Arizona Overview
This page provides comprehensive information about resources, laws, and assistance programs available to individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship in Arizona.
Quick Facts
- State Population: 7.4 million
- Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 14,237 individuals experiencing homelessness (2024)
- State Homeless Assistance Funding: Multiple state and federal funding sources
- Major Urban Centers: Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale
- Primary Challenges: High unsheltered population rate (over 50%), increasing housing costs, mental health resource gaps
Emergency Contact Numbers
Arizona Crisis Hotline
(800) 631-1314
Available 24/7
2-1-1 Arizona
Dial 2-1-1
Resource information and referrals
Mental Health Support
(800) 273-8255
Available 24/7
Domestic Violence Hotline
(800) 799-7233
Available 24/7
Local Resources
Find assistance in Arizona based on your specific needs:
The Sanctuary (Emergency Shelter)
Emergency shelter options throughout Arizona:
Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS)
City: Phoenix
Services: Emergency shelter, case management, housing resources
Restrictions: Intake process required
Phone: (602) 229-5155
Address: 206 S. 12th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Hours: 24/7 (Intake Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm)
Phoenix Rescue Mission
City: Phoenix
Services: Emergency shelter, addiction recovery, meals, case management
Restrictions: Faith-based programs, intake assessment required
Phone: (602) 233-3000
Address: 338 N. 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Hours: 24/7
Interfaith Community Services
City: Tucson
Services: Resource connections, emergency financial assistance
Restrictions: Service area limitations may apply
Phone: (520) 297-6049
Address: 2820 W. Ina Road, Tucson, AZ 85741
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm
UMOM New Day Centers
City: Phoenix
Services: Emergency shelter for families, housing assistance
Restrictions: Families with children only
Phone: (602) 275-7852
Address: 3333 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85008
Hours: 24/7 (Intake Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)
The Bread of Life (Food Assistance)
Food banks, meal programs, and nutrition assistance in Arizona:
St. Mary's Food Bank
City: Phoenix & statewide
Services: Food distribution, mobile pantries
Requirements: None for emergency food
Phoenix Rescue Mission Hope for Hunger
City: Glendale
Services: Food boxes, nutrition assistance
Requirements: ID and proof of residence
Phone: (602) 346-3347
Address: 5605 N. 55th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-12pm
Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
City: Tucson & Southern AZ
Services: Food distribution, SNAP assistance
Requirements: None for emergency food
United Food Bank
City: Mesa & East Valley
Services: Food distribution, mobile pantries
Requirements: None for emergency food
The Healing Hand (Healthcare Access)
Healthcare services, free clinics, and mental health resources in Arizona:
Circle the City
City: Phoenix
Services: Medical care for homeless, respite care
Requirements: Experiencing homelessness
Phone: (602) 776-7676
Address: Multiple locations in Phoenix
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm
Healthcare for the Homeless
City: Phoenix
Services: Medical care, behavioral health
Requirements: Experiencing homelessness
El Rio Health
City: Tucson
Services: Primary care, behavioral health
Requirements: Sliding fee scale available
Community Medical Services
City: Multiple AZ locations
Services: Substance use treatment, MAT
Requirements: Assessment required
The Haven (Safe Parking & Camping)
Safe parking and camping programs in Arizona:
SHARE (Safe Housing and Resources Exchange)
City: Phoenix
Services: Safe outdoor space, supportive services
Requirements: Intake screening required
Phone: Contact through PHX C.A.R.E.S at 602-262-6251
Website: phoenix.gov/homelesssolutions
Phoenix Navigation Center
City: Phoenix
Services: Safe outdoor space, case management
Requirements: Referral required
Phone: Contact through PHX C.A.R.E.S at 602-262-6251
Website: phoenix.gov/homelesssolutions
Note: Safe parking and camping programs in Arizona are limited and evolving. Contact 2-1-1 Arizona for the most current information on available programs.
The Living Waters (Shower & Hygiene)
Shower facilities, hygiene resources, and laundry services in Arizona:
Justa Center
City: Phoenix
Services: Showers, hygiene kits, laundry for seniors
Requirements: Age 55+ experiencing homelessness
Phone: (602) 254-6524
Address: 1001 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm; Sat-Sun, 8am-1pm
Human Services Campus - Lodestar Day Resource Center
City: Phoenix
Services: Showers, laundry facilities, hygiene items
Requirements: Check-in process required
Phone: (602) 393-9930
Address: 1125 W. Jackson St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
Hours: Mon-Fri, 7am-5pm
Paz de Cristo
City: Mesa
Services: Showers, hygiene products
Requirements: None
Phone: (480) 464-2370
Address: 424 W. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ 85210
Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30am-10am
Primavera Foundation
City: Tucson
Services: Showers, laundry, basic hygiene
Requirements: Intake process
Phone: (520) 623-5111
Address: 702 S. 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701
Hours: Varies by program
The Guardian (Legal Aid & Rights)
Legal resources and advocacy for those experiencing homelessness in Arizona:
Community Legal Services
City: Multiple locations
Services: Legal assistance, benefits advocacy, housing issues
Requirements: Income eligibility
Homeless ID Project
City: Phoenix & Tucson
Services: ID acquisition assistance, vital documents
Requirements: None
Southern Arizona Legal Aid
City: Tucson & Southern AZ
Services: Legal assistance, housing advocacy
Requirements: Income eligibility
ACLU of Arizona
City: Phoenix (statewide service)
Services: Rights advocacy, legal resources
Requirements: Case assessment
The Providence (Government Benefits)
Government assistance programs and benefits available in Arizona:
Arizona Department of Economic Security
City: Statewide
Services: SNAP, TANF, Unemployment, Healthcare
Requirements: Eligibility varies by program
AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System)
City: Statewide
Services: Healthcare coverage for low-income individuals
Requirements: Income & residency eligibility
Social Security Administration
City: Multiple locations
Services: SSI, SSDI, retirement benefits
Requirements: Varies by program
Arizona Department of Housing
City: Phoenix (statewide service)
Services: Housing assistance, rental support
Requirements: Income eligibility
The Shepherd (Faith-Based Services)
Faith-based organizations providing services to those experiencing homelessness in Arizona:
Phoenix Rescue Mission
City: Phoenix
Services: Shelter, recovery, meals, employment training
Affiliation: Christian
St. Vincent de Paul
City: Multiple locations
Services: Meals, shelter, medical care, rent/utility assistance
Affiliation: Catholic
Salvation Army
City: Multiple locations
Services: Shelter, meals, utility assistance
Affiliation: Christian
Gospel Rescue Mission
City: Tucson
Services: Shelter, meals, recovery programs
Affiliation: Christian
Arizona Laws & Regulations
Understanding the legal landscape regarding homelessness in Arizona:
Camping & Sleeping in Public
In Arizona, many cities have ordinances prohibiting camping or sleeping in public places. Following the 2024 Supreme Court Grants Pass ruling, cities can now enforce anti-camping ordinances regardless of shelter availability. Several Arizona cities have strengthened or implemented new urban camping bans.
Relevant Case: City of Grants Pass v. Johnson (2024) - U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing enforcement of camping bans
Vehicle Dwelling
Regulations vary by municipality. Most Arizona cities have ordinances restricting sleeping in vehicles on public streets. In Phoenix, for example, the "urban camping" ordinance includes vehicle dwelling. Enforcement has increased in recent years.
Example: Phoenix City Code § 23-30 prohibits using vehicles as living accommodations
Food Sharing & Distribution
Most Arizona cities allow charitable food distribution, though permits may be required for large-scale operations in public spaces. Some restrictions may apply in certain areas, particularly around government buildings.
Property Rights & Seizure
Cities must provide reasonable notice before clearing encampments. Arizona's Proposition 312 (passed 2024) allows property owners to seek tax refunds if municipalities fail to enforce "nuisance" laws related to homelessness, potentially impacting encampment removal policies.
Housing Rights
Arizona has limited tenant protections compared to some states. State law preempts local governments from enacting rent control. Eviction processes can be fast-tracked, though some pandemic-era protections expanded access to legal counsel for eviction cases.
Legal Resources
If you need legal assistance regarding your rights in Arizona, the following organizations can help:
Community Legal Services
Provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals in housing, benefits, and consumer issues.
Phone: (602) 258-3434
Website: clsaz.org
Southern Arizona Legal Aid
Serves low-income residents in Southern Arizona with housing, public benefits, and healthcare access issues.
Phone: (520) 623-9465
Website: sazlegalaid.org
DNA People's Legal Services
Serves Native American communities with legal assistance on housing, benefits, and civil rights.
Phone: (928) 871-4151
Website: dnalegalservices.org
ACLU of Arizona
Advocates for civil rights issues affecting homeless individuals, including criminalization of homelessness.
Phone: (602) 650-1854
Website: acluaz.org
County-Specific Information
Laws, resources, and regulations can vary significantly by county in Arizona. Select a county to view specific information:
Maricopa County
County Seat: Phoenix
Population: 4.5 million
Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 9,400 people experiencing homelessness (2024)
Local Ordinances
- Camping: Most cities in Maricopa County have anti-camping ordinances. Phoenix Municipal Code 23-30 prohibits camping on public property and within 500 feet of schools, childcare facilities, and shelters.
- Sleeping in Vehicles: Generally prohibited in residential areas. Some cities have designated safe parking areas with permits.
- Panhandling: Aggressive panhandling is prohibited, though peaceful requests are generally protected as free speech.
- Food Distribution: Permits may be required for large-scale food distribution in public parks.
County Resources
Key resources specific to Maricopa County:
Pima County
County Seat: Tucson
Population: 1.1 million
Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 1,500 people experiencing homelessness
Local Ordinances
- Camping: Tucson has ordinances prohibiting camping in public places, with recent enforcement increases following the Grants Pass ruling.
- Sleeping in Vehicles: Restricted in most areas, especially residential neighborhoods.
- Panhandling: Non-aggressive panhandling is generally protected, though time and place restrictions exist.
- Food Distribution: Permits may be required for organized food sharing in public parks.
County Resources
Key resources specific to Pima County:
Yavapai County
County Seat: Prescott
Population: 240,000
Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 400 people experiencing homelessness
Local Ordinances
- Camping: Prescott and other municipalities prohibit camping in public parks and spaces.
- Sleeping in Vehicles: Generally prohibited on public streets, especially overnight.
- Panhandling: Restrictions vary by municipality, with some areas having time and place limitations.
County Resources
Key resources specific to Yavapai County:
Coconino County
County Seat: Flagstaff
Population: 145,000
Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 600 people experiencing homelessness
Local Ordinances
- Camping: Flagstaff has ordinances prohibiting camping on public property and in forests during high fire danger.
- Sleeping in Vehicles: Restricted in city limits, with enforcement varying seasonally.
- Panhandling: Non-aggressive panhandling generally allowed with limitations.
County Resources
Key resources specific to Coconino County:
Mohave County
County Seat: Kingman
Population: 213,000
Homelessness Statistics: Approximately 200 people experiencing homelessness
Local Ordinances
- Camping: Municipalities prohibit camping in public areas, parks, and washes.
- Sleeping in Vehicles: Generally prohibited in city limits.
- Panhandling: Restrictions exist in commercial areas and intersections.
County Resources
Key resources specific to Mohave County:
Success Stories from Arizona
Read about individuals who have found hope and assistance through GRACE and our partner organizations in Arizona:
Michael's Journey
After losing his job and apartment in Phoenix, Michael lived in his car for six months. Through Phoenix C.A.R.E.S. outreach, he connected with CASS for emergency shelter and then entered a rapid rehousing program. He now works in construction and has stable housing.
"The outreach team found me when I was at my lowest point. They connected me with resources I didn't even know existed. Now I have my own place and I'm rebuilding my life."
Resources that helped: Street Outreach, Emergency Shelter, Rapid Rehousing, Employment Assistance
Sarah's Journey
Sarah struggled with addiction and homelessness in Tucson for three years. Through a connection with the Gospel Rescue Mission, she entered a recovery program and eventually transitioned to supportive housing. She has been sober for 18 months and now works as a peer support specialist.
"When I came to the mission, I had nothing left. They showed me there was still hope and a future for me. Now I get to give back by helping others who are where I once was."
Resources that helped: Faith-based Support, Substance Use Treatment, Transitional Housing, Job Training
Have a success story to share? We'd love to hear how resources in Arizona have helped you.
Share Your StoryState-Specific Programs
Special initiatives and programs available specifically in Arizona to assist those experiencing homelessness:
Arizona Housing Trust Fund
Type: Housing Development & Assistance
Eligibility: Varies by specific program
Benefits: Funds housing development, rental assistance, and homelessness prevention
How to Apply: Through Arizona Department of Housing or local housing authorities
Homeless Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program
Type: Emergency Housing & Services
Eligibility: Individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness
Benefits: Emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, homeless prevention, street outreach
How to Apply: Through contracted service providers or by calling 2-1-1 Arizona
Arizona Balance of State Continuum of Care
Type: Coordinated Homeless Services
Eligibility: Individuals and families experiencing homelessness in rural Arizona counties
Benefits: Coordinated entry, housing navigation, supportive services
How to Apply: Through local service providers or by calling 2-1-1 Arizona
Interactive Resource Map
Find resources in Arizona based on your location:
Enable location services to find resources near you, or select a city below:
Interactive Map Placeholder
In the full implementation, this would display an interactive map showing:
- • Shelter locations
- • Food banks and meal services
- • Health clinics
- • Safe parking areas
- • Hygiene facilities
- • Government service offices
- • Angel Outreach partners