The City of Philadelphia has received a special allocation of 863 Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) through the American Rescue Plan. There are already nearly 8,000 people who are eligible in the homeless system for them. These vouchers are administered by PHA. Referrals MUST come through the City of Philadelphia’s Continuum of Care, Coordinated Entry process based on assessed vulnerability. EHV applications are not directly available to the public or accessible through the PHA waitlist.
If you are facing homelessness, please contact the Office of Homeless Services, Prevention, Diversion, and Intake Unit to find out what services are available to you.
If you would like more information about EHVs or homelessness assistance programs, please contact the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Homeless Services by using one of the two options listed below:
If you are experiencing domestic violence, help is available! Call the citywide, 24-hour Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline (1-866-723-3014) anytime for crisis intervention, safety planning, resources, and referrals. All calls are free, confidential, and anonymous. Hotline counselors can help connect you with free services in the Philadelphia area, including emergency housing, legal services, behavioral health services, and other resources. More information here: https://www.womenagainstabuse.org/get-help/pdvh
- Video recording link
- Presentation slides
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Philadelphia’s EHV Process
Additional Information on Philadelphia’s Housing Choice Voucher Program
- Link to PHA’s full HCV Administrative Plan
- Chart of Denial of Admission Offenses
- Link to HCV “Landlord Information” page
- Resources for Households who are Issued EHVs:
- Link to AffordableHousing.com:
- Security deposit assistance: See informational flyer on monetary incentives for owners for explanation
- Utility arrears assistance: Contact UESF by calling 215-814-0394 or visit their webpage on assistance for homeless households
- Furniture: Partnership with Philadelphia Furniture Bank (note: forthcoming)
- Once the household signs a lease: Link to HCV Tenant Portal sign-in page (not available until after household has moved in)