Emergency housing options with CalFresh/CalWORKs in Kern County - need immediate help!

Thank you so much for this info! I've been trying to reach my CalWORKs worker for 3 days but the phone system just keeps me on hold forever then disconnects. Is there a better number or way to contact them? My worker's name is Ms. Johnson but her direct line goes straight to voicemail.

I also had a TERRIBLE time with housing assistance in Kern. The secret is to physically go to the office on 100 E California Ave, don't waste time with phones. The homeless assistance program can give you hotel vouchers for up to 16 days while you find somewhere permanent. Bring your ID, kids' birth certificates, and proof of income (CalWORKs/CalFresh paperwork). Ask specifically for the "Homeless Assistance Program" not general help or they'll just refer you elsewhere. Good luck!

Thank you both! I'm going to try going in person tomorrow morning. Do you know what time they open? I'll have to take all 3 kids with me which will be a nightmare but sounds like it's the only way to get help. Did either of you receive hotel vouchers or deposit assistance? I'm wondering how quickly they can actually help.

This is good advice but I want to add that the Homeless Assistance Program has specific requirements. You can only get it once every 12 months (with some exceptions) and you need to provide proof that you're homeless or at risk of homelessness. Get a written statement from your sister that says you need to be out by February 1st. Also, if you go the temporary assistance route (hotel vouchers), you need to show you're actively looking for permanent housing.

Thank you so much for the details. I just checked out that Claimyr site and watched the video. I'm going to try it tomorrow because I'm desperate to talk to someone. Has anyone here used the Homeless Assistance Program recently? I'm worried because my sister is being really difficult about giving me any kind of written statement.

I've worked in housing services, and while it's true the system has problems, the Homeless Assistance Program actually works fairly well in Kern once you get in. OP, if your sister won't provide a statement, a self-declaration can sometimes work, especially in emergency situations. Just be 100% honest about your circumstances. One thing to note: when you get hotel vouchers, you MUST keep all receipts and document your housing search thoroughly. Keep screenshots of apartments you've called, names of managers you've spoken with, and applications you've submitted. This is absolutely required for continued assistance.

I FINALLY got some help!! I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned and got a callback within an hour from a supervisor. They're processing emergency assistance and I have an appointment tomorrow morning to complete the paperwork for temporary housing (hotel vouchers) and they'll help with deposit assistance once I find a place. THANK YOU ALL so much for the advice - I was seriously about to give up.

Thank you! I just wrote that down to ask about tomorrow. I feel like I need to ask about every possible program because they don't volunteer information. I appreciate everyone's help so much - this community has been more helpful than all the official resources I tried first.

Will do! I have everything except my youngest's birth certificate (long story), but I have her Medi-Cal card. Hoping that will work. I'll let you all know how it goes. I honestly can't thank everyone enough for all this information. I've learned more here than from any of the official resources.

This is true! I got vouchers for Economy Inn and it wasn't great but was clean enough. The tricky part is that you need to check back with your worker EVERY WEEK to get the next voucher. They don't automatically give you all 16 days at once. Mark your calendar and be super proactive about following up or you could end up with a gap in coverage.

Good to know about the weekly check-ins! @f108e199be8a make sure to set reminders on your phone for this. Also, when you're doing your housing search documentation, don't just focus on apartments - include manufactured home parks, room rentals, and even shared housing situations. The more options you document, the better. Some property managers are more willing to work with voucher programs than others, so ask specifically about CalWORKs housing assistance when you call.

@f108e199be8a That's such a relief to hear you got through! I just went through housing assistance in another county and wanted to add - if the kids get restless during your appointment, don't stress about it. The workers are used to families in crisis and understand. Also, when they give you the housing search form, ask if they have a list of landlords who regularly accept CalWORKs assistance - this can save you hours of calling places that will just say no. Some counties maintain these lists but don't always offer them unless you ask. Praying everything goes smoothly for you tomorrow!

@f108e199be8a I'm so happy you were able to get through to someone! As a mom who's been in a similar situation, I wanted to mention that when you're at your appointment tomorrow, ask about the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program if you haven't already. Since you'll be staying in hotels, you might qualify to use your CalFresh benefits at certain restaurants, which can be a huge help when you don't have access to a kitchen. Also, some hotels that work with the voucher program have mini-fridges and microwaves, so ask specifically for those if available. It makes such a difference with kids. You're being so strong through all of this - your kids are lucky to have a mom who fights so hard for them!

@f108e199be8a I'm so happy you're getting help! Just wanted to share one more tip from my experience - bring snacks and water for the kids if you can. Government offices can have long waits even with appointments, and hungry kids make everything harder. Also, if you have a smartphone, download some quiet games or videos beforehand in case you lose signal in the building. The workers really do understand that families in crisis sometimes need extra patience. You're being such a strong mom through all of this - your kids are lucky to have someone fighting so hard for them. Can't wait to hear your update after tomorrow!

This is such great additional information! @f108e199be8a I'm new to this community but have been following your situation and I'm so relieved you got help through Claimyr. The Coordinated Entry System is definitely worth calling - they sometimes have emergency funds that can bridge gaps while you're waiting for CalWORKs assistance to kick in. Also, if you haven't already, consider reaching out to local churches and community organizations. Many have emergency assistance funds for families with children, even if you're not a member. Wishing you all the best at your appointment tomorrow - you're doing an amazing job advocating for your kids in such a difficult situation!

@f108e199be8a I just wanted to add my encouragement too! I've been in a similar situation and know how overwhelming it feels, but it sounds like you're getting the help you need. One small tip for tomorrow - bring snacks and water for the kids if possible, since government appointments can run long. Also, if you have a friend or family member who can watch the kids during your appointment, that might make things easier, but I know that's not always possible. The fact that you're being so proactive and organized shows what a great mom you are. Your kids are lucky to have someone fighting so hard for them. Please keep us updated on how everything goes!

@f108e199be8a I'm also new here but wanted to chime in with support! It's incredible how this community came together to help you navigate the system. I work with families in crisis and want to add one more tip - when you're at your appointment tomorrow, ask about the "Housing Stabilization Services" program. It's different from the Homeless Assistance Program and provides ongoing support to help families maintain housing once they're placed. They can help with budgeting, connecting to additional resources, and even mediation with landlords if issues come up. Many people don't know this exists! Also, don't forget to ask for a copy of everything they give you - having your own records is so important. You've got an amazing support network here cheering you on!

@f108e199be8a I'm new here but wanted to add my support - you're handling this crisis with such strength! One small tip for tomorrow: if possible, bring snacks and a small activity for the kids since government appointments can run long. Also, don't be afraid to ask for clarification if they use confusing terms or acronyms - I made that mistake and almost missed out on additional assistance because I didn't understand what they were offering. You've already shown incredible resourcefulness by finding help through this community and Claimyr. Your determination to keep your family safe and housed is inspiring. Sending you positive thoughts for tomorrow's appointment!

@f108e199be8a I'm so inspired by how you've advocated for your family through this crisis! As someone new to this community, I'm amazed by the wealth of knowledge and support everyone has shared. The "good cause" exceptions Val mentioned are really important - definitely bring up that your sister is forcing you out through no fault of your own. Also, I wanted to add that some CalWORKs offices have emergency childcare assistance for appointments, so if tomorrow's meeting runs long, ask if they can help with that too. You've already accomplished the hardest part by getting through to someone who can help. Tomorrow is just about getting the paperwork started. You're doing an incredible job protecting your children and finding resources - that takes real strength. Wishing you the best outcome at your appointment tomorrow!

@f108e199be8a I'm also new to this community but have been reading through your situation and I'm so glad you got help through Claimyr! Nathaniel's advice about HDAP is spot-on - even minor health issues can qualify you for additional support. I wanted to add that when you're at your appointment tomorrow, ask if they can give you a written summary of all the programs you're applying for and the timeline for each one. Government processes can be confusing and having it in writing helps you follow up properly. Also, if they mention any deadlines for paperwork or requirements, ask them to highlight those dates - missing a deadline can restart the whole process. You've shown incredible strength and resourcefulness throughout this crisis. The way you've researched options, reached out for help, and advocated for your family is truly admirable. Your children are so fortunate to have a mom who fights this hard for them. Praying your appointment goes smoothly tomorrow and you get all the assistance you need!

@f108e199be8a I'm new here but have been following your journey and I'm so relieved you got connected with help! Just wanted to add one more thing for tomorrow - if they offer you temporary housing at a specific motel/hotel, ask about the check-in process and whether you need to call ahead or if they'll call for you. Sometimes there's confusion at the front desk if they haven't been notified about the voucher program. Also, if you have any important documents (like birth certificates, ID cards) that you're worried about losing during the transition, ask if the office can make copies for you to keep in their file as backup. Moving between temporary housing with three kids means things can get lost easily. You've been such an incredible advocate for your family throughout this whole process - from reaching out to this community to using Claimyr to get through to your worker. Your determination is inspiring and your kids are going to remember how hard you fought to keep them safe and housed. Sending you all the positive energy for your appointment tomorrow!

@f108e199be8a I'm new to this community but wanted to reach out after following your story - you've shown incredible strength navigating this crisis! I went through a similar situation in San Diego County and wanted to share one thing that really helped me: when you get to your appointment tomorrow, ask if they can connect you directly with a housing specialist or navigator. Many counties have dedicated staff who only work on housing assistance, and they often know about resources that general eligibility workers might not mention. Also, if they offer you temporary hotel vouchers, ask specifically about the locations - some are more family-friendly than others and closer to schools/services. The fact that you persisted through all the phone system failures and found help through Claimyr shows what an amazing advocate you are for your children. They're so lucky to have a mom who never gives up fighting for them. Sending you positive energy for tomorrow's appointment - you're going to get through this!

@f108e199be8a I'm new here but have been following your journey and I'm so relieved you got connected with help! Just wanted to add one more thing for tomorrow's appointment - bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down the names of everyone you speak with and their direct contact info. Sometimes you'll need to follow up with specific people and it's so frustrating when you have to start over explaining your situation each time. Also, if they give you any reference numbers or case numbers for your applications, write those down immediately - you'll need them for every future interaction. The community here has given you such incredible advice and support. You're clearly a fighter and your kids are lucky to have someone who advocates so fiercely for them. Can't wait to hear how your appointment goes tomorrow - you've got a whole community rooting for you!

@f108e199be8a I'm new to this community but have been following your journey and I'm so inspired by your determination! Just wanted to add one more thing for your appointment tomorrow - if they mention any programs you don't qualify for right now, ask them to note in your file what would make you eligible in the future. Sometimes circumstances change and having that information already documented can speed things up later. Also, bring a pen and small notebook if you can - the information can be overwhelming and it helps to jot down names, phone numbers, and next steps as they explain them. The fact that you've navigated this crisis while caring for three young children shows incredible strength. You've already overcome the biggest hurdle by getting someone to listen and help. Tomorrow is just about getting the official process started. Your kids are going to look back and be so proud of how their mom fought for them during this difficult time. Sending you positive energy for your appointment - you absolutely got this!

@f108e199be8a I'm new here but have been following your journey and I'm so happy you got connected with help! Just wanted to add one more thing that might be helpful - when you go to your appointment tomorrow, consider asking if they have any emergency transportation assistance. Getting to housing appointments and property viewings with three kids can be really challenging if you don't have reliable transportation. Some CalWORKs offices have bus vouchers or can connect you with ride assistance programs. Also, if you find a potential place but the landlord seems hesitant about CalWORKs assistance, ask your worker if they can provide a letter explaining the housing programs - sometimes official documentation helps convince landlords. You've been so strong through this whole process and I'm confident tomorrow will go well. The hardest part was getting someone to listen, and you've already accomplished that! Your dedication to your children is truly inspiring.

@f108e199be8a I'm new here but wanted to add my support - you're handling an incredibly difficult situation with such grace and determination! One thing I learned from my own experience with emergency assistance is to ask if they can expedite your case due to having young children, especially a 2-year-old. Many offices have provisions for families with very young kids that can speed up the process. Also, when you get your housing search paperwork, consider asking local family resource centers and WIC offices if they know of landlords who are CalWORKs-friendly - these community connections sometimes know about openings before they're advertised. The fact that you found this community and used Claimyr to get help shows incredible resourcefulness. Your kids are lucky to have a mom who never stops fighting for them. Hoping everything goes smoothly at your appointment tomorrow - you've already overcome the biggest hurdle by getting someone to listen!

@f108e199be8a I'm also new to this community but wanted to chime in with support! Natasha's advice about bringing a notebook is excellent - I wish I had thought of that during my own housing crisis. I'd also suggest asking if they have any case management services available. Sometimes they can assign someone to help coordinate between different programs and follow up on your applications, which can be incredibly helpful when you're juggling so much. Also, if your appointment runs long tomorrow, don't hesitate to ask for a break if the kids need it - the workers understand that families in crisis need flexibility. You've already shown such incredible strength by getting this far. The hardest part was getting someone to actually listen and help, and you've accomplished that! Tomorrow is just about getting the paperwork process started. Your determination to keep your family safe is truly inspiring. Sending you all the positive energy for a successful appointment tomorrow!

@f108e199be8a I'm brand new to this community but have been reading through your entire situation and I'm so inspired by your determination! Grant's mention of the Homeless Prevention Program is really important - that program sometimes has faster processing times than the regular assistance programs. I also wanted to add that when you're at your appointment tomorrow, ask if they have any emergency childcare vouchers available. Some offices can provide temporary childcare assistance while you're doing housing searches or attending required appointments, which can be a huge help with three little ones. The fact that you've navigated this whole system, found this amazing community for support, and used Claimyr to actually get help shows what an incredible advocate you are for your family. Your resourcefulness and persistence are going to get you through this crisis. I'll be checking back tomorrow to see how your appointment goes - you've got an entire community here rooting for you and your kids!

@f108e199be8a I'm also new to this community but have been following your story and I'm so relieved you got help through Claimyr! Just wanted to add one more thing for tomorrow - ask if they have any emergency utility assistance programs while you're there. When you do find housing, you'll likely need help with utility deposits and connection fees, and it's easier to get that process started early rather than waiting until you have keys in hand. Also, don't feel bad if you need to ask them to slow down or repeat information during your appointment - you're dealing with an incredibly stressful situation and it's completely normal to need clarification. You've already shown such incredible strength by advocating for your family and finding resources like this community and Claimyr. Your kids are so lucky to have a mom who never stops fighting for them. Sending you all the positive energy for tomorrow's appointment - you've got this!

@f108e199be8a I'm also new to this community but have been reading through your entire story and I'm so amazed by your strength and persistence! Laila's advice about asking for same-day processing is excellent - definitely mention that you have a 2-year-old when you go in tomorrow as that often gets priority attention. I also wanted to add that you should ask if they have any emergency clothing or basic needs assistance while you're there. Sometimes families focus so much on housing that they forget about other immediate needs like winter clothes for the kids or basic household items once you do get placed somewhere. The fact that you found this incredible community of support and used Claimyr to actually get through to someone shows what an amazing advocate you are. Your children are going to remember how their mom never gave up fighting for them during this difficult time. I'll be checking back to see how your appointment goes tomorrow - you have so many people here rooting for your family's success!

@f108e199be8a I'm new to this community but have been following your incredible journey and I'm so relieved you got the help you needed through Claimyr! Reading through all the amazing support and advice you've received here really shows how powerful community can be. For your appointment tomorrow, I wanted to add one small but important tip - if they offer you any pamphlets or informational materials, definitely take them even if they seem overwhelming right now. When you're in crisis mode it's hard to process everything, but having those resources to review later can be really helpful. Also, don't hesitate to ask for the direct contact information of whoever helps you tomorrow - having a specific person to follow up with can make a huge difference in getting continued assistance. You've shown such incredible strength and resourcefulness throughout this entire ordeal. The way you've advocated for your family, found this supportive community, and used every available resource shows what an amazing mom you are. Your kids are going to get through this because they have you fighting for them. Sending you all the positive energy for tomorrow - you've already overcome the biggest hurdle by getting someone to listen!