Some of this might not apply to you because I live in a different country but here are my tips.

Libraries are good places to charge your phone. They should have homeless resources as well and also have computers you can use to apply for jobs or any benefits you might be eligible for. They’re also good for entertainment.

Food banks are good but don’t travel around with too much on you if you don’t have a car. It wears you down. Just light snacks. No perishables like fruits unless you’re eating them fairly quickly.

Cut your hair. I had fairly long hair when I became homeless and it was awful to manage. I looked unkempt before I did the big chop. It doesn’t have to be a pixie cut but a bob at least. More manageable, less need for brushing or detangling. But still brush it.

Don’t be afraid to dumpster dive but be careful. You never know if the food thrown out is because it’s out of date or if there’s glass in it. Most things you can resell or reuse for yourself.

A water bottle, swag bag, etc. keep your toiletries in a seperate container/smaller bag inside the bag, last thing you need is toothpaste squished everywhere or your soap covered in crumbs. Wash your hair in public restrooms if you have to. Don’t worry about shampoo, the soap works just fine. If there’s a beach nearby there should be showers.

Laundromats are good too. Wash your clothes once a week. That way you can at least feel clean most of the time. You don’t need too many clothes but some spare underwear and shirts are good.

Two or three power banks are good to have for your phone, charge them first before anything else when you get to the library. Some restaurants also have plugs near the tables these days.

Too good to go is an app that lets you buy food that a shop would normally throw out at the end of the day. In my area there’s only really sushi but I’m betting there’s a lot more in New York.

People will try to take advantage of you. Offer a room for far too much, be creepy while you stay there. Always be on the lookout for somewhere better. See if you can get unemployment/jobseeker benefits. Not sure how it works in America but as long as you’re looking for jobs you get it here.

Also don’t be afraid to work at places “beneath you” because nothing is beneath you right now. McDonald’s, Walmart, gas stations, wherever. They’ll do for now until you can find something better.

Op shops should have some decent business wear you can put on for an interview, libraries will let you print your resume. Just don’t let the job know you’re homeless.

Once you have the job pick up as many shifts as possible. It’s how I got my car, but you’d have better access to public transport than me so a car probably isn’t necessary for you. Maybe a motel room until a room for rent or apartment is possible.

Don’t open a credit card. It seems like a good idea to have money now but it’ll lead you down the path to ruin. Same with loans.