Community Support for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Arkansas Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers [Ultimate Real‑World Guide]
Last updated: September 2025
This people-first guide focuses only on community, faith‑based, and nonprofit help in Arkansas. No state or federal benefit programs here—just on‑the‑ground resources single moms actually use.
Quick Help Box (start here)
- Call 2‑1‑1 (Arkansas 211) any time for live referrals to local food, housing, diapers, legal aid, and more; interpreters available in 150+ languages. Learn how Arkansas 211 works. (arkansas211.org)
- Domestic violence help now: Peace at Home NWA hotline (479) 442‑9811 or toll‑free (877) 442‑9811 (24/7, English/Español). Peace at Home Family Shelter services. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Domestic violence help in Central Arkansas: Women & Children First hotline (501) 376‑3219 or toll‑free (800) 332‑4443 (statewide line). What WCF does. (wcfarkansas.org)
- Emergency shelter tonight (Central AR): Salvation Army Center of Hope, call (501) 374‑9296 (check‑in typically 4:30–10:00 p.m.). Center of Hope details. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Emergency shelter tonight (NWA): Salvation Army shelters in Fayetteville (479) 521‑0857 and Bentonville (479) 271‑9545 (family dorms; dinner served). NWA shelter info. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Utility shutoff notice in Pulaski Co.? Text a photo of the bill to (501) 777‑5140 and call (501) 777‑8758 on the 2nd/4th Tuesdays (10 a.m.–12 p.m.) for St. Francis House help (water/electric; funds limited). Utility assistance rules. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Free/low‑cost medical care (Pulaski Co.): Catholic Charities Medical Clinic (formerly Westside) by appointment Wednesdays 5–8 p.m., call (501) 664‑0340; Spanish interpreters available. Clinic details. (dolr.org)
- Diapers, Central AR: Central Arkansas Diaper Bank (Pulaski Heights UMC) first Wednesday monthly, pre‑order by email; 4823 Woodlawn Dr., Little Rock. How pickup works. (phumc.com)
- Diapers, Northwest AR: The Diaper Collective distributes through 25+ partners across NWA—see locations and times. Find diaper partners. (familynetworknwa.com)
- Legal help (civil issues): Legal Aid of Arkansas helpline 1‑800‑952‑9243; typical income limit 125% FPL (some exceptions up to 200% FPL). Eligibility chart. (arlegalaid.org)
Emergency options first
If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911. For overnight safety, the fastest path is to call the hotline or shelter directly and ask about tonight’s bed availability and check‑in times (shown below). Bring IDs if you have them; lack of ID is not a reason to stay in danger.
Fast contacts and hours
- Salvation Army Center of Hope (Little Rock) — check‑in typically 4:30–10:00 p.m., call (501) 374‑9296 (after 4:30 p.m. press ext. 113). Women and families, breakfast served daily. Program page. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Salvation Army Emergency Shelters (NWA) — Fayetteville check‑in 4:30–9:00 p.m.; Bentonville check‑in 5:00–9:00 p.m. Family dorms; dinner provided. Phones: (479) 521‑0857 (Fayetteville), (479) 271‑9545 (Bentonville). Shelter details. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Women & Children First (Little Rock) — 54‑bed DV shelter; 24/7 hotline (501) 376‑3219 or (800) 332‑4443; intake by phone any time. About WCF. (wcfarkansas.org)
- Peace at Home Family Shelter (NWA) — 50‑bed DV shelter; 24/7 hotline (479) 442‑9811 or (877) 442‑9811; legal and housing support. About & capacity. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Our House (Little Rock) — first‑come, first‑served shelter (80+ residents), plus Family House transitional units; must be able to work 32 hours/week after a 21‑day job‑search window. Call intake (501) 374‑7383 ext. 221; go in person to claim a bed: 302 E Roosevelt Rd. Housing requirements. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Little Rock Compassion Center — men’s and women’s shelters; women & children’s AWAKEN shelter (75 beds). Main line (501) 296‑9114; women’s shelter (501) 663‑2972; check‑in generally 3–7 p.m. Services & shelter info. (lrcompassioncenter.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Best first call or place | What they do | Key details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Find anything fast (food, rent help, diapers) | Arkansas 211 — dial 2‑1‑1 | Live specialists match you to closest help; email/text referrals; interpreters | Database of 19,000+ resources; statewide coverage. How 211 works. (arkansas211.org) |
| Domestic violence (NWA) | Peace at Home — (479) 442‑9811 | Safety planning, shelter, legal aid, housing assistance | 24/7; 50‑bed shelter; English/Español. Programs. (peaceathomeshelter.org) |
| Domestic violence (Central AR) | Women & Children First — (501) 376‑3219 | 54‑bed shelter; court advocacy; counseling | Statewide hotline also (800) 332‑4443. What WCF does. (wcfarkansas.org) |
| Tonight’s shelter (Central AR) | Salvation Army Center of Hope — (501) 374‑9296 | Emergency beds for women/families; breakfast | Check‑in 4:30–10 p.m.; first‑come. Center of Hope. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| Tonight’s shelter (NWA) | Salvation Army — (479) 521‑0857 (Fayetteville), (479) 271‑9545 (Bentonville) | Family dorms; dinner; warming/cooling centers as needed | Check‑in 4:30/5:00–9:00 p.m. Shelter info. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| Utility shutoff (Pulaski Co.) | St. Francis House — (501) 777‑8758 | Water/electric assistance | Must have official shut‑off notice; text bill to (501) 777‑5140 on designated days. Guidelines. (stfrancishouselr.org) |
| Free medical (Pulaski Co.) | Catholic Charities Medical Clinic — (501) 664‑0340 | Free adult primary care (Wed. evenings), pharmacy for established patients | Appointments only; Spanish interpreters. Clinic page. (dolr.org) |
| Free dental/food (NWA) | Samaritan Community Center — (479) 340‑0109 (Care line) | Free café meals; client‑choice pantry; dental for adults ≤200% FPL | Hours and contacts listed online. Find Help. (samcc.org) |
| Diapers (Central AR) | Central Arkansas Diaper Bank | Free diapers monthly (pre‑order) | Pickup first Wednesday, 8:00–9:30 a.m.; email to reserve. Details. (phumc.com) |
| Diapers (NWA) | The Diaper Collective | Partners across NWA distribute | Locations/times listed; 327,893 diapers in 2023. About & partners. (familynetworknwa.com) |
Why community help matters in Arkansas (reality check)
- Arkansas poverty rate is 15.7% (2023), higher than the U.S. average. That’s many families who need fast, local help to stay housed and fed. U.S. Census QuickFacts – Arkansas. (census.gov)
- In NWA, rents and home prices have outpaced wages in recent years, squeezing single‑income households. While charities can’t bridge every gap, they often keep a shut‑off or eviction from happening. (Summary of regional trend reporting.) (axios.com)
This guide fills common gaps in online lists: actual check‑in times, phone numbers, addresses, eligibility rules, and realistic timelines.
Application Checklist (bring as many as you can)
- Government‑issued photo ID (yours).
- Proof of Arkansas residence (recent mail, lease, shelter letter).
- Proof of income or job loss (last 30 days’ paystubs, separation/layoff letter).
- For utilities: the actual bill with an official shut‑off/disconnect notice if required (St. Francis House requires this). Rules here. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- For rent help: lease with your name, landlord contact, and amount due.
- For diapers/food: kids’ names/ages; diaper size; bring ID.
- For legal aid: all court papers, notices, and deadlines in writing.
Tip: If you’re missing documents, call anyway. Many nonprofits will help you problem‑solve.
Rent and Utility Help from Charities and Churches
Start with your imminent risk—shut‑off or eviction. Funding is limited and cycles in/out, so call early (morning) and follow exactly what each group asks.
St. Francis House (Little Rock)
- What they help with: Utility bills (water/electric). No rent or gas bills currently. You must have an official shut‑off/disconnect notice. Assistance available the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, call (501) 777‑8758 between 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and text the bill to (501) 777‑5140. Response usually 24–48 hours; funds are first‑come and run out quickly. Full guidelines. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Extra basics: Food pantry (Mon–Fri), clothing, prescription co‑pays help, and bus pass referrals (through TAP). Community outreach services. (stfrancishouselr.org)
Eligibility snapshot: Shut‑off notice, current bill, and ID; no walk‑ins for utility help.
Timeline reality: Same‑day funds are rare; expect 1–3 days if approved.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call Salvation Army social services for your county for one‑time utility or rent help when available: NWA social services (479) 521‑2151 (menu options), and check county availability; Little Rock Area Command (501) 374‑9296. NWA services. Central AR. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for churches offering emergency assistance near your ZIP; ask the specialist to email/text you the list. (arkansas211.org)
Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Rogers/Lowell)
- For Rogers/Lowell residents (or SVdP parishioners): call (479) 616‑1242; volunteers return calls within 48 hours to schedule a home visit and determine emergency financial help (as funds allow). How to request aid. (svdpmtc.org)
- Food support: St. Vincent de Paul partners with the Feed Rogers client‑choice pantry (walk‑ins welcome during open hours). 216 S 13th St., Rogers; (479) 408‑4393. Feed Rogers hours & info. (nwafoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check your city’s utility page (many list local churches that help). Example: Bentonville lists multiple churches and the Salvation Army (479) 271‑9545 for utility aid. Bentonville utility assistance page. (bentonvillear.com)
Salvation Army (Statewide, local corps)
- Services vary by location: electric bill help, food boxes, clothing vouchers, and sometimes rent assistance—always based on local funding. NWA appointment line (479) 521‑2151 (follow prompts); Central Arkansas (501) 374‑9296. NWA services. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the caseworker for a “warm referral” to another church/agency with funds this week; then call 2‑1‑1 to confirm eligibility and hours. (arkansas211.org)
Food, Diapers, and Daily Basics
Samaritan Community Center (Rogers & Springdale)
- Free hot meals (restaurant‑style) Tue–Thu 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (both locations). 63,490 meals served in 2023. Café hours. (samcc.org)
- Client‑choice pantry (Samaritan Market) Tue–Thu mornings; call the Care line (479) 340‑0109 for guidance. Find help: programs and addresses. (samcc.org)
- Free charitable dental clinic (adults ≤ 200% FPL). Call (479) 636‑0451; no walk‑ins. Dental program. (samcc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check church pantries near you via 2‑1‑1; many have evening hours (ask for “client‑choice” pantries to pick items your kids will eat). (arkansas211.org)
Feed Rogers (Rogers)
- Walk‑ins and appointments; open multiple days including evenings/Saturdays; no income test at the door. (479) 408‑4393. How it works. (nwafoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask a 211 specialist for nearby pantries that deliver or allow proxy pickup if you lack transportation. (rivervalleyunitedway.org)
Diapers
- Central Arkansas Diaper Bank (Little Rock): monthly distribution; must pre‑order by email; pickup first Wednesday 8:00–9:30 a.m. at Pulaski Heights UMC, 4823 Woodlawn Dr. How to receive diapers. (phumc.com)
- The Diaper Collective (NWA): distributes through 25+ partners across Benton/Washington/Madison counties; see list and hours. Partner list & info. (familynetworknwa.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call WIC‑serving clinics or local churches—many stock emergency diapers; 211 can text you nearby options. (arkansas211.org)
Shelters and Housing Programs that Welcome Moms and Kids
Domestic Violence Shelters (confidential locations)
- Peace at Home Family Shelter (NWA): 24/7 hotline (479) 442‑9811; 50‑bed emergency shelter; legal, counseling, and housing assistance (programs “SHE” and Home Restored). Programs & services. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Women & Children First (Little Rock): 54‑bed shelter, 24/7 hotline (501) 376‑3219 / (800) 332‑4443; court advocacy, transitional housing (time‑limited), children’s services. Hotline and services. (wcfarkansas.org)
Reality check: Hotlines can be busy; keep calling. If lines drop, call back from a safe phone. If you can’t safely call, ask a trusted friend or hospital ER to help you connect.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the hotline to place you on a waitlist and help with a safety plan and hotel diversion if shelter is full. Also call the Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence hotline (800) 269‑4668 for statewide connections. City of Little Rock victim services resource list. (littlerock.gov)
Family & Emergency Shelters (non‑DV)
- Salvation Army Shelters (NWA & Central AR): family dorms; dinner/breakfast; check‑in windows shown above; phone numbers: Fayetteville (479) 521‑0857, Bentonville (479) 271‑9545, Little Rock (501) 374‑9296. Shelter info. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Our House (Little Rock): first‑come beds; Family House transitional units; all residents must be able to work 32 hours/week (21‑day job search window). Intake line (501) 374‑7383 ext. 221. Eligibility & enrollment. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Little Rock Compassion Center (Men’s/Women’s; AWAKEN for women & children): main (501) 296‑9114; women’s shelter (501) 663‑2972; three hot meals daily; savings and recovery programs. Women & children info. (lrcompassioncenter.org)
- 7hills Day Center (Fayetteville): daytime basic‑needs hub—meals, showers, laundry, mail, case management; will connect you to shelter options and add you to the regional housing list. Day Center 1832 S School Ave; (479) 966‑4378. How to get help. (7hillscenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Go in person early to the shelter you’re targeting (lines start before check‑in), and call 2‑1‑1 to ask for any church warming centers or hotel diversion programs running this week. (arkansas211.org)
Health, Dental, and Counseling (Charitable & Faith‑Based)
- Catholic Charities Medical Clinic (Little Rock): free adult primary care on Wednesdays 5–8 p.m. by appointment; pharmacy for established patients; Spanish interpreters. Call (501) 664‑0340. Clinic page. (dolr.org)
- Harmony Health Clinic (Little Rock): free medical and (as capacity allows) dental care for uninsured adults who live or work in Pulaski Co.; eligibility typically at/under FPL; application required—no walk‑ins. 201 E Roosevelt Rd; (501) 375‑4400. Clinic info & contact (harmonyclinicar.org)
- River City Ministry (North Little Rock): free adult medical and dental clinics by appointment; hot meals and food pantry; TAP bus pass referrals (via St. Francis House). (501) 376‑6694. Need help page. (rivercityministry.org)
- Samaritan Community Center Dental (Rogers): free adult dental for those ≤ 200% FPL; call (479) 636‑0451; no walk‑ins. Dental program. (samcc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask clinics for a written denial or “next steps” and call 2‑1‑1 to locate the next charitable clinic slot in your county or a church medical outreach event. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
Child & Youth Programs (low cost or free)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arkansas (Little Rock/NLR): school‑year membership 150∗∗,summer∗∗150**, summer **250; scholarships available; meal/snack included. Membership fees & locations. (bgcofca.com)
- Boys & Girls Club of Benton County (NWA): school‑year after‑school care typically 120/month∗∗(reduced∗∗120/month** (reduced **60 for free/reduced‑lunch students), summer 70/week∗∗(reduced∗∗70/week** (reduced **35 for FRL students); scholarships available. Official cost info and summary report. (bgcbentoncounty.org, arkansasonline.com)
- Ronald McDonald House Charities (for families with hospitalized children): free lodging near hospitals (Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville family rooms/houses). Reservations are made through your hospital social worker. Little Rock RMH: (501) 374‑1956. RMHC Arkansas programs. (rmhcarkansas.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your school counselor about local church‑run after‑school programs or scholarship slots; call 2‑1‑1 for youth programs with fee waivers. (arkansas211.org)
Jobs, Education, and Money Counseling
- Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF): scholarships up to $1,600 per semester (full‑time; prorated part‑time) for single parents in college/training. Fall 2025 application window Aug 1–Sept 1, 2025; Spring 2026 Nov 1–Dec 1, 2025. Deadlines and award amounts. (aspsf.org)
- Goodwill’s The Excel Center (adult high school): tuition‑free adult diploma with free on‑site childcare and transportation assistance; locations in Little Rock (7400 Scott Hamilton Dr) and Springdale (2100 S Old Missouri Rd). Phones: (501) 290‑2474 (LR); (479) 595‑8818 (Springdale). Excel FAQ & locations and locations. (goodwillar.org)
- Credit Counseling of Arkansas (CCOA): free budgeting/credit counseling; optional Debt Management Plan with 40∗∗one‑timesetupand∗∗40** one‑time setup and **15–$45 monthly fee (tiered, waivers possible). Offices in Fayetteville, Bentonville, Fort Smith; main 1‑800‑889‑4916. Fee schedule & FAQs and FAQ. (ccoacares.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask Excel Center staff or ASPSF advisors to refer you to partner nonprofits for childcare, fuel cards, or mentorship while in school. Many have emergency funds for students. (arkansasonline.com)
Legal Aid for Family, Housing, and Consumer Problems
- Legal Aid of Arkansas: helpline 1‑800‑952‑9243; typical income limit 125% FPL (up to 200% in special cases). They prioritize cases like safety, housing, and essential benefits appeals. Eligibility guidelines and FAQ/helpline. (arlegalaid.org)
- Center for Arkansas Legal Services: use the shared online portal/helpline to apply (same income thresholds apply). How to qualify/apply. (a.arlawhelp.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for a list of pro bono clinics or lawyer referral programs in your county; 2‑1‑1 can also send you a list of upcoming legal clinics. (arkansas211.org)
Transportation
- TAP Bus Pass referrals (Pulaski Co.): River City Ministry screens applicants Mon/Thu mornings; St. Francis House issues the pass. RCM (501) 376‑6694; St. Francis House (501) 664‑5036. RCM services. (rivercityministry.org)
- Salvation Army and shelters may provide gas cards/bus tokens when funds allow—ask the local corps or case manager. NWA services. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your caseworker to include transport costs in any prevention/rapid‑rehousing budget; some nonprofits can fund bus passes if it prevents losing a job. (7hillscenter.org)
Diverse Communities: tailored help and inclusion
- LGBTQ+ single moms: Arkansas 211 can filter results to LGBTQ+‑friendly services; Peace at Home, WCF, Samaritan, and many clinics state non‑discrimination policies and provide services regardless of orientation or identity. Peace at Home statement and services. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Single moms with disabilities or disabled children: Ask shelters and clinics about accessibility; RCM and Samaritan connect to dental/vision care and case management; RMHC houses keep families together near hospitals at no cost. RMHC Arkansas – no‑cost lodging. (rmhcarkansas.org)
- Veteran single mothers: SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) offers homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing via St. Francis House (offices statewide). Fayetteville (479) 249‑9872; Little Rock (501) 916‑2514; Jonesboro (870) 558‑5100. SSVF Arkansas offices. (ssvfarkansas.org)
- Immigrant/refugee moms: Catholic Immigration Services (Little Rock & Springdale) offer low‑cost legal help; consultation $40. LR (501) 664‑0340; Springdale (479) 927‑1996. Little Rock office and Springdale office. (dolr.org)
- Rural moms with limited access: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for mobile pantries, church benevolence funds, and tele‑legal clinics. Text your ZIP to 898211 if phone minutes are limited. River Valley United Way 211 contact methods. (rivervalleyunitedway.org)
- Single fathers: Our House automatically admits single fathers with children to Family House (transitional). Eligibility note. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Language access: Arkansas 211 has live interpreter support in 150+ languages and site translation. How 211 works. (arkansas211.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the day of shut‑off or eviction to call. Lines fill early and funds go fast, especially Tuesday/Thursday mornings.
- Not sending a clear photo of the full disconnect notice (where required). St. Francis House discards bills without an official shut‑off warning. Utility guidelines. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Assuming shelters will “hold” a bed. Our House and Salvation Army operate first‑come; you must show up at check‑in. Our House enrollment & availability. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Bringing all your belongings to a shelter line. Call first about what you can bring and storage options.
- Applying to legal aid after a deadline passes. Call as soon as you receive papers—Legal Aid triages urgent deadlines first. Legal Aid FAQ. (arlegalaid.org)
Real‑World Examples
- You have a water shut‑off notice dated Friday. On Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., call (501) 777‑8758 (St. Francis House) and text the bill to (501) 777‑5140; expect a response within 24–48 hours if funds are available. Guidelines. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- You need a safe place tonight with your kids in Fayetteville. Call (479) 442‑9811 (DV) or the Salvation Army (479) 521‑0857 for shelter check‑in. Go early; dinner is at 5:00 p.m. P@H hotline and Salvation Army NWA shelters. (peaceathomeshelter.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- You’re going back to school. Apply to ASPSF in the next window (e.g., Fall 2025: Aug 1–Sept 1) for up to $1,600/semester. Use Goodwill’s Excel Center for a free adult diploma with childcare if you need to finish high school. ASPSF deadlines/amounts and Excel Center FAQ. (aspsf.org, goodwillar.org)
Timelines you can expect
- Utility help: 1–3 days if funds are available; some churches cut checks weekly only. St. Francis response time note. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Shelter intake: same day during check‑in windows; family DV sheltering may require a hotline safety screen first. P@H & WCF / WCF. (peaceathomeshelter.org, wcfarkansas.org)
- Dental/medical clinics: weeks to book non‑urgent slots; emergency extraction clinics open sooner at Samaritan and River City Ministry—call on scheduling days. Samaritan Dental / RCM. (samcc.org, rivercityministry.org)
Tables you can scan fast
A) Emergency and Hotline Directory
| Service | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas 211 | 2‑1‑1 | 24/7 statewide referrals; text ZIP to 898211. (rivervalleyunitedway.org) |
| Peace at Home (NWA) | (479) 442‑9811 / (877) 442‑9811 | DV crisis line, shelter, legal/housing. (peaceathomeshelter.org) |
| Women & Children First (Central AR) | (501) 376‑3219 / (800) 332‑4443 | DV crisis line; 54‑bed shelter. (wcfarkansas.org) |
| Salvation Army Center of Hope (LR) | (501) 374‑9296 | Emergency shelter; check‑in 4:30–10:00 p.m. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| Salvation Army Shelters (NWA) | (479) 521‑0857 / (479) 271‑9545 | Family dorms; dinner/breakfast. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| St. Francis House utilities | (501) 777‑8758 | Shut‑off required; text bill to (501) 777‑5140. (stfrancishouselr.org) |
B) Shelter and Check‑In Snapshot
| Shelter | Who | Check‑in / Meals | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salvation Army Center of Hope (LR) | Women & families | Check‑in 4:30–10 p.m.; breakfast 7 a.m. | 1111 W Markham St., Little Rock |
| Salvation Army Fayetteville | Men/Women/Families | Check‑in 4:30–9 p.m.; dinner 5 p.m. | 219 W 15th St., Fayetteville |
| Salvation Army Bentonville | Men/Women/Families | Check‑in 5–9 p.m.; dinner 6 p.m. | 3305 SW I St., Bentonville |
| Little Rock Compassion Center (Women & Children — AWAKEN) | Women & kids | Call; typical check‑in 3–7 p.m. | 4210 Asher Ave., Little Rock |
| Our House Shelter (LR) | Adults able to work; families | First‑come; must be able to work 32 hrs/week | 302 E Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock |
C) Utility & Rent Help At‑A‑Glance
| Provider | Counties | What they fund | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Francis House | Pulaski | Water/Electric only; must have shut‑off | Call (501) 777‑8758 on designated Tuesdays; text bill to (501) 777‑5140. (stfrancishouselr.org) |
| Salvation Army Social Services | Varies | Electric, rent, food/clothing (as funds allow) | NWA (479) 521‑2151 (menu) or LR (501) 374‑9296. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) |
| SVdP Mother Teresa Conf. | Rogers/Lowell | Emergency financial aid after home visit | Leave message (479) 616‑1242; 48‑hr callback. (svdpmtc.org) |
D) Food & Diapers
| Resource | Contact | When |
|---|---|---|
| Samaritan Café (Rogers/Springdale) | (479) 340‑0109 | Tue–Thu 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. free meals. (samcc.org) |
| Samaritan Market pantry | (479) 340‑0109 | Tue–Thu mornings (see site). (samcc.org) |
| Feed Rogers pantry | (479) 408‑4393 | Wed/Fri/Sat daytime; Thu evenings. (nwafoodbank.org) |
| Central AR Diaper Bank | Email to reserve | First Wed 8:00–9:30 a.m. pickup. (phumc.com) |
| The Diaper Collective (NWA) | See partner list | Partners distribute across NWA weekly/monthly. (familynetworknwa.com) |
E) School, Work, and Legal
| Program | Benefit | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| ASPSF | Up to $1,600/semester + mentoring | Apply during posted windows. (aspsf.org) |
| Goodwill Excel Center | Free adult diploma + childcare + transit assist | LR (501) 290‑2474; Springdale (479) 595‑8818. (goodwillar.org) |
| Legal Aid of Arkansas | Free civil legal help ≤ 125% FPL (exceptions possible) | 1‑800‑952‑9243; online intake available. (arlegalaid.org) |
FAQs (Arkansas‑specific)
- Where do I start if I need multiple kinds of help at once?
Call 2‑1‑1 first and ask for three local options per need (food, utilities, shelter). Request the list by text. (arkansas211.org) - Can I get help without an ID?
Yes for DV shelters; other shelters/charities may still try to help. Ask what else they can accept (school ID, mail, a letter from a shelter/agency). Policies vary. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, peaceathomeshelter.org) - Are there free clinics for adults in Pulaski County?
Yes—Catholic Charities Medical Clinic, Harmony Health Clinic, and River City Ministry run free clinics (eligibility varies). Call before going. (dolr.org, harmonyclinicar.org, rivercityministry.org) - My utility bill says “Past Due” but no shut‑off date yet. Can St. Francis House help?
No—St. Francis requires an official “disconnect/shut‑off” notice. Call anyway for instructions and use 2‑1‑1 to find churches that help before shut‑off. (stfrancishouselr.org) - Are there shelters that take teenage sons with their mothers?
Yes—DV programs vary; Little Rock’s Dorcas House (Union Rescue Mission) reports serving women with children, including teen boys in DV recovery programs. Call (501) 374‑4022. (arkansasonline.com) - Is there truly free lodging near Arkansas Children’s Hospital?
Yes—Ronald McDonald House in Little Rock is free; reservations are made via hospital staff. (501) 374‑1956. (rmhcarkansas.org) - I lost housing but can work. Who helps with jobs fast?
Try Our House Career Center (open to the public) and Goodwill Excel Center for diploma completion and credentials; ask about hiring events and transportation help. (ourhouseshelter.org, goodwillar.org) - I need low‑cost after‑school care. What’s realistic?
Boys & Girls Clubs charge around 150∗∗perschoolyear(CentralAR)or∗∗150** per school year (Central AR) or **120/month (Benton Co.) with scholarships. Call your local unit about pickups from your child’s school. (bgcofca.com, bgcbentoncounty.org) - I’m an immigrant mom. Can I get legal help I can afford?
Yes—Catholic Immigration Services in Little Rock and Springdale offer low‑cost help; consultation $40. LR (501) 664‑0340; Springdale (479) 927‑1996. (dolr.org) - What if every place says “funds are out”?
Ask for the next “funding cycle” date and join waitlists. Then call 2‑1‑1 to find church benevolence funds and pantries with evening hours. Keep receipts and notices in a folder for faster processing next time. (arkansas211.org)
Resources by Region (selected)
Central Arkansas
- Salvation Army Center of Hope — shelter and assistance. (501) 374‑9296. Center of Hope page. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- St. Francis House — utilities, pantry, clothing, meds co‑pays, bus passes (with referral). (501) 664‑5036; utilities line (501) 777‑8758; text (501) 777‑5140. Services. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Our House — shelter & Family House; intake (501) 374‑7383 ext. 221. Housing. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Women & Children First — DV shelter/hotline (501) 376‑3219. What we do. (wcfarkansas.org)
- Catholic Charities Medical Clinic — (501) 664‑0340 (Wed. evenings). Clinic page. (dolr.org)
- Little Rock Compassion Center — shelters and three meals daily. (501) 296‑9114. Services. (lrcompassioncenter.org)
Northwest Arkansas
- Salvation Army Shelters — Fayetteville (479) 521‑0857; Bentonville (479) 271‑9545. Shelter details. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Peace at Home Family Shelter — (479) 442‑9811. Programs. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Samaritan Community Center — meals, pantry, dental. Care line (479) 340‑0109; dental (479) 636‑0451. Find Help. (samcc.org)
- Feed Rogers — pantry with walk‑ins/appointments. (479) 408‑4393. Hours/location. (nwafoodbank.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul (Rogers/Lowell) — emergency aid after home visit; (479) 616‑1242. Request assistance. (svdpmtc.org)
- 7hills Day Center — daytime services & housing navigation. (479) 966‑4378. I Need Help. (7hillscenter.org)
River Valley & Fort Smith
- Salvation Army Fort Smith — shelter/assistance; (479) 783‑6145. Local programs. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- River Valley United Way (211) — Johnson, Pope, Yell Counties; dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 489‑6983; text ZIP to 898211. 211 page. (rivervalleyunitedway.org)
Northeast Arkansas
- Salvation Army Jonesboro — (870) 932‑3785 (check site for pantry/social services). Jonesboro Corps. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- ASPSF — scholarships statewide; see deadlines and county exceptions. Deadlines & apply. (aspsf.org)
What this guide adds (vs. typical top search results)
- Exact check‑in windows, phone numbers, and addresses for shelters. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Real eligibility triggers (e.g., shut‑off notices) and timelines 24–48 hours where published. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Concrete amounts and fees where available (e.g., 1,600/semester∗∗ASPSF;CCOADMP∗∗1,600/semester** ASPSF; CCOA DMP **40 setup, 15–15–45 monthly). (aspsf.org, ccoacares.com)
- Direct links to official program pages only (no aggregator rumor mills), in line with our editorial standards. Our editorial policy. (arkansas211.org)
Resource List (clickable, with phones and addresses)
- Salvation Army Central Arkansas — Center of Hope (emergency shelter & assistance) | (501) 374‑9296 | 1111 W Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, search.arkansas211.org)
- Salvation Army Northwest Arkansas — Shelters & social services | Fayetteville (479) 521‑0857, Bentonville (479) 271‑9545 | 219 W 15th St., Fayetteville; 3305 SW I St., Bentonville. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Catholic Charities of Arkansas — Medical Clinic (free care) | (501) 664‑0340 | 2415 N Tyler St., Little Rock, AR 72207. (dolr.org)
- Catholic Immigration Services — Little Rock office (501) 664‑0340 | 2415 N Tyler St., Little Rock, AR 72207; Springdale office (479) 927‑1996 | 2022 W Sunset Ave., Springdale, AR 72762. (dolr.org)
- United Way / Arkansas 211 — Get connected to local help | Dial 2‑1‑1 statewide (24/7). (arkansas211.org)
- St. Francis House — Utility assistance & basic needs | (501) 777‑8758 (utilities), main (501) 664‑5036 | 2701 S Elm St., Little Rock, AR 72204. (stfrancishouselr.org)
- Samaritan Community Center — Meals, pantry, dental | Care line (479) 340‑0109; Dental (479) 636‑0451 | Rogers: 2910 S 8th St., Rogers, AR 72758; Springdale: 1520 W Huntsville. (samcc.org)
- Feed Rogers (NWA Food Bank + SVdP) — Client‑choice pantry | (479) 408‑4393 | 216 S 13th St., Rogers, AR 72756. (nwafoodbank.org)
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Rogers/Lowell) — Request emergency help | (479) 616‑1242 | 1413 W Poplar St., Rogers, AR 72756. (svdpmtc.org)
- Women & Children First — 24/7 DV hotline & shelter | (501) 376‑3219 / (800) 332‑4443 | Mailing: PO Box 1954, Little Rock, AR 72203. (wcfarkansas.org)
- Peace at Home Family Shelter — 24/7 hotline & services | (479) 442‑9811 / (877) 442‑9811 | PO Box 10946, Fayetteville, AR 72703. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
- Our House — Shelter & Family House | (501) 374‑7383 ext. 221 | 302 E Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock, AR 72206. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Little Rock Compassion Center — Shelters & meals | (501) 296‑9114 | 3618 W Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock, AR 72204. (lrcompassioncenter.org)
- Legal Aid of Arkansas — Apply/eligibility | 1‑800‑952‑9243 | Statewide. (arlegalaid.org)
- ASPSF — Scholarship deadlines & apply | Online application by county. (aspsf.org)
- Goodwill Excel Center — Adult high school, free childcare | LR (501) 290‑2474, Springdale (479) 595‑8818. (goodwillar.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Arkansas nonprofits, faith organizations, clinics, and helplines. It follows our Editorial Standards (primary sources, cross‑checks, tested links, and rapid corrections). We are independent researchers, not a government agency. (arkansas211.org)
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Send corrections to info@asinglemother.org — we investigate and update verified issues within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program funding, amounts, hours, eligibility rules, and phone numbers change frequently. Always verify details directly with the organization before traveling or applying. For urgent safety, call 911. For mental health crises, call/text 988 (24/7). We take site security seriously and never ask for sensitive personal data; apply only through official organization websites, phone numbers, or in person.
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