Moral distress

Hey everyone, I am a currently working at the library assisting clients. It has been great so fair and feel a great sense of passion but ran into an issue the other day. I had a client tell me she escaped a DV situation and moved states to start new. She is unhoused and asked me for help finding a place to stay tonight. Immediately I asked if she had completed the coordinated entry since this is the first step to access resources. She stated yes but was still waiting for a call back. Knowing there is not much I can do since all the emergency shelters require a referral, I felt so helpless. I got her information in case I found anything and told her I would give her a call back around 4 to follow up. No shock, but couldnt find anything. I started to think what I was even going to say, I cannot imagine hearing from someone that is supposed to help, that there are not many options. It broke my heart.

I realized two things, I have a hard time navigating moral distress but also I value honesty so much. I decided I could tell her CE is the only way to find shelter and ask her if she had a plan for tonight. Knew she possibly might not have much options at all, with only option being sleeping on the streets. I started to think about it in a harm reduction process and was prepared to talk to her about ways to stay safe tonight, where to go that might be open, how to stay warm. Sadly, she didnt answer my follow up call so I didnt get to have that convo but it really made me think.

Do you think having an honest conversation like this is beneficial? How do you navigate this type of convo? Also, how are you guys dealing with the amount of moral distress we encounter?? Tbh it fuels me in some ways but I found myself feeling guilty and anxious about her safety. Anything would be helpful, thank you.