Legal Definitions - family shelter

A family shelter is a type of shelter that provides temporary lodging, food, and other services to homeless families. It is a place of refuge that offers safety from danger, attack, or observation.

Family shelters are similar to homeless shelters, but they specifically cater to families who are experiencing homelessness. They may remain open throughout the day to women and children, and offer help such as advice on finding and applying for public assistance, employment, and medical care.

For example, a family who has lost their home due to a natural disaster or financial hardship may seek refuge in a family shelter. The shelter would provide them with a safe place to stay, food to eat, and resources to help them get back on their feet.

Another example is a family who is fleeing domestic violence. They may seek shelter in a women's shelter, which is a type of family shelter that specifically caters to women and their children who are victims of domestic violence. The shelter would provide them with temporary lodging, food, and other services such as employment assistance, counseling, and medical care.