Free Baby Gear and Children’s Clothing Resources for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help Box

• Emergency shelter now: Call 866-584-0653 to reach the Massachusetts Emergency Family Shelter Contact Line, Monday–Friday. If it’s after hours, dial 2‑1‑1 for statewide assistance. (mass.gov)
• Apply for WIC fast: Call 800‑942‑1007 or start online using the Apply for WIC form. Evening and Saturday appointments exist in many clinics. (mass.gov)
• TAFDC cash and September clothing money: Apply online at DTAConnect or call the DTA Assistance Line 877‑382‑2363. Decisions are issued in about 30 days. The annual clothing allowance for eligible children is $500 per child in late August/September. (mass.gov, masslegalhelp.org)
• Car seat check or help: Find free installation checks statewide and ask about low‑cost or free seats through local partners. State Police scheduling line: 774‑462‑3766. (mass.gov)
• Find local diapers, baby items, clothing closets: Dial 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑211‑6277) or visit Mass211.org for a map of resources near you. (mass211.org)
• If you are in Boston: For free home visits for new and expecting parents and help connecting to essentials, contact Healthy Baby Healthy Child at 617‑534‑5832 or 800‑711‑1180. (boston.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What to Do First in 15 Minutes

• Call WIC: The most immediate way to lower monthly costs on food, formula, and infant feeding support is WIC. Call 800‑942‑1007 or complete the online pre‑application. WIC is not part of public charge and many families are income‑eligible even while working. (mass.gov)
• Check TAFDC right away: If pregnant or caring for kids, TAFDC can provide cash plus a $500perchild\ast \ast clothingallowanceinearlyfallanda\ast \ast$300 infant payment for babies under six months. Apply through DTAConnect or the DTA Assistance Line 877‑382‑2363. (mass.gov)
• Set up car seat safety and access: Book a free installation check near you and ask about any local seat distribution. State Police scheduling: 774‑462‑3766. (mass.gov)
• Use Mass 211 tonight: If you need diapers, baby gear, or clothing this week, dial 2‑1‑1 to get the closest closets and diaper banks. (mass211.org)

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WIC Massachusetts: Monthly Food, Formula, Farmers’ Market Coupons, and Breastfeeding Support

Why this matters first: WIC frees up money you can redirect to diapers, clothing, and baby gear. It also connects you to breastfeeding help and breast pumps at no cost through your coverage or WIC’s lending program.

Core benefits today: For October 1, 2024–September 30, 2025, WIC’s fruit and vegetable cash‑value amounts are: children $26/month\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47/month, and fully/mostly breastfeeding $52/month. These are federal FY25 figures. (fns.usda.gov)

Farmers’ Market coupons: In 2025, WIC families can apply for a $30 coupon booklet to spend on fruits and vegetables at approved farmers’ markets and farm stands. (mass.gov)

Breastfeeding and pumps: WIC provides peer counselors, classes, and help getting a breast pump through your insurance or WIC’s lending program. MassHealth also covers one manual or electric pump per pregnancy, milk storage bags, replacement parts, and hospital‑grade rentals as medically needed. (mass.gov)

Who’s eligible: Live in Massachusetts; pregnant, postpartum, infant, or child under 5; meet WIC income rules or already get SNAP, TAFDC, or MassHealth. As of June 5, 2025–June 30, 2026, a family of 3 can earn up to $49,303/year and qualify; see full table on Mass.gov. (mass.gov)

How to apply:

• Phone: Call 800‑942‑1007.
• Online: Use the Apply for WIC online form; a staffer will call you to complete enrollment.
• What to bring: ID, proof of Massachusetts address, and proof of income or benefit participation (SNAP/TAFDC/MassHealth). Evening and weekend appointments are available in many clinics. (mass.gov)

Shopping tips: WIC cards work at major supermarkets and self‑checkout at many stores; online ordering is available at Walmart for pickup or delivery. Use the WIC Shopper app to scan items. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local WIC office to connect you to a Family Resource Center or community partner for emergency diapers and clothing while you wait. You can also dial 2‑1‑1 for same‑week local diaper pantries. (frcma.org, mass211.org)

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TAFDC Cash Assistance: Clothing Allowance, Infant Payment, and Monthly Support

Why to apply: Even if you only qualify briefly, the September clothing allowance is $500 per eligible child and can be life‑saving for back‑to‑school and winter. For 2025, payments for current TAFDC cases are scheduled to start August 29, 2025. (masslegalhelp.org)

Other benefits included: Twice‑monthly cash; MassHealth coverage; connections to child care and training; and a one‑time $300 infant payment for babies under six months. (mass.gov)

Income screens and amounts: Massachusetts raised TAFDC payment standards by 10% effective April 2025. Example with rent allowance: family of 3 standard $901\ast \ast ;familyof2\ast \ast$753. Your grant equals the payment standard minus countable income, and the September clothing allowance is added before that calculation. (masslegalhelp.org)

How to apply quickly:

• Phone: DTA Assistance Line 877‑382‑2363 (speak with a worker 8:15 a.m.–4:45 p.m.).
• Online: DTAConnect.com or the DTA Connect app.
• In person: Find your nearest DTA office (e.g., Boston Jackson Square office, 1785 Columbus Ave). See Mass.gov locations for phones/hours. Decisions are typically made within 30 days. (mass.gov)

Documents checklist: Photo ID; proof of address; proof of income/last paystubs; children’s birth certificates or proof of custody; expenses like rent and child care. If anything is hard to get, tell DTA—you may get extra time or help. (mass.gov)

Reality check: The clothing allowance only applies to children on TAFDC in September; children on SSI do not receive it. Some working families who are usually over the income limit can qualify in September due to the temporary increase; ask DTA if that could apply to you. (masslegalservices.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, call the DTA Assistance Line to appeal, and contact a local legal aid office (MassLegalHelp) to review options. Consider asking a Family Resource Center for a clothing voucher or partner referral while your appeal is pending. (masslegalhelp.org)

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Car Seats, Safe Sleep, and Safety Essentials

Start here: Book a free installation check with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician; it’s common for installs to be incorrect. State Police line: 774‑462‑3766. Many sites offer Spanish and special‑needs expertise. (mass.gov)

Getting a seat if you can’t afford one: Massachusetts funds car seats for low‑income families through selected hospitals, nonprofits, and municipal agencies. Families cannot apply directly to the state program, so ask your local Family Resource Center, WIC clinic, hospital, or police/fire department if they participate. 2025 grants are being awarded to organizations on a rolling basis through August 31, 2025. (mass.gov)

Safe sleep and cribs: For current guidance on safe sleep and potential crib resources via local partners, see the state’s Safe Sleep resources list (includes Cribs for Kids, AAP guidance, and more). (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your town doesn’t have a distribution partner, ask WIC or your local hospital social worker to connect you to a nearby agency that does. You can also seek used but safe portable cribs via Freecycle or Buy Nothing groups—avoid recalled/unsafe items. Always check serial numbers against the Consumer Product Safety Commission database. (freecycle.org)

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Diapers and Baby Essentials You Can Get This Month

• A Baby Center (Cape Cod, Islands): Diapers, wipes, formula when available, layette bundles, baby gear, strollers, high chairs, and sometimes newborn car seats via partner funding. Hyannis appointment line 508‑771‑8157; address 81 Willow Ave, Hyannis. Nantucket distribution via the Family Resource Center. (ababycenter.org, capecodcouncilofchurches.org)
• The Wish Project (Greater Lowell/Merrimack Valley): Free clothing every three months; diapers/wipes every three months; baby gear and car seats by referral through partner agencies. See “How We Can Help You” for rules and hours in North Chelmsford. (thewishproject.org)
• Beantown Baby Diaper Bank (Greater Boston): Supplies diapers to partner agencies; families receive through their local partner (no individual pickups). See the partners list for where to connect. (beantownbabydiaperbank.org)
• Metro‑Boston Diaper Drive (Somerville/Cambridge area): Annual drive delivering diapers to the Somerville WIC office serving multiple towns; check for 2025 dates and drop‑offs. (mbdiapers.org)
• Project Just Because (Hopkinton): Free clothing store for Massachusetts residents, including children’s clothing, during posted hours; bring ID and proof of address. (projectjustbecause.org)
• Mass 211: If none of the above is near you, call 2‑1‑1 to locate the closest diaper closet or charity with baby supplies in your town. (mass211.org)

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Children’s Clothing Sources Statewide

• Cradles to Crayons (Boston region): Works through a network of partner agencies (schools, shelters, health centers) to deliver customized “KidPacks” of clothing, shoes, coats, and essentials for ages 0–12, plus emergency orders within 72 hours when available. Ask your school social worker, shelter, WIC office, or Family Resource Center to submit a referral. (cradlestocrayons.org)
• Anton’s Cleaners Coats for Kids & Families: Free cleaned winter coats distributed through 90+ partner agencies each Oct–Jan. Ask your Community Action Agency, Salvation Army, or school about distribution dates. (enterprisebanking.com)
• St. Vincent de Paul (parish‑based): Many local conferences provide clothing vouchers or free clothing through SVdP thrift stores; contact your nearby parish SVdP to request help. Examples show vouchers and clothing support in multiple MA communities. (stmarysfranklin.org, svdpwoburn.org)
• Goodwill (Morgan Memorial): Low‑cost children’s clothing at Goodwill stores statewide; some partner agencies provide Goodwill vouchers—ask your caseworker or Family Resource Center. (goodwillmass.org)
• School‑based closets: Programs like Catie’s Closet and The Clothing Connection (Salem) stock free clothing inside schools; ask your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison or social worker. (spectrumnews1.com, clothingconnection.org)

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Tables You Can Scan Fast

WIC FY25 Monthly Fruit & Vegetable Amounts and Key Contacts

TAFDC Clothing Allowance and Payment Standards (Apr 2025)

Car Seat Safety and Access

Clothing, Coats, and School Closets

Stretching Dollars on Children’s Clothing in Massachusetts

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Local Organizations and How to Reach Them Fast

• Family Resource Centers (FRCs): Free, walk‑in help connecting you to clothing closets, diaper pantries, WIC, and housing supports. Use the FRC locator for addresses and phones (statewide network). (frcma.org)
• Community Action Agencies (MASSCAP network): Each county has a CAA that connects families to Head Start/Early Head Start, referrals for clothing/diapers, and other basics. Use the statewide agency list to find yours. (mass.gov)
• Head Start and Early Head Start: Early learning plus family support; contact your local program via the state guide. Some programs have clothing closets for enrolled families. (mass.gov)
• Salvation Army Massachusetts: Local service units can provide clothing assistance or vouchers—ask for your local field representative if you’re unsure where to start. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Resources by Region

• Greater Boston: Room to Grow provides coaching and free baby/toddler items for ages 0–3 at locations in the South End and Dorchester. Call 617‑859‑4545 or email infoboston@roomtogrow.org to apply. (roomtogrow.org)
• North Shore/Merrimack Valley: Community Giving Tree (Boxford and Lawrence) supplies children’s clothing, diapers, and gear to families through partner agencies; contact info: Boxford 978‑769‑5056, Lawrence 978‑208‑1089. (communitygivingtree.org)
• Greater Lowell/Merrimack Valley: The Wish Project provides clothing, diapers, and baby goods; some items require partner referrals. Check hours and referral instructions before going. (thewishproject.org)
• Central and Western MA: Use the FRC locator and MASSCAP map to find county programs; many school districts have McKinney‑Vento liaisons who can access clothing closets. (frcma.org, masscap.org, doe.mass.edu)
• Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket: A Baby Center in Hyannis and satellite sites serve Cape and Islands families. Appointment line 508‑771‑8157. (ababycenter.org)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your local Family Resource Center for LGBTQ+‑friendly support groups and child care referrals. Many WIC and FRC sites post translated and inclusive materials; CHEI’s statewide resource list includes LGBTQ+ services. Phone: 2‑1‑1 for help navigating. (mass.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Request ADA accommodations through DTA’s Client Assistance Coordinator for TAFDC appointments, and ask WIC for appointment flexibility or interpretation. For children with developmental needs, Early Intervention and DDS Family Support can help with adaptive items or referrals. DDS Family Support: see DDS Family Support Center directory. (mass.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: USO New England hosts Special Delivery baby showers and back‑to‑school gear events; check events at Westover ARB and Boston Logan centers. Operation Homefront also hosts Star‑Spangled Babies events regionally each year. USO New England: 617‑720‑4949. (newengland.uso.org, uso.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: WIC is not part of public charge and serves many mixed‑status families. MassHealth covers a free breast pump and postpartum care up to 12 months; doula services are covered. WIC info line: 800‑942‑1007. (mass.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Contact your tribe’s family and health services for referrals to diapers, clothing, and child care help. Mashpee Wampanoag Child & Family Services 508‑477‑0208; Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) Health Services 508‑645‑9265. (mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov, wampanoagtribe-nsn.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited transport: Ask WIC about phone enrollments and online ordering (Walmart) and use the WIC Shopper app. Many CPS inspection sites cover multiple towns—ask if a mobile clinic is scheduled near you. WIC: 800‑942‑1007. (mass.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs here (WIC, TAFDC, FRCs) serve single fathers with eligible children. WIC is for all kinds of families; dads can apply for kids under 5. (mass.gov)
• Language access: DTA and WIC offer interpreter services. WIC and CHEI provide resources translated into multiple languages including Spanish, Portuguese, and Haitian Creole. (mass.gov)

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Real‑World Examples

• Example A: You’re parenting two kids (3 and 7), renting an apartment, and recently cut hours at work. You apply for TAFDC mid‑August and are approved September 10. You receive the $500\ast \ast clothingallowanceforyour3‑year‑old(the7‑year‑oldisonSSIanddoesn’tqualify),plusthenewmonthlyTAFDCamountbasedontheApril2025standards.YoualsocallWICandstartgettingthechildbenefit\ast \ast$26/month in fruits/vegetables and other WIC foods in days. (masslegalhelp.org, fns.usda.gov)
• Example B: You live on the Cape with a newborn and a toddler. MassHealth covers an electric breast pump and supplies after delivery. You book A Baby Center in Hyannis to pick up diapers, wipes, and a clothing bundle, and you schedule a car seat check in Bourne through the local fire department. (mass.gov, ababycenter.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the September window: The $500 TAFDC clothing allowance only pays for children who are on TAFDC during September. If you’re borderline over income, ask DTA if you can qualify that month due to the special September standards. (masslegalservices.org)
• Assuming WIC is just formula: WIC provides monthly foods, breastfeeding support, pump access, and seasonal farmers’ market coupons—do not leave money on the table. (mass.gov)
• Buying an unsafe used car seat: Do not use seats with unknown history, missing labels, or expired. If cost is the barrier, ask a CPS site or Family Resource Center about distribution programs. (mass.gov)
• Skipping tax credits: File your MA return to get the $440 per dependent Child and Family Tax Credit—even with little or no income. (mass.gov)

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Application Checklist

• WIC:
  • Photo ID and proof of MA address
  • Proof of income or documentation of SNAP/TAFDC/MassHealth
  • Child’s birth certificate or pregnancy confirmation if applicable (mass.gov)
• TAFDC:
  • Photo ID and proof of address
  • Children’s birth certificates or proof of care/custody
  • Paystubs or income proof; rent and child‑care costs
  • Phone: 877‑382‑2363 to apply or ask for help if any document is hard to obtain (mass.gov)
• Car seat support:
  • Appointment at a CPS inspection site
  • If seeking a free seat: ask your FRC, WIC, or hospital social worker about partner referrals (mass.gov)

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Plan B Options If a Door Closes

• No WIC appointment soon: Ask for a phone appointment and check if another nearby clinic can see you sooner. Meanwhile, dial 2‑1‑1 for diaper closets. (mass.gov, mass211.org)
• TAFDC denial or delay: Request an appeal and call your local legal aid. While waiting, ask your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison and Family Resource Center for emergency clothing assistance. (doe.mass.edu)
• No car seat program in your town: Book a free installation check and ask which nearby agency currently has distribution stock under the state program. (mass.gov)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Massachusetts‑Specific)

1. How much is the WIC fruit and vegetable benefit right now for kids and moms: Children $26/month\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47/month, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52/month through September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
2. Does WIC still give farmers’ market coupons: Yes—WIC families can apply for a $30 coupon booklet in 2025 at participating sites. (mass.gov)
3. When does the TAFDC clothing allowance pay and how much: $500 per eligible child each early fall; for 2025, payments for current cases began August 29, 2025. (masslegalhelp.org)
4. What are the current TAFDC grant amounts: As of April 2025, a family of 3 with rent allowance has a payment standard of $901\ast \ast ;afamilyof2\ast \ast$753. Actual grants depend on your countable income. (masslegalhelp.org)
5. Is clothing tax‑free in Massachusetts: Yes. Clothing is exempt from sales tax up to $175peritem\ast \ast ;anyamountabove\ast \ast$175 on that item is taxable. (mass.gov)
6. Can I get a free car seat: Some hospitals, nonprofits, and municipal partners distribute free seats to low‑income families using state grant seats; ask your local FRC, hospital, or police/fire if they are a distribution partner. Free installation checks are statewide. (mass.gov)
7. Does MassHealth cover breast pumps: Yes—one manual or electric pump per pregnancy, milk storage bags, and replacement parts; hospital‑grade rentals by prior authorization when needed. (mass.gov)
8. How fast will DTA decide my TAFDC application: DTA generally approves or denies within 30 days. Call the Assistance Line 877‑382‑2363 if you need help or have urgent need. (mass.gov)
9. Who can help me find a clothing closet near me: Dial 2‑1‑1 or contact your local Family Resource Center; school liaisons can also access closets for students. (mass211.org, frcma.org)
10. What if I’m a military mom in Western MA—any baby showers or gear events: USO New England hosts Special Delivery baby showers at Westover and other locations; check events and register. (newengland.uso.org)

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Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

• Expect waitlists at popular nonprofits at the start of school and the holidays—ask about “emergency” referrals where available (Cradles to Crayons allows partner agencies to place emergency KidPack orders). (cradlestocrayons.org)
• Bring documents even if a program says “come as you are.” A photo ID and proof of address unlock many charity closets and diaper banks. (thewishproject.org)
• Use tax credits: Filing your taxes is one of the fastest ways to get cash for clothing and baby needs via the $440 per dependent Child & Family Tax Credit. Free filing help is offered each winter through Community Action Agencies. (mass.gov, masscap.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Department of Transitional Assistance, Department of Revenue, USDA FNS, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. (fns.usda.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 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program details change often: Always verify amounts, eligibility, and locations with the relevant agency before you travel or spend money. We include links to official pages wherever possible.

Safety and security online: Do not share personal data in public groups. When picking up items from neighbors, meet in public places when possible. For any website issues or suspected broken links on our site, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix them quickly.

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Source Notes

• WIC FY25 cash‑value benefits and timing: USDA FNS policy memorandum; Massachusetts WIC eligibility rules and contacts; WIC online ordering and app guidance. (fns.usda.gov, mass.gov)
• TAFDC program details, 30‑day timeline, clothing allowance, infant payment, payment standards (Apr 2025): Mass.gov TAFDC page; MassLegalHelp payment standards; MLRI clothing allowance alert. (mass.gov, masslegalhelp.org, masslegalservices.org)
• Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program amounts 2025: Mass.gov. (mass.gov)
• Car seat programs and inspection contacts: Mass.gov Office of Grants and Research; statewide inspection listing and State Police scheduling line. (mass.gov)
• MassHealth breast pump coverage: Mass.gov provider guidance for pregnant/postpartum members. (mass.gov)
• Clothing/coat programs: Coats for Kids & Families overview; partner distribution network; school and bank partner announcements. (caringpartnersinc.org, enterprisebanking.com)
• Regional nonprofits: Room to Grow Boston contacts; A Baby Center; Community Giving Tree; The Wish Project. (roomtogrow.org, ababycenter.org, communitygivingtree.org, thewishproject.org)
• Tax credit amounts: Massachusetts Child and Family Tax Credit guidance and filing‑season update. (mass.gov)
• Sales tax clothing exemption: Mass. Dept. of Revenue guide. (mass.gov)
• FRC and CAA directories: Statewide locators for Family Resource Centers and Community Action Agencies. (frcma.org, mass.gov)

If you find missing or outdated information in this guide, please email info@asinglemother.org—we typically update verified corrections within 48 hours.

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🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts

• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery