For most people, the loss of their home will be one of the most stressful events of their lifetimes. The most important thing you can do is to be okay with them not being okay. Let them cry, freak out, be angry, grieve, and release whatever other emotions they have.

When they are telling you what happened and/or how they feel about it, just listen. Don't tell them how you can relate. Don't even offer advice until they've had time to vent.

Ask clarifying questions so that you fully understand what they are going through.

The first few times you call or text them, they may not be ready to receive your help or even talk to you. That's okay. Ask for a good time to call them back later that day or the next day to help them get things figured out or hear what happened. If they don't know when a good time will be, text them periodically.

Keep in mind that losing a home is a vulnerable place to be. They may feel embarrassed to talk to you about it. If you sense this is the issue, text them a link to this site, and encourage them to share it with their loved ones. 

Losing a home is chaotic and stressful. Things that used to take them an hour could take them a day or even a week. That's why we created this site. Figuring this all out on their own is extraordinarily difficult. Move at a pace that they are comfortable with, but also understand that the tasks quickly pile up whether or not your loved one is ready. 

The person you are helping may share personal or confidential information with you. Do not share this with their loved ones (or anyone else). If you aren't sure, ask them if they would like the information to be kept between the two of you.

Although it may be enticing, do not gossip about the person who needs help with their friends or family. Keep your discussion focused on the logistics of helping them.