How to Start a Columbia County Homelessness Assessment
Use the local coordinated-entry line when someone is homeless, doubled up, living in a vehicle, or facing immediate housing loss.
Start here
Call United Way of Suwannee Valley at 386-752-5604, extension 113, and ask for Coordinated Entry. Describe where the household will sleep tonight, who is present, any disability or safety need, and the date housing will be lost. Assessment does not guarantee immediate shelter or housing; dial 211 for current after-hours options.
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.; extension 113; dial 211 for current after-hours options
Contact Columbia County coordinated entryWhat to have ready
- Columbia County address and a safe callback number
- A one-sentence description of the need and what changed
- Any notice, application, denial, bill, or deadline involved
- Language, mobility, communication, and accommodation needs
Words you can use
“I am currently [outside, in a vehicle, temporarily staying with others, facing eviction, or another situation] in Columbia County. My household is [describe]. How do I complete coordinated entry, and what immediate shelter route applies?”
Steps in order
- 1
Call or use the official intake route and lead with the immediate need.
- 2
Ask what eligibility, documents, assessment, and current funding or capacity apply.
- 3
Record the staff name, reference number, next action, and follow-up date.
- 4
Use the listed backup route if the program is closed, full, or not the correct door.
If the first answer is no or wait
Availability, funding, eligibility, and wait times can change. Ask for the reason in writing when possible, preserve every deadline, and dial 211 or call Columbia County at 386-758-1005 to locate another current route.
Official sources
- United Way of Suwannee Valley coordinated entry
- Homeless Services Network of Suwannee Valley
- United Way of Northeast Florida 211
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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