Boise Rescue Mission – Housing

Housing & Financial · Idaho · Free

Faith-based nonprofit providing emergency shelter and transitional housing for men, women, and families in the Boise area, including the New Life Program for longer-term stability. Fathers experiencing homelessness can walk in at the Main Street men's shelter any time, or call to ask about family housing at the mission's other sites. Shelter is free; a brief intake screening is required on arrival.

Contact & Details

Address: 308 E Main St, Boise, ID 83702

Phone: 208-343-2389

Hours: 24/7

About Housing & Financial for Fathers

Housing and financial assistance for fathers comes through a combination of federal programs (HUD, SNAP, TANF, LIHEAP) and state/local efforts. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing are administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) with long waitlists in most markets. Emergency shelter and rapid rehousing are funded through the federal Continuum of Care program — every region has a Coordinated Entry system that assesses and places homeless adults and families. Rental assistance, utility assistance (LIHEAP), and one-time emergency funds are available through community action agencies and 211 referral lines. Fathers with children in their custody may qualify for Section 8 family priority and TANF, though state rules vary. This directory covers PHAs, shelter systems, 211 call lines, and community action agencies that serve single dads.

Housing & Financial in Idaho

Idaho magistrate divisions handle custody matters within the district courts. The Child Support Services division within the Department of Health and Welfare runs enforcement. Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls are the largest cities. Idaho Legal Aid Services provides free family law help for eligible fathers statewide.

More Housing & Financial in Idaho

  • Idaho Housing & Finance Association — Idaho's state housing finance agency, administering affordable housing programs, Section 8 rental assistance, homebuyer loans, and down-paym
  • Boise City / Ada County Housing Authority — Local public housing authority administering public housing units and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers in Boise and Ada County. Fathers can
  • Habitat for Humanity – Boise — Affordable homeownership program for qualifying low- to moderate-income families in the Boise area. Selected fathers partner with Habitat by
  • Community Action Partnership – Housing — Southwest Idaho community action agency providing housing assistance including rent help, utility assistance, weatherization, and emergency
  • Idaho Falls Housing Authority — Public housing authority serving Idaho Falls with affordable housing units and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. Fathers seeking stable hou
  • Nampa Housing Authority — Local public housing authority administering public housing and rental assistance programs for Nampa residents. Fathers can apply online or

Housing & Financial — Common Questions

How long is the waitlist for Section 8?
Varies wildly — from a few months in some markets to 5+ years in hot metros (LA, NYC, DC). Apply to multiple Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in your area. Some PHAs give preference to families with children, veterans, or homeless applicants.
What does 211 do?
211 is a free nationwide referral service operated by United Way and partners. Call or text 211 to reach a live specialist who connects you to local help with rent, utilities, food, childcare, employment, and more. Available 24/7 in most areas.
Can single dads get TANF?
Yes. TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is gender-neutral — any qualifying parent or caretaker with a dependent child in the home can apply. Benefit amounts and time limits vary by state. Work requirements apply after a brief grace period.
What's LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state's LIHEAP office. Both annual assistance and emergency crisis payments are available. Don't wait until disconnection — apply at the start of the heating season.