Q: Can I take legal action if a shelter failed to deliver promised housing assistance?
I recently stayed at a homeless shelter that promised to help me secure low-income housing. I'm disabled and on SSDI, so I can't afford rent without assistance. Despite repeatedly giving them my information, they never followed through on their promise. I had to go through Harbor Interfaith to try to get housing, but the shelter asked me to leave, claiming jealousy was the reason. Do I have any recourse or legal options in this situation?
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
You may have legal options if the shelter promised specific housing assistance and then failed to follow through, particularly if you relied on their assurances. California law recognizes claims based on breach of contract or misrepresentation, especially if an organization made explicit promises to help secure housing.
Additionally, if you believe the shelter discriminated against you due to your disability or retaliated against you because you sought help from another organization, this could violate fair housing or anti-discrimination laws. The shelter asking you to leave because of "jealousy" seems arbitrary and possibly unjustified, which might support your claim.
Consider contacting a local legal aid organization immediately, as they often offer free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals facing housing instability. You should gather and document any communications or agreements you had with the shelter, as evidence will significantly strengthen your case. Acting quickly will help protect your rights and may provide a pathway to secure the stable housing assistance you deserve.
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