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Locksmith

Our hub of guides, with all-you-need-to-know about finding a shelter to recovering IDs.

Step-by-step guides

Good to Know

  • No ID for hot food

    Most direct meal providers operate on a no-questions-asked policy. You are not required to provide government ID or proof of address to receive hot food.

Key Provider Types across the Bay Area

  • Soup Kitchens

    Offer daily sit-down or to-go hot meals.

  • San Francisco

    Martin de Porres House of Hospitality.

  • East Bay

    St. Vincent de Paul (Oakland)

  • South Bay

    Martha’s Kitchen (San Jose)

  • Mobile Food Distribution

    Pop-up sites delivering pre-packaged meals and fresh groceries to public parks and central plazas.

  • Faith-Based Programs

    Local churches often host weekly or daily breakfast and dinner pantries.

Tip

  • Find food nearby

    Text your ZIP code to 898-211 to receive an automated list of open food distribution points nearby.

Food pantry registration rules can differ from hot-meal programs. Confirm meal times before visiting. Texting hours and responses vary by county; nearby food is not guaranteed to be available.

211 Bay Area contact information
See more in the Pathfinder tab

Step-by-step intake process

  1. Dial 2-1-1 — or 3-1-1 if you're in San Francisco

    This number is available 24/7. Tell the operator your exact city or county, because shelter management operates on the county level.

  2. Get connected to your county's Coordinated Entry System (CES)

    Operators will connect you to your county's Coordinated Entry System (CES), or give you a physical center nearby that you can visit to connect with support services.

  3. Answer the screening questions

    A worker will ask about immediate safety needs and health conditions. Your answers help prioritize the available beds for you.

  4. Follow arrival instructions

    If you secure a bed, make sure to follow the check-in schedule. Missing the window of time forfeits your reservation.

What Kind of Shelters?

  • Single Adult Shelters

    Typically congregate settings with bunk beds in shared rooms categorized by gender.

  • Family Shelters

    Often provide private rooms, and require at least one minor child or a confirmed pregnancy.

What to Bring

  • Essentials Only

    Space is limited to one or two bags per person.

  • Key Items

    ID (if available), prescription medications, phone and charger, and key personal documents.

  • Restricted Items

    Weapons, alcohol, illicit substances, and large personal items are not permitted. Pets are generally restricted to trained service animals, though limited shelters offer specialized pet accommodations.

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