Things haven't changed a lot since I was in the shelter. The dorms are large rooms, and it depends on the number of people sleeping in them. (The number of beds available and the number of people who ask for them.) Some house up to twenty women, others more. Beds generally tend to be cots. (What agency can afford "real" beds with the budget cuts? Especially those dependent on donations?)
As far as safety, that is relative. What is your idea of safe? The men and women are separated, but many women can be dangerous, and no, age doesn't matter. There are dangerous young women as well as older women. Drugs and booze can play a factor. If they suspect drugs or there is the smell of booze, they can ask you to leave.
I had ID when I stayed, but I can't recall if I was asked to produce it or not, but I'm thinking I volunteered. Illegal activities are more important than whether or not you have an ID, not only that, but it isn't that difficult to have one forged. (Doesn't mean it's a good copy, but it's not impossible to get an ID.)
Depending on the type of shelter (domestic violence versus homeless), the woman may have to leave the place during the day. Usually, breakfast and dinner are served, and sometimes, there is a brown bag lunch offered. The weather can determine whether or not a person can stay at the shelter during the day. Children are also a factor. At a certain age, the boys can be moved to the men's dorm.
Many times it is first come first serve, but in other places, you can stay for up to a month. (Sometimes a bit longer) However, keep in mind that is only at night. Some places demand you attend their church services on Sundays.
Can weapons be smuggled in? Yes. You hope not, but it does happen. So, is a woman safe? If a woman (or anybody) is on the streets, are they safe?
Can a woman be raped in a shelter? Yes, but she can be raped at home and on the street too, but so can a man. One woman can also rape another.
Gender is important, but men are often victims too. In fact, the domestic violence rates with women beating men has jumped. Things like that are often discounted because a man staying in a homeless shelter may not be homeless, but there isn't another place to put him. I only add this little bit of news because sometimes a homeless shelter can shelter more than the homeless.
This information is for a major city, and to my friend's knowlege, it would be pretty much the same for all of them, especially if it was some place like the Salvation Army (which is where I stayed).
This is probably more than you wanted, huh?
