What to Do If You're Homeless in Anne Arundel County

If you're homeless in Anne Arundel County — or worried you may become homeless soon — there are resources that may be able to help with food, shelter, showers, healthcare, transportation, and other basic needs.

Trying to survive day-to-day while also finding help can feel overwhelming, especially when you do not have stable transportation, money, or support. The goal of this guide is to help you focus on the most important first steps.

Start With Immediate Needs

The first priorities are usually:

• Finding a safe place to sleep
• Getting food and water
• Charging your phone
• Accessing showers or clean clothing
• Finding transportation to services

If you have access to a phone, calling 2-1-1 can help connect you with shelters, food programs, and local resources available in Anne Arundel County.

Transportation Matters

One of the biggest challenges in Anne Arundel County is transportation because resources are spread across areas like Glen Burnie, Annapolis, Pasadena, Brooklyn Park, and other parts of the county.

MTA buses and local transit routes can help people reach shelters, libraries, food pantries, healthcare providers, and job opportunities without needing a car.

Where to Go During the Day

During the daytime, many people rely on libraries, outreach programs, churches, and community organizations to stay indoors, use the restroom, charge devices, or access the internet.

Public libraries can be especially important because they offer:

• Computer and internet access
• Phone charging
• Bathrooms
• Air conditioning or heat
• A safe place to sit during the day

Food, Showers, and Basic Supplies

Food pantries, shelters, and outreach programs throughout Anne Arundel County may provide meals, hygiene supplies, showers, clothing, or laundry access depending on location and program availability.

Even small things like taking a shower, washing clothes, or eating a meal can make a major difference physically and mentally.

Evening Shelter

Emergency shelters and faith-based programs in Anne Arundel County may offer meals, overnight shelter, case management, and connections to longer-term housing resources.

Many shelters have intake deadlines in the late afternoon or evening, so planning around those times is extremely important. Missing intake can sometimes leave people without a safe place to sleep for the night.

Important Things to Remember

• Keep important documents safe if possible
• Charge your phone whenever you get the chance
• Try to stay connected to case workers or outreach staff
• Use libraries and public spaces carefully and respectfully
• Ask about housing waitlists and veteran services if applicable

Final Thoughts

Homelessness can happen quickly, and getting back on your feet often takes time. But small steps still matter.

Getting a meal, finding a safe place to sleep, applying for one job, or connecting with one helpful resource can start building momentum.

This website exists to make Anne Arundel County resources easier to find so people can spend less time searching and more time focusing on staying safe and moving forward.