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Housing Assistance in District of Columbia

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in District of Columbia

Last Updated on August 27, 2025 by Rachel

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in District of Columbia

Last updated: August 2025


Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025

Main Points

If You Need Help Today

Facing homelessness or immediate housing crisis? Contact Virginia Williams Family Resource Center at (202) 526-0017 – central intake for all DC families. Located at 64 New York Avenue NE, open Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM – 4 PM, Friday 8:30 AM – 12 PM.

After hours emergency? Call Homeless Services Hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311.

Can’t pay utilities? LIHEAP is closed until October 2025, but check Pepco RAD Program for ongoing utility discounts.

In danger from domestic violence? DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence 24/7 hotline: (202) 299-1181 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Virginia Williams Family Resource Center (VWFRC)

The Virginia Williams Family Resource Center is the central intake office for all families in the District seeking assistance with their housing needs. VWFRC relocated in December 2024 to improve service delivery and is now co-located with other DC agencies.

What it provides:

  • Emergency shelter placement for families with children
  • Housing stability assessments
  • Referrals to transitional housing programs
  • Case management and goal setting
  • Access to support services (TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications)
  • Employment assistance and job training referrals

Location: 64 New York Avenue NE, Washington DC 20002

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Phone: (202) 526-0017

What to bring:

  • Government-issued photo ID for all adults
  • Birth certificates for all family members
  • Proof of income for past 30 days
  • Proof of DC residency

Reality check: Wait times at the Center can sometimes be long, and the intake process is expected to take most of the day. Come prepared with snacks and activities for children. The assessment determines eligibility for emergency shelter and other housing programs.

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) – CLOSED

Current Status: The ERAP application portal closed as of November 20, 2024, as DHS received the number of applications projected to be supported with available FY 2025 funds.

When it reopens: Expected October 2025 for FY 2026, pending budget appropriation.

What it covered when open:

  • Past-due rent including late fees and court costs
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent
  • Limited to households earning less than 40% of Area Median Income

Family Rehousing and Stabilization Program (FRSP) – PAUSED

Current Status: Beginning June 1, 2025, DHS implemented a temporary pause on new entries into FRSP to strengthen the program.

What it provided:

  • Time-limited rental assistance up to 12 months
  • Supportive case management
  • Bridge between emergency shelter and long-term housing stability

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) – WAITING LIST CLOSED

The Housing Choice Voucher Program helps low- and moderate-income residents find and afford housing by providing vouchers to participants to pay rent in privately owned properties.

Current Status: The waitlist is currently closed to new applicants. DCHA has no current plans to re-open the waitlist.

Waiting List Reality: According to current data, 40,570 people are on the voucher waitlist, with many waiting since the mid-2000s.

2025 Income Eligibility Guidelines

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $53,050 $31,830
2 people $60,600 $36,360
3 people $68,150 $40,890
4 people $75,700 $45,420

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025 for Washington DC Metro Area

2025 Payment Standards (Maximum Rent Voucher Will Cover)

Unit Size Maximum Payment Standard
Studio $1,869
1 BR $2,043
2 BR $2,617
3 BR $3,434
4 BR $3,876
5 BR $4,458

Source: DCHA 2025 Payment Standards at 187% of Fair Market Rent

Priority Groups (when waitlist reopens):

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Veterans
  • Elderly households

DCHA Contact: (202) 535-1000, Monday-Thursday 9 AM – 3 PM by appointment only

Public Housing

DCHA owns and manages 56 public housing properties that provide homes at reduced rents for very low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities. The District has more than 8,000 public housing units, serving 20,000 residents.

Rent calculation: Tenants pay 30% of their adjusted income

Application: Same waiting list system as Housing Choice Vouchers (currently closed)

Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH)

PSH is an evidence-based intervention that combines housing assistance through a permanent rental subsidy with voluntary supportive services to address the needs of chronically homeless individuals or families.

Services include:

  • Independent living and tenancy skills training
  • Connection to community-based health care
  • Treatment and employment services
  • Ongoing case management

Prioritization: Through the Coordinated Assessment and Housing Placement (CAHP) system

Targeted Affordable Housing (TAH)

TAH provides a permanent rental subsidy to households who need assistance obtaining and affording housing – often due to their age or a disabling condition.

Target population: Households needing assistance due to age or disability Case management: Limited – designed for those who can maintain housing independently Access: Through CAHP system prioritization

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – CLOSED FOR FY2025

Current Status: DOEE’s LIHEAP program is no longer accepting applications for FY 2025 effective Saturday March 8, 2025. The LIHEAP program will open again in October 2025 in FY 2026.

FY2025 Income Guidelines (for reference when program reopens)

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $57,571
2 people $75,286
3 people $93,001
4 people $110,716

Source: DC Department of Energy & Environment LIHEAP Guidelines

Benefit amounts (when available): $250 to $1,800 based on household size, income, heating source, and dwelling type

Emergency assistance: Available for disconnected service or depleted heating oil

Utility Discount Programs (Still Available)

Pepco Residential Aid Discount (RAD)

This program offers eligible PEPCO customers a 63% discount on the first 400 kilowatt-hours in summer months and 32% discount in winter months.

Savings: Approximately $12/month summer, $6/month winter ($102/year for typical customer)

All-electric heating customers: 38% summer discount, 51% winter discount on first 700 kWh ($240/year savings)

Contact: DC Energy Office: (202) 673-6750 or PEPCO: (202) 833-7500

Washington Gas Residential Essential Service (RES)

Discount gas rates based on household size and income with three classification levels providing discounts up to $189.08.

Homeownership Programs

Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) – FUNDING EXHAUSTED

Current Status: As of February 13, 2025, all available funds for HPAP have been reserved. New funding will not be available until October 2025.

When operational, HPAP provides:

Eligibility requirements:

  • First-time homebuyer (no ownership in past 3 years)
  • DC resident or lived in DC as adult for 3+ years
  • Credit score minimum 630
  • Property must be primary residence in DC

DC Open Doors Program

Administered by DC Housing Finance Agency, provides low-cost mortgages with down payment assistance through 0% interest-deferred loans.

Income limit: Up to 130% of Area Median Income

Employer Assisted Housing Program (EAHP)

Available to DC government employees, provides up to $5,000 in matching down payment funds plus a deferred $20,000 loan. First responders and educators eligible for additional assistance.

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Everyone Home DC Family Rapid Rehousing

Rapid Rehousing supports families for up to 18 months in scattered site apartments throughout the District. In 2024, the program supported nearly 168 families transitioning out of homelessness, including 230 adults and 360 children.

Services include:

  • Short-term rental and utility assistance
  • Housing stability-focused case management
  • Employment preparation services
  • Affordable housing search support
  • Transportation assistance

Access: Referrals through Virginia Williams Family Resource Center

House of Ruth

House of Ruth helps survivors of domestic violence and homelessness learn skills to live independently, offering safe housing, childcare, and support services.

Housing assistance: (202) 667-7001 ext. 320 Domestic violence support: (202) 667-7001 ext. 515

Domestic Violence Housing Resources

My Sister’s Place

Provides comprehensive services to end domestic violence and empower survivors to live healthy, independent lives.

DC Victim Hotline

24/7 support: (844) 443-5732 Provides comprehensive information, resources, and referrals through partnership with Mayor’s Office of Victim Services.

Pathways to Housing DC

Specialized in ending chronic homelessness for people with complex health challenges using Housing First approach. Provides stable housing for veterans and individuals with mental health and addiction challenges.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While DC has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the city is generally considered LGBTQ+-friendly with legal protections against housing discrimination.

Resources:

Single Fathers

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender.

Additional resources:

  • Same application processes through VWFRC
  • Equal access to emergency shelter and transitional housing
  • Fatherhood programs through DC Department of Human Services

Limited English Proficiency Families

Translation services: Available at VWFRC and DCHA offices Documents: Many forms available in Spanish and other languages Interpretation: Request interpreter services when calling housing agencies

Families with Disabilities

Priority access: DCHA gives preference to persons with mobility impairments for accessible units Accommodations: All housing programs required to provide reasonable accommodations Support services: Additional case management available through various programs

Resources by Ward

Wards 7 & 8 (Southeast DC)

Frederick Douglass Community Center (DCHA Service Location)

  • 2000 Alabama Ave. Southeast
  • DCHA customer service by appointment
  • (202) 535-1000

Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative

Wards 1, 2, 6 (Central DC)

DCHA Headquarters Customer Service Center

Ward 4 (Upper Northwest)

So Others Might Eat (SOME)

Citywide Resources

Virginia Williams Family Resource Center

  • 64 New York Avenue NE
  • Central intake for all DC families
  • (202) 526-0017

DC Housing Search Portal

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

When will the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list reopen?

DCHA has no current plans to re-open the waitlist. When it does reopen, DCHA will publicize through their website, social media, and local media. Given the 40,570 people already on the waitlist, any reopening will likely be very limited.

What should I do if I’m facing eviction right now?

Since ERAP is closed, contact VWFRC immediately at (202) 526-0017. They can assess your situation and refer you to available emergency assistance. Also contact Legal Aid DC for free eviction defense: (202) 628-1161.

How long does it take to get emergency shelter through VWFRC?

Emergency shelter placement can happen same-day if you qualify and beds are available. However, wait times at the Center can sometimes be long, and you should plan for the intake process to take most of the day.

Can I get help with utilities if LIHEAP is closed?

Yes, the Pepco RAD program provides ongoing discounts on electric bills. Contact PEPCO at (202) 833-7500 to apply. Washington Gas also offers the RES discount program.

What if I work but still can’t afford rent?

Most DC housing programs serve working families. The 2025 very low-income limit for a family of three is $68,150, meaning many working families qualify for assistance. Contact VWFRC to discuss available options.

How much does emergency shelter cost?

Emergency shelter through VWFRC is free. Families pay based on their ability while receiving case management to move toward permanent housing.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher from another city to DC?

Yes, if you have a voucher from another housing authority, you can request portability to move to DC. Contact your current housing authority to begin the transfer process. However, this doesn’t bypass DC’s closed waiting list for new applicants.

What documents do I need for housing applications?

Standard documents include: government-issued photo ID, birth certificates for all family members, Social Security cards, proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters), proof of DC residency, and bank statements. Specific requirements vary by program.

Are there housing options if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal status, but emergency shelter through VWFRC is available regardless of immigration status. Some local nonprofits also provide assistance. Contact VWFRC to discuss available options.

What happens if my income changes while receiving assistance?

Most programs require annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a transition period. If income decreases, report changes immediately as you may qualify for additional assistance.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Current Program Limitations

Funding exhausted: Many major programs (ERAP, HPAP, FRSP) are closed or paused due to high demand and limited funding.

Long waits: The voucher waiting list has over 40,000 people, with some waiting since the mid-2000s.

High housing costs: DC remains one of the most expensive rental markets in the nation, making even subsidized housing challenging to find.

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams: Never pay fees to apply for government housing programs. All legitimate applications are free.

Fake Section 8 offers: No one can guarantee vouchers or move you to the front of waiting lists for a fee.

Rental scams: Verify landlord identity and property ownership before sending money.

Tips for Success

Apply broadly: Since major programs are closed, focus on emergency assistance and transitional programs while waiting for reopenings.

Document everything: Keep detailed records of all applications, communications, and documents.

Stay connected: Update contact information with DCHA if you’re on the waiting list. Use the online portal to maintain your place.

Build support networks: Connect with other single mothers through community organizations and support groups.

Consider regional options: Explore housing options in nearby jurisdictions with potentially shorter wait times.

Additional Resources

DC Government Agencies

Department of Human Services

Department of Housing and Community Development

Housing DC Portal

Legal Aid

Legal Aid DC

DC Bar Pro Bono Center

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Community Organizations

Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness

So Others Might Eat (SOME)

  • Comprehensive services including housing
  • some.org

Financial Counseling

DC Housing Finance Agency

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This District of Columbia guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including DC Department of Human Services, DC Housing Authority, DHCD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official DC Department of Human Services, DC Housing Authority, DC Department of Housing and Community Development, and federal HUD sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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