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Free Baby Gear and Children’s Items for Single Mothers in Kansas

Free Baby Gear and Children’s Clothing Resources for Single Mothers in Kansas

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

  • Call 911: Life‑threatening emergency or unsafe situation.
  • Call or text 988: Mental health crisis line available 24 hours across Kansas. (kdads.ks.gov)
  • Dial 2‑1‑1: United Way’s statewide help line connects you to diapers, clothing closets, baby items, and utility or housing assistance. Online search is available at 211Kansas.org. (unitedwayplains.org)

Quick help box

  • Apply for WIC now: Start with the Kansas WIC online pre‑application, then answer your phone when the local clinic calls to schedule. If you prefer, call Kansas WIC at 785‑296‑1320 or your county WIC (for example, Johnson County WIC at 913‑826‑1302). (kdhe.ks.gov, jocogov.org)
  • Get free diapers in KC metro: HappyBottoms provides up to 75 diapers per child per month or 50 pull‑ups for eligible families, with enrollment in Wyandotte or Johnson County partner locations. (happybottoms.org, wycokck.org)
  • Pick up diapers in Lawrence/Douglas County: Just Food’s Just Basics program offers 50 diapers or 30 pull‑ups per child per month to enrolled shoppers. (justfoodks.org)
  • Find a free crib: Use the Cribs for Kids partner map or contact the Kansas Infant Death and SIDS Network (KIDS Network) for safe‑sleep education and crib clinics. (cribsforkids.org, kidsks.org)
  • Need a car seat or installation help: Check the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office car seat events calendar, Safe Kids inspection stations, or county programs such as Overland Park and Wyandotte County. (ktsro.org, safekids.org, opkansas.org, wycokck.org)

What this guide adds

What we verified: All programs are linked to official state, county, or established nonprofit sources. We included the newest WIC benefit amounts, WIC income limits for 2025‑26, current KanCare plan phone numbers, diaper allotments, and county contacts where possible. (fns.usda.gov, portal.kmap-state-ks.us, happybottoms.org)


What to expect: Some programs have waitlists or require a quick class or appointment. We flag timelines, documents you need, common mistakes, and a backup plan if the first option doesn’t work.

Kansas WIC — fast track to food, formula options, breastfeeding help, and referrals

Most important action first

How to apply: Use the Kansas WIC pre‑application online. A local WIC clinic will contact you to set an appointment. If you prefer to call, use the Kansas WIC central line at 785‑296‑1320 or your county’s WIC number (for example, 913‑826‑1302 in Johnson County). Bring ID, address, and income proof to your appointment. (kdhe.ks.gov, jocogov.org)

What WIC provides in Kansas

  • Healthy foods through your WIC card, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals. (kdhe.ks.gov)
  • Monthly fruit and vegetable Cash‑Value Benefit (CVB) amounts for FY 2025:
    • Children ages 1‑4 — $26 per month
    • Pregnant and postpartum — $47 per month
    • Fully or mostly breastfeeding — $52 per month (fns.usda.gov)
  • Breastfeeding help and peer counselors through Kansas WIC. Ask your clinic about pumps and breastfeeding supplies available to WIC moms. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Table — WIC FY2025 monthly fruit and vegetable CVB

Category Monthly CVB
Children age 1‑4 $26
Pregnant or postpartum $47
Fully/mostly breastfeeding $52

Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, FY2025 CVB policy memo effective Oct 2024 through Sept 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

Kansas WIC income limits for 2025‑26

Eligibility is set at 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Kansas follows the contiguous states chart below, effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. (fns.usda.gov)

Table — WIC income limits (48 contiguous states) effective July 2025 – June 2026

Household size Annual income Monthly income Weekly income
1 $28,953 $2,413 $557
2 $39,128 $3,261 $753
3 $49,303 $4,109 $949
4 $59,478 $4,957 $1,144
5 $69,653 $5,805 $1,340
6 $79,828 $6,653 $1,536
7 $90,003 $7,501 $1,731
8 $100,178 $8,349 $1,927

Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines 2025‑26. (fns.usda.gov)

Helpful note: If you receive KanCare (Medicaid), SNAP, or TANF, you may be considered income‑eligible for WIC; staff will confirm at your appointment. (jocogov.org)

Required documents for your WIC appointment

  • Proof of identity — photo ID for you and child if available.
  • Proof of Kansas address — lease, utility bill, or mail.
  • Proof of household income — recent pay stubs or benefit letter. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Realistic timelines

  • After the online pre‑application, local clinics typically call to schedule within a few business days. If you do not hear back within one week, call your county WIC directly to request an appointment slot. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Missing documents: Showing up without ID, address, or income proof can delay benefits.
  • Not answering unknown numbers: Clinic calls may show as “restricted” or from a county office.
  • Assuming you are over income: Many working families qualify; bring your info and let staff calculate. (kdhe.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call the Kansas WIC central office at 785‑296‑1320 for help locating an appointment, or call United Way 2‑1‑1 to find nearby clinics and transportation help. (kdhe.ks.gov, unitedwayplains.org)

Free or low‑cost breast pumps through insurance or KanCare

Most important action first

Call your health plan’s member services and ask for a covered breast pump:

  • Healthy Blue (KanCare) — 833‑838‑2593
  • Sunflower State Health Plan (KanCare) — 877‑644‑4623
  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas (KanCare) — 877‑542‑9238 (portal.kmap-state-ks.us)

If you are privately insured, call the number on your card and ask about your lactation benefits. Many plans cover a personal‑use electric pump with a provider order under the federal women’s preventive services requirement; KanCare covers durable medical equipment as medically necessary through your MCO. Benefits vary, so member services can tell you which vendors to use and what paperwork you need. (kancare.ks.gov)

  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan lists 2025 value‑added benefits for high‑risk pregnancies, including a $145 per month healthy food credit during late pregnancy through the first postpartum month, arranged by your care coordinator. Ask if you qualify. (uhc.com)

What you’ll likely need

  • Prescription or order for a breast pump from your provider.
  • Your insurance or KanCare ID and expected due date.
  • Choice of an in‑network pump supplier (member services will list options). (kancare.ks.gov)

Realistic timelines

  • Many vendors ship a covered pump close to week 30 of pregnancy or after delivery; allow one to four weeks for processing and delivery depending on your plan and vendor.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Ordering out of network: Always confirm vendors with your plan before placing the order.
  • Waiting until after birth to ask: Start the request during the third trimester to avoid delays.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask your WIC clinic about pump support or short‑term loan options available to WIC breastfeeding moms. Contact Kansas WIC at 785‑296‑1320 or your local WIC office. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Diapers and wipes — where to get them free or monthly

Most important action first

If you live in the Kansas City metro: Enroll with HappyBottoms through a partner in your county.

  • Wyandotte County Public Health Department distribution: 75 diapers per child per month or 50 pull‑ups, for kids under age 4. Call 913‑573‑6734 to enroll. New clients must apply at least one week before the next pick‑up date. (wycokck.org)
  • Johnson County partners include Catholic Charities Family Support Centers in Olathe and Overland Park; enroll online, then pick up during open hours. (happybottoms.org)
  • HappyBottoms explains families receive 75 diapers or 50 pull‑ups monthly, one agency per child. (happybottoms.org)

Douglas County and nearby: Just Food’s Just Basics program provides 50 diapers or 30 pull‑ups per child monthly for enrolled households. (justfoodks.org)

Table — Kansas diaper resources snapshot

Program Counties Monthly amount How to enroll
HappyBottoms (KC metro) Wyandotte, Johnson and regional partners 75 diapers or 50 pull‑ups per child Enroll via partner agency; WyCo phone 913‑573‑6734; online list for JoCo partners. (wycokck.org, happybottoms.org)
Just Basics at Just Food (Lawrence) Douglas 50 diapers or 30 pull‑ups per child Sign up as a Just Food shopper; complete HappyBottoms enrollment. (justfoodks.org)
Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas diaper program Salina, Hays, Manhattan Box of diapers plus wipes monthly for ages 0‑3, income limits apply Download application and visit your local office. Contacts listed on program page. (ccnks.org)

Documents you’ll need

  • Photo ID for the parent or caregiver and child’s ID showing name and date of birth (WIC card, shot record, Medicaid card, or birth certificate). (wycokck.org)

Realistic timelines

  • Enrollment approvals are processed on set days. HappyBottoms notes approvals are typically handled on Mondays and Wednesdays; check your partner site for pickup schedules. (happybottoms.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Signing up at multiple agencies: HappyBottoms allows one agency per child per month.
  • Missing pickup windows: Most partners offer specific pickup days or weeks; mark your calendar. (happybottoms.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Dial 2‑1‑1 to find a nearby church or pantry that stocks diapers. In Wichita and surrounding counties, monitor the Kansas Food Bank announcements and Mobile Hygiene Pantry dates for wipes and hygiene supplies. (unitedwayplains.org, kansasfoodbank.org)

Safe sleep — how to get a free crib or portable play yard

Most important action first

If your baby does not have a safe place to sleep: Request a cribette or Pack ’n Play through a local Cribs for Kids partner and complete safe‑sleep education. Use the “Find a Crib” map to locate providers by ZIP code. (cribsforkids.org)

Where to learn safe sleep in Kansas: The KIDS Network provides free training, community baby showers, and statewide safe‑sleep education aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics. (kidsks.org)

What you’ll need

  • Infant under 12 months and financial need. Many programs require proof of residence and completion of a short safe‑sleep class.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using recalled or older cribs: Kansas safety guidance stresses current standards; check recalls at Recalls.gov and follow KDHE safe‑sleep practices. (safekidskansas.org, kdhe.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask your county health department, WIC clinic, or hospital social worker for “Community Baby Shower” dates or crib clinics supported by KIDS Network and KDHE. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Car seats — free or low‑cost seats and installation in Kansas

Most important action first

Schedule a certified car seat check near you: Use the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office calendar and Safe Kids inspection station finder for statewide options. (ktsro.org, safekids.org)

Table — Car seat help by area

Location Program Cost How to schedule
Johnson County Sheriff’s Office CPST inspections Often free Email Carseats@jocogov.org or call 913‑715‑5140 during business hours. (jocogov.org)
Lawrence / Douglas County Lawrence Police CPST station Free inspections by appointment Email SafeKids at safekids@lkpd.org or call 785‑830‑7455. (lawrenceks.org)
Overland Park Police CPST inspections; seats may be available for eligible families Free checks; limited free seats for those who qualify Call 913‑895‑6419 for appointment dates. (opkansas.org)
Wichita / Sedgwick County Safe Kids Wichita Area check lanes (Wichita Fire Dept or Via Christi) Free checks; limited seats when available Contact Victoria Chandler at 316‑268‑6760; see event listings. (events.safekids.org)
Wyandotte County Public Health Department car seat services Suggested donation $20 Call 913‑573‑6305 for appointments. (wycokck.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Buying secondhand seats: You can’t verify crash history or expiration; ask at an inspection station about assistance instead.
  • Skipping the appointment: A quick check can correct common errors in fit and installation.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 800‑SEAT‑CHECK to find the next closest inspection station. Safe Kids Kansas and Kansas Highway Patrol keep statewide resources updated. (kansashighwaypatrol.gov)

Free or low‑cost children’s clothing — statewide and regional options

Most important action first

If your child needs clothing this month: Start with the options nearest you below and call ahead to confirm hours and any eligibility steps.

Table — Clothing resources by region

Region Resource What they offer How to access
Wichita / Sedgwick County Assistance League of Wichita — Operation School Bell School clothing for USD 259 students identified by school social workers; hygiene kits; back‑to‑school events Ask your child’s school social worker. Program details and history on ALW site. Amounts vary each year — check with your school. (assistanceleague.org)
Wichita / Sedgwick County Sedgwick County Healthy Babies Prenatal and parenting education with incentives; community baby shower; referrals to baby supplies Call 316‑660‑7433; staff connect families to supplies and classes. (sedgwickcounty.org)
Topeka / Shawnee County The Baby Closet at West Side Baptist Church Monthly free baby and toddler clothing, diapers, wipes, formula, and occasional gear for ages newborn to 5 Visit during posted hours; voicemail 785‑233‑4241 ext 4. (wsbctopeka.org)
Topeka / Shawnee County Community Action Diaper Depot 50 diapers monthly for children 0‑35 months for Shawnee County residents; income up to 200 percent FPL; waitlist possible Enroll in person at Hancock Center, info line 785‑836‑4500. (wefightpoverty.org)
Lawrence / Douglas County Ballard Center Food & Clothing Pantry Free clothing for the family, diapers, hygiene items, household basics; appointment required Call 785‑842‑0729 for weekday appointments. (ballardcenter.org)
Lawrence / Douglas County Community Children’s Center Early Childhood Clothing Closet Free children’s sizes 0‑6T, maternity clothes, diapers and wipes Book an appointment online; contact on program page. (communitychildrenks.org)
Northeast Kansas (multiple counties) Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas Family Support Centers Clothing assistance, hygiene items, diapers (through HappyBottoms in KC area), food pantry Find the nearest FSC and call your local office, such as Overland Park 913‑384‑6608, Topeka 785‑233‑6300, Lawrence 785‑856‑2694. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
Northern Kansas Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas Diaper program for ages 0‑3; clothing vouchers — typically two tops and two bottoms per person at partner thrift stores See site for applications and contacts in Salina 785‑825‑0208, Hays 785‑625‑2644, Manhattan 785‑323‑0644. (ccnks.org)
Southwest / Western Kansas Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas Multiple offices offer basic needs assistance and thrift access; call to ask about children’s clothing Call Dodge City 620‑227‑1562, Garden City 620‑272‑0010, Great Bend 620‑792‑1393, Liberal 620‑309‑4490. (catholiccharitiesswks.org)
Kansas City metro (KS side) Salvation Army Family Support Centers and seasonal drives Coats and winter wear through Warm Hearts; seasonal clothing and basic needs through local corps Check the Wichita Warm Hearts details for typical October distributions and call your local corps for current year dates. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Assuming you must be a member of a church to receive help: Most programs serve any family meeting basic eligibility.
  • Arriving without required IDs: Some closets limit items per visit and require parent and child documentation.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Dial 2‑1‑1 or contact your school social worker for emergency clothing vouchers or school‑based closets. (unitedwayplains.org)

Region‑by‑region quick contacts

Northeast Kansas

  • HappyBottoms Wyandotte County enrollment: 913‑573‑6734. (wycokck.org)
  • Catholic Charities FSCs: Topeka 785‑233‑6300, Lawrence 785‑856‑2694, Overland Park 913‑384‑6608, Wyandotte 913‑621‑1504. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
  • Johnson County WIC: 913‑826‑1302. (jocogov.org)

Topeka / Shawnee County

  • Baby Closet West Side Baptist: 785‑233‑4241 ext 4. (wsbctopeka.org)
  • Community Action Diaper Depot: 785‑836‑4500. (wefightpoverty.org)
  • Safe Kids Shawnee County events: see local schedules via KTSRO or Safe Kids. (ktsro.org)

Lawrence / Douglas County

Wichita / Sedgwick County

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Table — One‑page essentials

Need First call Backup
WIC enrollment Kansas WIC 785‑296‑1320 or county WIC Dial 2‑1‑1 for clinic finder and transportation help. (kdhe.ks.gov, unitedwayplains.org)
Diapers (KC metro) HappyBottoms via WyCo Health 913‑573‑6734 or JoCo partners Catholic Charities FSCs in your county. (wycokck.org, catholiccharitiesks.org)
Diapers (Lawrence) Just Food — Just Basics Ballard Center pantry. (justfoodks.org, ballardcenter.org)
Crib / Pack ’n Play Cribs for Kids provider finder KIDS Network or county health dept. (cribsforkids.org, kidsks.org)
Car seat KTSRO events or local CPST station Safe Kids station or county program. (ktsro.org, safekids.org)

Application checklist

  • Photo ID for you and child.
  • Proof of Kansas address such as a bill or lease.
  • Proof of income or benefits letter.
  • Insurance or KanCare card if asking for a pump through your plan.
  • Birth certificate or immunization record if required by diaper programs. (kdhe.ks.gov, wycokck.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Missing deadlines: For Wyandotte HappyBottoms, new clients must apply at least one week before pickup days. Mark the calendar. (wycokck.org)
  • No backup plan for transportation: Ask your MCO about covered rides to WIC, clinics, or diaper pickups. UnitedHealthcare lists 24 extra round‑trip rides for members; other MCOs have similar options. (uhc.com)
  • Assuming a program is full statewide: If one county is waitlisted, another nearby partner may have openings. Use 2‑1‑1 to check alternatives. (unitedwayplains.org)

Diverse communities and targeted tips

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your MCO for interpreter and inclusive support services; UnitedHealthcare provides interpreter services on request. For mental health support at any time, call or text 988. (uhc.com, kdads.ks.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: Use 2‑1‑1 to locate local disability‑specific clothing closets and supply banks, and ask your WIC clinic about accommodations. (unitedwayplains.org)

Veteran single mothers: Contact your nearest VA Women Veterans Program and dial 2‑1‑1 for local clothing and baby item partners that work with veterans. (unitedwayplains.org)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Catholic Charities Family Support Centers in NE Kansas serve all faiths and backgrounds and can help with diapers, clothing, and navigation. (catholiccharitiesks.org)

Tribal citizens: Contact your tribal clinic or social services for baby items and safe‑sleep initiatives and use the Cribs for Kids map for partner agencies in your area. (cribsforkids.org)

Rural single moms with long drives: Use phone‑based enrollment for WIC and ask your KanCare plan about rides. Many diaper programs offer monthly pickup windows you can plan around. (kdhe.ks.gov, uhc.com)

Single fathers raising infants or toddlers: WIC welcomes fathers, stepparents, foster parents, grandparents, and guardians who care for children under five. Apply to receive benefits for your child. (jocogov.org)

Language access: WIC clinics and KanCare plans can arrange interpreter services. If website translations are unclear, call your local clinic for help. (kdhe.ks.gov)

Timelines and what to expect

  • WIC: Pre‑application plus clinic appointment. Many households are fully set up within two to three weeks from first contact, depending on local demand. If you haven’t been scheduled within one week, call your local WIC. (kdhe.ks.gov)
  • Diapers: Once enrolled, plan for monthly distributions; some programs have waitlists during high demand. (wefightpoverty.org)
  • Cribs: Pickup follows safe‑sleep education. Times vary by partner; check the listing when you call. (cribsforkids.org)
  • Car seats: Availability of free seats depends on grants; installation checks are generally by appointment. (ktsro.org)

Frequently asked questions — Kansas specific

  1. Can I get diapers for more than one child: Yes, enroll each eligible child separately; HappyBottoms limits assistance to one partner per child per month. (happybottoms.org)
  2. What if I don’t have a photo ID yet: Bring any document with your name, and for your child bring a WIC card, shot record, Medicaid card, or birth record. Programs list acceptable proofs; call ahead. (wycokck.org)
  3. Does WIC provide formula: WIC provides specific formulas when medically or nutritionally indicated and supports breastfeeding with extra foods and counseling. Ask your clinic what applies to your case. (kdhe.ks.gov)
  4. How much fruit and vegetable money does WIC load each month: Children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 during FY2025. (fns.usda.gov)
  5. What are the current WIC income limits in Kansas: See the 2025‑26 chart above; for a household of 3 the annual limit is $49,303. (fns.usda.gov)
  6. Does KanCare cover breast pumps: KanCare covers durable medical equipment through your MCO when medically necessary; call your plan. UnitedHealthcare lists extra supports for high‑risk pregnancy, such as a $145 per month food credit. (kancare.ks.gov, uhc.com)
  7. Where can I get a free car seat in Kansas: Start with Safe Kids or KTSRO events; some counties provide seats at no cost for eligible families, such as Wyandotte County’s program with a suggested $20 donation. (ktsro.org, wycokck.org)
  8. Is there help with coats for kids in Wichita: Salvation Army’s Warm Hearts runs coat distributions in October. Check current year dates with the Wichita locations listed. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  9. Can fathers or grandparents apply for WIC for a child: Yes, WIC serves guardians caring for children under five. (jocogov.org)
  10. Who do I call if I’m overwhelmed and need to talk now: Call or text 988 for free, confidential help anytime in Kansas. (kdads.ks.gov)

What to do if options near you are full

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and ask the specialist to search by your ZIP code for diaper partners, clothing closets, crib programs, and CPST technicians within 30 to 60 miles.
  • Ask your WIC clinic to connect you to county infant health coalitions and community baby showers. (unitedwayplains.org, kdhe.ks.gov)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Kansas Department of Health and Environment, KanCare, USDA, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards including primary‑source verification, link testing, and prompt corrections. We are independent and not a government agency.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, amounts, phone numbers, and pickup schedules can change without notice. Always confirm with the agency before traveling or sharing personal information. For your security, access programs through the official links in this guide and avoid sharing sensitive data over public Wi‑Fi. This guide is for general information and is not legal or case‑specific advice.

Sources

What to do next: Pick the section that meets your most urgent need, make the call today, and set calendar reminders for pickup days or appointments. Every program listed here is real, verified, and serving Kansas families right now.

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