START WITH YOUR ROLE
Homeless and housing
Shelter, documents, utilities, and housing barriers. Pick the situation in front of you.
Getting someone into the housing system (coordinated entry)
Get them assessed once at the right access point for who they are, then keep them reachable and document ready.
Applying for food, cash help, or AHCCCS through DES
One online application covers all three. The interview and the mail are where most people lose benefits.
Help paying for child care
Apply for DES Child Care Assistance right away. Most families go on a waiting list, but shelter residents and some referrals have a different path.
A client is in a mental health crisis
If life is in danger, call 9-1-1. Otherwise call the Arizona crisis line together. After the crisis, connect them to ongoing care.
A client is fleeing domestic violence
The regional DV hotline closed in May 2026. Call the shelters directly, starting with the one that fits the household.
An older adult or adult with a disability needs help at home
Check safety, report abuse or exploitation, call the 24-hour Senior HELP LINE, and start ALTCS early if long-term care may be needed.
Client got a utility shutoff notice
Check the shutoff date, call the utility, then use the assistance route for the client’s address.