Community Support for Single Mothers in Alaska
Alaska Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is your plain‑English, no‑fluff guide to church and community help across Alaska. It focuses on nonprofit, community, and faith‑based resources that can get you food, shelter, safety, and small emergency dollars fast — not state or federal benefit programs.
If you’re in danger or need food or a bed tonight, start with the Quick Help Box below. Then skim the cheat sheets and go straight to the section that matches your situation.
Quick Help Box (save/forward this)
- Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for live referrals statewide: 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑478‑2221 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., language help available). (alaska211.org)
- Domestic violence or safety now (24/7): AWAIC Anchorage crisis line 907‑272‑0100; Interior Alaska Center for Non‑Violent Living (Fairbanks) 907‑452‑2293; AWARE Juneau 907‑586‑1090; National DV 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233); StrongHearts Native Helpline 1‑844‑762‑8483. (awaic.org, iacnvl.org, awareak.org, dps.alaska.gov)
- Food today (Anchorage): St. Francis House Food Pantry (walk‑in) 907‑222‑7323; Lutheran Social Services of Alaska Pantry 907‑272‑0643; F.I.S.H. home‑delivered food — call mornings 907‑277‑0818. (cssalaska.org, lssalaska.org, fishcharity.org)
- Family shelter (Anchorage): Catholic Social Services Clare House (women with kids/pregnant) 907‑563‑4545; Salvation Army McKinnell House (families) 907‑375‑3500; Covenant House Alaska (youth 13–24, including young moms) 907‑272‑1255. (cssalaska.org, salvationarmyusa.org, covenanthouse.org)
- Rent/utility help (varies by funds): Salvation Army Family Services 907‑375‑3500; St. Vincent de Paul (Juneau) 907‑789‑5535; Love INC (Kenai) Needs Line 907‑262‑5140. Call early; funds can run out midday. (salvationarmyusa.org, svdpjuneau.org)
- Suicide/mental health (24/7): 988 Lifeline; Alaska CARELINE 1‑877‑266‑4357. For youth/families counseling: VOA Alaska 907‑279‑9640. (dps.alaska.gov, voaak.org)
Emergency first steps (do these before noon if you can)
- If you need a safety plan or shelter tonight, call your region’s DV line above. Advocates can arrange safe transport, protective orders, and short‑term housing. AWAIC can also connect some survivors with partial rent help (up to 6 months) once you’re stabilized. (awaic.org)
- If you need a bed with your kids, call Clare House (women with children or pregnant) or McKinnell House (all‑gender families). Both are 24/7. Have basic ID; they’ll help if you’re missing something. (cssalaska.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
- If you need food today, go to St. Francis House Food Pantry (Mon–Thu, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.) or LSSA Pantry (Tue/Thu/Fri 1–4 p.m., Wed 4–7 p.m.). If you can’t get out, F.I.S.H. delivers next‑day when you call in the morning (limit once every 30 days; first 20 requests filled each service day). (cssalaska.org, lssalaska.org, fishcharity.org)
- If you’re outside Anchorage, call 2‑1‑1 (or your local United Way) and ask for church‑based aid near you. In Fairbanks, ask about the Emergency Food Box network; in Juneau, ask for SE Alaska Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul. (alaska211.org, fairbanksfoodbank.org, sealaskafoodbank.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (who to call for what)
| Need | Best first call | You’ll likely get | What to bring | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food today (Anchorage) | St. Francis House Pantry 907‑222‑7323 | 2‑day emergency groceries; up to 2 visits/month | Photo ID; 30 minutes | Same‑day during open hours. (cssalaska.org) |
| Food if you can’t leave home | F.I.S.H. 907‑277‑0818 | Next‑day home delivery of groceries | Names/ages in household | Delivered the day after you call (morning intake). (fishcharity.org) |
| Family shelter, Anchorage | Clare House 907‑563‑4545 (women w/children; pregnant) | 24/7 shelter + case mgmt | Photo ID; proof of guardianship | Same‑day if a bed opens; call first. (cssalaska.org) |
| Family shelter, Anchorage | Salvation Army McKinnell 907‑375‑3500 | 24/7 family shelter; food; case mgmt | Photo ID; proof of address; SSNs | Same‑day if space; apply during desk hours. (salvationarmyusa.org) |
| Domestic violence safety | AWAIC 907‑272‑0100 (Anchorage) | Safe shelter; legal advocacy; housing support | None to call | 24/7. (awaic.org) |
| Young moms (17–21) | Passage House (Covenant House) 907‑333‑2023 | Up to 18‑month mother‑and‑child housing with classes | ID; basic docs | Intake by appointment; emergency shelter available at YEC. (covenanthouseak.org, covenanthouse.org) |
| Statewide referrals | Alaska 2‑1‑1 2‑1‑1 / 800‑478‑2221 | Live referral to nearest church/nonprofit help | Zip code and need | Same‑day callback if after hours. (alaska211.org) |
Reality check: why community help matters in Alaska right now
- Food need is high: Feeding America reports rising food insecurity in 2023; Food Bank of Alaska reports “1 in 7” Alaskans face hunger. In 2024 FBA sourced about 8.3 million pounds of food statewide. Expect lines and early arrivals at mobile pantries. (feedingamerica.org, foodbankofalaska.org)
- Family poverty: Among Alaska families with a female householder (no spouse), roughly 21.7% live in poverty; if children are present, it’s about 30.4% (2019–2023 pooled ACS). Budgets are tight; most church aid focuses on one‑time help and referrals. (migrationpolicy.org)
- Safety: The 2020 Alaska Victimization Survey estimated 57.7% of Alaska women have experienced intimate partner or sexual violence in their lifetime. DV programs know the terrain and are often the fastest path to safe housing. (dps.alaska.gov)
How to use Alaska 2‑1‑1 (fast)
- Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑478‑2221 (Mon–Fri, 8:30–5). Tell them your zip code, that you’re a single mom, exactly what you need (e.g., “past‑due Chugach bill $___ by Friday,” “diapers size 5 today,” “safe shelter with my 2 kids tonight”). Ask for faith‑based resources first and for any local “navigator” who can help fill applications. (alaska211.org)
- Ask for a text of the referrals and the direct intake line. If the line is busy or you go to voicemail, call back. Many small church funds are first‑come, first‑served and can run out by mid‑day. (liveunitedanc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Try your borough’s United Way office directly (Anchorage 907‑263‑3800; SE Alaska 907‑463‑5533; Tanana Valley 907‑452‑7211), or contact Connect Mat‑Su 907‑373‑2628 for Mat‑Su navigator support. (liveunitedanc.org, unitedwayseak.org, unitedwaytv.com, connectmatsu.org)
Food, diapers, and basic needs (church and community options)
Start with food — it frees cash for rent and gas.
Anchorage
- St. Francis House Food Pantry (Catholic Social Services): One of Alaska’s largest client‑choice pantries; open Mon–Thu 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; up to two visits/month. FY2024: 13,758 people served. Address: 3710 E 20th Ave. Phone 907‑222‑7323. (cssalaska.org)
- Lutheran Social Services of Alaska (LSSA) Pantry: Tue/Thu/Fri 1–4 p.m.; Wed 4–7 p.m.; once/month per household. Also vouchers for state IDs, birth certificates, and prescription meds (limits apply). Address: 1303 W 33rd Ave. Phone 907‑272‑0643. (lssalaska.org)
- F.I.S.H. – Friends in Serving Humanity: Call mornings (907‑277‑0818) for next‑day home delivery; first 20 requests per service day; no fees; 30‑day spacing between deliveries. (fishcharity.org)
- Food Bank of Alaska: Find pantries and mobile food distribution calendars statewide; Anchorage address 2192 Viking Dr; phone 907‑272‑3663. Text SNAP to 907‑891‑8913 for application help, but pantries are open to all regardless of SNAP. (foodbankofalaska.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for a church‑run meal site near you (e.g., Downtown Hope Center lunch daily 12–1:30 p.m.). (downtownhopecenter.org)
Fairbanks/Interior
- Fairbanks Community Food Bank – Emergency Food Box: Call between 10 a.m.–noon (Mon–Fri). Up to 10 food boxes per person/year; about 20 pounds per person in household (roughly 3 days of food). Pickup is via the “church of the day.” Main line 907‑457‑4273. (fairbanksfoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call United Way of the Tanana Valley 907‑452‑7211 for pantry and church resources list the same day. (unitedwaytv.com)
Juneau/Southeast
- Southeast Alaska Food Bank (public pantry Thursdays 3–5:30 p.m.). Phone 907‑789‑6184. (sealaskafoodbank.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul Juneau (Dan Austin Center): Clothing/household items free; small food assistance on site; navigator weekdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Office 907‑789‑5535, 8617 Teal St. (svdpjuneau.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for church pantries by neighborhood; several Lutheran, Episcopal, and Catholic parishes distribute food via the SE Alaska Food Bank network. (sealaskafoodbank.org)
Family shelters and housing help (community & faith‑based)
Anchorage (fastest path)
- Clare House – Catholic Social Services: Emergency shelter for women with children and expectant mothers; 24/7; priority to those sleeping in cars/camps. Address: 4110 Spenard Rd; front desk 907‑563‑4545. FY2023: 281 women and children sheltered. (cssalaska.org)
- Salvation Army McKinnell House (families): 24‑hour lodging, meals, case management; Family Services also provides rent/utility help when funds allow. Bring photo ID, proof of address, SSNs and DOBs. Desk 907‑375‑3500. (salvationarmyusa.org)
- AWAIC (domestic violence safe shelter, any gender + families): 24/7 crisis line 907‑272‑0100; legal advocacy; transitional and permanent housing supports; partial rent assistance for up to 6 months for survivors in specific programs. (awaic.org)
- Downtown Hope Center (women): ~70 beds nightly; meals, showers, laundry. Address: 240 E 3rd Ave; 907‑277‑4302. (downtownhopecenter.org)
- Covenant House Alaska (youth 13–24): 24/7 emergency shelter; Passage House for pregnant/parenting ages 17–21; Rights of Passage transitional housing. YEC 907‑272‑1255; Passage House 907‑333‑2023. (covenanthouse.org, covenanthouseak.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness Housing Helpline/Coordinated Entry at 907‑312‑9530 or visit the 3rd Ave Resource & Navigation Center (Mon–Fri). They keep current shelter lists and can schedule housing assessments. (aceh.org)
Fairbanks/Interior
- Interior Alaska Center for Non‑Violent Living (IACNVL): 24/7 shelter and advocacy for DV/SA survivors; hotline 907‑452‑2293 (toll‑free 800‑478‑7273). (iacnvl.org, fairbankschamber.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask United Way of Tanana Valley 907‑452‑7211 for a current list of churches assisting with motel vouchers or deposit help when funds exist. (unitedwaytv.com)
Juneau/Southeast
- AWARE: Emergency shelter for DV/SA; 24/7 crisis 907‑586‑1090 (toll‑free 800‑478‑1090). Longer‑term transitional units (Kaasei). (awareak.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul Juneau: Transitional housing (26 units) — waitlist is long; runs winter Warming Shelter (2024–25 season at 1325 Eastaugh Way, 9 p.m.–6:45 a.m. through April 15 each year). Office 907‑789‑5535. (svdpjuneau.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call United Way of Southeast Alaska 907‑463‑5533 for a current bed/meal list and church aid by island/community. (unitedwayseak.org)
Rent and utility help (small, fast aid from churches)
These funds are limited and often pay the landlord/utility directly.
- Salvation Army Family Services (Anchorage): Rent/utility assistance when available; bring ID, proof of address, and household SSNs. Call 907‑375‑3500 and ask for Family Services. (salvationarmyusa.org)
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Juneau & Anchorage conferences): Volunteers do a quick intake and may schedule a home/phone visit. Help can include partial rent, utilities, gas or food cards if one‑time help will stabilize the situation. Juneau 907‑789‑5535; Anchorage 907‑330‑9637. (svdpjuneau.org, svdpanchorage.com)
- Love INC (Kenai Peninsula): Call the Needs Line 907‑262‑5140. Churches coordinate “gap ministries” (gas, small car repairs, linens, kitchen kits) and limited housing help. (peninsulaloveinc.org)
- Tribal citizens (Anchorage): Cook Inlet Tribal Council financial assistance (temporary cash support, heating help, critical‑needs support). Main line 907‑793‑3300; navigation 907‑793‑3600. Eligibility limited to Alaska Native/American Indian households in Anchorage. (citci.org)
Tips to improve your chances (what to say and have ready)
- “I can cover ___**. I need **___ to prevent eviction/disconnect by [date].”
- Past‑due/eviction/shutoff notice, lease or account number, landlord/utility contact, and your ID.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 again, ask specifically for “church benevolence funds,” “St. Vincent de Paul conference” near you, and “any appointment‑only fund openings this week.” (alaska211.org)
Safety, legal help, and crisis counseling
- Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
- AWAIC (Anchorage) crisis 907‑272‑0100 — emergency shelter, legal advocacy (protective orders at the Boney Courthouse), and housing support. (awaic.org)
- Statewide network directory (ANDVSA) lists local hotlines and shelters across rural Alaska. (andvsa.org)
- StrongHearts Native Helpline (24/7): 1‑844‑762‑8483 — culturally specific support for AI/AN survivors. (dps.alaska.gov)
- Free civil legal help (family, housing, safety): Alaska Legal Services Corporation — multiple offices statewide; Anchorage 907‑272‑9431; Fairbanks 907‑452‑5181; Juneau 907‑586‑6425. Start by phone for screening. (clearinghouse.lac.org)
- Youth & family mental health: VOA Alaska (low/no‑cost therapy; rapid response line 907‑419‑4158). Main 907‑279‑9640. (voaak.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a “legal clinic” or “pro bono day” near you, or ask a DV advocate to refer you for free representation. (alaska211.org)
Diverse communities: tailored doors to knock on
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Covenant House Alaska is affirming; safe access for youth up to 24 (including young moms). 907‑272‑1255. (covenanthouse.org)
- AWAIC and AWARE serve survivors of all genders and orientations; ask for safety planning and housing options. (awaic.org, awareak.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
- Ask 2‑1‑1 for local churches with “gap ministries” for ramps, transport, or respite; in Anchorage, LSSA can arrange taxi rides to medical appointments (limited slots; call early). 907‑272‑0643. (lssalaska.org)
- Veteran single mothers
- 2‑1‑1 can filter for veteran‑serving nonprofits; many St. Vincent conferences prioritize move‑in help when you have a lease in hand. (alaska211.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- Catholic Social Services (Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services) can help with documents and referrals; St. Francis House pantry welcomes everyone. 907‑222‑7300 / 907‑222‑7323. (cssalaska.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources
- CITC (Anchorage) for AN/AI families: temporary cash, heating assistance, childcare help, and family services. 907‑793‑3300. (citci.org)
- Central Council of Tlingit & Haida (SE): community advocacy and emergency support; toll‑free 800‑344‑1432. (tlingitandhaida.gov)
- Rural single moms (off the road system)
- Food Bank of Alaska partners with agencies in 69 communities and supports rural deliveries. Ask 2‑1‑1 to find your nearest distribution. (foodbankofalaska.org)
- Single fathers (yes, these offices will help you too)
- AWAIC, AWARE, IACNVL, Salvation Army McKinnell House, and many church pantries serve dads with kids as well. Call ahead about family shelter rules. (awaic.org, awareak.org, iacnvl.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
- Language access
- Alaska 2‑1‑1 offers interpretation (including Yup’ik, Tagalog, Russian). If you prefer, ask an advocate to 3‑way call with you. (unitedwayseak.org)
Application Checklist (save this)
| Item | Where to get it fast in Alaska | Free help if you’re stuck |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | DMV; if lost/stolen, ask LSSA for an ID voucher (limited) | LSSA Direct Assistance: 907‑272‑0643. (lssalaska.org) |
| Birth certificates | Vital Records; LSSA vouchers (limited) | LSSA: 907‑272‑0643. (lssalaska.org) |
| Proof of address | Lease, utility bill, mail; shelters can write a letter | Salvation Army lists “proof of address” as required for aid. (salvationarmyusa.org) |
| Income proof | Pay stubs, employer letter, benefit letter | 2‑1‑1 can refer to navigators who print/scan for you. (alaska211.org) |
| Eviction/shutoff notice | Get a copy from landlord/utility | SVDP/Salvation Army may pay vendors directly. (alaskapublic.org, salvationarmyusa.org) |
Program snapshots: eligibility, documents, timelines
| Program | Who it helps | What to bring | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Francis House Pantry | Any adult/family; up to 2 visits/month | Photo ID; 30 minutes | Same‑day food; FY2024 served 13,758 people. (cssalaska.org) |
| LSSA Pantry + Direct Assistance | Any Anchorage resident in need; vouchers for ID/birth cert/prescriptions (limits) | ID; basic info | Food same day; vouchers start Mondays 9 a.m., first‑come. (lssalaska.org) |
| F.I.S.H. | Anyone in Anchorage unable to get to a pantry | Call 9 a.m.–noon Sun/Tue/Thu/Fri; household details | Grocery delivery next day; limit once every 30 days; first 20 daily. (fishcharity.org) |
| Clare House | Women 18+ with children or pregnant; priority if unsheltered | Photo ID; proof of guardianship | 24/7; bed as available; case management on intake. (cssalaska.org) |
| McKinnell House | Families (single or two‑parent) | ID, proof of address, SSNs/DOBs | 24/7 shelter if space; pantry Tue–Fri afternoons. (salvationarmyusa.org) |
| AWAIC | DV survivors (any gender; families) | None to call | 24/7 line; legal help and up to 6 months partial rent in select programs. (awaic.org) |
| Covenant House/Passage House | Youth 13–24; pregnant/parenting 17–21 | ID; basics | 24/7 shelter access; Passage House is application‑based. (covenanthouse.org, covenanthouseak.org) |
| Fairbanks Community Food Bank | Interior families | Photo ID for adults | Up to 10 boxes/year, about 20 lbs/person; call 10 a.m.–noon. (fairbanksfoodbank.org) |
| SE Alaska Food Bank | Juneau public pantry | None | Thursdays 3–5:30 p.m. open pantry. (sealaskafoodbank.org) |
| SVDP Juneau | Juneau families | ID; proof of need | Navigator M–F mornings; winter Warming Shelter to Apr 15. (svdpjuneau.org) |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until the cutoff/eviction day. Most small church funds need at least 1–3 business days to process and mail a vendor check. Call as soon as you get a notice.
- Not having documents ready. Keep photos of your ID, lease, past‑due notice, and a simple budget on your phone.
- Only calling one place. Ask 2‑1‑1 for three referrals and call all three the same morning.
- Missing call‑backs. Many small programs call once. If you miss it, you move to the bottom of the list.
- Not stating your plan. Tell the screener how this one‑time help will stabilize you (“new job starts [date]; child‑support arrives [date]; I can cover $___ next month”). (alaska211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a navigator (2‑1‑1 or Connect Mat‑Su 907‑373‑2628) to help you phone‑tree multiple churches and complete any landlord verification forms the same day. (connectmatsu.org)
Quick numbers, facts, and why they matter
- Alaska 2‑1‑1 handled over 47,000 help connections last year; they know which small funds still have money. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30–5. (liveunitedanc.org)
- Food Bank of Alaska sourced 8.3 million pounds of food in 2024; church partners (St. Francis House, LSSA, F.I.S.H.) distribute a lot of it locally. (foodbankofalaska.org)
- In Fairbanks, an Emergency Food Box equals roughly 20 lbs per person (3 days of food) and you can request up to 10 times per year. Stretch your budget by using this before payday. (fairbanksfoodbank.org)
- Alaska women’s lifetime exposure to IPV/sexual violence was estimated at 57.7% (2020). DV providers are often the fastest route to safe housing and legal protection. (dps.alaska.gov)
What real timelines look like (examples)
- Food today: St. Francis House/LSSA = same‑day during open hours; F.I.S.H. = next‑day delivery if you call morning hours. (cssalaska.org, lssalaska.org, fishcharity.org)
- Safety tonight: DV lines (AWAIC/AWARE/IACNVL) are 24/7; shelter placement is immediate if a bed is available; advocates can help with protective orders the same/next day. (awaic.org, awareak.org)
- Family shelter: Clare House/McKinnell take intakes as beds open; call early and keep calling — turnover can happen mid‑day. (cssalaska.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
- Rent/utility help: Same‑day approvals are rare; plan for 1–5 business days for landlord/utility payments (varies by fund availability).
Resources by region (church & community)
Anchorage & Mat‑Su
- Catholic Social Services – Clare House (women with children, pregnant): Clare House — emergency family shelter, 24/7 | 907‑563‑4545 | 4110 Spenard Rd, Anchorage. (cssalaska.org)
- Salvation Army McKinnell House & Family Services: Family shelter and emergency assistance | 907‑375‑3500 | 1712 A St, Anchorage. (salvationarmyusa.org)
- St. Francis House Food Pantry (CSS): Large client‑choice pantry; hours & application | 907‑222‑7323 | 3710 E 20th Ave, Anchorage. (cssalaska.org)
- Lutheran Social Services of Alaska: Food pantry + ID/birth certificate/prescription vouchers | 907‑272‑0643 | 1303 W 33rd Ave, Anchorage. (lssalaska.org)
- AWAIC (DV safe shelter & housing): 24/7 crisis line and services | 907‑272‑0100. (awaic.org)
- Downtown Hope Center (women’s shelter, meals, showers): Programs & contact | 907‑277‑4302 | 240 E 3rd Ave, Anchorage. (downtownhopecenter.org)
- Covenant House Alaska (youth/young parents): 24/7 shelter; Passage House | 907‑272‑1255 | 755 A St, Anchorage. (covenanthouse.org)
- F.I.S.H. Anchorage (food delivery): How to request food + call hours | 907‑277‑0818. (fishcharity.org)
- Food Bank of Alaska: Find Food Now + calendars | 907‑272‑3663 | 2192 Viking Dr, Anchorage. (foodbankofalaska.org)
- VOA Alaska (youth/family mental health): Contact VOA Alaska | 907‑279‑9640 | 2600 Cordova St, Suite 101, Anchorage. (voaak.org)
- Connect Mat‑Su (Mat‑Su referrals): Local navigator hub | 907‑373‑2628. (connectmatsu.org)
- MY House Mat‑Su (youth/young parents drop‑in): Services & contact | 907‑373‑HELP (4357) | 300 N Willow, Wasilla. (myhousematsu.org)
Fairbanks & Interior
- Interior Alaska Center for Non‑Violent Living (IACNVL): 24/7 shelter & advocacy | 907‑452‑2293 | 726 26th Ave #1, Fairbanks. (iacnvl.org)
- Fairbanks Community Food Bank: Emergency Food Box — how it works | 907‑457‑4273 | 725 26th Ave, Fairbanks. (fairbanksfoodbank.org)
- United Way of the Tanana Valley: Community resources | 907‑452‑7211. (unitedwaytv.com)
Juneau & Southeast
- AWARE (DV/SA shelter): 24/7 crisis & services | 907‑586‑1090 | PO Box 20809, Juneau. (awareak.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul Juneau: Get help (housing, navigator, warming shelter) | 907‑789‑5535 | 8617 Teal St, Juneau. (svdpjuneau.org)
- Southeast Alaska Food Bank (public pantry): Contact & hours | 907‑789‑6184 | 10020 Crazy Horse Dr, Juneau. (sealaskafoodbank.org)
Statewide navigation
- Alaska 2‑1‑1 (United Way of Anchorage): Search & hours | 2‑1‑1 / 800‑478‑2221. (alaska211.org)
FAQs (Alaska‑specific)
- How many times can I get an Emergency Food Box in Fairbanks?
Up to 10 times per calendar year per person; each order is about 20 lbs per person in your household (about 3 days of food). Call 10 a.m.–noon, Mon–Fri. (fairbanksfoodbank.org) - I can’t travel with my toddlers. Will anyone deliver food?
In Anchorage, call F.I.S.H. 907‑277‑0818 in the morning for next‑day delivery. Some church partners also deliver to seniors/parents with disabilities. (fishcharity.org) - I lost my ID and can’t apply anywhere. Help?
Ask LSSA about ID or birth certificate vouchers (limited, first‑come). Start calling at 9 a.m. Monday. (lssalaska.org) - Do church funds pay landlords directly?
Most do (Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul). Be ready with your landlord name, phone, and lease. (salvationarmyusa.org, alaskapublic.org) - Is DV shelter only for women?
No. AWAIC, IACNVL, and AWARE serve all genders and families. Call to safety‑plan. (awaic.org, iacnvl.org, awareak.org) - I’m a teen mom — where can I live?
Covenant House Alaska is 24/7 for youth 13–24; Passage House houses pregnant/parenting young women 17–21 for up to 18 months. (covenanthouse.org, covenanthouseak.org) - Is 2‑1‑1 actually useful?
Yes. In 2024, Alaskans made over 47,000 connections for help through Alaska 2‑1‑1. It’s free and multilingual. (liveunitedanc.org) - I’m Alaska Native; are there tribal options besides state programs?
Yes. In Anchorage, CITC provides temporary cash support, heating assistance, childcare help, and family services for AN/AI households. 907‑793‑3300. In Southeast, Tlingit & Haida runs community advocacy and emergency supports. 800‑344‑1432. (citci.org, tlingitandhaida.gov) - Where can I eat a hot meal with my kids today?
In Anchorage, Downtown Hope Center serves lunch daily 12–1:30 p.m.; check Food Bank of Alaska calendars for community meals by neighborhood. (downtownhopecenter.org, foodbankofalaska.org) - What’s the fastest way to avoid a shutoff?
Call the utility to set a payment plan; then call Salvation Army Family Services 907‑375‑3500 or your local SVDP for a one‑time pledge. Keep proof of income and your account number ready. (salvationarmyusa.org)
Quick‑scan tables you can use
Table: Who helps with what (by need)
| Need | Anchorage | Fairbanks/Interior | Juneau/Southeast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | St. Francis House; LSSA; F.I.S.H.; Food Bank of Alaska | Fairbanks Community Food Bank (Emergency Food Box) | SE Alaska Food Bank; SVDP Juneau |
| Family shelter | Clare House; McKinnell House | Ask IACNVL for DV safety; United Way for family motels | AWARE (DV); SVDP transitional/seasonal warming |
| DV safety | AWAIC | IACNVL | AWARE |
| Youth/young moms | Covenant House, Passage House; MY House Mat‑Su | Call 2‑1‑1 for youth shelters | AWARE referrals; 2‑1‑1 |
| Rent/utility | Salvation Army Family Services; SVDP (conference) | United Way TV for church benevolence list | SVDP Juneau; United Way SE |
(cssalaska.org, lssalaska.org, fishcharity.org, fairbanksfoodbank.org, sealaskafoodbank.org, svdpjuneau.org, salvationarmyusa.org, iacnvl.org, awareak.org, covenanthouse.org, myhousematsu.org)
Table: Alaska safety and crisis lines (keep this)
| Service | Phone |
|---|---|
| AWAIC (Anchorage DV) | 907‑272‑0100 |
| IACNVL (Fairbanks DV/SA) | 907‑452‑2293 / 800‑478‑7273 |
| AWARE (Juneau DV/SA) | 907‑586‑1090 / 800‑478‑1090 |
| National DV Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) |
| StrongHearts Native Helpline | 1‑844‑762‑8483 |
| 988 Lifeline / CARELINE | 988 / 1‑877‑266‑4357 |
| Alaska 2‑1‑1 | 2‑1‑1 / 1‑800‑478‑2221 |
(awaic.org, iacnvl.org, awareak.org, dps.alaska.gov, alaska211.org)
Table: Food programs — what to expect
| Program | Frequency | Proof needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Francis House (Anchorage) | 2x/month | ID | Client‑choice; plan 30 minutes. FY2024 13,758 served. (cssalaska.org) |
| LSSA Pantry (Anchorage) | 1x/month | ID | Evening hours Wednesdays. (lssalaska.org) |
| F.I.S.H. delivery (Anchorage) | Every 30 days | Phone intake | First 20 requests per service day; next‑day delivery. (fishcharity.org) |
| Fairbanks Emergency Food Box | Up to 10/year | ID | ~20 lbs per person per order; call 10 a.m.–noon. (fairbanksfoodbank.org) |
| SE Alaska Food Bank (Juneau) | Weekly pantry | None | Public pantry Thursdays 3–5:30 p.m. (sealaskafoodbank.org) |
Quick Reference: Plan B options if turned away
- Food: Use Food Bank of Alaska’s monthly calendars for a different pantry that’s open that day; ask 2‑1‑1 for a mobile pantry or church meal nearby. (foodbankofalaska.org)
- Shelter: Ask DV programs to safety‑plan alternate shelter or transport; check ACEH’s current shelter list and warming centers. (aceh.org)
- Rent/Utilities: Ask if you can switch to a smaller pledge (e.g., 50–50–150) to keep service on; apply to a different church conference (SVDP often has multiple parish conferences). (svdpanchorage.com)
Resource list (clickable, with phone and address)
- Salvation Army Alaska – Anchorage Family Services and McKinnell House: Family shelter and emergency assistance | 907‑375‑3500 | 1712 A St, Anchorage. (salvationarmyusa.org)
- Catholic Social Services (Anchorage) – Clare House & St. Francis House Pantry: Shelter for women with children; large food pantry | Clare House 907‑563‑4545, St. Francis House 907‑222‑7323 | 4110 Spenard Rd & 3710 E 20th Ave, Anchorage. (cssalaska.org)
- United Way of Anchorage – Alaska 2‑1‑1: Search and helpline hours | 2‑1‑1 / 1‑800‑478‑2221 | PO Box 200108, Anchorage. (alaska211.org)
- United Way of Southeast Alaska: Contact & local referrals | 907‑463‑5533 | 8711 Teal St, Suite 204, Juneau. (unitedwayseak.org)
- United Way of the Tanana Valley (Fairbanks): Community resources | 907‑452‑7211 | 200 N Cushman St, 2nd Fl, Fairbanks. (unitedwaytv.com)
- Food Bank of Alaska: Find Food Now | 907‑272‑3663 | 2192 Viking Dr, Anchorage. (foodbankofalaska.org)
- Lutheran Social Services of Alaska: Pantry & Direct Assistance | 907‑272‑0643 | 1303 W 33rd Ave, Anchorage. (lssalaska.org)
- F.I.S.H. Anchorage (home food delivery): How to request food | 907‑277‑0818. (fishcharity.org)
- AWAIC (Anchorage DV services): 24/7 crisis line & services | 907‑272‑0100. (awaic.org)
- IACNVL (Fairbanks DV/SA): Contact | 907‑452‑2293 | 726 26th Ave #1, Fairbanks. (iacnvl.org)
- AWARE (Juneau DV/SA): Contact & services | 907‑586‑1090 | PO Box 20809, Juneau. (awareak.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul Juneau: Get support | 907‑789‑5535 | 8617 Teal St, Juneau. (svdpjuneau.org)
- Covenant House Alaska: Shelter & youth programs | 907‑272‑1255 | 755 A St, Anchorage. (covenanthouse.org)
- Downtown Hope Center (women’s shelter & meals): Programs | 907‑277‑4302 | 240 E 3rd Ave, Anchorage. (downtownhopecenter.org)
- Cook Inlet Tribal Council (AN/AI families in Anchorage): Financial & family services | 907‑793‑3300 | 3600 San Jeronimo Dr, Anchorage. (citci.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from nonprofits and established networks (United Way/2‑1‑1, Catholic Social Services, Salvation Army, Food Bank of Alaska, domestic violence coalitions) and statewide data sources. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards, including primary‑source links, regular link checks, and prompt corrections. We are independent and not a government agency. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Send corrections to info@asinglemother.org.
Editorial standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (asinglemother.org)
Disclaimer
Program hours, eligibility, and funding change frequently. Always verify by phone or website before you go. Health and safety resources are included for harm reduction only. We maintain site security standards and update links regularly, but we cannot guarantee third‑party site security.
If a link breaks or something here is out of date, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it quickly.
Quick note on content gaps we filled versus typical top search results: most pages list government benefits, give vague advice, or don’t include exact call hours, phone numbers, addresses, or concrete quantities (like Fairbanks food box weight and annual limits, F.I.S.H. delivery rules, or AWAIC rent‑help duration). This guide centers on immediate, local nonprofit help, adds realistic timelines, documents to bring, and plan‑B options with verified, dated sources. (fairbanksfoodbank.org, fishcharity.org, awaic.org)
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