Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Michigan Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on community organizations, churches, and charities in Michigan that directly help single mothers with real-world needs like rent/utility shutoffs, food, diapers, shelters, furniture, and more. It avoids federal/state program overviews and instead shows you how to get help from nonprofit and faith-based providers (many of whom use a mix of private and public funds). Where exact numbers exist (eligibility limits, fees, pounds of food, timelines), you’ll see them cited and bolded for quick scanning.

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• If you are not safe right now, call 911. For 24/7 confidential help in Michigan, call the VOICES4 hotline at 1‑855‑864‑2374 (text 1‑866‑238‑1454) for domestic/sexual violence support and direct connection to local shelters. (michigan.gov)
• For a 24/7 referral to food, shelter, diapers, utilities, legal help, and more anywhere in Michigan, dial 2‑1‑1. If 2‑1‑1 doesn’t connect from your phone, use statewide 1‑844‑875‑9211; in Southeast MI you can also try 1‑800‑552‑1183; in West MI 1‑800‑887‑1107. 2‑1‑1 supports 180+ languages. (mi211.org, unitedwaysem.org, hwmuw.org)
• Metro Detroit family shelters and housing assessment: Call 313‑305‑0311 (Detroit CAM) Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m. for family shelter access points; be aware beds change daily. (cotsdetroit.org)
• Oakland County families: Lighthouse SOS Emergency Shelter offers up to 90 days of family shelter; call 248‑920‑6000 x3300 at 10 a.m. Mon–Fri (or submit through ShelterOakland.com). (lighthousemi.org)
• Washtenaw County: SafeHouse Center 24/7 hotline 734‑995‑5444 (DV/SA services, shelter). SOS Community Services (family housing/food pantry) main line 734‑485‑8730; pantry line 734‑484‑9945. (safehousecenter.org, soscs.org)

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Emergency Section: What to do in the next 1–3 hours

• Utility shutoff notice or already disconnected:
  • Call your electric/gas provider to request a protection hold and ask for affordable payment plans. DTE’s Low‑Income Self‑Sufficiency Plan (LSP) has shutoff protection and arrears forgiveness up to $3,000 over 24 months; income must be ≤ 150% FPL. Enrollment goes through nonprofit “energy assistance agencies.” Phone: 800‑317‑9073. (dteenergy.com)
  • For charity help fast, contact The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division and follow their two‑step process (SER first via MI Bridges, then Salvation Army). They generally call you back within 1–2 business days after the Step 2 application; appointment documents include photo ID, SSNs, 45 days of income, bank statement, and most recent bill. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • If online portals are temporarily closed, text or call THAW at 800‑866‑8429 (M‑F 8:00 a.m.–4:45 p.m.); they post real‑time application pauses on their homepage. (thawfund.org)
• No food today / empty fridge:
  • Drive‑up mobile food distributions are running across Michigan. In Southeast MI, Gleaners community mobiles typically provide over 35 lbs of groceries per household; School Food Mobiles serve 50–100 families monthly in Livingston, Oakland, Wayne, Monroe, and Macomb counties. Check the schedule and go—no ID is typically required; self‑attest household size. (gcfb.org)
  • In West/North MI and the U.P., check Feeding America West Michigan’s mobile pantry schedule for same‑week events. (feedwm.org)
• No diapers:
  • Metropolitan Detroit Diaper Bank lets you request diapers once per month; you must confirm by email before 5:00 p.m. Monday prior to pickup week; main numbers 313‑356‑6470 and 313‑955‑2751. (detroitdiaperbank.com)
• Immediate danger from abuse:
  • Use Michigan’s VOICES4 hotline 1‑855‑864‑2374 or HAVEN’s 24/7 crisis line 248‑334‑1274 (Oakland). SafeHouse Center 734‑995‑5444 (Washtenaw). All are confidential and can connect you to urgent shelter and advocacy. (michigan.gov, haven-oakland.org, safehousecenter.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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How this guide beats the typical “top 10” search results

When we reviewed the first page of search results for “Michigan Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers,” we saw two common issues: generic lists that rehash state/federal programs, and vague “call for help” posts without figures, timelines, or required documents. This guide fills the gaps with:

• Verified amounts and thresholds (e.g., DTE LSP arrears forgiveness up to $3,000\ast \ast ;Gleanersmobiledistributions“over\ast \ast 35lbs\ast \ast ”offood;FurnitureBankpackagefees\ast \ast$125–$200). (dteenergy.com, gcfb.org, furniture-bank.org)
• Direct intake lines, hours, and what happens next (e.g., Salvation Army callback in 1–2 business days; Lighthouse shelter call time 10 a.m.). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org, lighthousemi.org)
• Clear eligibility and documents checklists for major charity programs (see each section below), plus Plan B steps if the first door is closed.

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Energy & Utilities: Church and Nonprofit Programs You Can Use This Week

Start here: call your utility provider and a local charity the same day. Using both at once speeds outcomes.

DTE Energy’s Low‑Income Self‑Sufficiency Plan (LSP) — delivered through nonprofit partners

• What it provides
  • Fixed monthly bill based on income/usage, shutoff protection, and arrears forgiveness up to $3,000\ast \ast acrossthe24‑monthprogram:\ast \ast$600 forgiveness at enrollment, $600\ast \ast after12months,andupto\ast \ast$1,800 at successful completion. (dteenergy.com)
• Eligibility
  • Income ≤ 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines; annual re‑verification; enrollment via approved agency. (dteenergy.com)
• How to apply
  • Call the DTE Energy Advocacy Group at 800‑317‑9073, or contact a listed “energy assistance agency” to be screened for LSP. (dteenergy.com)
• Timelines
  • Plan runs 24 months; enrollment waves occur during the fall funding cycle and as funds allow. (dteenergy.com)
• Required documents
  • ID, proof of income, account number, and household composition (agencies will guide you). (dteenergy.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask for DTE’s Shutoff Protection options, payment agreement, and a hold on disconnection while you seek charity help. Pair with Salvation Army/THAW below. (dteenergy.com)

The Salvation Army (Great Lakes Division) — Energy Assistance Services

• What it provides
  • Bill payment help, affordable payment plan enrollment, and case management. They will call you within 1–2 business days after you submit the Step 2 application. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Eligibility & documents
  • Effective Oct 1, you must first apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) via MI Bridges (Step 1), then submit Salvation Army’s EAS application (Step 2). Bring: photo ID, SSNs for household, proof of the last 45 days of income, most recent bank statement and bill. Local corps offices are listed by county with phone numbers/addresses. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
• Application windows
  • Their 2024–25 online portal ran Oct 1, 2024 through Aug 16, 2025 (annual cycles typically re‑open Oct 1 subject to funding; check the portal each fall). (energyassistancesalvationarmymi.smapply.us)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Call 2‑1‑1 for another MEAP provider (e.g., THAW, United Way partners) in your county, or ask your utility for a temporary hold and lower down payment arrangement. (mi211.org)

THAW—The Heat and Warmth Fund

• What it provides
  • Energy bill help and enrollment into affordable plans. During high‑demand periods (e.g., major utility funding announcements) THAW may temporarily pause online applications. Call or text 800‑866‑8429 during business hours for live assistance. (thawfund.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask your utility about LSP/CARE enrollment and call 2‑1‑1 for alternate agencies or a local church conference of St. Vincent de Paul. (dteenergy.com, mi211.org)

Energy Help — At‑a‑Glance

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are exhausted, still request a medical or protective hold from the utility, then have 2‑1‑1 text you a list of agencies to try over the next 48–72 hours. Keep screenshots and confirmation numbers—these help if you need to appeal a shutoff later. (mi211.org)

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Food Pantries, Mobile Distributions, and Hot Meals (by nonprofits and churches)

Start here: check the mobile pantry schedule closest to you, then a fixed pantry near your home.

Southeast Michigan: Gleaners Community Food Bank network

• Mobile pantries distribute an average of 12,000 lbs per truckload at site level, with individuals receiving over 35 lbs per distribution; School Food Mobiles serve 50–100 families monthly in the five‑county area (Livingston, Oakland, Wayne, Monroe, Macomb). (gcfb.org)
• How to use it
  • Check the rotating schedule; arrive early with trunk space. Self‑attest your household size; staff share recipes and nutrition tips at events. (gcfb.org)
• Plan B
  • If SE MI events don’t line up, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for client‑choice pantries near your ZIP. Examples: Hospitality House (Commerce Twp.) is a client‑choice pantry (twice monthly visits). Phone 248‑960‑9975; address in table below. (hhfp.org)

West/North Michigan & the Upper Peninsula: Feeding America West Michigan network

• Hundreds of mobile distributions monthly across 40 counties; schedules list dates, addresses, and whether events are drive‑thru or walk‑up. (feedwm.org)
• Plan B: If you need diapers in UP/Northern counties, note DICSA’s Children’s Diaper Program (serves Dickinson, Iron, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Alpena, Montmorency, Otsego). Applications are online; deliveries typically arrive within about 2 weeks; limited to 4 consecutive months within a 12‑month period. (dicsami.org)

Food & Diaper Resources — Quick Table

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for same‑day meal sites (church dinners, soup kitchens). If you have infants, ask for formula/diaper referrals; Zaman and Wee Care (Livonia, 734‑524‑0165) provide emergency baby items when other resources can’t. (mi211.org, milifespan.org)

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Diapers, Baby Supplies, Maternity Support (nonprofits & churches)

• Metropolitan Detroit Diaper Bank: monthly orders; reply to the reminder email by 5 p.m. Monday before your pickup week; use only one pickup site per month or you’ll be disqualified. Numbers 313‑356‑6470 and 313‑955‑2751. (detroitdiaperbank.com)
• Gianna House (Eastpointe): residential support for young mothers plus a Community Outreach program with free classes; earn “baby bucks” to shop their baby boutique. Phone 586‑445‑0440; address 21357 Redmond Ave., Eastpointe, MI 48021. (giannahouse.org)
• Catholic Charities West Michigan “St. Gianna’s No‑Cost Baby Boutique”: Grand Rapids 616‑699‑3642 and Muskegon 231‑726‑4735 locations; baby items free of charge; call first for hours. (ccwestmi.org)
• Wee Care (Livonia): emergency infant clothing/diapers and baby gear when other agencies can’t assist. Hotline 734‑524‑0165; address 32540 Schoolcraft Rd., Suite 100, Livonia, MI 48150. (milifespan.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatric clinic or WIC office about local “crib programs” or car seat education; Detroit Health Dept.’s 961‑BABY line (313‑961‑2229) can connect you to home visiting, safe sleep, and baby showers. (detroitmi.gov)

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Furniture & Household Goods (beds, tables, basics)

Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit (Pontiac)

• What it provides
  • Essential furniture through a referral‑based program. Packages are offered at discounted rates ranging from $125–$200 using a point‑based system (e.g., twin mattress set 11 points; sofa 17 points; 1–24 points = $125). Furniture is gently used but safe/clean. (furniture-bank.org)
• Eligibility
  • Referral from a partner agency; typical qualifiers include receiving food assistance/Medicaid or recent crisis (like a fire). Proof of assistance or crisis documentation required; no additional income paperwork beyond that. (furniture-bank.org)
• How to apply
  • Ask your case manager (Catholic Charities, MDHHS, Lighthouse, St. Vincent de Paul, etc.) to refer you; call the Furniture Bank at 248‑332‑1300 for questions. Address: 333 N. Perry St., Pontiac, MI 48342. (furniture-bank.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • If you’re moving from shelter to housing, ask your caseworker to refer you to Humble Design (Southfield warehouse) which fully furnishes homes for families exiting homelessness—referrals only; no direct applications. Detroit office 248‑243‑7144; 21420 Melrose Ave, Southfield, MI 48075. (humbledesign.org)

Free Beds for Kids

• Sleep in Heavenly Peace (MI‑Western Wayne County chapter): apply for a free twin bed for children; chapter phone 844‑432‑2337 x5510; check chapter page for builds and deliveries. Address for bedding drop‑offs: 35475 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154. (shpbeds.org)

Furniture & Beds — Quick Table

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Family Shelters & Housing Help (charity‑run options)

• Lighthouse SOS (Oakland County): Up to 90 days of emergency family shelter with private sleeping quarters and meals. Call 248‑920‑6000 x3300 at 10 a.m. Mon–Fri or submit via ShelterOakland.com. Rehousing support goes through Community Housing Network HRC 248‑269‑1335. (lighthousemi.org)
• COTS Detroit (Coalition on Temporary Shelter): Families begin by contacting Detroit CAM 313‑305‑0311 (M–F 8 a.m.–6 p.m.) or visiting noted access points. Beds are limited and change daily. (cotsdetroit.org)
• Samaritas Family Center (Westland): 24 family rooms for two‑parent households, single mothers/fathers, and pregnant women; stays up to 90 days. For Detroit residents call CAM (313‑305‑0311); out‑Wayne call HARA 734‑284‑6999; center phone 734‑721‑0590, 30600 Michigan Ave., Westland. (samaritas.org)
• Washtenaw County: SOS Community Services (family housing/food); for housing access call HAWC 734‑961‑1999; main 734‑485‑8730. (soscs.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for churches running motel vouchers or short‑stay shelter partnerships in your county; also ask for free storage referrals if you need to protect belongings during a short shelter stay. (mi211.org)

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Domestic & Sexual Violence Services (free, confidential)

• VOICES4 Hotline (statewide): 1‑855‑864‑2374 (text 1‑866‑238‑1454) 24/7, connects you to local programs; chat via MCEDSV. (michigan.gov, mcedsv.org)
• HAVEN (Oakland County): 24/7 Crisis Line 248‑334‑1274 or 877‑922‑1274; emergency shelter and START forensic program. (haven-oakland.org)
• SafeHouse Center (Washtenaw): 24/7 HelpLine 734‑995‑5444; walk‑in lobby Mon–Fri 9–4 at 4100 Clark Rd., Ann Arbor. (safehousecenter.org)
• MCEDSV Provider Directory: Find your nearest DV/SA program by county (e.g., Blue Water Safe Horizons in Port Huron; Women’s Center in Marquette). (mcedsv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a shelter is full, ask the hotline to warm‑transfer you to a neighboring county program for out‑of‑area placement or to arrange safe moteling if available. Document each call and time in case a protection order or relocation support is needed later. (michigan.gov)

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Faith‑Based Multi‑Service Charities (rent, utilities, food, clothing)

• Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan (CCSEM): multiple sites (six counties). Services include food pantries (e.g., All Saints Soup Kitchen), counseling, refugee resettlement, and family supports. Main line 855‑882‑2736 (855‑88‑CCSEM), administrative office: 24445 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 200, Southfield, MI 48075. See each site’s phone/address. (ccsem.org)
• Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties: “One‑Stop Housing” HARA; can assist with prevention, deposits, utility payments (with shutoff), and EFSP funds when available. Genesee 810‑600‑4525; Shiawassee 989‑723‑8239. (catholiccharitiesflint.org)
• Catholic Charities West Michigan: food (God’s Kitchen in Grand Rapids), baby boutiques, counseling; main sites include Grand Rapids 616‑456‑1443 and Muskegon 231‑726‑4735. (ccwestmi.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (local parish conferences): One‑time help with rent, utilities, furniture, transportation; call Detroit Council 313‑393‑2930 to reach your closest conference. Some councils partner with utility gift funds or city programs when available. (helpinthed.org)
• United Way 2‑1‑1 (referral and navigation): United Way for Southeastern Michigan maintains 30,000+ resources and answered 153,000+ calls in 2024 locally; contact if dialing 211 fails: 1‑800‑552‑1183 (SE MI), statewide 1‑844‑875‑9211. (unitedwaysem.org, mi211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the charity worker if they can “conference‑call” with a landlord or utility to set up a payment plan while your assistance request is pending; this often prevents court filings or shutoffs. Keep copies of any pledges or vendor letters they provide. (mi211.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Help That Respects Your Situation

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ruth Ellis Center provides housing, health, and support services for LGBTQ+ young people and families. Phone 313‑252‑1950; 95 Victor St., Highland Park. (ruthelliscenter.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Freedom House Detroit offers shelter and legal services for asylum‑seeking survivors (DV/trafficking). 313‑964‑4320, 1777 N. Rademacher, Detroit. CCSEM’s Refugee Resettlement also assists families; see CCSEM office list. (immigrationadvocates.org, ccsem.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Contact 2‑1‑1 for SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) providers in your county (e.g., Volunteers of America Michigan) for rapid rehousing and prevention. Ask for “SSVF intake.” (mi211.org)
• Tribal citizens: Many pantries that serve tribal households use Michigan’s TEFAP standard (300% FPL) with self‑attestation; check your tribe’s family services office and local pantry schedule. (michigan.gov)
• Rural moms (limited transport): Feeding America West MI runs frequent drive‑thru mobiles in rural counties; DICSA ships diapers directly to homes in select northern counties (expect ~2 weeks delivery). (feedwm.org, dicsami.org)
• Single fathers & caregivers: All programs listed serve households regardless of gender; call first to confirm space/equipment (e.g., diaper sizes, pack‑and‑play availability). See 2‑1‑1 and the provider directory for your county. (mi211.org)
• Language access: 2‑1‑1 supports 180+ languages; SafeHouse uses a language line; ACCESS (Dearborn) provides Arabic‑language services and rent/mortgage assistance when funding is available (313‑203‑3391). (mi211.org, safehousecenter.org, accesscommunity.org)

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Application Checklist (save this on your phone)

• Photo ID (state ID/driver’s license) and IDs for adult household members.
• SSNs for everyone in the home (where required by energy programs).
• Proof of all household income for the last 30–45 days (paystubs, unemployment, child support, cash income statement).
• Most recent utility bill(s) and shutoff notices or payment plan letter.
• Lease, ledger, or eviction/7‑day notice if asking about rent prevention.
• Referral letter if needed (Furniture Bank, Humble Design, some shelters).
• For diaper banks: your confirmation email and pickup details; bring someone’s ID if they’re picking up for you.
• Keep everything in a single folder (paper or digital) and snap photos of any pledges/approvals you receive.

(Source requirements vary; see each program’s list—e.g., Salvation Army requires ID, SSNs, 45 days of income, bank statement, and most recent bill.) (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the day before court or shutoff. Charity dollars and case slots are first‑come. Call 2‑1‑1 and your utility/landlord as soon as you get a notice. (mi211.org)
• Skipping the exact steps charities require (e.g., not completing SER before applying to Salvation Army EAS). Follow the two‑step process to avoid delays. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Missing email confirmations (diaper bank) or call‑in times (Lighthouse shelter at 10 a.m.). Set reminders. (detroitdiaperbank.com, lighthousemi.org)
• Assuming pantries always ask for ID. Many mobile distributions use self‑attestation. Don’t stay home because you lack documents. (michigan.gov)
• Not asking for a utility “hold” while you apply. Ask your utility for a protection window; pair it with an agency application. (dteenergy.com)

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Timelines You Can Expect

• Salvation Army EAS callback: usually 1–2 business days after Step 2 submission. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• DTE LSP: program length 24 months with periodic usage reviews; arrears forgiveness spread over the program. (dteenergy.com)
• Diaper delivery/pickup: Detroit diaper bank emails the weekend before pickup; respond by Monday 5 p.m.; northern DICSA shipments take about 2 weeks from application. (detroitdiaperbank.com, dicsami.org)
• Shelter placement: varies daily by county; families should call at posted intake times and be able to arrive quickly with IDs. (lighthousemi.org, cotsdetroit.org)

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Quick Reference Tables

Table: Fast Emergency Contacts

Table: Energy Help Snapshot

Table: Food & Diapers

Table: Furniture, Beds & Household Goods

Table: Shelters & DV Services

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Eligibility Rules You’ll Actually Need (by program type)

• Energy assistance via charities: You’ll often need to show income at or below 150% FPL (for affordable payment plans like LSP) or meet agency‑specific thresholds; expect to provide ID, SSNs, and 30–45 days of income. Salvation Army requires proof of SER application first. (dteenergy.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Food pantries: Many pantries using TEFAP accept self‑declaration with Michigan’s 300% FPL income standard and do not require ID; mobile distributions may only ask your household size and residency. (michigan.gov)
• Furniture Bank: referral and proof of assistance or qualifying crisis, plus $125–$200 package fee unless your agency pays. (furniture-bank.org)
• Shelters/DV: No income test; capacity is the main barrier. Intake windows and safety screenings vary (e.g., Lighthouse runs daily 10 a.m. call‑ins; SafeHouse and HAVEN are 24/7 hotlines). (lighthousemi.org, safehousecenter.org)

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Real‑World Examples (so you can mirror the process)

• Utility shutoff a week away in Detroit: Mom calls DTE 800‑317‑9073 and gets LSP screening via partner agency; same day, she completes SER and submits Salvation Army Step 2 online with uploads (ID, 45 days of paystubs, bank statement, bill). Salvation Army calls back within 1–2 business days; DTE places a hold while enrollment is processed. (dteenergy.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Empty cupboards in Pontiac: She checks Gleaners’ community mobile schedule, brings the car, and receives 35+ lbs of groceries, then asks the site staff about additional pantry hours and recipes. (gcfb.org)
• Three kids sleeping on the floor in Westland: Her caseworker refers her to Furniture Bank (pays the $125–$200 package fee), and she applies for Sleep in Heavenly Peace for two kids’ beds; pickup/delivery is scheduled after the next build. (furniture-bank.org, shpbeds.org)

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What to do if a door closes (funding pauses, full shelters)

• Ask for the next intake date/time and set an alarm. For Lighthouse, call at 10 a.m. sharp. For diaper pickups, reply before Mon 5 p.m. to stay on the list. (lighthousemi.org, detroitdiaperbank.com)
• Get on multiple waitlists where allowed (e.g., shelter networks often maintain centralized lists).
• Request a utility “medical/protective hold” if there’s a health issue, then provide proof you’ve applied to an agency; ask for an affordable down payment. (dteenergy.com)

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Resources by Region (with direct links)

Southeast Michigan (Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Livingston)

• Salvation Army Great Lakes Division — find your local corps office (addresses/phones listed by county). Energy assistance details and required documents posted. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Gleaners Community Food Bank — mobile/community/school pantry schedule for 5 counties; nutrition resources. (gcfb.org)
• Lighthouse SOS (Oakland) — family shelter up to 90 days; daily call‑in 10 a.m.; addresses and pantry sites posted. (lighthousemi.org)
• COTS (Detroit) via CAM — call 313‑305‑0311 for coordinated family shelter access; daily availability changes. (cotsdetroit.org)
• SafeHouse Center (Ann Arbor) — 24/7 hotline 734‑995‑5444; walk‑in 9–4 weekdays. (safehousecenter.org)
• HAVEN (Oakland) — 24/7 crisis line 248‑334‑1274; emergency shelter and advocacy. (haven-oakland.org)
• Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit — referral program; $125–$200 package fee; 248‑332‑1300; 333 N. Perry St., Pontiac. (furniture-bank.org)
• Humble Design (Detroit) — referral‑only full furnishings; 248‑243‑7144; 21420 Melrose Ave, Southfield. (humbledesign.org)
• Zaman International — client‑choice food pantry; 313‑551‑3994; 26091 Trowbridge, Inkster. (zamaninternational.org)
• Metropolitan Detroit Diaper Bank — monthly diaper orders; phone/email confirmation required. (detroitdiaperbank.com)

West Michigan (Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, etc.)

• Feeding America West Michigan — mobile pantry schedule across 40 counties (includes many West MI sites). (feedwm.org)
• Catholic Charities West Michigan — God’s Kitchen (meals), counseling, St. Gianna’s baby boutiques (GR 616‑699‑3642, Muskegon 231‑726‑4735). (ccwestmi.org)
• United Methodist Community House (Grand Rapids) — fresh market and multigenerational supports; main 616‑452‑3226; 904 Sheldon Ave SE. (umchousegr.org)

Mid‑Michigan / Genesee & Shiawassee

• Catholic Charities “One‑Stop Housing” (HARA): prevention, deposits, utilities (with shutoff), EFSP when available. Genesee 810‑600‑4525; Shiawassee 989‑723‑8239. (catholiccharitiesflint.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (Lansing District and local parish conferences) — emergency assistance, including rent and utilities; call your local conference via 2‑1‑1 or council sites. (stvincentdepaullansing.org)

Northern Michigan & Upper Peninsula

• Feeding America West Michigan — frequent mobiles across U.P. and northern counties. (feedwm.org)
• DICSA Children’s Diaper Program — online application, deliveries in ~2 weeks; 4 consecutive months within 12 months. (dicsami.org)
• Salvation Army corps in Marquette, Hancock, Sault Ste. Marie for energy and material assistance (see location list). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

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10 Michigan‑Specific FAQs (with direct answers)

• Can I get energy help without first applying for state SER?
  • For Salvation Army’s Energy Assistance Services, you must complete SER first (Step 1), then submit their Step 2 application with documents (ID, SSNs, 45 days income, bank statement, bill). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• What are the income limits for charity energy plans?
  • DTE’s LSP requires income ≤ 150% FPL; other agencies may have similar or slightly higher thresholds—ask your agency. (dteenergy.com)
• How much debt will LSP forgive?
  • Up to $3,000\ast \ast over24months:\ast \ast$600 at enrollment, $600\ast \ast after12months,andupto\ast \ast$1,800 at completion, while you make on‑time fixed payments. (dteenergy.com)
• Do food pantries check ID or papers?
  • Many Michigan TEFAP pantries use self‑declaration at up to 300% FPL with no ID required. Mobile distributions often only ask household size. Policies vary by site; ask on arrival. (michigan.gov)
• How many pounds of food can I expect at a mobile?
  • Gleaners’ community mobiles provide over 35 lbs of balanced groceries per household; School Food Mobiles serve 50–100 families per distribution. (gcfb.org)
• I need a crib and diapers now. Who will help?
  • Try Metropolitan Detroit Diaper Bank (monthly) and Wee Care (734‑524‑0165) for emergency baby items when other agencies can’t help. Confirm diaper pickup by Mon 5 p.m. (detroitdiaperbank.com, milifespan.org)
• Can I get furniture if I can’t afford fees?
  • Ask your referring agency (e.g., MDHHS, Catholic Charities, St. Vincent de Paul) to cover your Furniture Bank package fee ($125–$200). If they can’t, request alternative resources or thrift vouchers. (furniture-bank.org)
• Where can I find shelter tonight in Oakland County?
  • Call Lighthouse SOS at 10 a.m. Mon–Fri (248‑920‑6000 x3300) or use ShelterOakland.com to see openings and submit a request. (lighthousemi.org)
• I’m an immigrant/asylum‑seeker mom. Are there safe shelters for me?
  • Freedom House Detroit provides shelter and legal supports for asylum seekers; 313‑964‑4320. (immigrationadvocates.org)
• Is there one number I can call for any of this?
  • Yes, dial 2‑1‑1 anytime. If 2‑1‑1 doesn’t connect, use 1‑844‑875‑9211 (statewide), 1‑800‑552‑1183 (SE MI), or 1‑800‑887‑1107 (West MI). 2‑1‑1 supports 180+ languages. (mi211.org, unitedwaysem.org, hwmuw.org)

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Plan B for Each Section (in one place)

• Energy: Ask your utility for a shutoff protection hold and reduced down payment while you apply with Salvation Army/THAW; then ask St. Vincent de Paul to pledge partial funds if agency caps are low. (dteenergy.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Food: If mobiles are distant, ask 2‑1‑1 for church meal sites and client‑choice pantries near bus lines. (mi211.org)
• Diapers/Baby goods: If monthly slots are full, call 2‑1‑1 for backup sites; in Livonia/Wayne West, call Wee Care (734‑524‑0165). (milifespan.org)
• Furniture: Request thrift store vouchers from St. Vincent de Paul or a local church while waiting for Furniture Bank stock. (helpinthed.org)
• Shelter: Ask your hotline advocate to warm‑transfer you to neighboring counties or to arrange emergency motel options where available. (michigan.gov)

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Final Resource List (clickable links with phones and addresses)

• The Salvation Army — Great Lakes Division Energy Assistance: program steps, required documents, and local corps directory. Phone 248‑443‑5500 (division), or find your local corps. Address: 16130 Northland Dr., Southfield, MI 48075. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• DTE Energy Low‑Income Self‑Sufficiency Plan (LSP): details, eligibility, and arrears forgiveness amounts; call 800‑317‑9073. (dteenergy.com)
• THAW – The Heat and Warmth Fund: current application status, cooling center info, and assistance line 800‑866‑8429. (thawfund.org)
• United Way 2‑1‑1 (Michigan): 24/7 referral line; statewide 1‑844‑875‑9211; SE MI alternate 1‑800‑552‑1183; West MI 1‑800‑887‑1107. (mi211.org, unitedwaysem.org, hwmuw.org)
• Gleaners Community Food Bank — Mobile Pantry schedule (SE MI): rotating community, school, and senior sites. (gcfb.org)
• Feeding America West Michigan — Mobile Pantry schedule (West/North/U.P.). (feedwm.org)
• Metropolitan Detroit Diaper Bank — monthly diaper orders; phones 313‑356‑6470, 313‑955‑2751. (detroitdiaperbank.com)
• DICSA Children’s Diaper Program (Northern MI/U.P.) — online application and delivery terms. (dicsami.org)
• Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit — referral‑based furniture packages ($125–$200); 248‑332‑1300; 333 N. Perry St., Pontiac. (furniture-bank.org)
• Humble Design Detroit — referral‑only full home furnishing; 248‑243‑7144; 21420 Melrose Ave, Southfield. (humbledesign.org)
• Sleep in Heavenly Peace (MI‑Western Wayne Co.) — bed requests for kids; 844‑432‑2337 x5510; bedding drop at 35475 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. (shpbeds.org)
• Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan — office locations and services (food, counseling, refugee services). Main 855‑88‑CCSEM (22736); 24445 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 200, Southfield. (ccsem.org)
• Catholic Charities West Michigan — locations and baby boutiques (GR/Muskegon). 616‑456‑1443 (GR). (ccwestmi.org)
• Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties “One‑Stop Housing” — HARA lines: Genesee 810‑600‑4525; Shiawassee 989‑723‑8239. (catholiccharitiesflint.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul Detroit — assistance line 313‑393‑2930 to reach your local parish conference. (helpinthed.org)
• Lighthouse SOS Emergency Shelter (Oakland) — 248‑920‑6000 x3300 (call 10 a.m. Mon–Fri). (lighthousemi.org)
• COTS Detroit — family shelter access via CAM 313‑305‑0311 (M–F 8–6). (cotsdetroit.org)
• SafeHouse Center (Washtenaw) — 734‑995‑5444; 4100 Clark Rd, Ann Arbor. (safehousecenter.org)
• HAVEN (Oakland) — 248‑334‑1274 (877‑922‑1274). (haven-oakland.org)
• Ruth Ellis Center (LGBTQ+ youth/families) — 313‑252‑1950; 95 Victor St., Highland Park. (ruthelliscenter.org)
• Freedom House Detroit (asylum‑seeking families) — 313‑964‑4320; 1777 N. Rademacher, Detroit. (immigrationadvocates.org)
• SOS Community Services (Washtenaw family housing/food) — 734‑485‑8730; Pantry 734‑484‑9945; 114 N. River, Ypsilanti. (soscs.org)
• United Methodist Community House (Grand Rapids) — 616‑452‑3226; 904 Sheldon Ave SE. (umchousegr.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from established Michigan nonprofits (e.g., Salvation Army Great Lakes, DTE Energy, Gleaners, Feeding America West Michigan, Catholic Charities, MCEDSV) and state-hosted program pages only to verify amounts and rules used by charities (for example, Michigan’s TEFAP income standard). Our editorial standards prioritize primary/official sources, link checking, and prompt corrections. See our Editorial Standards for methodology and review cycles (last updated August 2025). (michigan.gov)

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program dollars, hours, and intake rules change fast—especially near the end of funding cycles. Always confirm by phone or website before traveling. This guide is not legal advice or a guarantee of outcomes.
• Health and safety: If you or your children are in danger, call 911 or a 24/7 crisis hotline immediately. To keep your devices secure, avoid using public Wi‑Fi for applications containing SSNs or bank info; use a trusted network and update your phone’s OS regularly.
• We do not accept compensation from programs listed. All links go to official or well‑established non‑profits and resources.

— End of Guide —

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