Housing Help & Coordinated Entry FAQs

Housing Help & Coordinated Entry: What to Expect

We know trying to figure out housing support can feel overwhelming - especially when you’re dealing with a lot already. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we get about Coordinated Entry, housing assessments, and how our partnership with Waypoint helps make this process more accessible. We hope this helps you feel more informed and a little less stressed about what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coordinated Entry?

Coordinated Entry is a statewide system that helps connect people to housing programs in their area. If you’re eligible, you’ll complete a MAP Assessment (Matching for Appropriate Placement). This assessment helps determine the level of housing support you need.

Based on your assessment, you’re placed on a regional prioritization list. Housing is not offered on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Instead, placements are made based on need. Regional partners meet regularly and offer housing as openings become available, starting with those who most urgently need it.

Why do I get connected to another agency when I call Friends of the Family?

Great question. You’re not alone in wondering this. Friends of the Family partners with Waypoint’s Housing Call Center, which answers housing calls for us and many other regions across Iowa.

Waypoint staff help with initial screening, problem‑solving, and connecting people to resources.

• If you’re a survivor of domestic violence or another violent crime, Waypoint will securely refer you to Friends of the Family staff for direct follow‑up.
• If you’re not a survivor of violent crime, Waypoint may complete your Coordinated Entry assessment if you’re eligible.

This partnership helps make sure calls are answered quickly and people get connected to the right support.

Why haven’t I heard back from Friends of the Family?

For safety reasons, Friends of the Family always calls from a blocked number. We also won’t leave a voicemail unless you’ve clearly told us it’s safe to do so. If you think you may have missed a call, check your phone for blocked or unknown numbers.

Why might I not qualify for an assessment or housing program?

Many housing programs follow HUD’s definitions of homelessness, specifically Category 1 and Category 4. People often qualify if they are:

• Staying in a shelter
• Living in a vehicle or on the street
• In a place not meant for habitation
• Fleeing domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or another violent crime

If your current situation doesn’t fit these guidelines, you may not be eligible for housing programs through Coordinated Entry, but we still encourage you to explore other community resources.

How long does my assessment stay active?

Once you’re added to a regional prioritization list, you’ll stay on the list until:

• You’re selected for a housing program
• You no longer meet the homelessness criteria
• Your assessment expires and needs to be updated

Expiration timelines vary by region but are usually no longer than 90 days.

What should I do after I complete an assessment?

While you’re on the list, we strongly encourage you to keep looking into other community resources. Coordinated Entry is not emergency housing, and it doesn’t offer immediate placement. If your situation change, or if you need a new assessment, you can always reach back out.

Will someone contact me if I’m selected for housing?

Yes. If you’re pulled for a program, staff will try to reach you over a 7‑day period to confirm eligibility and schedule an intake. If you’re experiencing literal homelessness, that will need to be verified in person before moving forward.

What if I’m not selected - will I still hear from someone?

When staff capacity allows, we may check in to see how things are going and whether there are other resources we can help connect you with. These check‑ins don’t mean you’ve been selected for housing - they’re simply a way to offer support when possible.

A Quick Note About Housing Availability

Right now, more people need housing than there are available program spots. This means not everyone on the list will receive housing. The list only moves when programs have openings, and placements are always based on need.

We know this process can feel complicated and frustrating, and we truly appreciate your patience. Through our partnership with Waypoint, we’re working to make sure calls are answered, assessments are completed thoughtfully, and people receive safe, appropriate follow‑up. You’re not alone, and we encourage you to keep reaching out and using the resources available to you.