Typically, public assistance only offers financial aid to families with dependent children. Many people without children suffer from some form of disability that prevents them from earning money. The process of applying for and receiving SSDI or SSI is arduous and lengthy. Sometimes it can take up to a year for approval. Interim programs will evaluate the likelihood o a person being approved for disability, and if they deem it likely, they will offer some form of interim assistance. Unfortunately, the amount of money offered through these programs is not enough to sustain living costs. This situation creates a gap in services and supports that people with disabilities need to survive. What are some of the ways people can survive and avoid homelessness while they wait for their SSI or SSDI approval?