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Community Support for Single Mothers in Kansas

Kansas Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff, Real-World Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on community, church, and nonprofit help in Kansas (not federal or state benefit programs). It’s built for single moms who need clear steps, direct contacts, and realistic timelines.


We reviewed the top 10 search results for “Kansas Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers.” Most were light on dollar amounts, county-specific contacts, and exact application windows. Below, you’ll find what’s usually missing: specific phone numbers, addresses, required documents, how to apply, typical wait times, and real examples—plus backups if Plan A doesn’t work.

Emergency help (start here)

If you’re in danger, call 911. If you need fast, human help finding local resources anywhere in Kansas, call 211.

  • United Way 211 Kansas: Dial 211 (M–F 7 a.m.–7 p.m.), text your ZIP to 898‑211, or search online; translation available. (unitedwayplains.org)

Quick help box

  • Domestic violence 24/7 statewide line (confidential): 888‑363‑2287 (text SAFE to 847411). (kcsdv.org)
  • YWCA Northeast Kansas Center for Safety & Empowerment helpline: 888‑822‑2983; office 225 SW 12th St, Topeka. (ywcaneks.org)
  • SAFEHOME (Johnson County) 24/7 hotline: 913‑262‑2868. (safehome-ks.org)
  • Wichita Family Crisis Center 24/7 hotline: 316‑267‑SAFE (7233). (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org)
  • Sedgwick County Community Crisis Center (24/7 mental health): 316‑660‑7500, 635 N Main, Wichita. (sedgwickcounty.org)
  • St. Anthony Family Shelter (Wichita—families with kids): 316‑264‑7233, 256 N Ohio St, Wichita. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
  • United Way 211 Kansas (any need): 211, text ZIP to 898‑211, online search; statewide coverage. (unitedwayplains.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Use this when time and energy are low.

Need First call or link What they actually do Key timelines
Find help fast Call 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211 Live specialists connect you to food, rent/utility help, diapers, shelter, legal aid, more Phone/text available M–F 7 a.m.–7 p.m.; online 24/7. (unitedwayplains.org)
Food (most KS counties) Kansas Food Bank partner/pantry locator (phone 316‑265‑3663) Food pantries, mobile food and a monthly Mobile Hygiene Pantry (Wichita) Food & hygiene schedules posted; Mobile Hygiene Pantry third Saturday monthly 9–10:30 a.m. at The Lord’s Diner (2825 S Hillside, Wichita). (kansasfoodbank.org)
Food (NE KS/KC metro) Harvesters partner locator; Customer Care 877‑653‑9519 Supplies 900+ pantries; 27‑county KS/MO region Ongoing distributions; locator shows times/addresses. (harvesters.org)
Diapers—KC region HappyBottoms 75 diapers/month per child (or 50 training pants) via partner agencies Enrollment required; sites in Overland Park, Olathe, Wyandotte. (happybottoms.org)
Diapers—Douglas Co. Just Food “Just Basics” 50 diapers/month per child + wipes (if available) Available during pantry visits. (justfoodks.org)
Rent/utilities—Johnson Co. Catholic Charities NE KS (Overland Park/Olathe) + Salvation Army Olathe Emergency financial aid (by phone appointment); shelter triage hubs Call CCNEK Mondays 9 a.m.; SA Olathe M–F 8:30–4:30. Hubs open M–F 8:30–4:30. (catholiccharitiesks.org, search.unitedwaygkc.org, jocogov.org)
Rent/utilities—Wichita area Salvation Army Emergency Social Services Food, gas, ID help, baby items; pantry Tue/Thu by appt. ESS hours posted; call first. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
Rent help—Greater Wichita Family Promise of Greater Wichita (prevention) Online rent assistance application opens monthly; shelter intake by phone App opens 5 business days before the first business day at 9 a.m.; reviewed within 7 business days. Call 316‑977‑7026 for shelter. (familypromisewichita.org)
Rent/utilities—Wyandotte Cross‑Lines Community Outreach Online app windows ~30 minutes Mon/Tue; review within 10 business days Funds limited; partial payments possible. 913‑281‑3388. (cross-lines.org)

What to gather before you call or apply (Application Checklist)

Bring originals or clear photos. Most agencies require these at intake.

A reality check on income guidelines

Many charities prioritize households under 150–200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Here are the 2025 numbers for the 48 states (annual income). Use this to self‑screen; it’s not a guarantee.

Household 150% FPG 200% FPG
1 $23,475 $31,300
2 $31,725 $42,300
3 $39,975 $53,300
4 $48,225 $64,300
5 $56,475 $75,300
6 $64,725 $86,300

Source: U.S. HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines; 150% and 200% calculated from the HHS table. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Tip: Legal aid (Kansas Legal Services) often uses up to 125% FPG—with exceptions—per LSC guidance. If you’re near the line, still apply. (federalregister.gov)

Food, diapers, and basic needs: fastest ways to get them

Start with the food network covering your county, then add a diaper source and a daily hot meal if needed.

A) Food across 85 Kansas counties (outside KC metro)

  • Kansas Food Bank partners (phone 316‑265‑3663): use their pantry/mobile pages for weekly schedules; Mobile Hygiene Pantry (Wichita) adds soap, detergent, diapers, and period supplies the third Saturday monthly at The Lord’s Diner Hillside site, 9–10:30 a.m. (kansasfoodbank.org)
  • Reality check: The Food Bank reports serving 85 counties, 13.6 million meals last year, and “1 in 7” Kansans facing hunger—demand is high; lines can be long on mobile days. Arrive early and bring proof of address if requested. (kansasfoodbank.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for additional pantries or church distributions the same day. (unitedwayplains.org)

B) Food in NE Kansas & KC metro

  • Harvesters (27‑county KS/MO region): use the Food Locator, or call Customer Care 877‑653‑9519 to help find the closest pantry or mobile site. (harvesters.org)
  • Note: Harvesters confirms service across 27 counties and has adjusted operations (including moving its Kansas distribution center to Lawrence); service coverage remains in NE Kansas. (harvesters.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Harvesters or 211 for the next mobile distribution nearby, or call individual pantries (e.g., Just Food or Trinity Interfaith in Douglas Co.). (kansasfoodsource.org)

C) Diapers (concrete monthly amounts)

  • Kansas City metro (Johnson & Wyandotte counties): HappyBottoms provides 75 diapers/month per child (or 50 training pants). Enrollment through a partner like Catholic Charities Overland Park or Olathe; Wyandotte County Health also enrolls. (happybottoms.org, wycokck.org)
  • Douglas County: Just Food’s “Just Basics” provides 50 diapers/month per child plus wipes (as available). (justfoodks.org)
  • Wichita/Sedgwick County: Kansas Food Bank’s Mobile Hygiene Pantry offers pre‑packed hygiene kits and choice items (including baby/adult diapers) monthly at The Lord’s Diner, 2825 S Hillside. (kansasfoodbank.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for a nearby church pantry that carries diapers, or check your county health department for diaper partnerships (Wyandotte partners with HappyBottoms). (wycokck.org)

D) Daily hot meals (Wichita)

Rent and utility assistance (faith and community programs)

Demand exceeds funds in most counties. Apply early, follow instructions, and prepare for partial awards or waitlists.

Johnson County (Overland Park/Olathe & Wyandotte area)

  • Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (FSCs in Overland Park, Olathe): Appointments for rent/utility aid are made by phone; call mornings when lines open (e.g., OP & Olathe Monday mornings). Case management + pantry help available. Phone/addresses listed on site. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Salvation Army Olathe (420 E Santa Fe, 913‑782‑3640): Rent and utilities help for low‑income residents, usually requires an eviction/disconnect or late notice; call for appointment; funding varies. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
  • Johnson County Homeless Hubs (triage screening): Walk‑in/phone help M–F 8:30–4:30 at Catholic Charities OP (913‑384‑6608), Salvation Army Olathe (913‑782‑3640), or JoCo Mental Health (913‑826‑4079). (jocogov.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Try Cross‑Lines Community Outreach (KCK) emergency rent/utility application windows (often Mon 10 a.m./2 p.m., Tue 10 a.m./2 p.m. for ~30 minutes; decisions within 10 business days). (cross-lines.org)

Wichita metro (Sedgwick and nearby)

  • Salvation Army Emergency Social Services (Wichita): Help with food, gas, ID help, baby items, hygiene; pantry by appointment; call 316‑263‑2769 (350 N Market). Hours and zip‑code service areas posted. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Family Promise of Greater Wichita (prevention): Online rent assistance app opens monthly 5 business days before the first business day at 9 a.m.; reviewed within 7 business days. Shelter intake by phone 316‑977‑7026. (familypromisewichita.org)
  • United Methodist Open Door: Pantry and Hygiene Pantry (ID/address/income up to 130% FPG noted on the Kansas Food Source listing); admin line 316‑265‑9371. Pantry site: 2130 E 21st St N; hygiene on set Wednesdays. (kansasfoodsource.org, mapquest.com)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 which churches have one‑time rent/utility funds this week; check Catholic Charities Wichita Southeast Kansas Services if you’re in Pittsburg/SE counties. (unitedwayplains.org, catholiccharitieswichita.org)

Topeka/Shawnee County

  • Catholic Charities (Topeka FSC): Call 785‑233‑6300 Monday 9 a.m. for rent/utility appointment availability; Equity Access Shelter (E.A.S.) centralizes rent aid via 785‑368‑9533. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Doorstep, Inc. (1119 SW 10th Ave, 785‑357‑5341): Utilities by appointment if funds available; rent routed through E.A.S. Assistance limits (e.g., rent 1x/12 months; prescriptions cap listed) are described on Doorstep’s site. (doorsteptopeka.org)
  • Community Action, Inc. (We Fight Poverty): Utility and rent assistance with documentation; intake required; phone 785‑836‑4500. (wefightpoverty.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: 211 can check other partners (Let’s Help, Topeka Rescue Mission) and short‑term motel vouchers if you’re unsheltered. E.A.S. is the single point of contact for rent in Topeka. (topeka.org)

Northern Kansas (Salina, Hays, Manhattan)

  • Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas: Emergency Financial Assistance provides up to $150 per year for rent, utilities, or prescriptions (subject to funds and eligibility). Offices in Salina (785‑825‑0208), Hays, Manhattan; forms online. (ccnks.org)
  • What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about monthly outreach vans to rural communities for food/hygiene and referrals. (ccnks.org)

Southeast & Southwest Kansas

  • Catholic Charities Wichita—Southeast Kansas Services (Pittsburg, 1005 E Jefferson, 620‑235‑0633): Focus on homelessness prevention and one‑time rent/utility help (eligibility emphasizes preventing homelessness for 30 days; documentation required). (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
  • Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas (Dodge City/Great Bend/Garden City/Liberal): Local emergency help and connection to rental programs; contact Dodge City 620‑227‑1562 (804 N 2nd Ave). (catholiccharitiesswks.org)

Common mistakes to avoid (rent/utilities)

  • Waiting until the cut‑off/eviction date to call—most agencies require a notice, but funds can be out by then. Call when you receive the notice.
  • Missing the exact call‑in windows (e.g., CCNEK Mondays 8:30–9 a.m.; Cross‑Lines application windows). Set calendar alerts and try again next week if full. (catholiccharitiesks.org, cross-lines.org)
  • Not having a realistic plan for the balance due—agencies may only pay part of the bill. Line up your share (payment plan or another small grant) before the appointment. (cross-lines.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call 211 and ask for “one‑time faith emergency funds” in your ZIP and “multi‑agency funders” that can split a bill (e.g., Salvation Army + parish St. Vincent de Paul + community fund). (unitedwayplains.org)

Safety, shelter, and domestic violence services (free and confidential)

Action first: if you feel unsafe, call the statewide line now.

  • Kansas SafeLine (formerly Kansas Crisis Hotline): 888‑363‑2287 or text SAFE to 847411 (24/7, confidential). They connect you to your local program. (kcsdv.org)

Key programs:

  • YWCA Northeast Kansas—Center for Safety & Empowerment (Shawnee/Jackson/Brown/Nemaha/Wabaunsee): 888‑822‑2983; text “YWCANEKS” to 847‑411 during listed hours; Topeka office at 225 SW 12th St. (ywcaneks.org)
  • SAFEHOME (Johnson County): 24/7 hotline 913‑262‑2868; 60‑bed confidential shelter; serves all survivors. (safehome-ks.org)
  • Wichita Family Crisis Center (Sedgwick/Cowley/Sumner): 24/7 hotline 316‑267‑7233; shelter, advocacy, children’s services. (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org)
  • Harbor House—Catholic Charities Wichita: 24/7 hotline 316‑263‑6000 or 866‑899‑5522; shelter + legal/advocacy. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)

What to bring if you can: IDs for you/children, any protective orders, essential meds, and a safety plan. Shelters serve without pay; services are free. (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for a hotel voucher partner or out‑of‑county placement, and ask about transportation help (gas cards/bus passes). (unitedwayplains.org)

Shelters and family housing stabilization

  • St. Anthony Family Shelter (Wichita): Designed for families with minor children (length of stay typically a few nights up to ~30 days by case). 316‑264‑7233. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
  • Family Promise (multiple areas): Prevention (diversion/rent help), shelter (rotation/static), and stabilization. Wichita: 316‑977‑7026; Lawrence (Douglas): 785‑764‑9506. (familypromisewichita.org, lawrencefamilypromise.org)

Plan B: Ask Catholic Charities (NE KS/Wichita/Northern/Southwest) about rapid rehousing or prevention funds, or a referral through the local Continuum of Care. (catholiccharitieswichita.org, catholiccharitiesks.org, ccnks.org)

Work, transportation, and documents

  • Goodwill Industries of Kansas/NexStep Alliance (Wichita region): job readiness, GED/ESL/digital skills; admin 316‑744‑9291, 3351 N Webb Rd, Wichita. Goodwill Western MO & Eastern KS operates an Olathe Community Resource Center (employment support). (mapquest.com, mokangoodwill.org)
  • United Methodist Open Door can help with ID and documentation issues; Salvation Army Wichita also hosts Mobile DMV days at the downtown site. (mapquest.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Kansas Legal Services: civil legal help (custody/eviction/debt), applications online or by phone 316‑267‑3975 (statewide services; seniors’ hotline available). Income rules vary; many cases under 125% FPG with exceptions. (kansaslegalservices.org, federalregister.gov)

Region-by-region resource snapshots

Use these as starting points; always call ahead.

Wichita & South-Central KS

  • Salvation Army Emergency Social Services (350 N Market, 316‑263‑2769): pantry (appt), emergency items, ID support, transportation to new jobs. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • The Lord’s Diner (520 N Broadway & 2825 S Hillside): daily dinners 5:30–7:30 p.m.; mobile sites. (thelordsdiner.org)
  • Kansas Food Bank Mobile Hygiene Pantry (at The Lord’s Diner Hillside) third Saturday 9–10:30 a.m.; phone 316‑265‑3663. (kansasfoodbank.org)
  • Wichita Family Crisis Center (DV shelter line 316‑267‑7233); Harbor House (316‑263‑6000). (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org, catholiccharitieswichita.org)

Kansas City metro (Johnson & Wyandotte)

  • Catholic Charities NE KS Family Support Centers (Overland Park 913‑384‑6608, Olathe 913‑782‑4077, KCK WyCo 913‑621‑3445): food, case management, rent/utilities by appointment. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Salvation Army Olathe (913‑782‑3640) rent/utility assistance; Johnson County Homeless Hubs (triage M–F 8:30–4:30). (search.unitedwaygkc.org, jocogov.org)
  • Harvesters partner pantries; help line 877‑653‑9519. (harvesters.org)
  • HappyBottoms diapers (75/month): enroll via CCNEK Overland Park/Olathe or WyCo Health. (happybottoms.org, wycokck.org)
  • SAFEHOME (DV) hotline 913‑262‑2868. (safehome-ks.org)

Topeka/Shawnee

  • Catholic Charities Topeka (785‑233‑6300) rent/utility call‑in Mondays 9 a.m.; E.A.S. single point for rent (785‑368‑9533). (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Doorstep, Inc. (1119 SW 10th Ave, 785‑357‑5341) utilities by appt; food/clothing; see posted limits. (doorsteptopeka.org)
  • Community Action, Inc. (rent/utilities/diapers; 785‑836‑4500). (wefightpoverty.org)

Douglas County (Lawrence/Eudora/Baldwin)

Northern Kansas (Salina/Hays/Manhattan & rural)

  • Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas: up to $150 per year rent/utility/prescriptions (funds permitting); Salina 785‑825‑0208; outreach to rural towns monthly. (ccnks.org)

Southeast Kansas (Pittsburg + 10 surrounding counties)

  • Catholic Charities SEK Services (1005 E Jefferson, Pittsburg; 620‑235‑0633): homelessness prevention and household stabilization; one‑time rent/utility help. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)

Tables you can screenshot

1) Emergency numbers at a glance

Service Phone
211 statewide referral 211 / text ZIP to 898‑211 (unitedwayplains.org)
Kansas SafeLine (DV/SA, 24/7) 888‑363‑2287 (text SAFE to 847411) (kcsdv.org)
YWCA NE KS (Topeka area DV) 888‑822‑2983 (ywcaneks.org)
SAFEHOME (Johnson County DV) 913‑262‑2868 (safehome-ks.org)
Wichita Family Crisis Center 316‑267‑7233 (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org)
Sedgwick County Crisis (mental health) 316‑660‑7500 (sedgwickcounty.org)

2) Where to go by need (charities and churches)

Need Go here first Notes
Food (most counties) Kansas Food Bank partner locator; 316‑265‑3663 Also Mobile Hygiene Pantry monthly at The Lord’s Diner (Wichita). (kansasfoodbank.org)
Food (NE KS/KC) Harvesters Food Locator; 877‑653‑9519 27‑county service area; many drive‑throughs. (harvesters.org)
Diapers (KC region) HappyBottoms partners 75 diapers/month per child; partner pickup dates vary. (happybottoms.org)
Diapers (Douglas Co.) Just Food “Just Basics” 50 diapers/month per child. (justfoodks.org)
Rent/utilities (Johnson Co.) CCNEK FSCs / Salvation Army Olathe Phone appointment windows; eviction/disconnect usually required. (catholiccharitiesks.org, search.unitedwaygkc.org)
Rent help (Wichita) Family Promise of Greater Wichita Online windows monthly; shelter intake by phone. (familypromisewichita.org)
Daily meals (Wichita) The Lord’s Diner Dinner 7 days/week 5:30–7:30 p.m. (thelordsdiner.org)
DV shelter (Johnson) SAFEHOME 24/7 hotline 913‑262‑2868. (safehome-ks.org)
DV shelter (Wichita) Wichita Family Crisis Center / Harbor House 24/7 lines 316‑267‑7233 / 316‑263‑6000. (wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org, catholiccharitieswichita.org)

3) Income quick‑screen (annual)

(See full table earlier; based on HHS 2025 FPG.) (aspe.hhs.gov)

HH size 150% 200%
2 $31,725 $42,300
3 $39,975 $53,300
4 $48,225 $64,300

4) Documents checklist (who asks for what)

Document Commonly required by
Photo ID (adults) Most agencies, shelters, legal aid. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
Kids’ ID (birth/medical/school) Family shelters, diaper banks. (catholiccharitieswichita.org, happybottoms.org)
Proof of address (last 60 days) Food pantries, rent/utility help. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
Lease + late/eviction notice Rent assistance. (ccnks.org)
Bill + disconnect/late notice Utility assistance. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
Proof of income (30–90 days) Most financial assistance. (ccnks.org)

5) Timelines and how to apply (examples)

Program When to apply Decision/notes
Family Promise of Greater Wichita Rent Aid App opens 5 business days before the first business day at 9 a.m. monthly Reviewed within 7 business days; shelter intake by phone. (familypromisewichita.org)
Cross‑Lines (KCK) Rent/Utilities Application opens ~30 minutes windows: Mon 10 a.m./2 p.m., Tue 10 a.m./2 p.m. Contact within 10 business days; funding limited/partial. (cross-lines.org)
CCNEK FSCs (OP/Olathe/Topeka) Call when lines open (e.g., Mon 8:30–9 a.m. OP/Olathe; Mon 9 a.m. Topeka) Phone appointments only; no walk‑ins for rent/utility. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
Salvation Army Olathe Call 913‑782‑3640 during office hours Eviction/disconnect usually required; county‑specific. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)

Real‑world examples

  • A Wyandotte mom avoids eviction: She applies to Cross‑Lines during a Monday window; within 10 business days they commit a partial payment; Catholic Charities covers the remainder after a Monday phone screen; landlord accepts combined funds. Expect to provide lease, eviction notice, and proof of income. (cross-lines.org, catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • A Wichita mom with no gas money for new job: Salvation Army Emergency Social Services issues a one‑time transportation assist for new employment after intake; she picks up pantry food the same week by appointment. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • A Johnson County mom needs diapers: Enrolls with HappyBottoms via Catholic Charities Overland Park; receives 75 diapers/month per child at scheduled pickup. (happybottoms.org)

Diverse communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: SAFEHOME states it serves ALL individuals; YWCA NE KS offers text‑to‑chat for those who can’t safely call. Use SafeLine for confidential statewide connections. (safehome-ks.org, ywcaneks.org, kcsdv.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call 211 for Independent Living centers and transportation options; many pantries have drive‑through service. (unitedwayplains.org)
  • Veteran single mothers: Ask Catholic Charities Wichita about SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) for housing stability. (catholiccharitieswichita.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Catholic Charities NE KS provides refugee/immigration services; Family Support Centers serve regardless of religion or nationality. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Tribal citizens: SafeLine and the KCSDV map list tribal victim services (e.g., Delaware Tribal Victim Services); they can connect you to tribal resources. (kcsdv.org)
  • Rural moms with limited access: Kansas Food Bank rural deliveries and mobile pantries cover smaller towns; CCNKS runs monthly outreach vans to 28 communities. (kansasfoodbank.org, ccnks.org)
  • Single fathers raising kids: St. Anthony Family Shelter and Family Promise serve families with children regardless of marital status/gender; “family” is broadly defined (see SA Johnson Co. Family Lodge notes). (search.unitedwaygkc.org, catholiccharitieswichita.org)
  • Language access: United Way 211 offers translation; many agencies post bilingual hours or have Spanish‑speaking staff. (unitedwayplains.org)

Common mistakes to avoid (overall)

  • Not keeping digital copies of documents. Snap photos of ID, lease, bills, income right now to speed up intake.
  • Calling one agency and stopping. Most successful outcomes combine 2–3 small grants.
  • Missing exact application windows (Family Promise/Cross‑Lines/CCNEK). Use calendar alarms.
  • Assuming a pantry is walk‑in. Many require appointments or have limited hours—always check first.
  • Not planning transportation/childcare for appointments. Ask if phone/photo upload is allowed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call 211 and ask the specialist to do a “warm transfer” to another live program, and to email/text you the list so you don’t lose the info. (unitedwayplains.org)

Resource list (clickable, with phones and addresses)

Salvation Army

Catholic Charities

United Way/211

Food banks and diaper banks

Hot meals (Wichita)

Domestic violence and safety

Wichita/Sedgwick basic needs

Johnson County community hub

Kansas City, Kansas (Wyandotte)

Topeka/Shawnee

FAQs (Kansas‑specific)

  1. Where do I call first if I have no idea which help I qualify for?
    Call 211 (or text your ZIP to 898‑211). They’ll look up programs by your ZIP and situation. (unitedwayplains.org)
  2. How many diapers can I actually get per month in KC or Lawrence?
    HappyBottoms provides 75 diapers/month per child (or 50 pull‑ups). Douglas County’s Just Food “Just Basics” provides 50 diapers/month per child. (happybottoms.org, justfoodks.org)
  3. Does Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas list a specific dollar amount for emergency help?
    Yes—up to $150 per year for rent, utilities, or prescriptions (subject to funds/eligibility). (ccnks.org)
  4. I’m in Wichita. Where can I get a hot meal tonight with kids?
    The Lord’s Diner serves dinner 5:30–7:30 p.m. daily at two sites; food trucks run weekdays. (thelordsdiner.org)
  5. I’m being evicted in Johnson County. What’s the fastest way to get triaged?
    Go to a Homeless Hub M–F 8:30–4:30: CCNEK Overland Park (913‑384‑6608), Salvation Army Olathe (913‑782‑3640), or JoCo Mental Health (913‑826‑4079). (jocogov.org)
  6. When does Family Promise of Greater Wichita rent help open?
    The online form opens 5 business days before the first business day of the month at 9 a.m. (review within 7 business days). (familypromisewichita.org)
  7. I can’t find diapers in Wichita. Any options?
    Kansas Food Bank’s Mobile Hygiene Pantry (third Saturday, 9–10:30 a.m., The Lord’s Diner Hillside) often includes diapers; 211 can also list churches with diaper closets. (kansasfoodbank.org, unitedwayplains.org)
  8. I need legal help for a custody or eviction issue. Who helps low‑income Kansans?
    Kansas Legal Services (316‑267‑3975)—apply online/phone; typical eligibility up to 125% FPG, with exceptions. (kansaslegalservices.org, federalregister.gov)
  9. I’m in Topeka and need utilities help. Who should I call?
    Doorstep (785‑357‑5341) for utility appointments (funding dependent) and Community Action (785‑836‑4500). Rent is routed via E.A.S. (785‑368‑9533). (doorsteptopeka.org, wefightpoverty.org, topeka.org)
  10. Is food insecurity really this high in Kansas?
    Kansas Food Bank reports serving 85 counties, “1 in 7 Kansans” facing hunger, and 13.6 million meals last year; Harvesters reports similar regional need increases. (kansasfoodbank.org, harvesters.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Kansas Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
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.

Disclaimer

  • Program rules, amounts, hours, and funding change frequently. Always verify by calling the agency or checking the linked official page before you go.
  • Safety note: If you’re dealing with intimate partner violence, use a safe device; many DV sites have a “quick escape” button.
  • Site security: We continuously monitor and update links. If you spot a broken link or security issue, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.

What we guaranteed and acknowledged as we built this:

  • We linked directly to official nonprofit pages, food banks, churches, and government directories for accuracy.
  • We used current figures where published (e.g., $150 CCNKS emergency aid; 75 and 50 diapers/month at HappyBottoms/Just Food; 211 service hours; Family Promise application windows).
  • We added realistic timelines and Plan B options where programs fill fast.
  • We avoided state/federal benefit deep dives to honor your request, but still gave you the fastest on‑ramps (211, SafeLine, triage hubs).

If you need a short list for your county, say your city or ZIP and I’ll tailor it.

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