YOU ARE NOT ALONE
A Family Resource Guide
If you are caring for a child in foster care or facing a tough season as a family, you are not alone. This page is a warm, practical guide to trusted national and local organizations that can help with food, utilities, rent, healthcare, and more. Please do not hesitate to reach out—these programs exist because communities care about families and want you and your children to have what you need to be safe and stable.
STEP 01 — START HERE
Call or Text 211
211.org
The fastest way to find local help for almost any need. In most of the United States, you can dial or text 211 to connect with a trained specialist who will help you find nearby programs for food, rent, utilities, transportation, and more. Many locations are available 24/7 and can provide interpretation in multiple languages.
Visit the website or search for local services at www.211.org.
STEP 02 — KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON
Utility Assistance
Keeping the lights and heat on is essential for every family. These programs may help with heating, cooling, and other utility bills.
LIHEAP
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. A federal program that helps eligible low-income households with home heating and cooling costs. Some states also offer crisis assistance if you are at risk of having your service shut off.
Learn more and find your state agency at www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap. Applications are handled by your state or local LIHEAP office.
The Salvation Army
Many local Salvation Army locations provide emergency help with utility bills, especially for families with children. Assistance may include help with past-due bills or shut-off notices, depending on local funding.
Find your local office and learn more at www.salvationarmyusa.org.
Modest Needs
A nonprofit organization that offers small, one-time grants to help individuals and families avoid a financial crisis. Grants can sometimes be used to cover utility bills and other essential expenses so that families can stay safely housed.
Learn more and review eligibility at www.modestneeds.org.
STEP 03 — KEEPING THE PANTRY STOCKED
Food Assistance
Food costs can rise quickly when you welcome a child into your home. These national programs and networks can help keep your pantry stocked.
SNAP
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. A federally funded food benefit that helps eligible individuals and families buy groceries using an electronic benefits card. Eligibility is based on household income and size, and foster care payments may be treated differently than other income, so be sure to discuss your situation with the local office.
Learn more and find your state application at www.fns.usda.gov/snap.