelessness is when a person is without a place to live, often residing in a shelter, an automobile, an abandoned building, or outside. When someone is housing insecure, it means they are unable to pay rent or utilities or need to move frequently. Both situations could be ongoing for many years or just a short-term challenge brought on by any number of circumstances.
What should I do if I’m experiencing housing insecurity?
Penn State staff are here to support you. Whether you live on campus and need housing during a semester break, unexpectedly or temporarily no longer have a place to stay off campus, or are leaving an unsafe living situation, there are options available.
If you find yourself in need of housing:
- In an emergency, call 911 or the University Police and Public Safety
- Get yourself somewhere safe. Stay with a friend, if possible.
- Use the resources below to find assistance.
Community Resources for Students
- Center for Community Resources: A 24-hour support network to connect individuals with resources across Pennsylvania.
- Homeless Shelters Directory: A listing of homeless shelters across the U.S.
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Resources and educational information related to housing.
Penn State Resources for Students
- Seek housing as soon as possible and before you arrive to campus. On and Off-campus housing is in high demand and becomes harder to find as the school year approaches. Begin your search with On-Campus Housing . Off campus housing options may also be available.
- The Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response: Can help students who may be experiencing relationship violence.
- On-campus break housing: Provides on-campus students with housing options during Penn State breaks.
- Student Advocacy: Can provide assistance with short-term housing or navigating more long-term housing options, reach out through the Basic Needs Request Form.
- Student Legal Services: Can provide helps with landlord-tenant issues, provide lease reviews, and help you understand your rights as a tenant.