Homeless Shelter Placement Requirements

Homeless clients who decline a shelter placement as their General Assistance (GA) housing benefit are considered to have declined the GA housing benefit and are not eligible for a monetary housing benefit payment. If a client provides a sworn statement that accepting a shelter placement is not a possible option for them, they may be able to receive a monetary payment in the full amount of their housing benefit. Refer to the Payment chapter.

Director’s Exception for Homeless Shelter Placement Requirements

A Homeless Shelter Screening Form and Sworn Statement (GA 2495) is required in addition to the General Assistance Director’s Exception Request (GA 5) for approval.

Circumstances that do not qualify for an automatic exception:

Clients are not automatically excused from homeless shelter placement requirements due to meeting the circumstances below, however they always have the option to explain their particular circumstances and request a Director’s Exception:

  • Having a pet. Shelters can accommodate most pets, and clients are not excused from shelter placement if their pet can be accommodated. 
  • Having items they do not want to leave behind. Shelters can provide significant storage, including bike storage. 
  • Having a physical disability. Shelters or other housing placements can accommodate most physical disabilities. 
  • Lacking transportation to the shelter. Transportation can be arranged.
  • Having a car. Parking in secured lots is available at many shelters.
  • Having a preference to remain in a certain geographic area. There are shelters throughout Santa Clara County and geographic preference will be taken into account. 
  • Not wanting to be placed in a shelter due to personal preference. 

Social Services Benefits Specialist (SSBS) Requirements

Upon determining eligibility for this Director’s Exception, the SSBS must complete a GA 5 and attach all pertinent verification.  This request must be completed after GA eligibility has been determined.

Reevaluation Period

This Director’s Exception must be reevaluated every six months.  

Related Topics

Director's Exception Overview

Sponsored Noncitizen Families

Non-Fed Families

Undocumented Individual(s) Gravely Disabled or Facing Exigent Circumstances

Interim Assistance Testing

PRUCOL

Family Reunification Cases in Child Welfare

Abused/Abandoned Sponsored Noncitizens

Public Administrator/Guardian/Conservator (PAGC) Cases

Shelter Payment Issuance to Clients