Modesto, CA asked in Civil Rights for California

Q: I've been kicked out of homeless shelter program for giving my vehicle to my boyfriend which is homeless on streets.

They said it was for violating a no contact order but non exited.

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Civil Rights Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Being kicked out of a homeless shelter program can be very distressing, especially if you feel it was done unfairly. Here are a few suggestions for next steps you may want to consider:

1. Clarify the reason for termination: If you believe there was no valid reason for being removed from the program, such as a non-existent no-contact order, try to get clarity from the shelter staff or management. Ask for a written explanation of the specific policy violation that led to your removal.

2. Seek legal advice: If you believe the shelter acted unlawfully or discriminated against you, consider contacting a legal aid organization that provides free or low-cost assistance to low-income individuals. They can advise you on your rights and potential legal recourse.

3. Find alternative shelter: Look into other homeless shelters, transitional housing programs, or emergency housing options in your area. Contact your local social services department, housing authority, or call 211 for referrals to available resources.

4. Explore other support services: Seek out organizations that provide assistance with food, clothing, healthcare, job training, and other essential needs for individuals experiencing homelessness. They may be able to provide support even if they don't offer housing.

5. Stay safe: If you're unsheltered, try to find a safe place to stay, whether that's with a trusted friend or family member, a safe parking program, or a designated camping area. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated or high-crime areas if possible.

Remember, you have rights and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and seek help from organizations dedicated to assisting those in need. I hope you're able to find the support and resources you need during this challenging time.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.