Homeless Shelters in Brooklyn, NY in 2025: Your Complete Guide

Navigating homelessness in a bustling borough like Brooklyn can be daunting, but homeless shelters in Brooklyn, NY offer vital support for those in need. In 2025, with over 552,830 people experiencing homelessness nationwide (HUD) and Brooklyn hosting an estimated 20,000+ homeless individuals (NYC DHS), shelters provide beds, meals, and hope. This guide highlights top shelters in Brooklyn, eligibility details, what to expect, and expert tips to access help—ensuring you find safety and resources in one of NYC’s most vibrant areas.

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Why Homeless Shelters Matter in Brooklyn

Brooklyn’s dense urban landscape and harsh winters make shelter a critical need—especially for the 35% of NYC’s homeless who are families (Coalition for the Homeless). Beyond a place to sleep, shelters offer food, clothing, and services to regain stability. With families spending an average of $150 monthly on essentials like apparel (Bureau of Labor Statistics), free shelter resources can ease financial strain—pair this with free clothing for homeless for broader relief.

Top Homeless Shelters in Brooklyn, NY

Here’s a list of key shelters in Brooklyn offering support in 2025:

  • Brooklyn Women’s Shelter – Women-only emergency shelter.
    Location: 116 Williams Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11207.
    Contact: (718) 495-7870 or nyc.gov.
    Offerings: Beds, meals, hygiene kits.
    Best for: Women—see women’s clothing.
    Tip: Intake via DHS referral.
  • CAMBA Atlantic House Men’s Shelter – Men-only transitional shelter.
    Location: 2402 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233.
    Contact: camba.org or (718) 385-1440.
    Focus: Beds, job support.
    Perks: Case management, showers.
  • Breaking Ground Greenpoint Shelter – Shelter for adults.
    Location: 960 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222.
    Contact: breakingground.org or (718) 349-9300.
    Extras: Mental health services.
    Best for: Single adults.
  • HELP USA Family Shelter – Family-friendly emergency housing.
    Location: 515 Blake Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11207.
    Contact: helpusa.org or (718) 922-1179.
    Offerings: Family units, meals.
    Note: DHS referral required—see family clothing.
  • Brooklyn Rescue Mission – Faith-based shelter and pantry.
    Location: 2554 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11207.
    Contact: brooklynrescuemission.org or (718) 363-5454.
    Focus: Beds, food pantry.
    Ideal for: Individuals, small families.
  • Bowery Residents’ Committee (BRC) – Shelter with job training.
    Location: 1315 Fulton Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216.
    Contact: brc.org or (718) 622-6400.
    Extras: Employment help, counseling.
  • The Gathering Place Drop-In Center – Day shelter and services.
    Location: 2407 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226.
    Contact: (718) 622-7650.
    Offerings: Day respite, meals.
    Pro Tip: Pairs with clothing aid.
  • NYC DHS Intake Center – Gateway to Brooklyn shelters.
    Location: 227 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 (PATH for families).
    Contact: nyc.gov/dhs or 311.
    Focus: Placement for all.

Comparison Table: Homeless Shelters in Brooklyn, NY

Pick the right shelter with this overview:

Shelter Who They Serve Services Availability Contact
Brooklyn Women’s Women Beds, meals DHS referral (718) 495-7870
CAMBA Atlantic Men Beds, job help Nightly, limited (718) 385-1440
Breaking Ground Adults Beds, mental health First-come (718) 349-9300
HELP USA Families Family units, meals DHS referral (718) 922-1179
Brooklyn Rescue All Beds, pantry First-come (718) 363-5454

How to Access Homeless Shelters in Brooklyn

Getting into a Brooklyn shelter involves these steps:

  1. Assess Your Needs: Choose based on gender, family status, or extra services.
  2. Contact DHS: Call 311 or visit an intake center—required for most shelters.
  3. Bring ID: Minimal ID or proof of need—some accept walk-ins.
  4. Arrive Early: Check-in often starts at 4 PM—beds go quickly.
  5. Seek Extras: Ask for clothing or food—see homeless clothing aid.

Other Resources for Homeless Families in Brooklyn

If shelters aren’t enough, try these:

Expert Tips to Find Shelter in Brooklyn

Boost your chances with these strategies:

  • Call 311 Daily: Shelter availability shifts—check each morning.
  • Use PATH: Families should go to the PATH intake at 151 E 151st St, Bronx—call 311.
  • Visit Early: Arrive by 3 PM for first-come shelters—lines form fast.
  • Network Locally: Ask churches or homeless aid groups for leads.
  • Plan for Kids: Prioritize family shelters like HELP USA—call ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Can Stay at Brooklyn Shelters?

Who qualifies for homeless shelters in Brooklyn?
Most shelters serve anyone without housing—individuals, families, specific genders—with ID or DHS referral often required.

What Services Do Shelters Offer?

What can I expect from Brooklyn shelters?
Expect beds, meals, showers—some provide job training, clothing, or mental health support.

Are Shelters Open All Day?

Can I stay at a shelter during the day?
Some like The Gathering Place offer day shelter, but most are nightly—check-in typically 4-6 PM.

Can Families Stay Together?

Are there family-friendly shelters in Brooklyn?
Yes—HELP USA offers family units, but you’ll need a DHS referral via PATH—call 311.

What If Shelters Are Full?

What if I can’t get into a shelter?
Try clothing programs or pantries—call 311 for overflow options.

Next Steps

Secure a safe spot with Brooklyn’s top homeless shelters. Need more? Check free clothes near me or bill assistance now!

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