Missouri Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help now (read this first)

• Dial 911 if you or your children are in immediate danger.
• Domestic violence help (24/7): Safe Connections St. Louis 314‑531‑2003, Hope House KC 816‑461‑4673 (HOPE), Synergy Services Northland 816‑321‑7050, St. Martha’s Hall St. Louis 314‑533‑1313, The Women’s Safe House 314‑772‑4535. These hotlines can arrange emergency shelter and safety planning. (safeconnections.org, hopehouse.net, synergyservices.org, domesticshelters.org)
• Find local rent, utility, food, diaper, and shelter help 24/7: dial 2‑1‑1 or 800‑427‑4626 (TTY 866‑385‑6525). Text and online chat are available M–F. (m.helpingpeople.org, unitedwaycemo.org)
• If utilities are at risk of shutoff, contact your utility and a local agency the same day. For Ameren Missouri, ask about Keeping Current and Dollar More; for Spire, ask about DollarHelp; for Evergy (KC area), ask about ERPP. Details below. (ameren.com, spireenergy.com, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Quick‑help box (what to do in the first 60 minutes)

• Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “emergency rent/utility assistance and nearest diaper bank.” Keep the call reference number they give you. (m.helpingpeople.org)
• If you’re in St. Louis City/County, complete Catholic Charities’ Request Care form (expect a response in 10–14 days right now due to storm volume). For faster in‑person help with homelessness, go to St. Patrick Center’s Welcome Center at 800 N. Tucker Blvd., intakes at 8:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. (M–F). (ccstl.org, stpatrickcenter.org)
• In KC Metro, call 816‑221‑4377 (Catholic Charities KCSJ) on Monday at 8:30 a.m. for rent/utility appointments (up to $250 toward the last part of a bill when funds are open). Also check Metro Lutheran Ministry (applications open 9:00 a.m. on the 15th monthly). (search.unitedwaygkc.org, mlmkc.org)
• If your Ameren bill is behind, ask an agency about Dollar More (up to $600/year\ast \ast at\le 200$35–$90/month bill credit + arrears forgiveness with on‑time payments). (ameren.com)
• If your Spire gas bill is behind, ask 2‑1‑1 about DollarHelp (eligibility to 300% FPL; annual pledge cap $1,000 per household). (spireenergy.com)
• Need diapers now? In St. Louis, the Diaper Bank’s emergency sites provide set quantities each month; in KC Metro, HappyBottoms provides 75 diapers or 50 pull‑ups per child monthly via partner agencies. (stldiaperbank.org, happybottoms.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What makes this guide different (how we beat the typical search results)

• We include actual dollar amounts, income limits, and enrollment windows where charities publish them.
• We give phone numbers, street addresses, and intake hours so you don’t lose a day hunting for them.
• We flag slow response times and supply limitations, and we add Plan B options at the end of each section.

All data are from official pages of the charities/utilities or established partners and are verified as of August–September 2025. See citations after each section.

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How to use this guide

• Skim the section that fits your need.
• Gather the documents in the Application Checklist.
• Call during the agency’s intake window (many open lines early and fill by noon).
• If funding is out, go to the Plan B in each section and try the next option the same day.

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Application Checklist (keep photos of these on your phone)

• Government‑issued photo ID for adults in the household.
• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, or official mail from last 30–60 days).
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, child support letter, benefits letters).
• Social Security cards or ITINs (if required—some agencies do not require SSNs).
• The actual bill, shutoff notice, or eviction notice; lease with landlord information.
• If applying for utility charity grants (Dollar Energy Fund and some programs), proof of recent payment (“sincere effort of payment,” e.g., $100\ast \ast inlast90days;\ast \ast$75 if 62+). (dollarenergy.org)

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Rent, Mortgage & Utility Help from Community Organizations (non‑government)

Start here:

• Call 2‑1‑1 or 800‑427‑4626 and ask for “rent/utility help providers taking new intakes today” in your ZIP. If 2‑1‑1 doesn’t connect with your carrier, dial the toll‑free number. (unitedwaycemo.org)
• Apply to at least two providers on the same day (funds move fast).

Catholic Charities (regional networks)

• St. Louis region: Use the Request Care form; response currently 10–14 days due to storms. For emergency shelter/housing, St. Patrick Center handles walk‑in intakes at 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (M–F). Phone 314‑802‑0700. (ccstl.org, stpatrickcenter.org)
• Kansas City–St. Joseph: Call 816‑221‑4377 Monday at 8:30 a.m. for financial‑assistance appointments (rent/utility up to the last $250, if funds available). KC Welcome Center: 8001 Longview Rd. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• Southern Missouri (Springfield/Joplin/Cape): Rent/mortgage help and housing case management across 39 counties; eligibility varies by funding. Offices listed by county; call nearest office to screen. (ccsomo.org)

Reality check: Catholic Charities often requires you to have a plan to pay next month and may prioritize households with minors, seniors, or health risks.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Immediately call St. Vincent de Paul (St. Louis: 314‑881‑6000) for parish‑based aid, and the Salvation Army location for your county. These groups often braid funds to cover the last dollars of a bill. (mightycause.com)

Salvation Army (county‑based social services)

• St. Louis metro: Rent and utilities assistance intake via online request; eligibility uses HUD income and fair market rent benchmarks. Phone 314‑423‑7770 (Family Haven). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• KC + Western Missouri: For Evergy ERPP call 816‑756‑5392 (Option 1). Approvals may provide up to $65/month\ast \ast for\ast \ast 12months\ast \ast .AtmosEnergy’s“SharingtheWarmth”allowsupto\ast \ast$200 per visit, up to three times/year where available. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the intake worker to refer you to a partner like Bishop Sullivan Center or Metro Lutheran Ministry (KC), or parish St. Vincent de Paul (STL). These networks coordinate to avoid duplication and can “gap‑fill” when one fund is short. (bishopsullivan.org, mlmkc.org)

St. Vincent de Paul (parish‑based)

• St. Louis Council helpline 314‑881‑6000 or use the Conference Finder; utility and housing assistance is case‑by‑case within parish boundaries. The Council’s network provides significant utility aid across eastern Missouri. (svdpstlouis.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a thrift store furniture voucher or bed program while you stabilize, and call 2‑1‑1 for another rent/utility provider in your ZIP. (svdpstlouis.org)

Other KC‑area community providers

• Metro Lutheran Ministry (MLM): KC rent/utility apps open 9:00 a.m. on the 15th each month (or next business day); must be at risk of homelessness; one award per 12 months. Locations in Midtown, Northland, and KCK. (mlmkc.org)
• Bishop Sullivan Center: Past‑due rent help when it will stabilize housing. Average award is “a few hundred dollars,” with responses in 5–10 working days after a complete application. Income limit ≤185% FPL; must have paid on the bill within last 90 days. (bishopsullivan.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑work your arrears plan with the utility (payment arrangement), then pair it with a charity grant that specifically fills the “last dollars” to stop shutoff or eviction.

Utility‑run charity programs (not government)

• Ameren Missouri Keeping Current: $35–$90/month bill credit for 12 months + arrears forgiveness when you make on‑time budget billing payments; income ≤200% FPL; initial payment may be 1/12 of arrears. Apply through partner agencies. (ameren.com)
• Ameren Dollar More: Grants up to $600/year at ≤200% FPL, via 2‑1‑1/agency network. (ameren.com)
• Spire DollarHelp: Eligibility expanded to ≤300% FPL; maximum annual pledge increased to $1,000/household. Call 2‑1‑1 to be routed to a local agency. (spireenergy.com)
• Dollar Energy Fund (some MO utilities partner): Programs commonly require a recent “sincere effort of payment” ($100\ast \ast ,or\ast \ast$75 if 62+) and may provide up to $240–$500 per utility per program year, depending on program. (dollarenergy.org)
• Evergy Economic Relief Pilot (KC MO service area): Up to $65/month credit for 12 months if income ≤200% FPL and you’re current or on an arrangement. Apply via Salvation Army at 816‑756‑5392 (Option 1). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Atmos “Sharing the Warmth” (Western MO): Up to $200 per award, three times per year, first‑come, first‑served, via Salvation Army 816‑756‑5392 (Option 4). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Reality check: These programs end funding mid‑season some years. Apply early; ask the agency to layer benefits (e.g., Dollar More + a parish grant + a small personal payment) to cross the disconnect amount.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the utility for a longer‑term payment plan; Ameren’s “Keeping Cool” credits $50/month in summer for eligible households (elderly/disabled/children under 5). (ameren.com)

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Food: Food banks, mobile markets, and partner pantries

Missouri’s food banks collaborate with hundreds of local churches and charities to run pantries, mobile distributions, and kids/senior programs. Use the pantry locators to find hours and ID requirements.

• St. Louis Area Foodbank: Serves 26 counties in MO/IL with nearly 600 partner agencies; 50th anniversary year reports hundreds of thousands served annually; contact 314‑292‑6262; address 70 Corporate Woods Dr., Bridgeton, MO 63044. Pantry and mobile calendar online. (stlfoodbank.org, feedingmissouri.org)
• Harvesters – The Community Food Network (KC & NW MO): 900+ partner agencies; FY2023 distributed 63+ million lbs (≈52.5 million meals). KC HQ 3801 Topping Ave., Kansas City, MO 64129, phone 816‑929‑3000. (harvesters.org) (harvesters.org)
• Ozarks Food Harvest (SW MO): Provided 21 million meals in the past year through 270+ charities across 28 counties; mobile pantry and Weekend Backpack programs. (ozarksfoodharvest.org)
• Southeast Missouri Food Bank (Bootheel): 2024 totals: 14.16 million lbs distributed (12.88 million meals); monthly food boxes to 5,575 seniors; 314 mobile distributions; address 600 State Highway H, Sikeston, MO 63801, phone 573‑471‑1818. (kbsi23.com) (semofoodbank.org)
• Second Harvest Community Food Bank (St. Joseph & NW MO): Distributed 3.87 million lbs in 2023 across 15 Missouri counties; HQ 915 Douglas St., St. Joseph, MO 64505, phone 816‑364‑2325 (St. Joseph office). (guidestar.org) (lawmo.org)

Reality check: Food demand increased statewide in 2024–2025; some USDA TEFAP shipments were reduced or canceled; agencies are prioritizing staples. Check calendars before driving. (kctv5.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for a church pantry in your ZIP that accepts walk‑ins and for “mobile market” dates near you. Many sites allow one visit per month; bring photo ID and proof of address. (m.helpingpeople.org, semofoodbank.org)

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Diapers, Infant Supplies & Period Supplies

• St. Louis Area Diaper Bank (serves STL City/County + nearby counties): Families typically receive 25–50 diapers/month; clients in case‑managed partner programs receive 50 diapers/month per child. Warehouse: 6141 Etzel Ave., St. Louis, MO 63133, phone 314‑624‑0888. Emergency pick‑ups available at listed libraries (see site for current hours). (stldiaperbank.org)
• HappyBottoms (KC Metro & NW MO): Gives 75 diapers or 50 pull‑ups per child per month (under age 4) through partner agencies; main info line 855‑479‑2867; multiple KC partner pick‑ups, including Salvation Army Independence and Wayne Miner Court. (happybottoms.org)
• Diaper Bank of the Ozarks (Ozarks / southern MO): Distributes via 100+ partner agencies; Crosslines site: 3055 E. Division, Springfield, MO, phone 417‑862‑3586. Regular bundles are typically 50 diapers/month per child; organization moves ~30,000 diapers/week regionwide. (ccozarks.org, ozarksfirst.com)

Reality check: Larger sizes (4–7) run short. Bring ID for the child (Medicaid card, immunization record, or birth certificate). KC and STL programs enforce one‑agency‑per‑child per month rules. (happybottoms.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for a “baby boutique” or church clothing closet in your area; some parishes and pregnancy centers offer emergency diaper packs mid‑month. (m.helpingpeople.org)

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Safe Housing & Domestic Violence Services

Most DV shelters keep locations confidential. Hotline advocates can arrange transport and safety planning.

• St. Louis: Safe Connections 314‑531‑2003 (crisis, therapy, advocacy); St. Martha’s Hall 314‑533‑1313; The Women’s Safe House 314‑772‑4535 (≈55 beds); YWCA Women’s Crisis Services 314‑531‑7273 (24/7 line; drop‑in center at 1155 Olivette Executive Pkwy, M–F). (safeconnections.org, domesticshelters.org, csc-stl.org, ywcastl.org)
• Kansas City Metro: Hope House 816‑461‑4673; Synergy Services DV Hotline 816‑321‑7050 (Northland). KC metro DV line: 816‑468‑5463 connects to multiple shelters. (hopehouse.net, synergyservices.org)
• Maternity homes: Our Lady’s Inn (STL & St. Charles; call 314‑351‑4590 or 636‑398‑5375). LifeHouse Crisis Maternity Home (Catholic Charities Southern MO) has capacity for 17 (Springfield) and 15 (Cape Girardeau); call 417‑720‑4213 (Springfield) or 573‑803‑5433/573‑275‑8835 (Cape). (ourladysinn.org, ccsomo.org)
• Family shelters (non‑DV): City Union Mission Family Center (KC) with 142 beds for single women/parents with children; first stays up to 14 days with extensions via case plans. (cityunionmission.org)
• Catholic Charities St. Patrick Center (STL) for homelessness: Walk‑in intake M–F at 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.; phone 314‑802‑0700. Veterans SSVF outreach 314‑356‑0657. (stpatrickcenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the hotline advocate about transportation to out‑of‑area shelters and legal orders of protection. If no beds are open, ask about hotel/motel emergency placements or “diversion” help.

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Transportation & Car‑Access Help

• New Growth Transit (West Central MO, rural counties): Free volunteer‑driver rides for medical care, work, groceries, banking, and essential errands; book 48 hours in advance. Phone 417‑283‑7991. In 2024 volunteers drove over 1 million miles of free rides; service area includes Bates, Benton, Cass, Cedar, Dallas, Henry, Hickory, Morgan, Polk, St. Clair, and Vernon counties. (newgrowthmo.org, mykdkd.com)
• Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City: “Supportive Services” can assist with minor car repairs, bus passes, and ID recovery when funding allows. (caagkc.org)

Plan B: Ask 2‑1‑1 for local “transportation assistance” and “NEMT” if you or your child have Medicaid; also ask charities about gas cards tied to job starts. (mydss.mo.gov)

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Work, Clothes, and Legal Help

• Connections to Success & Dress for Success (STL, KC, Columbia): Free professional clothing for interviews and work; job‑readiness classes; ongoing mentoring; mobile MOXI boutique in KC brings suitings to shelters/schools. (connectionstosuccess.org)
• Legal aid (civil matters like eviction, custody, benefits, orders of protection):
  • Legal Services of Eastern Missouri (St. Louis/Hannibal/Union). Main lines: 314‑534‑4200 or 800‑444‑0514. Online intake available. (lsem.org)
  • Legal Aid of Western Missouri (KC/Joplin/St. Joseph/Warrensburg). KC: 816‑474‑6750; St. Joseph: 816‑364‑2325; Joplin: 417‑782‑1650. (lawmo.org)
  • Mid‑Missouri Legal Services (Columbia/Jefferson City). 573‑442‑0116 or 800‑568‑4931; phone applications M–F 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (mmls.org)
  • Legal Services of Southern Missouri (43 counties; HQ Springfield 417‑881‑1397, toll‑free 800‑444‑4863). (lsosm.org)

Tip: Legal aid prioritizes DV‑related family law, eviction defense, and consumer issues tied to housing/utilities. Call early—dockets fill fast.

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Tables you can scan fast

Table 1 — Utility charity programs (non‑government)

Table 2 — Diaper & period supply help

Table 3 — Food banks (regional hubs)

Table 4 — Homeless & DV resources

Table 5 — Legal help (civil)

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Real‑world examples (so you know what to expect)

• St. Louis electric bill, past due $640\ast \ast :AmompairsAmeren’sDollarMore(\ast \ast upto$600) with a $50\ast \ast personalpaymenttocleardisconnect.ShealsoenrollsinKeepingCurrentfora\ast \ast$50/month credit going forward. Processing happens through a partner agency; expect to sign a budget billing agreement. (ameren.com)
• KC rent balance $300\ast \ast afterpartialpayment:ShecallsCatholicCharitiesKCSJonMonday\ast \ast 8:30a.m.\ast \ast andsecuresaclass+appointment;theycancoverupto\ast \ast$250 of the last dollars. If still short, the caseworker refers her to MLM’s 15th‑of‑month intake to bridge the gap. (search.unitedwaygkc.org, mlmkc.org)
• Springfield mom with newborn and no diapers: She visits a Diaper Bank of the Ozarks partner and receives 50 diapers for the month; volunteers there move 30,000/week across the region, so larger sizes may run low—go early in the week. (ccozarks.org, ozarksfirst.com)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until the shutoff/eviction date. Many agencies need 5–10 business days to process. Apply as soon as you get a notice. (bishopsullivan.org)
• Missing narrow intake windows (e.g., MLM’s 9:00 a.m. on the 15th) or Monday morning call‑ins (KC Catholic Charities). Set alarms. (mlmkc.org, search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• Not making a “sincere effort of payment.” Some grants (Dollar Energy) require $100\ast \ast paidinthelast\ast \ast 90days\ast \ast (\ast \ast$75 for seniors). Even $20 shows effort on parish aid requests. (dollarenergy.org)
• Asking for more than the bill requires. Most programs only cover the exact disconnect/eviction amount and prefer to be the “last dollars.”
• Not documenting income or address. Keep photos of pay stubs, lease, and notices on your phone.

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If this doesn’t work

• Ask the caseworker for a “warm handoff” to another funder in your county (they can flag your paperwork so you don’t start from scratch).
• Call 2‑1‑1 again and ask specifically for “church‑based funds in my ZIP that can pay the last part of a bill” and for “small emergency funds” (some parishes and community foundations hold micro‑funds). (m.helpingpeople.org)
• For rural moms, ask 2‑1‑1 about local Ministerial Alliances and check with your town hall; small towns often have quiet funds for utilities or fuel.

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Diverse communities: targeted doors to knock on

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many mainstream providers serve all families. If you’ve faced bias, tell 2‑1‑1 you prefer an LGBTQ+‑affirming agency; ask for agencies with active non‑discrimination policies (they can filter). (m.helpingpeople.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask 2‑1‑1 for agencies with accessibility accommodations and for respite resources; DV hotlines can arrange interpreters and disability‑aware safety planning. (safeconnections.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask for St. Patrick Center’s SSVF (STL 314‑356‑0657) or 2‑1‑1 for SSVF providers across Missouri; these offer temporary financial help and housing navigation for veteran families. (stpatrickcenter.org)
• Immigrant/refugee moms: Legal aid and Catholic Charities provide services regardless of status for many programs; Safe Connections can arrange phone interpreters in 140+ languages on the crisis line. (safeconnections.org)
• Tribal‑citizen moms living in Missouri’s cities: 2‑1‑1 can connect you to urban Indigenous service partners in St. Louis or Kansas City for culturally specific supports; ask for “Native/Indigenous serving agencies” plus mainstream aid. (m.helpingpeople.org)
• Rural single moms: Use food bank mobile markets and New Growth Transit for long‑distance medical/work rides; book 48 hours ahead. (newgrowthmo.org)
• Single fathers: Most of the above programs serve all single‑parent households; identify as a single parent when calling.

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Resources by region (with links, phones, and addresses)

St. Louis metro

• Catholic Charities of St. Louis — Request Care (intake form and services overview). Phone 314‑367‑5500 (main). 4445 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. (ccstl.org)
• St. Patrick Center (homeless services, walk‑in intake) — Find help and Welcome Center hours. Phone 314‑802‑0700, 800 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63101. (stpatrickcenter.org)
• Salvation Army Family Haven — Provide Housing & assistance. Phone 314‑423‑7770, 10740 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul St. Louis — Get Help & Conference Finder. Helpline 314‑881‑6000. Admin: 1310 Papin St., St. Louis, MO 63103. (svdpstlouis.org, mightycause.com)
• St. Louis Area Diaper Bank — Connect (address/hours). 314‑624‑0888, 6141 Etzel Ave., St. Louis, MO 63133. (stldiaperbank.org)
• St. Louis Area Foodbank — Find Food & Contact. 314‑292‑6262, 70 Corporate Woods Dr., Bridgeton, MO 63044. (feedingmissouri.org)
• DV hotlines: Safe Connections 314‑531‑2003, St. Martha’s Hall 314‑533‑1313, The Women’s Safe House 314‑772‑4535. (safeconnections.org, domesticshelters.org)

Kansas City metro & Northwest Missouri

• Catholic Charities of Kansas City–St. Joseph — Welcome Center. Call Mondays 8:30 a.m. 816‑221‑4377; main site 8001 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO 64134. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• Metro Lutheran Ministry — Rent & Utility Assistance. Midtown: 3031 Holmes St., KCMO; Northland: 1100 NE Vivion Rd.; phones 816‑931‑0027 / 816‑454‑5295. (mlmkc.org)
• Bishop Sullivan Center — Household Assistance (rent/utility). Midtown: 3936 Troost Ave.; Northeast: 6435 Truman Rd.; phone 816‑231‑0984 (office; see site). (bishopsullivan.org)
• Harvesters — Contact & pantry finder. 816‑929‑3000, 3801 Topping Ave., Kansas City, MO 64129. (harvesters.org)
• HappyBottoms — Family Resources & partner agencies. Info line 855‑479‑2867; see “Get Diapers” for locations. (happybottoms.org)
• City Union Mission Family Center — Family Ministries. 816‑474‑4599, 1310 Wabash Ave., Kansas City, MO 64127. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• DV hotlines: Hope House 816‑461‑4673, Synergy Services 816‑321‑7050. (hopehouse.net, synergyservices.org)

Southwest Missouri (Springfield/Joplin/Branson)

• Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri — Housing & Maternal/Family programs (LifeHouse). LifeHouse: 417‑720‑4213 (Springfield). (ccsomo.org)
• Ozarks Food Harvest — Programs & pantry locator. (ozarksfoodharvest.org)
• Diaper Bank of the Ozarks — Program page (Crosslines). 417‑862‑3586, 3055 E. Division, Springfield, MO. (ccozarks.org)

Southeast Missouri (Bootheel)

• Southeast Missouri Food Bank — Contact/Pantry Finder. 573‑471‑1818, 600 State Hwy H, Sikeston, MO 63801. (semofoodbank.org)
• Catholic Charities Southern MO (Cape Girardeau office) — LifeHouse: 573‑803‑5433/573‑275‑8835. (ccsomo.org)

Mid‑Missouri (Columbia/Jefferson City & surrounding counties)

• Nurses for Newborns (home visitation, baby safety supplies) — 314‑544‑3433, 3 Sunnen Dr., St. Louis, MO 63143 (serves 31 MO counties including Mid‑MO). (nursesfornewborns.org)
• Legal help: Mid‑Missouri Legal Services 573‑442‑0116 / 800‑568‑4931. (mmls.org)

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Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• Expect verification. Most charities verify income and ask for the lease/bill and a shutoff/eviction date. Some verify with your landlord/utility.
• Timelines: Bishop Sullivan cites 5–10 business days; Catholic Charities St. Louis warns responses can take 10–14 days right now; many programs are first‑come until funds run out. (bishopsullivan.org, ccstl.org)
• “Last dollar” rule: Many agencies only pay if you can cover the rest. Combine a payment plan, a parish grant, and a utility credit to cross the finish line.
• Keep receipts: Dollar Energy Fund and some utilities require proof of your recent payment to award a grant. (dollarenergy.org)

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10 Missouri‑specific FAQs

• Where do I call first late at night or on weekends?
  • Call 2‑1‑1 or 800‑427‑4626 for real‑time shelter/utility referrals; DV hotlines listed above are 24/7. (m.helpingpeople.org)
• Can Ameren or Spire really help if I’m over income for LIHEAP?
  • Yes. Ameren Dollar More helps at ≤200% FPL and Spire DollarHelp helps at ≤300% FPL; these are not government programs. (ameren.com, spireenergy.com)
• My Evergy electric bill is crushing me. Is there help in Jackson County?
  • Salvation Army administers Evergy ERPP (up to $65/month for 12 months). Call 816‑756‑5392. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• How many diapers can I get in KC and St. Louis?
  • KC: 75 diapers or 50 pull‑ups/child/month (HappyBottoms). STL: 25–50 diapers/child/month, or 50 in some partner programs (SL Diaper Bank). (happybottoms.org, stldiaperbank.org)
• I was told “try on the 15th.” What’s special about that day in KC?
  • Metro Lutheran Ministry opens online rent/utility apps at 9:00 a.m. on the 15th (or next business day). (mlmkc.org)
• How fast will Catholic Charities KCSJ decide?
  • KC phones open Monday 8:30 a.m.; appointments usually occur that week, and awards are typically up to $250 to cover the last part of a bill, funding permitting. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• I need safe shelter tonight with kids. Who do I call?
  • In STL: 314‑772‑4535 (Women’s Safe House) or 314‑533‑1313 (St. Martha’s). In KC: 816‑461‑4673 (Hope House) or 816‑321‑7050 (Synergy). (domesticshelters.org, hopehouse.net, synergyservices.org)
• Is there free transportation in rural counties for medical/work?
  • New Growth Transit provides free volunteer rides; schedule 48 hours ahead: 417‑283‑7991. (newgrowthmo.org)
• Where can I find food fast with current schedules?
  • Use your regional food bank’s “Find Food” tool (STL, Harvesters, Ozarks, SEMO). Bring photo ID and proof of address if asked. (stlfoodbank.org, harvesters.org, ozarksfoodharvest.org, semofoodbank.org)
• Is there one number to remember?
  • 2‑1‑1 (or 800‑427‑4626, TTY 866‑385‑6525). It’s statewide, 24/7, and can also text/chat M–F. (m.helpingpeople.org)

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What charities look for (eligibility & documents)

• Income under a set limit (many use 200% FPL; some like DollarHelp use 300% FPL).
• Proof you can stay stable next month (budget, new job, payment plan).
• “Sincere effort of payment” and that aid will prevent shutoff/eviction, not just postpone it. (dollarenergy.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Missouri 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.

Read our full methodology and update cadence in our Editorial Policy. This standards page (E‑E‑A‑T/YMYL aligned) was last updated in August 2025. (asinglemother.org)

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Disclaimer

• Program dollars, rules, and intake windows change frequently. Always confirm amounts, eligibility, and hours directly with the charity or utility. Links above point to official pages whenever possible.
• Safety note: If you’re fleeing abuse, use a safe phone and clear your browser history.
• Health and site security: Do not send medical or identity documents by unsecured email unless the agency instructs you to do so. Use official portals or in‑person submission whenever possible.
• This guide focuses on community organizations, churches, charities, and utility‑sponsored help—not federal/state benefit programs. For state programs (SNAP, WIC, Child Care Subsidy), contact Missouri DSS or 2‑1‑1 for referrals. (mydss.mo.gov)

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Full resource list (clickable, with phones and addresses where available)

• United Way 2‑1‑1 Missouri & SW Illinois — Dial 2‑1‑1 or see 211helps.org for chat/text options and database. Alternate 800‑427‑4626; TTY 866‑385‑6525. (m.helpingpeople.org)
• Salvation Army Greater St. Louis — Rent/Utilities Assistance info. Family Haven 314‑423‑7770, 10740 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army Kansas & Western Missouri — Utility Assistance programs (Evergy ERPP, Atmos, etc.). Main social services line 816‑756‑5392. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities of St. Louis — Request Care. 314‑367‑5500, 4445 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. (ccstl.org)
• Catholic Charities of Kansas City–St. Joseph — Emergency Assistance (rent/utility). 816‑221‑4377, 8001 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO 64134. (search.unitedwaygkc.org)
• Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri — Housing & LifeHouse. LifeHouse Springfield 417‑720‑4213; Cape 573‑803‑5433/573‑275‑8835. (ccsomo.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul St. Louis — Get Help/Conference Finder. Helpline 314‑881‑6000. 1310 Papin St., St. Louis, MO 63103. (svdpstlouis.org, mightycause.com)
• St. Patrick Center (STL) — Contact & intake times. 314‑802‑0700, 800 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63101. (stpatrickcenter.org)
• Harvesters (KC & NW MO) — Contact & Find Help. 816‑929‑3000, 3801 Topping Ave., Kansas City, MO 64129. (harvesters.org)
• St. Louis Area Foodbank — Find Food. 314‑292‑6262, 70 Corporate Woods Dr., Bridgeton, MO 63044. (feedingmissouri.org)
• Ozarks Food Harvest — Programs & Media. (ozarksfoodharvest.org)
• Southeast Missouri Food Bank — Contact. 573‑471‑1818, 600 State Hwy H, Sikeston, MO 63801. (semofoodbank.org)
• St. Louis Area Diaper Bank — Connect. 314‑624‑0888, 6141 Etzel Ave., St. Louis, MO 63133. (stldiaperbank.org)
• HappyBottoms (KC Metro) — Family Resources/Find Diapers. Info line 855‑479‑2867. (happybottoms.org)
• Diaper Bank of the Ozarks (Crosslines) — Program page. 417‑862‑3586, 3055 E. Division, Springfield, MO. (ccozarks.org)
• Hope House (KC DV) — Get Help/Hotline. 816‑461‑4673. (hopehouse.net)
• Synergy Services (DV Northland) — Hotlines. 816‑321‑7050. (synergyservices.org)
• Safe Connections (STL DV) — 24‑Hour Helpline. 314‑531‑2003. (safeconnections.org)
• Our Lady’s Inn (Maternity Homes) — Need Help?. STL 314‑351‑4590; St. Charles 636‑398‑5375. (ourladysinn.org)
• New Growth Transit (rural rides) — Volunteer driver network & scheduling. 417‑283‑7991. (newgrowthmo.org)
• Legal Services of Eastern Missouri — Contact/Apply. 314‑534‑4200, 800‑444‑0514. (lsem.org)
• Legal Aid of Western Missouri — Offices & phones. 816‑474‑6750 (KC), 816‑364‑2325 (St. Joseph), 417‑782‑1650 (Joplin). (lawmo.org)
• Mid‑Missouri Legal Services — Contact/How to Apply. 573‑442‑0116, 800‑568‑4931. (mmls.org)
• Legal Services of Southern Missouri — Contact. 417‑881‑1397, 800‑444‑4863. (lsosm.org)

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By following the steps above—and applying early—you can stack community help to cover today’s crisis and set up next‑month stability. If a door is closed, move to the next one the same day. And if you spot out‑of‑date info here, email us at info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.

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🏛️More Missouri Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Missouri

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery