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Community Support for Single Mothers in Louisiana

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

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in Louisiana who need fast, real help from community organizations, churches, and charities. It prioritizes practical steps, phone numbers, clear eligibility rules, and what to do next if one door is closed.


— Quick navigation: Emergency help | Food & Diapers | Shelters & Housing | Money & Jobs | Legal Help | Health & Rx | Domestic Violence Safety | Home Repair | Diverse Communities | FAQs | Resources by Region | Application Checklist | About & Disclaimer

Quick Help Box (read this first)

Emergency: what to do in the first 24–72 hours

  • If you or your kids are unsafe, call 911. For domestic violence crisis and safety planning, call 1‑888‑411‑1333 statewide or 504‑866‑9554 in New Orleans. [LCADV] | [NOFJC]. (lcadv.org, nofjc.org)
  • If you were locked out, sleeping in a car, or fleeing violence with children in New Orleans area, call UNITY family line 504‑356‑1859 for coordinated entry and shelter placement. In Baton Rouge, call 225‑383‑7343 (SVdP). Statewide, dial 211 for the closest intake point. [LabosCoC/UNITY] | [SVdP BR] | [LA 211]. (laboscoc.org, svdpbr.net, louisiana211.org)
  • Need food today? Use your closest food bank’s “Find Food” map; Second Harvest provided over 40 million meals in 2024 across 23 parishes, and GBR Food Bank distributed 16.6M pounds in 2024. Lines vary; bring ID if you have it. [Second Harvest 2024 impact] | [GBR Food Bank 2024 stats]. (no-hunger.org, brfoodbank.org)
  • New Orleans overnight shelter option Mon–Thu: Salvation Army Center of Hope (first 7 nights free, then $10/night; registration from 4 pm). [SA New Orleans Center of Hope]. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Young moms (ages 16–22, including with children): call Covenant House New Orleans 504‑584‑1111 (24/7). [Covenant House Get Help]. (covenanthousenola.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

If you need Call/Go to What they do Key details
Fast food help Second Harvest; GBR Food Bank; Food Bank of NELA Pantries, mobile pantries, community kitchens Second Harvest > 40M meals (2024); GBR > 12.8M meals/16.6M lbs (2024). Bring ID if you have it. (no-hunger.org, brfoodbank.org)
Emergency shelter (Baton Rouge) St. Vincent de Paul (Sweet Dreams) 225‑383‑7343 Shelter for mothers & children; meals, case management Campus: 1623 Convention St. Call first for intake. (svdpbr.net)
Emergency shelter (N.O.) Salvation Army 504‑899‑4569 Center of Hope, Mon–Thu check‑in from 4 pm First 7 nights free; then $10/night if staying longer. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Young mom (16–22) Covenant House 504‑584‑1111 24/7 shelter and services for youth; children welcome Walk‑in: 611 N. Rampart St. (covenanthouse.org)
Domestic violence safety Statewide DV hotline 1‑888‑411‑1333 Crisis line; referrals to shelters & legal help New Orleans: NOFJC 504‑866‑9554. (lcadv.org, nofjc.org)
Diapers Junior League Diaper Banks (N.O. & Baton Rouge); Basic Necessities (Shreveport) Monthly diaper distributions through partners JLBR distributes ~550,000 diapers/yr; JLNO > 9.6M since 2014. Shreveport’s Basic Necessities serves North LA. (juniorleaguebr.org, jlno.org, giveforgoodnla.org)
Free tax prep VITA (UWSELA) In‑person & virtual filing Income generally ≤ $66,819 for VITA; MyFreeTaxes open broadly. (unitedwaysela.org)
Free/low‑cost prescriptions (Baton Rouge) SVdP Community Pharmacy 225‑383‑7450 Free meds if eligible Bring ID, proof of income/expenses; Mon–Fri mornings. (svdpbr.net)
Legal help SLLS (SE LA) 1‑844‑244‑7871; ALSC (Central/North/SW) 1‑866‑275‑2572 Free civil legal aid Financial eligibility usually at/under 125% FPL (exceptions apply). (slls.org, la-law.org)
Home repairs Rebuilding Together NOLA 504‑264‑1815 Critical repairs for low‑income owners Must be owner‑occupied, ≤ 80% AMI; priority single‑head of household w/ minors, seniors, disabled, veterans. (rtno.org)

Why local help matters now (fast context)

  • Half of Louisiana households were below the ALICE survival threshold in 2022 (19% below poverty and 32% ALICE = 50%). The 2025 statewide update again places roughly half of households below the threshold. Use this as a signal to ask early for help, not as a reason to wait. [United For ALICE Louisiana profile; LA United Way 2025 update]. (unitedforalice.org, launitedway.org)
  • South Louisiana food demand remains high; Second Harvest reports more than 40 million meals in 2024 and expanded distribution capacity in SW Louisiana in 2025. [Second Harvest 2024 impact; American Press on new distribution center capacity]. (no-hunger.org, americanpress.com)
  • In Greater Baton Rouge, the food bank has faced inventory shortages; agencies have had to reduce box sizes (recently to 15 lbs), so arrive early and have a Plan B pantry. [WAFB report]. (wafb.com)

Food & Diapers: quick wins for single moms

Start here: pick the closest food bank or diaper partner and call ahead for hours.

What to do first

  • Use the “Find Food” tools for your region and go to the next open distribution, even if you don’t have every document yet.
  • If transporting kids is tough, ask if there’s a mobile pantry or a partner church closer to you (many exist through these networks).
  • If you need formula or baby items, ask the pantry for referrals to partner churches and diaper banks at the same time.

Strong options by region

Diaper help (and period products)

Typical eligibility & documents

  • Photo ID (if you have it), proof of address (mail/lease/utility bill), and household size. If you get SNAP/SSI/TANF, bring proof to qualify for some distributions with less paperwork (for example, CC Southwest LA food program). [CCSWLA food distribution requirements]. (catholiccharitiesswla.com)

Reality check

  • Summer months and late afternoons are busiest. With kids in the car, try morning distributions and bring water/snacks. Some programs limit one pick‑up/month per household. [CCSWLA monthly schedule & limits]. (catholiccharitiesswla.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 211 and ask for “faith‑based pantries open today” plus “delivery or mobile pantry options.” If transportation is the barrier, ask about churches that deliver to homebound parents through partners. [LA 211]. (louisiana211.org)

Shelters & Family Housing (churches, charities, and youth‑focused)

Start with the place that fits your situation (mom with minor children, young mom under 23, etc.). Bring IDs if you have them; don’t delay for missing papers.

Key options with how intake works

  • Baton Rouge — Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) “Sweet Dreams Shelter,” campus at 1623 Convention St.
    • Call 225‑383‑7343 for shelter info (women & children). Day center and family shelters on site; plus community pharmacy and dental initiative. Annual shelter nights exceed 30,000 across programs. [SVdP programs & shelter info]. (svdpbr.net)
  • New Orleans — Salvation Army Center of Hope, 4526 S. Claiborne Ave., 504‑899‑4569.
    • Check‑in Mon–Thu at 4 pm. Overnight emergency shelter for 30–90 days; first 7 nights free, then $10/night; includes dinner and breakfast. Must have photo ID, negative TB test; curfew applies. [Center of Hope rules]. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • New Orleans — New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter (NOWCS), 2625 Iberville St., 504‑522‑9340.
    • Intake begins by calling UNITY Families 504‑356‑1859. Shelter prioritizes keeping families intact; largest shelter for women & kids in metro N.O. [NOWCS contact; UNITY CE]. (nowcs.org, laboscoc.org)
  • New Orleans — Hotel Hope (moms with children), 3923 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 504‑821‑7773.
  • New Orleans — Hagar’s House (women, children, inclusive of trans & gender‑nonconforming), 3401 Canal St., 504‑210‑5064.
    • Transitional community living with savings requirement (residents save 70% of income while in program). [Hagar’s House overview]. (firstgracecommunityalliance.org)
  • New Orleans — Covenant House (youth 16–22; parenting youth welcome), 611 N. Rampart St., 504‑584‑1111 (24/7). [Covenant House help page]. (covenanthousenola.org)
  • Shreveport — Providence House, 814 Cotton St., 318‑221‑7887.
    • Family shelter (single mothers/fathers or couples with children) with case management, child development center, HiSET, workforce classes. Capacity up to 27 families (80 people). [Providence House FAQ & programs]. (theprovidencehouse.com)
  • New Orleans — Ozanam Inn, 2239 Poydras St.
    • Free shelter and meals daily; now includes dorms for women; meals 3x/day; average 400–500 meals/day. Call or walk‑in afternoons for intake. [Ozanam Inn about]. (ozanaminn.org)

Table: Shelters for moms and children (intake at a glance)

Region Shelter Who they serve How to get in Key notes
Baton Rouge SVdP Sweet Dreams Women & children; some intact families Call 225‑383‑7343 On‑campus day services; pharmacy/dental nearby. (svdpbr.net)
New Orleans Salvation Army Center of Hope Individuals & families Call 504‑899‑4569; Check‑in M–Th 4 pm First 7 nights free; then $10/night; rules apply. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
New Orleans NOWCS Moms & kids; intact families Start via UNITY 504‑356‑1859 Largest women/children shelter in metro. (nowcs.org, laboscoc.org)
New Orleans Hotel Hope Moms with children Call 504‑821‑7773 Short‑term shelter while securing housing. (hotelhope.org)
New Orleans Hagar’s House Women, children; inclusive Call 504‑210‑5064 Savings program (save 70% of income). (firstgracecommunityalliance.org)
New Orleans Covenant House Youth 16–22; parenting youth 504‑584‑1111 24/7; youth‑focused care & housing. (covenanthousenola.org)
Shreveport Providence House Families with children 318‑221‑7887 Capacity up to 27 families (80 people). (theprovidencehouse.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If a shelter is full, ask the staff to add you to the waitlist and to contact your CoC coordinated entry line (e.g., 504‑356‑1859 in N.O.). Ask about “hotel voucher” or “non‑congregate” options during severe weather. If you’re in a parish outside New Orleans and not sure who the CoC lead is, dial 211 and ask for the coordinated entry provider in your parish. (lhc.la.gov, louisiana211.org)

Money, Jobs, and Free Tax Help (United Way, Goodwill, Boys & Girls Clubs)

You don’t have to pay for tax prep or basic financial coaching.

  • United Way of Southeast Louisiana VITA: In‑person free tax prep generally for households at or under $66,819 (2024 filing). Virtual options available; MyFreeTaxes.com for most filers. [UWSELA VITA]. (unitedwaysela.org)
  • UWSELA Prosperity Centers (Orleans, St. Tammany, Washington): Free financial coaching, credit building, benefits screening, and an IDA matched‑savings program at a 4:1 match for approved goals (home, vehicle, education, business, home maintenance). Call or visit a location page to ask about caps/waitlists. [Prosperity Center | J. Wayne Leonard Center]. (unitedwaysela.org)
  • Shreveport Financial Empowerment Center (City of Shreveport + United Way NWLA): Free 1‑on‑1 counseling — debt reduction, savings plan, credit building. Main office 820 Jordan St., Suite 507. Appointments: 318‑606‑6595 or online. [City of Shreveport FEC; UWNWLA page]. (shreveportla.gov, unitedwaynwla.org)
  • Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana: Free job readiness (GEAR), sector trainings, re‑entry programs, computer labs; multiple Opportunity Centers (New Orleans, New Orleans East, Baton Rouge, Houma, Mandeville). Call 504‑456‑3925. [Goodwill mission services; GEAR]. (goodwillno.org)
  • Boys & Girls Clubs (after‑school so you can work):
    • Acadiana Clubs: after‑school program fee $25 for the school year at many sites (some sites waived; verify). [BGC Acadiana Afterschool 2024‑25]. (bgcacadiana.com)
    • Metro Louisiana Clubs (Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Northshore): financial aid available; ask your club director about scholarships. [BGC Metro Louisiana FAQ]. (bgcmetrolouisiana.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If VITA sites are full near tax day, use MyFreeTaxes.com (United Way) to e‑file at no cost, or ask 211 for other nonprofit VITA sites (libraries, colleges). If you need same‑day cash, avoid high‑fee refund advances; ask Prosperity Centers about safe bank accounts and emergency budgeting instead. [UWSELA VITA]. (unitedwaysela.org)

Legal Help (family, housing, consumer, DV)

  • Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS): Free civil legal aid across SE parishes. Central intake 1‑844‑244‑7871 or local offices; typical eligibility around 125% of FPL with program exceptions (e.g., seniors, DV). [SLLS get help & contact]. (slls.org)
  • Acadiana Legal Service Corporation (ALSC): Central/North/SW LA; eligibility usually ≤125% FPL (some up to 200% or age‑based exceptions). Toll‑free 1‑866‑ASK‑ALSC. [ALSC eligibility & offices]. (la-law.org)
  • Louisiana State Bar Association resources: legal aid/pro bono directory; Civil Legal Navigator. [LSBA Help]. (lsba.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you’re over income for legal aid, ask LSBA for the “Modest Means” referral. If you’re experiencing DV, tell any intake screener — many programs have special DV carve‑outs or urgent dockets. [LSBA resources]. (lsba.org)

Health & Low‑Cost Prescriptions

  • Baton Rouge — St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy (free meds if eligible), 225‑383‑7450, 1647 Convention St., Mon–Fri mornings; bring ID and income/expense proof. [SVdP pharmacy requirements]. (svdpbr.net)
  • New Orleans — NO Family Justice Center “HOPE Clinic”: trauma‑informed primary care, forensic exams, behavioral health. Call 504‑503‑0878. [NOFJC HOPE Clinic services]. (nofjc.org)
  • Free or sliding‑fee clinics exist in most parishes; call 211 for the closest nonprofit clinic and ask about sliding scale, walk‑in hours, and language access. (louisiana211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask your clinic or social worker to fax a direct referral to SVdP Pharmacy (BR) or to a charitable pharmacy in your parish; referral speeds up your first pickup.

Domestic Violence Safety (confidential, free)

  • Statewide DV hotline 1‑888‑411‑1333 connects you to the nearest program for safety planning, shelter, and legal advocacy. [LCADV]. (lcadv.org)
  • New Orleans Family Justice Center: 24/7 crisis line 504‑866‑9554; free counseling, legal help for protective orders, Mary Claire’s Place emergency shelter, childcare during appointments. [NOFJC services]. (nofjc.org)
  • Regional programs (examples):
    • Baton Rouge — Iris Domestic Violence Center crisis lines 225‑389‑3001 or 1‑800‑541‑9706. [IRIS contact]. (stopdv.org)
    • Lake Charles/SW LA — Oasis A Safe Haven hotlines 800‑223‑4552 (DV) / 866‑570‑7273 (SA). [Oasis]. (oasisasafehaven.org)
    • Acadiana — Faith House of Acadiana crisis 1‑888‑411‑1333 (24/7) & local outreach 337‑232‑8954. [Faith House contact]. (faithhouseacadiana.com)

Reality checks and tips

  • Funding cuts and full shelters are real. Ask each program about “hotel/motel placement,” transportation, and child‑care while you attend court or counseling. If one program is full, ask them to warm‑transfer you to another in‑network shelter. Keep safety planning active even if you can’t move today. [LCADV network overview]. (lcadv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t reach a local program, call the national DV hotline (800‑799‑SAFE) and tell them you’re in Louisiana; they can cross‑refer you. If staying put tonight, hide a go‑bag (IDs, kids’ birth certs, meds) and arrange a code word with a neighbor.

Home Repair & Disaster Recovery (nonprofit programs)

These are not emergency repairs; expect waitlists and verification steps. Start with a quick phone screening.

  • Rebuilding Together New Orleans (RTNO): owner‑occupied repairs for low‑income homeowners ≤80% AMI, must be owner‑occupied ≥3 years; priority to single‑head of household with minors, seniors (60+), disabled, veterans. Call/text 504‑264‑1815. [RTNO eligibility]. (rtno.org)
  • City of New Orleans Fortified Roof Program (administered with RTNO): grants up to $35,000 CDBG funds for eligible owner‑occupied homes ≤80% AMI; launched May 31, 2024; first‑come while funds last. [City program page]. (nola.gov)
  • New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity — Home Repair: owner‑occupied, income ≤80% AMI; typical repairs include roofing, HVAC, ramps, safety fixes; allow up to 6 months from application to completed work. Contact 504‑609‑3340. [NOAHH home repair services]. (habitat-nola.org)
  • SBP (formerly St. Bernard Project): post‑disaster owner‑occupied rebuilding and affordable sale homes; inquire for open programs in your parish. [SBP Build/Owner‑Occupied Rebuilding]. (sbpusa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask a trusted church about volunteer repair days for small safety items (grab bars, steps). In N.O., see Preservation Resource Center’s historic repair grants (up to $20,000) if your home qualifies. [PRC Historic Home Repair Grant]. (prcno.org)

Housing Pathways (longer‑term)

  • Habitat for Humanity (homeownership): generally serve 27–80% AMI (varies by affiliate). In New Orleans, minimum income listed at $36,480/yr for a 1‑person household; payments are capped so housing costs ≤30% of income; allow 18–24 months from acceptance to move‑in. [NOAHH homeownership FAQ; Habitat BR income band]. (habitat-nola.org, habitatbrla.org)
  • Rebuilding Together & PRC programs (above) help you keep the home you own; check income charts and parish location. [RTNO; City Fortified Roof; PRC]. (rtno.org, nola.gov, prcno.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask Habitat about credit/debt counseling and “sweat equity” hours you can start now; ask United Way Prosperity Center about IDA matched savings (4:1) for down‑payment or car purchase to stabilize work. [Prosperity Center]. (unitedwaysela.org)

Tables to make choices faster

Table: Free tax help, money coaching, and job training

Service Who it serves Benefit/Amount How to apply
VITA (UWSELA) Most households with income ≤ $66,819 for in‑person prep Free prep + e‑file; check EITC eligibility See VITA site for locations/hours; bring IDs, Social Security cards, W‑2/1099, childcare receipts. (unitedwaysela.org)
MyFreeTaxes.com (United Way) Most filers Free federal & state e‑file Start online; chat help available. (unitedwaysela.org)
UWSELA Prosperity Centers SE LA residents Free coaching; IDA at 4:1 match for approved goals Call centers in Orleans, St. Tammany, Washington parishes. (unitedwaysela.org)
Shreveport FEC Caddo area residents Free 1‑on‑1 counseling; savings & debt plans 318‑606‑6595 or online scheduler. (shreveportla.gov)
Goodwill SE LA Several parishes Free job readiness (GEAR), re‑entry, SNAP E&T trainings Call 504‑456‑3925; visit centers in N.O., BR, Houma, Mandeville. (goodwillno.org)

Table: Health & prescriptions

Program What it covers Cost details Eligibility & documents
SVdP Community Pharmacy (Baton Rouge) Free prescription meds (no controlled substances) Free if approved ID; proof of income/expenses; Mon–Fri mornings; 225‑383‑7450. (svdpbr.net)
NOFJC HOPE Clinic (New Orleans) Primary care, behavioral health, forensic exams Free/low‑cost; trauma‑informed Call 504‑503‑0878; DV survivors prioritized. (nofjc.org)
Sliding‑fee clinics (statewide) Primary care, women’s health, peds Sliding scale based on income Call 211 for the closest nonprofit clinic and what to bring. (louisiana211.org)

Table: Home repair and resilience

Program Parish focus Income limits Benefit Timeline
RT New Orleans Orleans ≤80% AMI; owner‑occupied ≥3 years; priority single‑head with minors, seniors, disabled, veterans Critical safety repairs Expect waitlist; call/text 504‑264‑1815. (rtno.org)
Fortified Roof (City of New Orleans + RTNO) Orleans ≤80% AMI (approx $71,850 for family of 4 in 2025); owner‑occupied Up to $35,000 grant for fortified roof Open since May 31, 2024, until funds run out. (nola.gov)
NOAHH Home Repair Orleans/Jefferson ≤80% AMI; owner‑occupied Health/safety repairs (incl. roof/HVAC) Allow up to ~6 months from approval. 504‑609‑3340. (habitat-nola.org)
SBP Owner‑Occupied Rebuilding Disaster‑impacted areas Low‑/moderate‑income homeowners Labor‑efficient rebuild model Intake varies by event/funding; ask. (sbpusa.org)

Table: Food & diaper network (selected anchors)

Area Food anchor Notes Diaper anchor Notes
South LA Second Harvest 40M meals in 2024; 23 parishes JLNO Diaper Bank >9.6M diapers since 2014; partner pickups. (no-hunger.org, jlno.org)
Greater BR GBR Food Bank 12.8M meals in 2024; some reductions in 2025 JLBR Diaper Bank ~550,000 diapers/yr via 23 partners. (brfoodbank.org, wafb.com, juniorleaguebr.org)
North LA Food Bank NELA / NWLA Mobile pantry & partner sites Basic Necessities (Shreveport) Diapers + period supplies; 318‑751‑0851. (foodbanknela.org, giveforgoodnla.org)

Diverse Communities: tailored paths to help

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers and youth: Covenant House New Orleans openly serves LGBTQ+ youth (16–22) and their children; 24/7 intake 504‑584‑1111. NOFJC offers inclusive counseling and legal help for survivors of violence. (covenanthouse.org, nofjc.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Rebuilding Together and NOAHH prioritize accessibility repairs (ramps, railings). Ask clinics or 211 for care coordination and transportation if mobility is limited. (rtno.org, habitat-nola.org)
  • Veteran single mothers: United Way and Goodwill sites can connect you to veteran‑focused employment and case management; ask 211 for SSVF‑funded nonprofits in your parish for rent/utility arrears assistance (availability varies).
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: Catholic Charities agencies statewide provide immigration legal services and parish‑based assistance regardless of faith. In the New Orleans area, call 504‑457‑3462 for immigration services; pregnancy services 504‑832‑1503. [CCANO program directory]. (ccano.org)
  • Tribal citizens: Contact your tribe’s social services/family services office for emergency aid and victim services; pair that with local 211 and food banks.
  • Rural single moms: Mobile pantries (Food Bank of NELA; Second Harvest) and monthly church distributions in SW LA (Catholic Charities SWLA) reduce travel. Confirm times before driving and ask if you can register on‑site. (foodbanknela.org, catholiccharitiesswla.com)
  • Single fathers raising children: All children‑ and family‑serving shelters listed (Providence House, SVdP family programs, some church shelters) can help single dads as well; confirm intake. (theprovidencehouse.com, svdpbr.net)
  • Language access: Louisiana 211 uses immediate interpretation in 161 languages; text your ZIP to 898‑211 if you prefer texting. (louisiana211.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Waiting for a “perfect” set of documents. For food and some shelters, you can often start with an ID and proof of address; complete the rest after intake. (catholiccharitiesswla.com)
  • Not asking about alternative sites. If one pantry or shelter is out, there’s often a partner site open nearby (especially in Second Harvest/GBR/NELA networks). (no-hunger.org, brfoodbank.org)
  • Paying for tax prep when you qualify for free VITA/MyFreeTaxes. That’s money you need for rent, diapers, or gas. (unitedwaysela.org)
  • Skipping legal help because you think you “won’t qualify.” Many programs have exceptions (DV survivors, seniors, special grants). Apply anyway; let them screen you. (slls.org)
  • Assuming repairs will be immediate. Most home repair programs have waitlists. Apply now, then ask your church about small safety fixes while you wait. (rtno.org)

Application checklist (print or screenshot)

  • Photo ID(s) for you and any adult in your household.
  • Proof of address (lease, utility bill, mail).
  • Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs, SSI/SSDI/TANF award letter, child support; if none, a support letter from shelter/relative).
  • Documents specific to the program:
    • Shelter: any protective orders, caseworker name (if you have one).
    • Pharmacy: list of medications, doctor/hospital referral if you have it. (svdpbr.net)
    • Home repair: deed or proof of ownership, property tax receipt, insurance (if any). (rtno.org)
    • VITA: W‑2/1099s, Social Security cards for everyone on return, childcare provider info with EIN. (unitedwaysela.org)

Ten Louisiana‑specific FAQs

  1. Is there one number I can call for all services?
    Yes. Dial 211 (24/7) or text your ZIP to 898‑211. They’ll search local churches/charities in your parish and can conference you in. (louisiana211.org)
  2. I’m in New Orleans with kids and need a shelter tonight. Where do I start?
    Call UNITY family line 504‑356‑1859. If it’s after hours, ask Salvation Army Center of Hope about same‑day check‑in from 4 pm Mon–Thu. (laboscoc.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  3. What does “first 7 nights free then 10/night”meanatSalvationArmy?IntheNewOrleansCenterofHope,overnightshelterisfreethefirstweek;extendedstayscost∗∗10/night” mean at Salvation Army? In the New Orleans Center of Hope, overnight shelter is free the first week; extended stays cost **10/night** and include a bed plus dinner/breakfast (rules apply). (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  4. Can I get free diapers monthly?
    Yes in many areas. JLBR (Baton Rouge) distributes ~550,000 diapers/year via partners; JLNO has distributed 9.6M+ since 2014. Ask 211 for the nearest partner pickup site. (juniorleaguebr.org, jlno.org)
  5. I’m a working mom — where can my child go after school so I can take shifts?
    Boys & Girls Clubs in Acadiana charge $25/school year at many clubs (some waived); Metro Louisiana clubs offer assistance. Call your local club. (bgcacadiana.com, bgcmetrolouisiana.org)
  6. Can I get free tax prep without losing my refund to fees?
    Yes. United Way VITA (generally income ≤ $66,819) and MyFreeTaxes.com are free. Bring ID, Social Security cards, and W‑2/1099. (unitedwaysela.org)
  7. My landlord won’t fix hazards; I’m scared of eviction if I push. Who can help?
    Call SLLS (1‑844‑244‑7871) or ALSC (1‑866‑275‑2572) for tenant legal advice; they often help with repairs, deposit disputes, or eviction defense. (slls.org, la-law.org)
  8. I own my home but can’t afford critical repairs. Any help?
    Apply to Rebuilding Together New Orleans (≤80% AMI) or NOAHH Home Repair; in N.O. ask about the City’s Fortified Roof grant up to $35,000. (rtno.org, habitat-nola.org, nola.gov)
  9. I’m a young mom (20) with a toddler and no family here. Who will take me?
    Covenant House New Orleans serves youth ages 16–22 and their children 24/7; call 504‑584‑1111. (covenanthousenola.org)
  10. How bad is financial hardship in Louisiana right now?
    In 2022, 50% of Louisiana households were below the ALICE threshold (19% poverty + 32% ALICE). 2025 updates show similarly high hardship, so don’t wait to ask for help. (unitedforalice.org, launitedway.org)

Resources by Region (community organizations, churches & charities)

Greater New Orleans

Greater Baton Rouge

  • Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Bishop Ott shelters & Sweet Dreams, pharmacy, dining & dental effort), programs, campus 225‑383‑7343, 1623 Convention St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Pharmacy 225‑383‑7450, 1647 Convention St. (svdpbr.net)
  • Salvation Army – Baton Rouge Corps, contact, 225‑355‑4483, 7361 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70805. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, find food, 10600 South Choctaw Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70815. (brfoodbank.org)
  • Junior League of Baton Rouge Diaper Bank, program, 225‑924‑0298, 9523 Fenway Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. (juniorleaguebr.org)

Acadiana / Lafayette

Southwest Louisiana / Lake Charles

Shreveport / North Louisiana

Plan B ideas (when the first answer is “we’re out of funds”)

  • Ask for a written list of partner churches and the days they take calls. Many church‑based conferences rotate limited assistance.
  • Call 211 again and ask for “one‑time rent/utility help from faith‑based partners” (e.g., Salvation Army Social Services, St. Vincent de Paul conferences, Catholic Charities). Note: amounts vary and are often small, but can cover a late fee or reconnect fee. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Time your calls. Some agencies open phone lines only certain mornings each week for financial aid. Set alarms and call right at opening.

Salvation Army / Catholic Charities / United Way: direct links

Reality checks and timelines

  • Shelter beds: In New Orleans, plan to call UNITY Families 504‑356‑1859 early in the day. Salvation Army accepts only Mon–Thu evening check‑ins at 4 pm; first week free, then $10/night if you stay longer. Bring ID and any recent TB test results if you have them. (laboscoc.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Home repair: Expect months, not weeks. Fortified Roof grants require eligibility review; Habitat repair timelines can run up to ~6 months after approval. Apply now and stay in touch. (nola.gov, habitat-nola.org)
  • Food boxes: Quantities can change when inventories are low (e.g., Baton Rouge reductions in 2025). Arrive early and bring your own bags. (wafb.com)

About eligibility numbers and budgets (so you can plan)

  • ALICE in Louisiana: in 2022, 50% of households were at or below the ALICE threshold (19% poverty + 32% ALICE). 2025 updates show similarly high hardship statewide. Use this to advocate for yourself — long lines are not your fault. [United For ALICE; LAUW 2025 update]. (unitedforalice.org, launitedway.org)
  • Second Harvest’s scale: 40M+ meals in 2024; expanding distribution centers to move more food where needed (e.g., new SWLA center). [Second Harvest impact; American Press]. (no-hunger.org, americanpress.com)
  • Fortified Roof grants (N.O.): up to $35,000 per eligible owner‑occupied home. [City program page]. (nola.gov)

What to bring (by program)

  • Shelters: ID(s), any custody docs, school IDs, meds; if DV survivor, any protective orders.
  • Food & diapers: ID + proof of residence; SNAP/SSI/TANF letters if you have them for quicker intake. (catholiccharitiesswla.com)
  • Pharmacy: ID; proof of income and current monthly bills; prescription/written orders. (svdpbr.net)
  • VITA tax prep: photo IDs, Social Security cards for all, W‑2/1099s, daycare provider EIN and amount paid, bank routing number. (unitedwaysela.org)

What to do if you’re told “call back next month”

  • Ask for the exact day/time the phone lines open and whether walk‑in is possible.
  • Request a “warm transfer” to a partner agency that still has funds this month.
  • For utilities, ask Salvation Army or SVdP if they partner with Entergy’s charitable assistance programs in your parish; some require you to call their social services line first. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)

Resource List (clickable links, with phone and address)

Quick Reference: numbers at a glance (save to your phone)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Louisiana community organizations and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards with primary sources, direct program pages, and regularly updated public data. We are independent researchers, not government staff. Individual eligibility cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Found a mistake or a broken link? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, hours, and availability change frequently. Always verify with the organization before you go, especially for same‑day shelter, food distributions, and financial assistance. This guide is not legal advice or a substitute for case‑specific counseling. We make every effort to keep this site safe and accurate, but you should avoid sharing sensitive personal/medical details on public Wi‑Fi and keep your device updated with security patches.

Sources used in this guide (selected):

If a figure wasn’t listed (for example, exact rental‑assistance dollar caps at a church), it’s because the official site does not publish a fixed amount and assistance varies by funding. In those cases, we linked directly to the organization’s page so you can confirm current amounts and hours.

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