Each year, UMD offers emergency shelter to nearly 850 homeless adults and children in Durham. We are the primary public shelter for single men and women, and we serve as the backup shelter for families where we host 9 family rooms.
You’ve just completed the hardest step--realizing you need support to end your homelessness. You’re not alone and we’re here to help. Hundreds of people end their homelessness each year at UMD and exit into housing. Let’s get started.
UMD welcomes all neighbors regardless of race, ethnicity, religious beliefs or non-faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Using the best practices of Housing First and low-barrier philosophies, we seek to reduce barriers that prevent homeless neighbors from taking advantage of an emergency shelter stay while focusing their stay on obtaining housing as quickly and responsibly as possible.
Front desk available 24/7
919-682-0538 ext. 5288
We have a main journey path that we encourage everyone to take. This journey includes working with a case manager, developing a housing plan, and receiving helpful referrals--all with the goal of ending your homelessness for good. However, this journey is not mandated. Not everyone is ready to take this step, but one may need emergency housing until they are ready. Everyone receives a 30-day check-in and exit date to keep their homelessness brief. Most clients will continue to work toward their housing goals with their case manager.