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Community Support for Single Mothers in Alabama

Alabama Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a no‑fluff, Alabama‑specific guide to church, charity, and community support for single moms. It focuses on real programs you can use right now (not federal or state benefits). Every phone number, dollar figure, and rule below comes from an official nonprofit, utility, or well‑established organization source, verified as of August–September 2025.


If you’re in danger right now, skip down to the Emergency box and start there.

Emergency help first (start here)

  • If you or your kids are unsafe, call 911.
  • Domestic violence help in Alabama: call the Alabama DV Hotline at 1‑800‑650‑6522, 24/7. They’ll connect you to the nearest shelter. (acadv.org)
  • United Way 2‑1‑1 (statewide referrals to food, shelter, bill help, diapers, legal aid): dial 2‑1‑1 or 888‑421‑1266; text your ZIP to 898‑211 (24/7). Hearing‑impaired: call 7‑1‑1 and ask for 2‑1‑1. (211connectsalabama.org)
  • First Light (Birmingham) — 24/7 emergency shelter for women and moms with children: 205‑323‑4277, 2230 4th Ave N, Birmingham. (firstlightshelter.org, firstlightshelter.org)
  • Pathways (Birmingham) — day center and overnight shelter programs for women/children: 205‑322‑6854, 409 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N. (uwca.org, mapquest.com)
  • YWCA Central Alabama domestic violence crisis line (Blount/Jefferson/St. Clair): 205‑322‑4878 (HURT). (ywcabham.org)

Quick help box (fast actions you can take today)

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and say: “I’m a single mom in [your county]. I need [rent help/utility help/diapers/shelter/childcare].” Ask to be texted links and phone numbers. (uwca.org)
  • If your water is at risk (Birmingham Water Works area), ask the H2O Foundation for up to $500 once per 12 months: 205‑244‑4390 (customer assistance). (h2obham.org)
  • For Alabama Power bills, ask Salvation Army about Project SHARE (seniors 60+ or disabled; summer medical emergencies considered): 205‑328‑2420. (alabamapower.com)
  • Need a ride to work/clinic/appointments? Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for Ride United free Lyft rides (availability varies). (uwca.org)
  • Diapers in Birmingham metro: Bundles of Hope gives about 50 diapers/child per month through partners and its Changing Station (Weds 9:00 and 11:30, while supplies last). Call 205‑607‑2112. (bundlesdiaperbank.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

  • 2‑1‑1 Alabama (any need, any county): 2‑1‑1 or 888‑421‑1266; text ZIP to 898‑211; TTY 7‑1‑1. (211connectsalabama.org)
  • Birmingham area women/children shelter: First Light 205‑323‑4277. (firstlightshelter.org)
  • Women/children shelter & day services: Pathways 205‑322‑6854. (uwca.org)
  • Domestic violence statewide hotline: 1‑800‑650‑6522. (acadv.org)
  • H2O Foundation (Birmingham Water Works bills/plumbing): up to $500/12 months; 205‑244‑4390. (h2obham.org)
  • Project SHARE (Alabama Power bills via Salvation Army): 205‑328‑2420. (alabamapower.com)
  • YWCA Child Development (Birmingham) childcare: weekly rate 160∗∗,possible∗∗160**, possible **0 for families experiencing homelessness for 90 days; 205‑322‑9922. (ywcabham.org)
  • Food Banks: Community Food Bank of Central AL (find food), Food Bank of North AL (find food), Feeding the Gulf Coast (Mobile area). (feedingal.org, foodbanknorthal.org)

Table A. Statewide emergency and referral contacts

Resource What it does How to use it Notes
2‑1‑1 Connects Alabama Free, confidential referrals to 800+ Alabama charities Call 2‑1‑1 / 888‑421‑1266; text ZIP to 898‑211 37,253 calls and 95,000+ referrals in 2024. (uwca.org)
Alabama DV Hotline Connects you and your kids to the nearest DV shelter Call 1‑800‑650‑6522 24/7 statewide line via ACADV. (acadv.org)
YWCA Central Alabama Crisis Line Crisis and shelter triage (Blount/Jefferson/St. Clair) 205‑322‑4878 24/7; can connect to Family Violence Center. (ywcabham.org)

What to expect from Alabama community charities (the realities)

  • Funding comes and goes. Some programs open the phone lines only on certain days, cap the number of households per month, or pause when funds run out.
  • Eligibility is usually local. Many church/charity programs serve specific ZIP codes, counties, or utility footprints.
  • Documentation matters. Most programs require an ID, proof of address, the actual bill/lease, and proof of income or hardship. (See the Application Checklist.)
  • Timelines vary. Same‑day food or shelter help is common; rent and utility help often takes a few days to a few weeks depending on funds and approvals. We flag typical timelines where available.
  • Plan B is critical. We end each section with backups if the first option doesn’t come through.

Food, diapers, and basics

Start with the nearest food bank network and then add diapers and local church pantries.

Step 1 — Find food near you today

  • Community Food Bank of Central Alabama (12 counties) — use the “Find Food” calendar or Agency Finder to see drive‑thru mobile pantries and church pantries. (feedingal.org)
  • Food Bank of North Alabama (Huntsville region) — use the Food Finder; call 256‑539‑2256 for help. (foodbanknorthal.org)
  • Feeding the Gulf Coast (Mobile area) — use the “Find Help” tool for Mobile/Baldwin/Coastal counties. (feedingal.org)

Reality check: Hours and rules differ by pantry. Always call the pantry listed to confirm ID/rules and arrive early for mobile distributions because food is “while supplies last.” (feedingal.org)

  • Proof the networks are active: Community Food Bank of Central Alabama distributed 24.6 million pounds in 2024. (feedingal.org)

Step 2 — Diapers and period supplies

  • Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank (Birmingham): Families generally receive two bundles of 25 diapers per child per month (about 50 diapers). Warehouse: 1430 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. Phone 205‑607‑2112; Changing Station distribution typically Wednesdays at 9:00 and 11:30 while supplies last. Spanish: 205‑942‑5505. (bundlesdiaperbank.org)
  • Food Bank of North Alabama Diaper Bank (Huntsville region): partner network distributes diapers to families (noted cost pressure is roughly $100/month for diapers). Call 1‑877‑833‑2550 to connect with the Benefits Enrollment Center. (foodbanknorthal.org)
  • Huntsville — Manna House “Mom‑to‑Mom” (equipment, diapers/wipes as available) plus regular food distribution at 2110 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville. Typical distribution Mon/Wed/Thu afternoons; call 256‑503‑4848 to confirm. (gospellifehuntsville.com)

Step 3 — Free daily meal (Birmingham)

  • Salvation Army Center of Hope, 2015 26th Ave N, Birmingham: free weekday meal 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; also food pantries at Bessemer and Alabaster locations (bring ID, SS card, and a bill/lease). Main line 205‑328‑2420. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for faith‑based pantries in your ZIP code and for any same‑day mobile distribution within 15 miles. Ask to be texted directions. (211connectsalabama.org)

Keeping the lights and water on (utility support)

Start with these two utility‑charity programs, then add local church programs if needed.

Step 1 — Water/sewer (Birmingham Water Works customers)

  • H2O Foundation (Help to Others) — up to $500 once every 12 months for water/sewer bills or qualifying plumbing repairs. Income and “situational” criteria apply (as of April 1, 2024: age 55+, receiving SSDI, or a serious medical condition that would be worsened by loss of water). Administered by Salvation Army. Customer assistance: 205‑244‑4390. Office: 724 37th St S, Birmingham AL 35222. (h2obham.org)

Timeline: If all documents check out and funds are available, decisions are often made within days; deposits to restore service require board approval. (h2obham.org)

Step 2 — Power (Alabama Power customers)

  • Project SHARE (Salvation Army + Alabama Power): helps pay energy bills for low‑income seniors 60+ and/or individuals with disabilities; during the summer, people with medical emergencies may be assisted if funding allows. Apply at your local Salvation Army or call 205‑328‑2420. (alabamapower.com)
  • Alabama Business Charitable Trust (ABC Trust): annual charitable funds (about $1 million plus emergency grants) flow through local agencies and Project SHARE; winter 2025 emergency support required income at or below 250% FPL (see Alabama Power announcements). (alabamapower.com)

Step 3 — Church/community utility help

  • Serving You Ministries (Birmingham & Bessemer): utility help (Alabama Power/Spire) and food, with strict appointment rules. Financial assistance limited to two times per year (3x lifetime) unless you complete the Thrive program; documents required (ID for all, SS cards/birth certificates, pay stub, current bill in your name; utilities must be “on”). Info line 205‑777‑3653. (servingyou.org)
  • Greater Birmingham Ministries (GBM): limited monthly slots—first 16 calls on the first Wednesday at 9:00 a.m.; income must be ≤ $37,010/year; may help with utilities, medications, and housing costs. Appointment line 205‑419‑1817; office 205‑326‑6821. (gbm.org)

Table B. Utility & bill‑help charities (high‑impact programs)

Program Who it helps Typical assistance How to apply
H2O Foundation (B’ham Water Works) BWWB customers meeting income + age/disability/medical criteria Up to $500 once/12 months Call 205‑244‑4390; bring ID, bill in your name, proof of income/need; Salvation Army administers. (bwwb.org, h2obham.org)
Project SHARE (Alabama Power + Salvation Army) Seniors 60+ and/or disabled; summer medical emergencies considered Amount varies by need/funding Call 205‑328‑2420 or your local Salvation Army. (alabamapower.com)
Serving You Ministries Residents in Birmingham/Bessemer areas Utilities (strict rules), food; 2x/yr (3x lifetime) Appointments online/phone; info line 205‑777‑3653. (servingyou.org)
Greater Birmingham Ministries Limited monthly slots Utilities, medications, housing costs Call 205‑419‑1817 on first Wed 9:00 a.m.; income ≤ $37,010. (gbm.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask 2‑1‑1 for churches enrolled in Alabama Power’s Energy Assistance Portal and any local funds through United Way or city charities. If you’re a BWWB customer, call H2O again and ask about plumbing repair eligibility (fixing leaks can drop the bill). (alabamapower.com)

Shelter and housing help led by churches & charities

Start with the programs that take families, then women only, then transitional.

Step 1 — Families with children (can keep the family together)

  • Family Promise affiliates (shelter, prevention, rapid rehousing). These programs partner with congregations so families aren’t split:
    • Family Promise of Birmingham — intake by appointment only; not same‑day shelter. Helpline 205‑918‑0246; 1016 19th St S, Birmingham. Accepts husbands and wives with kids, single dads with kids, and single moms with a male child 10+. (familypromisebham.org)
    • Family Promise of Coastal Alabama (Mobile) — main 251‑441‑1991; day center at 1260 Dauphin St, Mobile; “85% of families find housing.” (familypromisemobile.org)
    • Family Promise of Baldwin County — 251‑947‑5641, 20511 County Rd 36, Summerdale. (familypromisebaldwinal.org)
  • Dumas Wesley Community Center — Sybil H. Smith Family Village (Mobile): up to 24 months transitional housing for homeless women and women with children; case management, childcare/after‑school, and job readiness. Main line 251‑473‑5526; 111 Mobile St, Mobile. (shelterlistings.org, mobilepubliclibrary.org)

Step 2 — Women and women with children (Birmingham metro)

  • First Light (Birmingham): Only 24‑hour emergency shelter for women and women with children in Birmingham. Call 205‑323‑4277 (beds are limited; overflow mats used when full). (firstlightshelter.org)
  • Pathways (Birmingham): day center with meals, showers, laundry; “Stepping Stones” shelter up to 9 months for women and moms with kids; Safe Haven program for women with serious mental illness; free Early Learning Center for kids experiencing homelessness. 205‑322‑6854. (uwca.org, alabamafamilycentral.org)

Step 3 — Faith‑based, longer‑term programs

  • The Lovelady Center (Birmingham): residential program (often 9–12 months) for women (many residents are moms); housing, childcare, education, job training; 205‑833‑7410, 7916 2nd Ave S, Birmingham. (alabamafamilycentral.org)
  • Aletheia House — Women’s Hope (Birmingham): residential and outpatient substance‑use treatment for pregnant women and moms with children; childcare while mom is in treatment; main 205‑595‑1114, 4246 5th Ave S. (mh.alabama.gov)

Step 4 — Pregnancy & maternity housing (South Alabama)

Table C. Housing and shelter programs for moms

Program Who can stay Length Contact
Family Promise (Birmingham, Mobile, Baldwin) Families with children (keeps families together) Varies; not same‑day BHM 205‑918‑0246; Mobile 251‑441‑1991; Baldwin 251‑947‑5641. (familypromisebham.org, familypromisemobile.org, familypromisebaldwinal.org)
First Light (Birmingham) Women and women with children Emergency; some longer‑term pathways 205‑323‑4277. (firstlightshelter.org)
Pathways (Birmingham) Unaccompanied women and moms with kids Day services; shelter up to 9 months (Stepping Stones) 205‑322‑6854. (uwca.org)
Lovelady Center (Birmingham) Women; moms can reside with children (program‑dependent) Commonly 9–12 months 205‑833‑7410. (alabamafamilycentral.org)
Sybil H. Smith Family Village (Mobile) Women and women with children Up to 24 months 251‑473‑5526. (shelterlistings.org)
Mary’s Shelter Gulf Coast (Elberta) Adult pregnant women Up to 6 months post‑birth 251‑986‑6200. (homelessshelterdirectory.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “family shelter openings within 50 miles” and “prevention/diversion” funds (one‑time help to avoid shelter). If you’re fleeing DV, call 1‑800‑650‑6522; DV shelters can often place families faster than general shelters. (acadv.org)

Childcare and after‑school support

  • YWCA Central Alabama Child Development Center (Birmingham): licensed, NAEYC‑accredited childcare for ages 6 weeks–5 years. Weekly rate 160∗∗;familiesexperiencinghomelessnessmayqualifyfora∗∗160**; families experiencing homelessness may qualify for a **0 rate for the first 90 days (then staff help connect you to subsidy before the waiver ends). Hours 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Call 205‑322‑9922. (ywcabham.org)
  • Pathways Early Learning Center (Birmingham): free licensed childcare (7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) for children 8 weeks–5 years from families experiencing homelessness (not limited to Pathways guests). 205‑322‑6854. (alabamafamilycentral.org)
  • Ride United (free rides via Lyft) can help you reach childcare/jobs/schools. Call 2‑1‑1 to schedule. (uwca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask your shelter case manager or 2‑1‑1 for church‑based Mother’s Day Out scholarships and YMCA/YWCA scholarships in your county (these change frequently; availability is local).

Health, dental, and counseling (community clinics and nonprofits)

  • Community Free Dental Clinic (Huntsville/Madison County): adults 19+, Madison County residents with income ≤ 150% FPL, no dental insurance; extractions are the primary service. Call 256‑489‑1853; 2341 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville. (hsvfreedental.org)
  • The Community Free Clinic of Huntsville (medical): free care and medications for uninsured Madison County residents; appointments required. (hsvfreeclinic.org)
  • Her Choice Birmingham Women’s Center: free pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, classes, and material support; 205‑252‑0706; 2120 7th Ave S, Birmingham. (herchoicebirmingham.org)
  • AIDS Alabama (Birmingham): housing and services; The Way Station emergency shelter for young adults and adults with HIV. Main 205‑324‑9822; 3529 7th Ave S. (aidsalabama.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “free/low‑cost clinics” in your county and “charitable pharmacies/dental days.” (211connectsalabama.org)

Domestic violence and safety planning

  • Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ACADV): statewide hotline 1‑800‑650‑6522 will connect you to your nearest shelter. Local programs include YWCA DV Services (Blount/Jefferson/St. Clair), Turning Point (Tuscaloosa region), Penelope House (Mobile region), and more (see listing on ACADV site). (acadv.org)
  • Legal help for civil issues (PFA, custody, eviction): Legal Services Alabama statewide intake 866‑456‑4995 (listed on ACADV). (acadv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If a shelter is full, ask ACADV for the next‑closest program, and ask about hotel vouchers or transportation to another county.

Transportation to work, school, court, and appointments

  • Ride United (United Way of Central Alabama + Lyft): free rides for eligible needs like job interviews, education, health appointments, and groceries. Call 2‑1‑1 to request a ride. No proof of income required; clients must be 18+ or with a guardian. (uwca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask 2‑1‑1 for bus pass programs through local shelters, DV programs, or churches (varies by county).

Faith‑based emergency assistance programs

  • Catholic Social Services — Archdiocese of Mobile (southern AL locations): emergency financial help for rent, utilities, prescriptions, transportation; food and material aid; appointments required; Mobile office 251‑434‑1500, 188 S Florida St. Documentation required: ID for adults, lease/mortgage, all current bills, SS cards/birthdates for everyone, and proof of income. (catholicsocialservices.org, mobilepubliclibrary.org)
  • Catholic Centers of Concern — Diocese of Birmingham (northern/central AL): centers in Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Gadsden, Anniston, and Eutaw. Example: Catholic Center of Concern (Birmingham) 205‑786‑4388, 712 4th Ct W. (bhmdiocese.org)
  • Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP): parish‑based assistance for rent, utilities, food, and home visits. North Alabama conference directory (Huntsville‑area) and Mobile District Council are active; Mobile helpline 251‑243‑4061. (svdphuntsvilleal.org, svdpmobilecouncil.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask any Catholic Center/SVDP to refer you to the correct parish for your ZIP code and to a second charity if they can’t help (they network closely).

Tables D–F: High‑value resources you can use now

Table D. Food banks by Alabama region (with “Find Food” links)

Region Primary food bank Counties served (examples) How to find food
Central AL Community Food Bank of Central Alabama Jefferson, Shelby, Blount, St. Clair, Walker, Talladega, etc. Use “Find Food” and “Agency Finder Tool.” (feedingal.org)
North AL Food Bank of North Alabama (Huntsville) Madison, Limestone, Morgan, Jackson, Cullman, Lauderdale, etc. Use “Food Finder” or call 256‑539‑2256. (foodbanknorthal.org)
South/Coastal Feeding the Gulf Coast Mobile, Baldwin, Washington, Clarke, Escambia, Choctaw, Monroe, Conecuh Use the “Find Help” page to search by ZIP. (feedingal.org)

Table E. Childcare supports from charities

Program Who it serves Cost details Contact
YWCA Central Alabama Child Development Families in Birmingham metro; especially supportive of families exiting shelter Weekly rate 160∗∗;∗∗160**; **0 rate for families experiencing homelessness for 90 days; then help applying for subsidy 205‑322‑9922; 309 23rd St N (by appt). (ywcabham.org)
Pathways Early Learning Center (Birmingham) Children 8 weeks–5 years from families experiencing homelessness (not just Pathways guests) Free, licensed childcare; 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. 205‑322‑6854; 409 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N. (alabamafamilycentral.org)

Table F. Legal and safety

Need Where to call Notes
Domestic violence 1‑800‑650‑6522 (ACADV) Connects to nearest shelter 24/7 statewide. (acadv.org)
Protective orders, custody, eviction Legal Services Alabama Intake 866‑456‑4995 Free civil legal help for eligible families (listed by ACADV). (acadv.org)

How to apply (and actually get approved)

Use this checklist to avoid the most common reasons requests are denied or delayed.

Application Checklist (bring to any appointment)

  • Government photo ID for each adult in the household.
  • Social Security cards or documents for all household members (or at least children + adults seeking assistance). (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • Proof of address (lease/mortgage or public housing paperwork; a current utility bill in your name). (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • All current bills (for utility help, bring the actual past‑due bill). (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • Proof of income for the last month (pay stubs), or award letters for SSI/SSDI/child support/unemployment. If no income, ask if a Zero Income Statement is acceptable. (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • For prescription help: the prescription label or written script. (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • Any shutoff or eviction notices (for utility/rent programs).

Tip: Keep a “help folder” in your bag or phone (photos are fine for many programs). That saves time when you’re referred to a second agency.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Calling after the window opens. Programs like GBM open the line at 9:00 a.m. the first Wednesday and only take the first 16 calls. Set an alarm for 8:55 a.m. and redial. (gbm.org)
  • Bill not in your name. H2O and most utility programs require the bill in the applicant’s name; start a name change with the utility first if needed. (bwwb.org)
  • Missing documents. Catholic Social Services and many church programs require ID, lease, bills, SS cards, and income proof for everyone. Show up with a complete packet. (catholicsocialservices.org)
  • Expecting same‑day family shelter at Family Promise. Most affiliates do intakes by appointment and are not emergency shelters. Use First Light or a DV program for immediate beds. (familypromisebham.org)

Real‑world examples (how moms in Alabama use these programs)

  • Power + water combo in Birmingham: A mom with a past‑due water bill and a medical letter used H2O Foundation to cover $500 toward her BWWB bill, then the Salvation Army Project SHARE line (205‑328‑2420) to screen for power assistance because she cares for a disabled child. These two programs are designed to work alongside each other when funding is open. (h2obham.org, alabamapower.com)
  • Preventing shelter: A Jefferson County mom called 2‑1‑1 and was routed to Family Promise of Birmingham for prevention funds and to Pathways for day services and childcare while her case was processed. Family Promise is not same‑day; Pathways offered immediate daytime support and later connected the family to the free Early Learning Center. (familypromisebham.org, alabamafamilycentral.org)

Diverse communities: targeted resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Magic City Acceptance Center (Birmingham) offers free counseling, support groups, housing referrals for LGBTQ youth/young adults and families; 3130 3rd Ave S; main line often listed as 205‑407‑8157 (check programming times). (magiccitywellnesscenter.org, magiccityacceptancecenter.org, lgbtqcenters.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for disability‑specific charities in your county; some utility programs (H2O, Project SHARE) prioritize disability or medical hardship. (h2obham.org, alabamapower.com)
  • Veteran single mothers: Still Serving Veterans (employment/benefits; Huntsville office 256‑883‑7035), and Volunteers of America Southeast’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (Jefferson, Shelby, Tuscaloosa & surrounding counties) at 205‑945‑7172 (press 7). (ssv.org, voase.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Catholic Social Services (Mobile area) provides immigration legal services alongside emergency aid; Spanish‑language help for diaper referrals is available via 205‑942‑5505 (posted on Bundles of Hope). (catholicsocialservices.org, bundlesdiaperbank.org)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: Poarch Band of Creek Indians Family Services (Atmore) provides family supports; main Tribal line 251‑368‑9136 (see Family Services and Senior/Health contacts; some services limited to Tribal citizens). (pci-nsn.gov)
  • Rural single moms: Ask 2‑1‑1 for mobile pantry dates and “ride assistance” to court, medical, or work; request the nearest Family Promise or church network for prevention funds to avoid displacement. (uwca.org)
  • Single fathers raising children: Family Promise of Birmingham specifically serves men with children; call 205‑918‑0246. (familypromisebham.org)
  • Language access: Many agencies provide Spanish or interpretation on request. 2‑1‑1 can text links and provide language support; Bundles of Hope lists a Spanish line. (211connectsalabama.org, bundlesdiaperbank.org)

FAQs (Alabama‑specific)

  • How fast can I get shelter as a mom with kids in Birmingham?
  • Can a charity help with a utility deposit or reconnection?
    • H2O may help with deposits to restore water service on a case‑by‑case basis (board approval required). Project SHARE and local church funds may help with reconnections when funds allow. (h2obham.org)
  • Do churches really help with rent?
  • I’m in the Birmingham Water Works area. What’s the exact water help?
    • H2O Foundation: up to $500 per 12 months if you meet income plus age (55+), disability (SSDI), or medical criteria; administered by Salvation Army. Call 205‑244‑4390. (h2obham.org)
  • What does United Way 2‑1‑1 actually do?
    • It’s a free referral line connecting you to 800+ Alabama charities for food, shelter, utilities, rides, legal help, and more. In 2024 United Way Central AL’s 2‑1‑1 logged 37,253 calls and 95,000+ referrals. (uwca.org)
  • How much childcare discount can I expect from YWCA?
    • Published rate is 160/week∗∗;familiesexperiencinghomelessnessmayqualifyfor∗∗160/week**; families experiencing homelessness may qualify for **0 for 90 days, then staff help you secure subsidy. (ywcabham.org)
  • Do diaper banks give enough for a month?
    • Bundles of Hope generally gives 50 diapers per child per month (supplemental); combine with pantries and outreach events. (bundlesdiaperbank.org)
  • I’m a veteran mom. Who should I call first?
    • Still Serving Veterans (256‑883‑7035) for jobs/benefits; VOA SSVF (205‑945‑7172, press 7) for housing stability and supportive services. (ssv.org, voase.org)
  • Can I get rides for work or clinic appointments?
    • Yes—ask 2‑1‑1 about Ride United free Lyft rides (work, school, health, groceries). Availability varies; call at least 24 hours ahead. (uwca.org)
  • I tried calling and no one picks up. What now?
    • Keep trying at published call times (some open lines only weekly/monthly). Ask 2‑1‑1 for a second agency. For utilities, call the utility to request a payment arrangement while charity help is pending. (gbm.org)

Resources by region (selected, verified)

Birmingham/Jefferson‑Shelby area

  • First Light — 2230 4th Ave N, Birmingham; 205‑323‑4277; emergency shelter for women/moms. (firstlightshelter.org)
  • Pathways — 409 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham; 205‑322‑6854; day center, shelter, Early Learning Center. (uwca.org)
  • YWCA Central Alabama — Crisis line 205‑322‑4878; main 205‑322‑9922; shelter services and childcare. (ywcabham.org)
  • Catholic Center of Concern — 712 4th Ct W, Birmingham; 205‑786‑4388; emergency assistance. (bhmdiocese.org)
  • Serving You Ministries — 6523 1st Ave N (Birmingham) & 1630 Powder Plant Rd (Bessemer); info 205‑777‑3653; utility/food help by appointment. (servingyou.org)
  • H2O Foundation (BWWB customers) — customer assistance 205‑244‑4390. (bwwb.org)
  • The Lovelady Center — 7916 2nd Ave S; 205‑833‑7410. (alabamafamilycentral.org)

Huntsville/North Alabama

  • Food Bank of North Alabama — 225 Finney Dr SW, Huntsville; 256‑539‑2256 (contact); use Food Finder for pantries. (foodbanknorthal.org)
  • SVDP North Alabama — see conference list for local numbers (Huntsville/Madison, Decatur, Florence, Cullman, etc.). (svdphuntsvilleal.org)
  • Community Free Dental Clinic — 2341 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville; 256‑489‑1853; income ≤ 150% FPL. (hsvfreedental.org)
  • Manna House — 2110 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville; 256‑503‑4848; food/diaper support and evening distributions. (gospellifehuntsville.com)

Mobile/Baldwin/Coastal Alabama

  • Family Promise of Coastal Alabama — 1260 Dauphin St, Mobile; 251‑441‑1991. (familypromisemobile.org)
  • Dumas Wesley — Sybil H. Smith Family Village — 111 Mobile St, Mobile; 251‑473‑5526; up to 24 months transitional housing for women/moms. (shelterlistings.org)
  • Catholic Social Services (Mobile) — emergency aid by appointment 251‑434‑1500; 188 S Florida St. (mobilepubliclibrary.org)
  • Mary’s Shelter Gulf Coast — 14004/14001 Boros Rd, Elberta; 251‑986‑6200. (homelessshelterdirectory.org)
  • Family Promise of Baldwin County — 20511 County Rd 36, Summerdale; 251‑947‑5641. (familypromisebaldwinal.org)

Plan B ideas when funds are tight everywhere

  • Ask your utility for an internal payment arrangement while charity aid is pending; note your confirmation number.
  • If you’re within Birmingham Water Works, ask H2O about plumbing leak repair eligibility (repairs can drastically lower future bills). (bwwb.org)
  • Use church networks: call SVDP or Catholic Centers for your ZIP; they often know which parish has funds this week. (bhmdiocese.org)
  • Ask 2‑1‑1 to search up to 3 adjacent counties for help and to set up Ride United for your documentation or court appointments. (uwca.org)

Full resource list (name • descriptive link • phone • address)

Timelines (what’s realistic)

  • Food pantries/mobile pantries: same day if you can travel.
  • Diapers (Bundles of Hope): same week (Weds distributions; partners vary). (bundlesdiaperbank.org)
  • H2O Foundation: days to a week depending on documents and whether it’s a deposit request. (h2obham.org)
  • Project SHARE: varies by Salvation Army appointment load; in winter/summer peaks, expect wait lists. (alabamapower.com)
  • GBM utility/rent: only the first 16 successful calls monthly; plan a backup. (gbm.org)
  • Family Promise: prevention/shelter not same‑day; start with a phone intake. (familypromisebham.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from established Alabama nonprofits, utilities, and charity networks (United Way, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities/Centers of Concern, SVDP, YWCA, Family Promise, community food banks, H2O Foundation, and others). It’s produced under our Editorial Standards with primary sources and regular reviews. We’re independent researchers, not a government agency, and cannot guarantee individual outcomes.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Send corrections to info@asinglemother.org.

Disclaimer

  • Programs, dollar amounts, eligibility, and schedules change frequently. Always verify by calling the organization or checking the official websites linked above.
  • Health and legal information here is general and not a substitute for medical or legal advice. For legal issues, contact Legal Services Alabama at 866‑456‑4995. For DV emergencies, call 1‑800‑650‑6522. (acadv.org)
  • We secure this website and never request sensitive personal data beyond what you choose to share. For agency applications, only provide documents directly to the agency through their official channels.

Sources (selected)

If you hit a dead end with anything above, text 2‑1‑1 your ZIP code and ask for a second option. They can look statewide. (211connectsalabama.org)

Note on formatting: bullet lists are spaced for easy scanning. Tables summarize the essentials so you can act fast.

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