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

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff guide to nonprofit, church, and community help in Virginia. It focuses on real programs that can pay a bill, put food on the table, give diapers and clothes, or connect you to safe shelter. It does not cover federal or state benefit programs (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, etc.), except where a charity requires you to apply to those first.

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Quick Help Box (read this first)

• Call or text the Virginia Statewide Sexual & Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑838‑8238 or text 804‑793‑9999 for 24/7 safety planning, confidential shelter, and legal advocacy. (vsdvalliance.org, vdh.virginia.gov)
• For a same‑day list of local rent, utility, food, and shelter resources anywhere in Virginia, dial 2‑1‑1 or visit the searchable directory at 211Virginia.org. Available 24/7. (211virginia.org)
• Dominion Energy customers facing shutoff: apply for EnergyShare. Heating grants up to $600\ast \ast (Oct1–May31)andcoolinggrantsupto\ast \ast$300 (Jun 1–Sep 30). No income limit, must show a crisis. Apply through partner agencies (dial 2‑1‑1). (dominionenergy.com)
• Appalachian Power customers: Dollar Energy Fund’s Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor grants up to $300 (Dec 1–Mar 31). Income up to 150% FPL; payment history required. (dollarenergy.org)
• Columbia Gas of Virginia: HeatShare grants up to $500; income up to 175% FPL; must be in shutoff status. Apply via Dollar Energy Fund agencies. (dollarenergy.org)
• Virginia American Water: H2O Help to Others grants up to **$500\ast \ast ;incomeupto150$50 payment required. Call 1‑800‑452‑6863. (amwater.com)
• Alexandria residents: ALIVE! can provide up to $750 once every six months for rent, utilities, or medical bills (referral required). (search.211virginia.org)
• Greater Richmond & Tri‑Cities: Feed More Help Line 804‑237‑8617 connects you to nearby food pantries, SNAP application help, and Meals on Wheels. (feedmore.org)
• Southwest Virginia: The Health Wagon provides free medical, dental, and behavioral health care via mobile clinics. Call (276) 328‑8850. (thehealthwagon.org)

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Emergency Action Plan

1. Safety first

• If you’re in danger, call 911. For confidential help (anywhere in VA), call 1‑800‑838‑8238 or text 804‑793‑9999 for statewide domestic/sexual violence support and shelter access. Interpreters available. (vsdvalliance.org)

2. Stop an eviction or utility shutoff

• Gather notices (Pay‑or‑Quit, disconnection), ID, proof of income, and your lease/utility bill.
• Call 2‑1‑1 to get a same‑day referral to local church and nonprofit aid, then contact your utility charity program (EnergyShare/Dollar Energy Fund) and a local aid partner (examples below). (211virginia.org, dominionenergy.com, dollarenergy.org)

3. Secure food today

• Use your regional food bank’s helpline/locator (see tables below) or go to a neighborhood distribution (e.g., Food for Others’ evening sites in Fairfax—no referral, just household size). (foodforothers.org)

4. Keep documentation in one folder

• Photo ID, lease, bill/notice, pay stubs or benefits letter, last three months’ payments to utilities/landlord, and any referral forms. Many programs are first‑come, first‑served daily.

Reality check: Most funds are limited and can close mid‑month when money runs out. Apply early in the day and have a Plan B (alternate agency) ready.

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What we checked (and the gaps we fill)

We looked at the top search results for “Virginia Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers.” Many results were either out‑of‑date, generic, or lacked:

• Verified dollar amounts and program windows (e.g., utility grants, limits, timelines).
• How‑to‑apply steps, documents needed, and exactly where to call.
• Region‑specific church/nonprofit contacts with addresses and phones.
• Practical Plan B options when the first door says no.

This guide fixes those gaps with current amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers from official utility pages, nonprofit websites, and statewide hotlines (all cited throughout).

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Utility & Energy Relief (Non‑government programs)

Start here the moment you get a disconnect notice. Have your bill, ID, proof of address, and recent payment history handy.

Dominion EnergyShare (statewide where Dominion serves)

• What you can get
  • Heating assistance up to $600\ast \ast fromOct1–May31;coolingupto\ast \ast$300 from Jun 1–Sep 30. Additional $500 may be available for eligible veterans or people with disabilities engaged with DVS/CIL voucher programs. No income limit, but you must show a crisis. (dominionenergy.com)
• How to apply
  • Call 2‑1‑1 to be referred to a local EnergyShare agency or see Dominion’s EnergyShare page for agency lists. Benefits are paid directly to your energy provider. (dominionenergy.com)
• Documents
  • Photo ID, account number, disconnect/ past‑due notice, proof you’re responsible for the bill.
• Timeline
  • Varies by partner agency; many aim to decide within a few business days (ask your intake worker).
• Common mistakes to avoid
  • Waiting until the last day; not answering callback numbers; missing documents; assuming you must have electric heat (EnergyShare can help with many fuel types, including oil/propane). (dominionenergy.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask about a partial pledge and combine it with a payment plan; call your locality’s coordinated services line (e.g., Fairfax CSP 703‑222‑0880) or 2‑1‑1 for a second referral; see Dollar Energy Fund programs below. (foodforothers.org)

Dollar Energy Fund (AEP/APCo, Old Dominion Power, Columbia Gas, Virginia American Water)

• What you can get (2024–2025 program year)
  • Appalachian Power Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor: up to $300 (Dec 1–Mar 31). (dollarenergy.org)
  • Old Dominion Power WinterShare: up to $250 (Oct 1–Sep 30). (dollarenergy.org)
  • Columbia Gas HeatShare: up to $500; shutoff status required; seniors have lower payment requirements. (dollarenergy.org)
  • Virginia American Water H2O Help to Others: up to $500 per year. (amwater.com)
  • Income limits: typically 150% FPL (APCo/ODP/VA American Water); 175% FPL for Columbia Gas. One grant per utility per program year (10/1/2024–9/30/2025). Recent payment required (usually $50–$100; lower for seniors). (dollarenergy.org)
• How to apply
  • Start with your utility’s customer service number (APCo 1‑800‑956‑4237; Columbia Gas 1‑800‑543‑8911; VA American Water 1‑800‑452‑6863). They’ll refer you to a local intake agency or Dollar Energy’s Agency Finder. (dollarenergy.org)
• Key rules
  • Grants won’t be approved if the maximum amount won’t stop the shutoff—be ready to combine with your own payment or another pledge. Grants don’t cover security deposits or reconnection fees. (dollarenergy.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work
  • Ask if your locality has church funds coordinated through a charity (examples below: ALIVE!, THRIVE Peninsula, Salvation Army). Also request a utility payment plan while pledges are pending.

Utility Relief Programs at a Glance

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Food today (pantries, hot meals, mobile markets)

These are nonprofit and faith‑based; many are no‑cost and open weekly. Bring a photo ID and proof of address if you have it; some sites don’t require either.

Regional food bank helplines and finders

Real‑world examples you can use today:

• Fairfax: Food for Others runs evening “Neighborhood Sites.” No paperwork; just report household size. Locations in Springfield, Seven Corners, Burke, etc. (foodforothers.org)
• Arlington: AFAC provides weekly groceries with a simple county referral; renews every six months. Distribution at 2708 S. Nelson St. and satellite sites. (afac.org)
• Loudoun: Loudoun Hunger Relief offers market‑style food; appointments via website or phone 703‑777‑5911; mobile markets in Sterling and Sugarland. (search.211virginia.org)

Common hurdles and tips:

• Pantries are busiest near month‑end. If possible, go mid‑month or early in the week.
• Some partner pantries limit visits per month; ask staff how often you can return.
• If you can’t go in person, many networks allow an “authorized representative” to pick up for you (bring your card or note). (brafb.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Dial 2‑1‑1 for additional church food pantries in your ZIP code, including smaller weekday options. (211virginia.org)

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Clothing, diapers, baby gear

• Women Giving Back (Sterling): Free boutique shopping for women and children by case‑manager referral; “Bags‑to‑Go” for survivors or moms who can’t come; diaper support through its Diaper Pantry. Phone 703‑554‑9386; 20 Export Dr, Sterling, VA 20164. Impact: more than 3 million clothing items and over 1.3 million diapers distributed. (womengivingback.org)
• Northern Virginia Diaper Bank: Works through partner agencies (they don’t distribute to walk‑ins). See local partners listed on their “Local Resources” page. (novadiaperbank.org)
• Greater DC Diaper Bank: Serves Northern Virginia through partners; call 202‑656‑8503 or see partner guidance—monthly distribution via partner agencies. (mfan.org)

Diaper & baby essentials at a glance

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your child’s school social worker, OB/GYN office, or WIC clinic if they partner with a diaper bank; many do. If you’re in a DV shelter, ask staff to submit a WGB Bag‑to‑Go request.

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Faith‑based and community financial help (rent, utilities, transportation)

Funding is limited and opens/closes based on deposits. Apply early in the month.

Catholic Charities (three major networks in Virginia)

• Catholic Charities Diocese of Arlington (CCDA) – Northern/Central VA
  • What they help with: late rent, past‑due utilities, essential car repair, and clothing assistance, when funds are available.
  • Eligibility highlights: live within the Diocese of Arlington; assistance once in 12 months and up to twice in 10 years; online/email intake required at EA@ccda.net with documents. They don’t assist subsidized (Section 8/public) rent, but may help with utilities in mobile homes/mortgaged homes. (ccda.net, ccda.net)
  • How to apply: email EA@ccda.net to receive the screening questionnaire; respond within timelines (often 24–72 hours) with your scanned documents. Phone main line 703‑841‑3830 (or listings by county) for questions. (search.211virginia.org)
  • Plan B: If you receive an “at capacity” message, reapply on the date they list or contact Salvation Army/United Way referral lines below. (search.211virginia.org)
• Commonwealth Catholic Charities (CCC) – Richmond, Tri‑Cities, Roanoke, Newport News
  • Focus: housing resource center and supportive housing, day services, and outreach for those experiencing homelessness; connections to rent/utility assistance where available. Housing Resource Center: 809 Oliver Hill Way, Richmond, 804‑648‑4177. (cccofva.org)
• Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia (CCEVA) – Hampton Roads/Eastern Shore
  • Financial assistance: limited rent and utility help by referral through the regional Housing Crisis Line; documentation required; service areas include Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Main line 757‑587‑4202; Norfolk address 1132 Pickett Rd. (search.211virginia.org, virginianavigator.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask to be connected to parish conferences of St. Vincent de Paul or other parish outreach funds; most operate quietly and respond quickly when a caseworker calls.

Salvation Army (multiple area commands and corps)

• Central Virginia Area Command (Richmond): Family Services (rent & utilities) at 2 W Grace St, Richmond, VA 23220, 804‑225‑7470. Shelter access via Homeless Connection Line 804‑972‑0813. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, virginianavigator.org)
• Hampton Roads Area Command: 5525 Raby Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502, 757‑543‑8100. Center of Hope women/family shelter at 203 W 19th St, Norfolk. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, hrva.salvationarmypotomac.org)
• Roanoke Corps: 724 Dale Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013, 540‑343‑5335. Notes: up to $100 gas assistance (one time/year), food boxes monthly (bring proof of residence). (search.211virginia.org)

Tip: Many Salvation Army units are EnergyShare/Dollar Energy intake sites—ask during intake.

ALIVE! (City of Alexandria)

• What they help with: emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, and some medical costs—up to $750 once in a six‑month period; paid to the landlord or utility. Requires a referral from the City’s Department of Community & Human Services (703‑746‑5700) or a member congregation. Admin office: 2723 King St. (search.211virginia.org, alive-inc.org)

Plan B: If funds are paused, ask for a church referral through ALIVE! or call 2‑1‑1.

CFH – Creating Foundations for Hope (Northern Virginia)

• Senior Emergency Assistance: up to $1,500\ast \ast percalendaryearin\ast \ast Fairfax\ast \ast and\ast \ast Loudoun\ast \ast ,andupto\ast \ast$500 in Prince William, for housing/utility and select medical needs for seniors and disabled adults (income limits apply). Office: 7702 Donegan Dr, Manassas, 703‑221‑4510. (cfhva.org)

THRIVE Peninsula (Newport News, Hampton, York/Poquoson)

• Emergency rent, utility, childcare, transportation, or work equipment assistance. Apply online (or leave voicemail M/W/F 9–11am). Address: 12749 Nettles Dr, Newport News; 757‑877‑6211. (search.211virginia.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask if the agency can coordinate combined pledges (church + charity + your partial payment) to meet the full amount needed to stop eviction/shutoff.

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Domestic & sexual violence services (confidential, statewide)

• Virginia Statewide Hotline: 1‑800‑838‑8238; text 804‑793‑9999; chat available. They connect you to local shelters (including hotel placements), safety planning, and legal advocacy in your county. (vsdvalliance.org)
• Regional example (Greater Richmond): YWCA EmpowerNet 24/7 hotline 804‑612‑6126, shelter placement, counseling, legal advocacy, workforce navigation, and more. (ywcarichmond.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a shelter is full, request hotel placement or ask for the nearest county with capacity; ask an advocate to make the warm handoff now, not tomorrow.

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Free and low‑cost healthcare (non‑government)

• The Health Wagon (Southwest Virginia): Free medical, dental, and behavioral health care via mobile clinics across Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, and Wise counties; main line (276) 328‑8850; Wise clinic at 5626 Patriot Dr. (thehealthwagon.org, seniornavigator.org)
• Commonwealth Catholic Charities Housing Resource Center (Richmond): day services and connections to health and housing resources at 809 Oliver Hill Way; 804‑648‑4177. (cccofva.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your regional food bank helpline for a free clinic list; they keep updated directories.

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Work, childcare, and daily life supports from community nonprofits

• YMCA (financial assistance): Most YMCAs in Virginia offer income‑based “Open Doors” assistance on membership and programs (including childcare). Examples: YMCA of Greater Richmond offers income‑based rates; YMCA of South Hampton Roads provides sliding‑scale assistance—apply with your latest 1040 or statement of non‑filing. (ymcarichmond.org, ymcashr.org)
• WomenRise childcare scholarships (Greater Richmond & Petersburg – United Way): For single moms in school/training with income ≤ $60,000; application period typically runs through May 31 each year. Check current cycle. (yourunitedway.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your local United Way if they have a Women United scholarship or hardship fund; programs vary by region.

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Tables you can scan quickly

1) Emergency numbers and hotlines

2) Utility charity aid (amounts and windows)

3) Regional food access

4) Faith & community rent/utility help with known amounts

5) Clothing & diapers

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Diverse Communities: getting help that fits your situation

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • The statewide hotline welcomes all survivors and can connect you locally. VDH also lists the LGBTQ Partner Abuse Helpline 1‑800‑356‑6998. Ask any agency for a language line or LGBTQ‑affirming provider. (vdh.virginia.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
  • When applying to EnergyShare, mention disability status—some participants may qualify for an additional $500 benefit when tied to certain programs. Ask food banks about home delivery options if you’re homebound (AFAC and some BRAFB partners offer delivery for those with severe disabilities). (dominionenergy.com, afac.org, brafb.org)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Tell EnergyShare you’re a veteran; some applicants may receive an added $500 benefit. United Way chapters and YMCA branches often have veteran‑specific program discounts—ask at intake. (dominionenergy.com)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • CCDA and CCC serve all regardless of immigration status and can connect you to legal aid, ESL, and stabilization supports. Intake and forms are available in English/Spanish; interpreters can be arranged. (ccda.net, cccofva.org)
• Tribal citizens
  • Use 2‑1‑1 for nearby tribal/Native‑led partners and culturally‑aware DV services via the statewide hotline; ask for culturally specific referrals. (211virginia.org, vsdvalliance.org)
• Rural moms with limited access
  • The Health Wagon brings clinics into small towns weekly in six Southwest counties; call (276) 328‑8850 for the mobile schedule. (thehealthwagon.org)
• Single fathers
  • Most programs in this guide serve caregivers of any gender. If you hit a barrier, ask for a supervisor and reference the program’s nondiscrimination statement.
• Language access
  • 2‑1‑1 Virginia and the statewide DV hotline have interpreters; many food banks and county lines use third‑party language services. Just say your language and hold. (211virginia.org, vsdvalliance.org)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID (yours). If none, bring another photo ID (work/school/consular passport).
• Proof of address (lease, mail, utility bill with your name and current address).
• For rent help: lease with landlord info; Pay‑or‑Quit or ledger showing balance.
• For utilities: current bill with account number; disconnect/termination notice.
• Proof of income for last 30–60 days (pay stubs, benefits letter). Some utility charities use income limits (150–175% FPL) or require a recent payment ($50–$100). (dollarenergy.org)
• Proof of recent payment to the utility (if required by the fund).
• Names and phone numbers of your landlord/utility (payee info for pledges).
• If fleeing abuse: you do not have to show a police report to get hotline help.

Pro tip: Keep phone ringer on and voicemail set up—many agencies call from blocked/unknown numbers.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the shutoff/eviction date. Many funds stop taking applications when daily funds run out—apply early in the morning and early in the month.
• Sending blurry photos of documents. Use a scan app, set to “document,” and include all pages.
• Not combining resources. Many approvals require that your payment plus a pledge equals the full amount needed to stop the crisis. Ask your caseworker to coordinate multiple pledges (e.g., EnergyShare + ALIVE! + church).
• Assuming you’re ineligible. EnergyShare doesn’t use income limits; Dollar Energy grants do—but still apply if you’re close to the limit. (dominionenergy.com, dollarenergy.org)

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FAQs (Virginia‑specific)

• How fast can I get help?
  • Utility charity decisions can take a few business days; rent aid can take longer. Ask the intake worker about expected timelines and whether they can place a “promise to pay” on your account while pledges are processed.
• Can I apply to more than one program at once?
  • Yes. Many cases require combined pledges to stop a shutoff or eviction. Tell each agency who else you’ve contacted to avoid duplicate payments.
• Do I have to be Catholic to get help from Catholic Charities?
  • No. Services are provided regardless of religion. (ccda.net)
• Does EnergyShare cover fuel oil or propane?
  • Yes—EnergyShare helps with many fuel types (wood, oil, natural gas, propane, kerosene, electric). (dominionenergy.com)
• Is there help for water bills?
  • Yes—Virginia American Water’s H2O program offers up to $500 grants; some city utilities also partner with local charities. Call your water utility and 2‑1‑1. (amwater.com)
• I’m in Fairfax. Who do I call to get routed to the right agency?
  • Coordinated Services Planning (703‑222‑0880) connects Fairfax residents to rent/utility providers and referrals like Food for Others. (foodforothers.org)
• I need free medical care in Southwest VA. Where do I go?
  • The Health Wagon runs regular mobile clinics in six counties; call (276) 328‑8850. (thehealthwagon.org)
• Where do I call for food help in Richmond today?
  • Feed More Help Line 804‑237‑8617 will point you to the closest open pantry. (feedmore.org)
• Are there childcare scholarships for single moms in school?
  • United Way’s WomenRise (Greater Richmond & Petersburg) serves eligible single moms with childcare scholarships (income ≤ $60,000; application typically due May 31). Check current cycle. (yourunitedway.org)
• I can’t leave home—can a pantry deliver?
  • Some networks (AFAC in Arlington; certain BRAFB partners) have delivery options for homebound residents. Ask your regional food bank helpline. (afac.org, brafb.org)

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

Northern Virginia

• Salvation Army – Hampton Roads Area Command: For reference if you’re moving or staying temporarily in Tidewater; 5525 Raby Rd, Norfolk, 757‑543‑8100. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army – Roanoke Corps (Roanoke Valley): 724 Dale Ave SE, Roanoke, 540‑343‑5335 (gas bill help up to $100; food boxes). (search.211virginia.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Arlington (Emergency Assistance): Email EA@ccda.net to start; general info and eligibility online. Main: 703‑841‑3830. (ccda.net, search.211virginia.org)
• Women Giving Back (free clothing & diapers): 703‑554‑9386, 20 Export Dr, Sterling. (womengivingback.org)
• Northern Virginia Diaper Bank: partner list for diaper pickup. (novadiaperbank.org)
• Capital Area Food Bank Hunger Lifeline: 202‑644‑9807 (NOVA). (search.211virginia.org)
• Food for Others (Fairfax) – Evening Neighborhood Sites and Emergency Referral Food (warehouse in Merrifield). Info line 703‑207‑9173. (foodforothers.org)

Central Virginia (Richmond/Tri‑Cities)

• Salvation Army Central VA Area Command: 2 W Grace St, Richmond, 804‑225‑7470 (shelter referrals via 804‑972‑0813). (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Commonwealth Catholic Charities – Housing Resource Center: 809 Oliver Hill Way, Richmond; 804‑648‑4177. (cccofva.org)
• Feed More Help Line: 804‑237‑8617. (feedmore.org)
• AFAC (Arlington) – if you work in NOVA but live in Arlington: Referral via Arlington DHS; HQ 2708 S Nelson St; client line 571‑384‑1440. (afac.org)
• YWCA Richmond (DV/SA services): Hotline 804‑612‑6126. (ywcarichmond.org)

Hampton Roads / Peninsula / Eastern Shore

• Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia (rent/utility aid via Housing Crisis Line): main 757‑587‑4202; Norfolk office 1132 Pickett Rd; Virginia Beach office 4855 Princess Anne Rd. (virginianavigator.org, search.211virginia.org)
• Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command: 5525 Raby Rd, Norfolk; 757‑543‑8100. Center of Hope Shelter 203 W 19th St. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• THRIVE Peninsula (rent/utilities/childcare/work costs): 12749 Nettles Dr, Newport News, 757‑877‑6211. (search.211virginia.org)
• Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia directory for church pantries. (foodbankonline.org)

Shenandoah / Blue Ridge / Valley

• Blue Ridge Area Food Bank: call 540‑213‑8400 for nearby pantries. (brafb.org)
• Salvation Army Roanoke Corps: 724 Dale Ave SE, 540‑343‑5335. (search.211virginia.org)
• Love INC (Staunton‑Waynesboro‑Augusta): household goods/clothing vouchers and classes (no direct cash aid). Info line 540‑221‑2955. (loveincsaw.org)

Southwest Virginia

• The Health Wagon: free clinics in Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Wise. Phone (276) 328‑8850; Wise clinic 5626 Patriot Dr; additional site at 927 Happy Valley Dr, Clintwood (276) 926‑2254. (seniornavigator.org)
• Feeding Southwest (via Blue Ridge—use Food Finder). (brafb.org)

Alexandria / Arlington / Fairfax (additional)

• ALIVE! Family Assistance (Alexandria): up to $750 once/6 months with referral. 703‑837‑9300; 2723 King St. (search.211virginia.org)
• Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning: 703‑222‑0880 (referrals to NVFS, Food for Others, rental aid). (foodforothers.org)

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Reality checks, timelines, and smart sequencing

• Funding windows: EnergyShare heating runs Oct 1–May 31; cooling Jun 1–Sep 30. APCo Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor runs Dec 1–Mar 31. Apply as soon as windows open. (dominionenergy.com, dollarenergy.org)
• Rent aid: Many church funds require a ledger and a W‑9 from your landlord; ask your landlord for these today.
• Combined pledges: If your past‑due is $800\ast \ast andthemaxpledgeis\ast \ast$500, you’ll need another $300 (your payment, second agency, or a payment plan).
• Expect callbacks from unknown numbers; answer your phone for 2–3 days after applying.

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What to do if an application is denied

• Ask why. Common reasons: missing documents; “max grant won’t restore service”; out of service area; funds exhausted.
• Fix it and reapply. Example: If Dollar Energy says the max $300\ast \ast won’tstopyourshutoff,makea\ast \ast$100–$200 payment, then ask your worker to submit again with proof. (dollarenergy.org)
• Try a second agency the same day. Use 2‑1‑1 or the region lists above.

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Statewide and regional context (so you know you’re not alone)

• Virginia’s median gross rent is $1,514 (2019–2023), and 10.2% of Virginians live below poverty—pressures that make short‑term help vital for many single‑parent households. (census.gov)
• Fairfax County’s 2025 Point‑in‑Time count identified 1,322 people experiencing homelessness that night (+3% vs. 2024), with increases in families as well—underscoring the need for combined public‑private aid. (fairfaxcounty.gov)
• In Central Virginia’s 2025 PIT, 660 people were counted experiencing homelessness, similar to 2024, with housing costs cited as a key driver. (homewardva.org)

These numbers are why community and faith partners matter. They often bridge gaps when government programs are closed or delayed.

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Resource list (clickable links + contacts)

Salvation Army

• Salvation Army Central Virginia Area Command – family services and shelter info | 804‑225‑7470, 2 W Grace St, Richmond, VA 23220. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Hampton Roads Area Command – services, Center of Hope shelter | 757‑543‑8100, 5525 Raby Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army Roanoke Corps – emergency assistance | 540‑343‑5335, 724 Dale Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013. Gas help up to $100 (call for current rules). (salvationarmyusa.org, search.211virginia.org)

Catholic Charities

• Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington – Emergency Assistance (rent, utilities, car repair) | Email EA@ccda.net; main 703‑841‑3830. (ccda.net)
• Commonwealth Catholic Charities – Housing Resource Center (Richmond) | 804‑648‑4177, 809 Oliver Hill Way, Richmond, VA 23219. (cccofva.org)
• Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia – rent & utility assistance (by referral) | 757‑587‑4202, 1132 Pickett Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502; 4855 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. (virginianavigator.org, search.211virginia.org)

United Way / 2‑1‑1

• 2‑1‑1 Virginia – 24/7 resource directory and live help | Dial 2‑1‑1 or text CONNECT to 247211. (211virginia.org)
• United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg – WomenRise childcare scholarships (income ≤ $60,000; check application window). (yourunitedway.org)

Utility programs

• Dominion Energy – EnergyShare (amounts and dates) | For local agency referral, call 2‑1‑1. (dominionenergy.com)
• Dollar Energy Fund – Virginia Utility Assistance Programs (AEP/APCo, Columbia Gas, Old Dominion Power, VA American Water) | Utility contacts and income limits. (dollarenergy.org)
• Virginia American Water – H2O Help to Others | 1‑800‑452‑6863; grants up to $500. (amwater.com)

Food access

• Feed More Help Line (Central VA) | 804‑237‑8617. (feedmore.org)
• Blue Ridge Area Food Bank – Find Help | 540‑213‑8400. (brafb.org)
• Capital Area Food Bank – Hunger Lifeline | 202‑644‑9807 (NOVA). (search.211virginia.org)
• Food for Others – evening sites & referral program (Fairfax) | 703‑207‑9173. (foodforothers.org)

Clothing & diapers

• Women Giving Back – free clothing, diaper support (Sterling) | 703‑554‑9386, 20 Export Dr, Sterling. (womengivingback.org)
• Northern Virginia Diaper Bank – local resources & partner list | See partners. (novadiaperbank.org)

Health & safety

• The Health Wagon – free clinics (SW VA) | (276) 328‑8850; 5626 Patriot Dr, Wise. (thehealthwagon.org)
• Virginia Statewide Sexual & Domestic Violence Hotline | 1‑800‑838‑8238; text 804‑793‑9999. (vsdvalliance.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Virginia utilities, statewide hotlines, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

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

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Disclaimer

• Program amounts, windows, and rules can change quickly. Always verify with the organization before you apply or pay fees. We link to official pages and list direct phone numbers so you can confirm the latest details yourself.
• For your safety and privacy, never share bank info with anyone claiming to be a charity over the phone; EnergyShare/Dollar Energy Fund will not ask for your credit card to apply. (dollarenergy.org)
• Security of this website: We follow standard security practices to protect your browsing experience. Do not submit sensitive personal information to us; apply directly with the listed agencies.

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If you only have 15 minutes

• Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for the nearest EnergyShare or Dollar Energy Fund intake agency plus any rent‑help churches open today.
• Text or call 1‑800‑838‑8238 if safety is a concern.
• Call your regional food bank helpline and ask where you can get groceries today.
• Gather ID, bills, lease, pay stubs, and be ready for callbacks.

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🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia

• 📋 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