Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

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

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, scan‑friendly guide to real nonprofit, faith‑based, and community resources in Indiana that help with urgent needs like rent, shelter, utilities, diapers, food, safety, legal help, transportation, and furniture. It focuses on community support organizations, churches, and charities—not federal or state benefit programs. Where possible, you’ll see exact dollar amounts, income limits, and timelines from official sources.

Emergency help (do this first)

If you’re in danger or without a safe place tonight, act now:

• Call or text the domestic violence hotline at 800‑799‑7233 (24/7), or YWCA Northeast Indiana DV line 800‑441‑4073 or YWCA Evansville 812‑422‑1191 / 866‑367‑9922. These lines can place you in shelter quickly. (ywcanein.org, ywcaevansville.org)
• Call 2‑1‑1 (Indiana 211) for a live navigator 24/7 who can see open shelter beds and emergency funds near you. You can also text your ZIP to 898‑211 (Mon–Fri). Interpreters available in 150–240+ languages. (purdue.edu)
• For families fleeing abuse in Indianapolis, call The Julian Center’s crisis line 317‑920‑9320 or Coburn Place at 317‑923‑5750 for transitional housing options. (domesticshelters.org, endinghivtogether.org)
• With kids and no place to go tonight in Indianapolis: Wheeler Mission Center for Women & Children intake line 317‑687‑3630 (emergency beds, 45‑day care); Holy Family Shelter 317‑635‑7830 (family shelter). (wheelermission.org, archindy.org)
• Power shutoff or eviction notice? See the Utility & Energy section for nonprofit funds like United Way’s Winter Assistance Fund (WAF), NIPSCO Hardship and CARE, Duke Energy’s Share the Light Fund, and CenterPoint customer support. Some have fixed dollar caps (e.g., up to $300\ast \ast Duke;\ast \ast upto$400 NIPSCO Hardship). (investors.duke-energy.com, nipsco.com)

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Quick help box (start here)

• Call 2‑1‑1 or 866‑211‑9966 to get a list of nearby churches and charities with funds still open today. Interpreters available. (purdue.edu)
• For utility help in Marion County, check United Way’s Winter Assistance Fund (income up to 225% FPL; typical awards up to about $600 when funds are available). Apply at in‑person intake sites listed by United Way. (uwci.org, wthr.com)
• For rent/eviction prevention: contact your local Catholic Charities or St. Vincent de Paul conference; many can pay “last‑dollar” gaps (e.g., Catholic Charities Indianapolis’ Crisis Office often covers the last $25 to stop an eviction or disconnect). (helpcreatehope.org)
• If you need shelter with children tonight in Indianapolis, call Wheeler (317‑687‑3630) or Holy Family Shelter (317‑635‑7830). In Fort Wayne, call YWCA NE Indiana (800‑441‑4073). In Evansville, call YWCA (812‑422‑1191). (wheelermission.org, archindy.org, ywcanein.org, ywcaevansville.org)
• For diapers and baby supplies in Central Indiana: Indiana Diaper Bank provides 200 diapers every other month via its WIC/TANF service project; partners also distribute monthly bundles. (indianadiaperbank.org, indianacapitalchronicle.com)
• Need free legal help (eviction, custody, consumer debt)? Contact Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic (317‑429‑4131) or Indiana Legal Services intake (844‑243‑8570). (nclegalclinic.org, indianalegalservices.org)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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Why this help matters in Indiana (ground truth)

• In 2023, 12.3% of Hoosiers lived in poverty, and median gross rent was $967 (2018–2022 ACS). Families headed by women without a spouse are hit hardest: in 2023, 42.2% of Indiana families with a female householder and children under 18 were below poverty. (census.gov, migrationpolicy.org)
• Homelessness rose in Indianapolis in 2024, with 1,701 people counted on one January night (a 5% increase), underscoring the importance of shelters and rent prevention funds. (axios.com)
• High winter bills are a real crisis. United Way’s Winter Assistance Fund in Marion County serves households who earn too much for government EAP but still can’t afford heat; recent seasons assisted hundreds of families with more than $180,000–$224,000 in bills. (uwci.org)
• For basics like diapers, Indiana now supports a statewide service project that gives 200 diapers every other month to eligible families through WIC/TANF partners, administered by Indiana Diaper Bank. (indianacapitalchronicle.com)

Reality check: Charitable funds are limited and often pay “last‑dollar” amounts. Getting in early, providing complete documents, and combining multiple sources (church + charity + utility fund) is how many moms succeed.

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How to work the network (fast)

• Call 2‑1‑1. Ask for: “church and charity emergency assistance for rent/utility,” plus “nearest Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul conference, and Catholic Charities intake.” 2‑1‑1 can email/text you the list. (purdue.edu)
• Contact your nearest Salvation Army service center and ask for “Family Services” or “Utility/Rent Assistance” and “Pathway of Hope” case management. Use the Indiana Division locator to find your ZIP‑based office. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Leave a message with your local St. Vincent de Paul helpline; volunteers typically call back to schedule a Home Visit and can coordinate with other churches to fill a gap. For Indy: 317‑687‑0169 (English) or 317‑687‑0167 (Español). (irvican.org)
• If you’re in Evansville/Vanderburgh: Catholic Charities schedules utility/rent appointments on Monday mornings; it’s one emergency help per 12 months, and medical travel gas cards are $40, up to four per year with documentation. Call 812‑423‑5456. (ccevansville.org)

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Rent & housing supports from churches and charities

Start each request with your situation, the exact amount needed, and what you can contribute. Bring ID, lease, proof of income, and any notices.

Indianapolis & Central Indiana

• Wheeler Mission – Center for Women & Children (CWC)
  • What it is: Emergency shelter for women and women with children, up to 45 days of care; longer‑term programs for stabilization, addiction recovery, and housing. Intake by phone; beds assigned by availability. Phone 317‑687‑3630; address 3208 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. (wheelermission.org)
  • Eligibility & documents: Adults with children or single adult women; bring ID if available; case management will help if you don’t have it.
  • Timeline: Same‑day bed placement when available; longer programs 6–9 months.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 for other shelters (Dayspring Center for families; Holy Family Shelter). (wrtv.com, archindy.org)
• Holy Family Shelter (Catholic Charities Indianapolis)
  • What it is: Family shelter with capacity for up to 22 families nightly; intensive case management to stabilize housing typically within 30–45 days. Phone 317‑635‑7830; 907 N. Holmes Ave., Indianapolis. (archindy.org, archindy.org)
  • Eligibility & documents: Families (single moms, single dads, or couples) with legal custody; bring IDs/custody papers if available.
  • Timeline: Intake daily; stays generally 30–45 days. (sceindy.com)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for referral to Holy Family Transitional Housing or Coburn Place if DV is involved. (archindy.org)
• Coburn Place (DV transitional housing)
  • What it is: Transitional apartments for survivors; rent‑free during initial phase, then rent capped at ≤30% of income; typical stay up to 24 months. Phone 317‑923‑5750; 604 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. (shelterlistings.org)
  • Eligibility & documents: Survivor of intimate partner violence; background and safety assessment.
  • Timeline: Not emergency shelter; expect waitlist and intake process.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Call The Julian Center (317‑920‑9320) for emergency shelter and legal advocacy. (domesticshelters.org)

Fort Wayne & Northeast Indiana

• YWCA Northeast Indiana (Bonnie’s House)
  • What it is: 24/7 crisis shelter for individuals or families fleeing DV; community‑based advocacy (protective orders, housing navigation) across six counties. Hotline 800‑441‑4073. (ywcanein.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for off‑site advocacy or a regional shelter referral; call 2‑1‑1 for alternate safe housing. (purdue.edu)

Evansville & Southwest Indiana

• YWCA Evansville – Domestic Violence & Emergency Housing
  • What it is: 24/7 confidential shelter and outreach; crisis lines 812‑422‑1191 / 866‑367‑9922; address 118 Vine St., Evansville. (ywcaevansville.org, vccvr.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about referral to other regional DV shelters; contact Tri‑State Food Bank partners for food while you stabilize. (tristatefoodbank.org)

South Bend, Lafayette, Muncie and beyond

• Catholic Charities (Fort Wayne–South Bend)
  • Stability and Financial Assistance: Once per year per household, subject to funds; application days vary by region (e.g., West Region online on 1st & 3rd Mondays). Expect proof of income, ID, and bills; payment typically processed within about one week after approval. (ccfwsb.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your local St. Vincent de Paul conference (South Bend 574‑234‑6000). (sjcpl.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP)
  • What it is: Parish‑based help with rent/utilities via Home Visits; assistance varies by parish funds; Indy helpline 317‑687‑0169 (Spanish 317‑687‑0167); Evansville 812‑425‑3485. (irvican.org, svdpevansville.org)
  • Reality check: Amounts are often small and pieced together with other sources; conferences coordinate to fill larger gaps when possible. (svdpindy.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a written denial and request a referral to other churches/charities in the SVdP network.

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Utilities & energy: local charity and utility funds (non‑government)

Even if you don’t qualify for state EAP, utility‑partner funds and local charity programs can still help.

• United Way of Central Indiana – Winter Assistance Fund (Marion County)
  • Who qualifies: Households that earn too much for EAP but up to 225% FPL (income bands published annually; e.g., three‑month gross income ranges listed by AES Indiana). (aesindiana.com)
  • Typical benefit: News reports quoting United Way leadership cite typical assistance “up to $600\ast \ast ”(sometimesmore)whenfundsareavailable.Seasonaltotals:\ast \ast 343\ast \ast householdsand\ast \ast$180,000+ (one year); 420+ families and $224,000 (another season). Apply Jan–May (varies). (uwci.org, wthr.com)
  • How to apply: In‑person through listed intake centers (no online intake). Check the WAF page for current status and sites. (uwci.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about AES “Power of Change,” Citizens Warm Heart Warm Home, or parish funds via SVdP; call 2‑1‑1 for more options. (aesindiana.com, indianapolisrecorder.com)
• NIPSCO customers (North/Northwest Indiana)
  • Hardship Program: One‑time benefit up to $400 (2024–25 season) for customers slightly above low‑income thresholds. (nipsco.com)
  • CARE Discount: 15–32% monthly gas bill reduction for EAP‑approved customers. (businesswire.com)
  • Income guidelines and info: see NIPSCO’s Energy Assistance Resource Center. (nipsco.com)
• Duke Energy customers (many central/southern counties)
  • Share the Light Fund: Up to $300 annual credit to help pay energy bills, deposits, or reconnection fees, distributed via Community Action Agencies. (investors.duke-energy.com)
• CenterPoint Energy customers (southwest Indiana)
  • Customer Assistance Fund (CAF) and seasonal programs (e.g., $200 “Keep Service On” or Fall Turn‑On) operate when funded; check CenterPoint and Salvation Army Indiana updates for program status. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• United Religious Community (St. Joseph County, AEP customers)
  • Dollar Energy Program: Up to $250 once per annual cycle toward AEP (Indiana‑Michigan Power) disconnects; must combine with your payment to stop disconnection. Contact: 574‑282‑2397 x2 or urcsjc@gmail.com. (urcsjc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “church‑based assistance for utilities” plus parish SVdP and township trustee contact (as a last resort). (purdue.edu)

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Food & basics: food bank networks and pantries

Indiana’s regional food banks anchor local pantry networks, mobile distributions, and home delivery in some areas.

• Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana (21 counties, Central Indiana): Pantry locator, drive‑thru pantry, mobile pantries, and home delivery (Marion County). In 2024, Gleaners distributed 97,048,993 meals. (gleaners.org)
• Food Bank of Northern Indiana (Elkhart, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Starke, Marshall, Kosciusko): Full pantry list and contacts. (feedindiana.org)
• Food Bank of Northwest Indiana (Lake & Porter): Pantry locator, Mobile Market distributing 40–50 lbs groceries per event. (foodbanknwi.org)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana (Muncie and region): “Tailgate” drive‑throughs—no ID or income proof required. (curehunger.org)
• Food Finders Food Bank (Greater Lafayette): Find Help tool and mobile pantry schedule. (food-finders.org)
• Hoosier Hills Food Bank (Bloomington region): Mobile pantry serving over 1,000 households a month at select sites. (hhfoodbank.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask any pantry for a “warm referral” to diaper banks, pet food pantries, or formula sources; call 2‑1‑1 for the nearest same‑day food distribution. (purdue.edu)

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Diapers, wipes, baby items

• Indiana Diaper Bank (Central Indiana)
  • WIC/TANF Service Project: Eligible families (TANF, WIC, SNAP, Hoosier Healthwise) receive 200 diapers every other month for up to 2 years per child via WIC distribution sites; preregistration and photo ID needed. Questions: 317‑855‑0533. (indianadiaperbank.org)
  • Partner network: Diapers distributed through 70+ local partners; use “Get Diapers” to find locations near you. (indianadiaperbank.org)
• Bloomington & Monroe County
  • Hoosier Diaper Program (now at Tandem): Walk‑in diaper/supply pickup; up to a month’s supply at a time during business hours. Address: 2613 E 3rd St, Bloomington; 812‑727‑0134. (tandembloomington.org)
• Neighborhood/Church Drives (example)
  • Temple Community Outreach (Indianapolis, Martindale‑Brightwood): pre‑registered bundles (25 diapers or 10 pull‑ups per bundle; two bundles per child). Check Eventbrite via their site. (templecommunityoutreach.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatric clinic or WIC office about partner diaper sites; call 2‑1‑1 and request “diaper bank” or “baby supplies” near your ZIP. (purdue.edu)

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Furniture & household essentials

• The Mustard Seed of Central Indiana (serving Indianapolis metro and 8 surrounding counties)
  • Free furniture by referral only (from a case manager, church, or partner agency). Delivery available within certain counties. Client office: 13053 Parkside Dr., Fishers; phone 317‑572‑5724. (mustardseedindy.org, indianapolisgives.org)
• Mustard Seed Furniture Bank – Fort Wayne (Allen County & region)
  • Provides furniture and household goods via agency referral; Beds4Kids program; 3636 Illinois Rd., Fort Wayne; 260‑471‑5802. (mustardseedfortwayne.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your shelter or SVdP conference for a furniture voucher; consider Humble Design (Indy) if you’re transitioning from homelessness (by partner referral only). (humbledesign.org)

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Transportation—local charitable options

• Catholic Charities Evansville – Medical Travel: Up to four $40 gas cards per calendar year for out‑of‑town child medical appointments (with documentation). (ccevansville.org)
• Merciful HELP Center (Hamilton County): Limited car repairs (under $300) or used vehicle assistance for existing clients through the pantry. (mercifulhelpcenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a social worker about gas vouchers via parish funds or URC’s assistance in St. Joseph County (varies); call 2‑1‑1 for “transportation assistance” line items. (urcsjc.org)

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Safety & domestic violence services

• The Julian Center (Indianapolis): 24/7 crisis line 317‑920‑9320; emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and transitional housing pathways. Business line 317‑941‑2200. (domesticshelters.org)
• YWCA Northeast Indiana (Fort Wayne and six counties): 24/7 DV/SA crisis line 800‑441‑4073; crisis shelter (Bonnie’s House), community advocacy, therapy. (ywcanein.org)
• YWCA Evansville (Vanderburgh): 24/7 crisis 812‑422‑1191 / 866‑367‑9922; emergency housing for survivors and women with children. (ywcaevansville.org)
• Coburn Place (Indianapolis): Transitional housing with rent capped at ≤30% of income after initial rent‑free phase; not an emergency shelter. 317‑923‑5750. (shelterlistings.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the National DV Hotline 800‑799‑7233 for statewide placement; ask about county transport to a safe bed. (en.wikipedia.org)

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Legal help, custody, eviction, debt

• Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic (statewide): Free legal services for housing/consumer, family law matters, immigration, expungement, driver’s license reinstatement. Office: 3333 N Meridian St., Indianapolis; 317‑429‑4131. (nclegalclinic.org)
• Indiana Legal Services: Statewide free civil legal aid; phone intake 844‑243‑8570; online application 24/7. Priority for cases impacting basic needs and safety. (indianalegalservices.org)

Tip: If you receive an eviction filing, contact legal aid immediately—deadlines to appear or respond are short (often less than two weeks). Ask for help sealing prior eviction records once resolved (available in many cases). (nclegalclinic.org)

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Diverse communities: targeted supports

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • YWCA (Fort Wayne/Evansville) and Coburn Place serve all survivors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For youth at risk, ask 2‑1‑1 for LGBTQ‑affirming shelters/resources. (ywcanein.org, endinghivtogether.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
  • Ask 2‑1‑1 for “disability‑related home services” and accessible shelters; YWCA sites offer case‑managed supports, and many food banks run Senior/Disability‑friendly distributions. (curehunger.org)
• Veteran single mothers
  • HVAF of Indiana (Indy): Housing (temporary and permanent), pantry, employment services for veterans; 45 E 10th St., Indianapolis; 317‑951‑0688. (hvafofindiana.org)
• Immigrant & refugee single moms
  • Immigrant Welcome Center (Indy): Multilingual helpline 317‑808‑2326 (200+ languages), legal clinics, English classes. Address: 2049 N Meridian St., Indianapolis. (immigrantwelcomecenter.org)
  • Exodus Refugee Immigration: Housing setup, employment, mental wellness, legal assistance; Indy office: 2457 E Washington St., Ste A; 317‑921‑0836. (exodusrefugee.org)
• Tribal citizens
  • Pokagon Band of Potawatomi (South Bend location): Social Services include food assistance, payment assistance, child care, and DV support for tribal citizens within the service area. South Bend office: 3733 Locust Rd.; 574‑282‑2638. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)
• Rural single moms (limited transportation)
  • Use 2‑1‑1 to find mobile pantries and churches that do home deliveries; Food banks like Gleaners and Hoosier Hills run mobile distributions in rural counties. (gleaners.org, hhfoodbank.org)
• Single fathers
  • Holy Family Shelter serves single dads with custody; YWCA shelters provide advocacy for men via referrals even if on‑site beds are limited. Call 2‑1‑1 to locate men‑specific shelter options in your county. (newbindy.org)
• Language access
  • Indiana 211 provides interpretation in 150–240+ languages; Gleaners’ Resource Center partners with WIC Mobile for on‑site multilingual support. (purdue.edu, gleaners.org)

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Timelines you can expect

• Shelter intake: Same day if a bed is open; DV shelters prioritize immediate safety. Wheeler emergency care is 45 days; Holy Family aims to house families in 30–45 days. (wheelermission.org, archindy.org)
• Catholic Charities (FWSB) financial help: If approved and documents complete, checks typically process within about one week. (ccfwsb.org)
• Utility funds: WAF runs Dec–May (varies); NIPSCO/Duke funds open until dollars run out; decisions can be quick if documents are ready. (uwci.org, nipsco.com, investors.duke-energy.com)
• Diaper distributions: Monthly or every other month depending on program; WIC/TANF project is every other month. (indianadiaperbank.org)

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Required documents (most charities will ask for)

• Government photo ID (or proof you are who you say you are)
• Proof of Indiana address (lease, letter, shelter letter, or mail)
• Proof of income for last 30–90 days (pay stubs, benefits letters)
• The bill or notice (eviction notice, disconnect warning, past‑due bill)
• For DV shelters: safety assessment; for family shelters, custody paperwork if you have it
• For diaper pickups: photo ID; preregistration where required (ccfwsb.org, indianadiaperbank.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until the day of shutoff or lockout—funds are first‑come, and intake appointment calendars fill fast.
• Applying without documents—missing proof of income or the actual bill often delays help.
• Calling only one place—many moms are approved by piecing together small amounts from multiple churches/charities plus a utility fund.
• Not asking for a “warm referral”—case managers can send your info to the next agency so you don’t start over.
• Assuming you won’t qualify—programs like WAF exist for those who are “over income” for EAP. (uwci.org)

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Application checklist

• Photo ID(s) for you and adult household members
• Lease (all pages) or landlord letter, and ledger with amount due
• Disconnect/eviction notice or past‑due bill with account number
• Proof of income for last 30–90 days (pay stubs, SSA/SSI/child support)
• Proof of hardship (job loss, medical bills) if requested
• For DV programs: safety plan and any police/court documents (if safe to carry)
• Your plan to sustain housing/utilities next month (some funds ask)

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Tables you can use fast

Table 1 — Emergency contacts (Indiana)

Table 2 — Food banks and pantry finders

Table 3 — Utility assistance (non‑government, charity/utility funds)

Table 4 — Housing & shelter charities by city

Table 5 — Diapers & baby items

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Real examples

• “Last‑dollar” save: Catholic Charities Indianapolis’ Crisis Office can cover the final $25 to stop a disconnect or eviction when everything else is lined up—exactly the kind of gap that derails families. (helpcreatehope.org)
• Winter utility relief: In Marion County, the Winter Assistance Fund has helped hundreds of households each season; United Way reported 343 households and $180,000+\ast \ast inoneyear,and\ast \ast 420+\ast \ast familieswith\ast \ast$224,000 another season. (uwci.org)
• NIPSCO customers above EAP income can still qualify for **up to $400\ast \ast Hardshipand\ast \ast 15–32$180 bill could drop to around $122–$153 with CARE, plus Hardship funds if approved. (nipsco.com, businesswire.com)

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What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask for a written denial and a “warm referral” to the next church/charity.
• Call 2‑1‑1 again and ask specifically for: Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities, and any utility‑partner funds in your ZIP.
• If safe, post in your local United Way, church, or school parent groups asking for referrals to agencies that still have funds.
• For legal leverage (evictions, habitability), call Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic or Indiana Legal Services immediately for counsel and letters to landlords. (nclegalclinic.org, indianalegalservices.org)

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10 Indiana‑specific FAQs

1. Can a charity really stop a utility shutoff the day before?

• Yes, if they can pledge funds before the utility’s cutoff time. WAF, Duke Share the Light (up to $300\ast \ast ),NIPSCOHardship(\ast \ast upto$400), and CenterPoint’s programs can move quickly when documentation is complete. (investors.duke-energy.com, nipsco.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

2. I make too much for EAP. Anything for me?

• In Marion County, United Way’s Winter Assistance Fund serves up to 225% FPL. Utilities like Duke and NIPSCO also have hardship funds for moderate‑income households. (aesindiana.com, nipsco.com)

3. How long can I stay in a shelter with my kids?

• Wheeler’s emergency care is 45 days; Holy Family Shelter generally 30–45 days with case management toward housing. DV shelters prioritize safety and length of stay varies by case and space. (wheelermission.org, archindy.org)

4. I’m in a rural county. Who helps me?

• Use 2‑1‑1 for the nearest church funds; regional food banks run mobile pantries (e.g., Gleaners Mobile, Hoosier Hills “Families First”). (gleaners.org, hhfoodbank.org)

5. Can I get diapers monthly?

• Yes—through partner distributions, and eligible families can receive 200 diapers every other month via the statewide WIC/TANF project. (indianadiaperbank.org)

6. I’m a veteran single mom. Who serves veterans specifically?

• HVAF of Indiana provides housing, pantry, and employment services to veterans and families in Central Indiana (317‑951‑0688). (hvafofindiana.org)

7. What’s the poverty rate for single‑mother families in Indiana?

• In 2023, 42.2% of female‑headed families with children under 18 were below poverty. (migrationpolicy.org)

8. Are there charities that help with rent in South Bend?

• Yes—Catholic Charities FWSB (limited, once per year when funds exist) and SVdP (call 574‑234‑6000). URC may help with utilities via Dollar Energy (up to $250). (ccfwsb.org, sjcpl.org, urcsjc.org)

9. I’m undocumented. Can I still get help?

• Many charities (food banks, diaper banks, DV shelters, churches) do not ask about immigration status. Immigrant Welcome Center’s multilingual helpline 317‑808‑2326 can guide you to safe resources. (immigrantwelcomecenter.org)

10. Is homelessness getting worse in Indy?

• The 2024 Point‑in‑Time count recorded 1,701 individuals (up 5% from 2023). DV, rising rents, and income gaps are consistent drivers. (axios.com)

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Resources by region (scan and call)

Indianapolis & Marion County

• Wheeler Mission – Center for Women & Children: 317‑687‑3630. Emergency shelter and programs. (wheelermission.org)
• Holy Family Shelter (Catholic Charities Indy): 317‑635‑7830; 907 N Holmes Ave. Family shelter. (archindy.org)
• The Julian Center: 317‑920‑9320 crisis line. DV emergency shelter and legal advocacy. (domesticshelters.org)
• United Way Winter Assistance Fund (Marion Co.): intake sites listed on WAF page (seasonal). (uwci.org)

Fort Wayne & Northeast

• YWCA NE Indiana: 800‑441‑4073. Crisis shelter and advocacy. (ywcanein.org)
• Associated Churches of Fort Wayne & Allen County: Network of 26 food pantries; A Baby’s Closet; resource guide. 260‑422‑3528. (associatedchurches.org)
• Mustard Seed Furniture Bank (Fort Wayne): 260‑471‑5802. Furniture via referral. (mustardseedfortwayne.com)

South Bend, Mishawaka & Elkhart

• Catholic Charities FWSB (West/East/North regions): online application windows vary; one assistance per year when funds exist. (ccfwsb.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (South Bend): 574‑234‑6000 for rent/utility appointments. (sjcpl.org)
• URC Advocacy Center (Dollar Energy up to $250 for AEP customers): 574‑282‑2397 x2. (urcsjc.org)

Lafayette & Tippecanoe

• Food Finders Food Bank: pantry locator and mobile pantry schedules. (food-finders.org)
• Safe Families for Children (Greater Lafayette site via Central Indiana chapter): intake line 317‑519‑3839 (short‑term hosting to keep kids safe during crisis). (indianapolis.safe-families.org)

Bloomington & Monroe

• Hoosier Diaper Program at Tandem: 2613 E 3rd St.; 812‑727‑0134; up to a month’s supply. (tandembloomington.org)
• Hoosier Hills Food Bank: mobile pantries and partner agencies. (hhfoodbank.org)

Evansville & Southwest

• YWCA Evansville DV Shelter: 812‑422‑1191 / 866‑367‑9922; 118 Vine St. (ywcaevansville.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Evansville: rent/utility assistance (once every 12 months), Monday AM phone scheduling 812‑423‑5456; medical travel gas cards (4×$40/year). (ccevansville.org)

Northwest Indiana (Gary, Hammond, Lake/Porter)

• Catholic Charities Diocese of Gary: main office 219‑886‑3549; 940 Broadway, Gary; satellite offices in East Chicago, Hammond, LaPorte/Porter/Starke by appointment. (catholic-charities.org)
• NIPSCO customers: Hardship up to $400 and CARE 15–32% discount. (nipsco.com, businesswire.com)

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

• Salvation Army Indiana Division — find your nearest Family Services office for rent/utility help, food, and Pathway of Hope case management. Find a Salvation Army location in Indiana • 1‑800‑589‑1037 • Statewide locator. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities Indianapolis — Crisis Office (food, clothing, limited transit, “last‑dollar” financial help). Crisis Office program details • 317‑236‑1512 • 1400 N Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202. (helpcreatehope.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Evansville — rent/utility help (once/year), medical travel gas cards ($40, up to four/year). Outreach & Financial Assistance • 812‑423‑5456 • 2111 Stringtown Rd., Evansville, IN 47711. (ccevansville.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Gary — emergency outreach in Lake/LaPorte/Porter/Starke. Contact & office locations • 219‑886‑3549 • 940 Broadway, Gary, IN 46402. (catholic-charities.org)
• Catholic Charities Fort Wayne–South Bend — financial assistance (limited, by region), pantry, case management. Financial Assistance (regional portals) • See site for county‑specific intake. (ccfwsb.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (Indianapolis) — Home Visits for rent/utility help; helplines English/Spanish. SVdP Indy • Helpline 317‑687‑0169 / 317‑687‑0167 (Español) • 2500 Churchman Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203. (svdpindy.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (Evansville) — emergency assistance & pantry. SVdP Evansville • 812‑425‑3485 • 809 N Lafayette Ave., Evansville, IN 47711. (svdpevansville.org)
• United Way of Central Indiana — Winter Assistance Fund (Marion County) intake sites & updates. Winter Assistance Fund page • Use site to find intake partners. (uwci.org)
• Indiana 211 — 24/7 statewide referrals (phone, text, web) with language access. About Indiana 211 • Dial 2‑1‑1 / 866‑211‑9966; text ZIP to 898‑211. (purdue.edu)
• Wheeler Mission – Center for Women & Children — emergency shelter & programs. Women’s Services • 317‑687‑3630 • 3208 E Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46201. (wheelermission.org)
• Holy Family Shelter (Catholic Charities Indy) — family shelter. Holy Family Shelter • 317‑635‑7830 • 907 N Holmes Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46222. (archindy.org)
• Coburn Place — DV transitional housing. Coburn Place information • 317‑923‑5750 • 604 E 38th St., Indianapolis, IN 46205. (endinghivtogether.org)
• The Julian Center — DV emergency services. The Julian Center • Crisis 317‑920‑9320 • 2011 N Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202. (domesticshelters.org)
• YWCA Northeast Indiana — DV/SA crisis shelter & advocacy. YWCA NEIN • 800‑441‑4073. (ywcanein.org)
• YWCA Evansville — DV crisis shelter & emergency housing. YWCA Evansville Survivor Services • 812‑422‑1191 / 866‑367‑9922 • 118 Vine St., Evansville, IN 47708. (ywcaevansville.org)
• Indiana Diaper Bank — partners & WIC/TANF diaper project. Get Diapers & WIC/TANF Project • 317‑855‑0533 • (partner pickup only). (indianadiaperbank.org)
• Tandem (Bloomington) — Hoosier Diaper Program. HDP at Tandem • 812‑727‑0134 • 2613 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47401. (tandembloomington.org)
• Mustard Seed of Central Indiana — furniture by referral. Need Furniture • 317‑572‑5724 • 13053 Parkside Dr., Fishers, IN 46038. (mustardseedindy.org)
• Mustard Seed Furniture Bank (Fort Wayne). Mustard Seed FW • 260‑471‑5802 • 3636 Illinois Rd., Fort Wayne, IN 46804. (mustardseedfortwayne.com)
• Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic — free legal aid. NCLC • 317‑429‑4131 • 3333 N Meridian St., Ste 201, Indianapolis, IN 46208. (nclegalclinic.org)
• Indiana Legal Services — statewide free civil legal aid. Apply online or by phone • 844‑243‑8570. (indianalegalservices.org)
• HVAF of Indiana — veterans’ housing and support. HVAF Services • 317‑951‑0688 • 45 E 10th St., Indianapolis, IN 46204. (hvafofindiana.org)
• Immigrant Welcome Center — multilingual helpline & legal/ELL support. What We Do • 317‑808‑2326 • 2049 N Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202. (immigrantwelcomecenter.org)
• Pokagon Band of Potawatomi – Social Services (South Bend office). Social Services • 574‑282‑2638 • 3733 Locust Rd., South Bend, IN 46614. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)

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Reality checks, tips, and how to get to “yes”

• Be specific with the ask (“I need $312\ast \ast tostopashutoffby\ast \ast Friday\ast \ast ”).Bringyourportion(even\ast \ast$25–$50\ast \ast )—manyprogramsare“last‑dollar”andrequireapartialpayment.Example:CatholicCharitiesIndy’sCrisisOfficeoftencoversthelast\ast \ast$25 to close a gap. (helpcreatehope.org)
• Stack resources. It’s common to combine: St. Vincent de Paul + Salvation Army + a utility fund (Duke/NIPSCO) + a parish benevolence program.
• Ask for case management. “Pathway of Hope” (Salvation Army), YWCA advocacy, and Catholic Charities stabilization programs improve your odds for deposits, job supports, and longer‑term help. (salvationarmyusa.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Indiana community charities and established nonprofits (Salvation Army Indiana Division, Catholic Charities across dioceses, St. Vincent de Paul, Indiana Diaper Bank, YWCA, Gleaners and other food banks, HVAF, Exodus Refugee, Immigrant Welcome Center), plus utility‑partner program pages. It 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.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

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

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, income limits, amounts, and dates change. Always confirm directly with the charity, church, or utility program before you apply.
• We do not collect personal data from readers and keep this website secure by applying regular CMS updates, SSL/TLS encryption, and link monitoring. Report any broken link or security concern to info@asinglemother.org.
• This guide is information only, not legal advice or an eligibility determination.

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