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

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

• 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
• Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline: 1‑877‑NJ‑ABUSE (1‑877‑652‑2873). (nj.gov)
• Family Helpline (Parents Anonymous): 1‑800‑THE‑KIDS (1‑800‑843‑5437). (nj.gov)
• Safe Haven Infant Protection Hotline: 1‑877‑839‑2339 for safe, legal, anonymous infant surrender up to 30 days old. (nj.gov)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 by call or text. (nj.gov)

Quick help box

• Find diapers near you fast: Call 2‑1‑1 or search NJ 211’s Get Help portal. They will point you to diaper banks and clothing closets in your county. (nj211.org)
• Apply for WIC online: Use the NJ WIC Participant Portal then schedule your local appointment. The pre‑screen takes about 15 minutes. (nj.gov)
• Check SNAP eligibility and apply: Start at NJ SNAP Apply Online. Benefits are typically decided within 30 days, with “immediate need” screening at application. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Ask about a safe crib: Use the Cribs for Kids Find‑a‑Crib map and NJ’s Baby Safe Sleep guidance. (cribsforkids.org, nj.gov)
• Schedule a free car seat check: Use the state’s Child Passenger Safety pages to find county technicians and inspection events. (nj.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Why this guide is different

• Dollar amounts and phone numbers included: We cite USDA, NJ DOH, NJ DCF, and other official sources.
• Action first: Each section starts with the fastest path to help and ends with a Plan B.
• Reality checks: Waitlists, documentation, and county differences are explained.
• State‑specific: Contacts and programs are New Jersey‑based.

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Free diapers and baby hygiene supplies in New Jersey

Start here

• Call NJ 211: Ask for diaper banks and baby pantries in your ZIP code. It is available 24/7 and can text or chat. (nj211.org)
• Check Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) partners: CFBNJ is a National Diaper Bank Network member and supplies diapers to a large network of local agencies statewide. They report distributing over 7.5 million diapers in a year through more than 175 agencies. Call a nearby CFBNJ partner pantry first to confirm availability. (cfbnj.org)

High‑impact diaper programs to contact

• Central Jersey Diaper Bank (New Brunswick): Appointment pickups every other month. One‑time registration then use your Family ID to order. Typical allotment covers roughly a week per child. Address 222 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Phone 732‑296‑9922. (idakushnercjdp.org)
• The Maker’s Place Diaper Depot (Trenton): Monthly diapers by appointment with a brief waitlist. First visit requires a copy or photo of your child’s birth certificate. Phone 609‑751‑9128. (makersplace.org)
• Moms Helping Moms Foundation (statewide through partners): Provides diapers, wipes, clothing, period supplies, and select gear including brand‑new car seats through its Safe Start initiative. Referrals typically go through partner agencies. See programs and request help on their site. (momshelpingmoms.org)
• Children’s Aid and Family Services Baby Basics (Bergen County): Free diapers and infant formula for working families with infants under age two living or working in Bergen County. Phone 201‑740‑7009. (cafsnj.org)
• HomeFront Diaper Resource Center (Mercer County): Distributes roughly 1 million diapers per year with other baby basics at its Choice Market. Phone 609‑989‑9417. (homefrontnj.org)
• NJ 211 Basic Needs page: Maintains county and regional diaper resources including Modestly Cover Diaper Bank, Southern NJ Perinatal Cooperative, and more, with office addresses and phone numbers. (nj.gov)

What to bring

• Photo ID.
• Proof of NJ address: Recent mail or lease works for most sites.
• Child’s birth certificate: Needed at some programs such as The Maker’s Place on the first visit. (makersplace.org)

Typical timelines and realities

• Appointments book up: Many banks have waitlists or specific pickup windows; some allow pickups only monthly or every other month. (idakushnercjdp.org, makersplace.org)
• Supply varies: Allotments depend on donations and grants. CFBNJ suggests calling ahead to confirm availability at partner pantries. (cfbnj.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing appointment emails or texts: If you register, check spam folders so you don’t lose your slot. Maker’s Place uses a monthly waitlist process tied to your Member ID. (makersplace.org)
• Arriving without required documents: Bring ID and the child’s birth certificate the first time where required. (makersplace.org)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Call 2‑1‑1 and ask specifically for “diaper banks and baby pantries in my county” and any sites that accept direct walk‑ins.
• Ask your WIC clinic or pediatrician: Many clinics and medical offices keep emergency diaper and formula supplies for clients. CFBNJ also recommends asking your doctor’s office for help. (cfbnj.org)

Free and low‑cost children’s clothing and baby gear

Start here

• Visit a county Family Success Center (FSC): FSCs are DCF‑funded “one‑stop” hubs and often host clothing closets or make referrals to local clothing banks. Find centers and phone numbers by county on the official directory. (nj.gov)

Notable sites to try

• HomeFront FreeStore (Trenton): Free clothing and household goods by appointment, with extra visits allowed for job interviews or moving into housing. Phone 609‑989‑9417. (homefrontnj.org)
• NJ 211 clothing listings: County pages include free clothing rooms and swap sites such as Community Treasures in Jersey City and The Closet at HiTOPS for LGBTQIA+ youth. Check hours and access rules before going. (nj.gov)
• DCF Family Success Centers: Multiple centers across NJ, including Oceans Family Success Center in Asbury Park, host diaper or baby‑supply days and family clothing events. Phone 732‑455‑5272 for Oceans FSC. Use the state directory for your nearest FSC. (nj.gov, monmouthresourcenet.org)

Reality checks

• Seasonal crunch: Back‑to‑school and winter coat demand is highest. Call ahead or ask about voucher days.
• Donation quality varies: Bring a backup plan in case sizes are limited that day.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Showing up outside event hours: Clothing closets often keep limited days and hours. Confirm on the FSC or agency’s site or by phone.
• Skipping county‑level options: Your county Community Action Agency can point to local closets and voucher programs. Use the state’s Community Action directory to get the right phone number for your county. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your FSC about one‑time clothing vouchers: Some partner agencies provide vouchers for children’s clothing for school or emergencies.
• Use NJ 211 chat or text: Text your ZIP code to 898‑211 and ask for “children’s clothing closets near me.” (nj211.org)

Safe sleep and free cribs

Act now

• Use the Cribs for Kids map: Enter your ZIP code to see local partners that provide a free portable crib after a brief safe‑sleep class. Priorities typically include financial need and infants under 12 months, with safe‑sleep education required. (cribsforkids.org)
• Learn New Jersey’s safe sleep guidance: DCF’s Baby Safe Sleep page lays out simple steps like back‑sleeping and keeping soft objects out of the crib. The SIDS Center of New Jersey is listed for help and information at 1‑800‑545‑7437. (nj.gov)

Other options

• Keeping Babies Safe Project Safe Crib: NJ‑based nonprofit that donates new, safe cribs through trained partner agencies. Ask your social worker or FSC if they can refer to a KBS partner. (keepingbabiessafe.org)

Typical timelines

• Education first: Many programs require a short class or counseling before crib pickup, often scheduled within one to two weeks depending on demand. Program rules vary by partner. (cribsforkids.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using recalled or unsafe cribs: Always check for recalls and follow DCF safe sleep rules to reduce risk. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your hospital’s maternity unit or local home‑visiting nurse: New Jersey’s Family Connects NJ is expanding county‑by‑county and connects families to safe‑sleep resources after birth. (nj.gov)

Car seats and installation help

Fastest path

• Book a free seat check: Use the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety site to find your county’s Child Passenger Safety coordinator and seat‑check events. Installation is checked and corrected for free. (nj.gov)

Where to call

• Middlesex County coordinator: 732‑418‑8026 (RWJUH Safe Kids Middlesex).
• Hudson County coordinator (Jersey City Medical Center): 201‑915‑2906.
• Morris and Sussex (Northern NJ Safe Kids): 973‑971‑4327.
• Ocean County Sheriff’s Office: 732‑341‑3451.
• Union County Traffic Safety: 908‑789‑6830. (nj.gov)

Getting a free car seat

• Moms Helping Moms Safe Start: Distributes brand‑new car seats to eligible families through partners. Ask your social worker, WIC clinic, or FSC for a referral to a participating agency. (momshelpingmoms.org)

Know the law

• NJ child passenger restraint law: Children under age eight and under 57 inches must be properly restrained according to age and size. Details are on the state’s CPS law page. (nj.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Incorrect installation: NJDHTS notes a high rate of misuse. Always get a seat check before baby’s due date. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Call your county CPS coordinator: Explain you cannot afford a seat and ask about local donation programs or partner nonprofits that supply new seats after a safety class. (nj.gov)

WIC in New Jersey — practical benefits for baby gear budgets

What you get right now

• Monthly fruit and vegetable cash‑value benefit (CVB): Children $26permonth\ast \ast ;\ast \ast pregnantandpostpartum\ast \ast \ast \ast$47 per month; mostly or fully breastfeeding $52 per month through Sept 30, 2025. These amounts are federal for FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• Breastfeeding support: Lactation counseling, a breastfeeding helpline, and breast pumps when needed through NJ WIC. (nj.gov)

Who qualifies

• Income: WIC uses 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Effective July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, the monthly limits for the 48 states are: 1 person $2,413\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 2\ast \ast \ast \ast$3,261; 3 $4,109\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 4\ast \ast \ast \ast$4,957; 5 $5,805\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 6\ast \ast \ast \ast$6,653; 7 $7,501\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 8\ast \ast \ast \ast$8,349; add $848 per additional person. (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply

• Pre‑screen and submit online, then call your local clinic to finish enrollment and benefits. Use the Find a WIC Local Agency page to pick the nearest office and phone number. (nj.gov)

Documents to gather

• Photo ID.
• Proof of NJ residency: Driver’s license, recent mail, or lease.
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, benefit letters, or child support orders.
• Proof of pregnancy or children’s immunization record: As listed by NJ WIC. (nj.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the clinic visit: Online pre‑screen is not a full application. You must complete your clinic appointment to activate eWIC. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your hospital or OB office for a WIC referral: Many WIC sites can expedite scheduling for new newborns.

SNAP — freeing up cash for diapers and clothing

What you can count on

• Maximum monthly benefits FY 2025 in the 48 states and DC through Sept 30, 2025: 1 $292\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 2\ast \ast \ast \ast$536; 3 $768\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 4\ast \ast \ast \ast$975; 5 $1,158\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 6\ast \ast \ast \ast$1,390; 7 $1,536\ast \ast ;\ast \ast 8\ast \ast \ast \ast$1,756; add $220\ast \ast foreachadditionalperson.Minimumbenefitremains\ast \ast$23. (fns.usda.gov)

Eligibility tip

• New Jersey screens most households up to gross 185 percent of poverty under Broad‑Based Categorical Eligibility. NJ’s official page explains eligibility and is updated periodically. Use the pre‑screener to see where you stand today. (nj.gov)

How to apply and how long it takes

• Apply online at MyNJHelps via the state SNAP page or submit a paper application to your County Social Service Agency. The state says most cases are decided within 30 days, and households are screened for immediate need at application. (nj.gov, nj.gov)

Get free application help

• SNAP Navigators can complete your application and scan documents. Example contacts include CFBNJ SNAP Outreach 1‑908‑838‑4831 and Fulfill (Monmouth‑Ocean) 1‑732‑643‑5888. Find your Navigator by county on the state list. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Call your Navigator or 2‑1‑1 to troubleshoot verifications or to explore Work First New Jersey cash assistance if your income recently dropped. (nj211.org, nj.gov)

Breastfeeding supplies and breast pumps

• Insurance coverage: Federal rules require Marketplace plans to cover breastfeeding support and breast pumps for the duration of breastfeeding, subject to your plan’s logistics. Check with your plan for whether rental or purchase is covered. (hhs.gov, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Sales tax savings: New Jersey exempts breast pumps and defined pump supplies from sales tax. Clothing items such as nursing bras are also tax‑exempt as clothing. (nj.gov)
• Extra WIC support: NJ WIC provides lactation counseling and breast pumps when needed. Ask your WIC clinic if you plan to return to work or school. (nj.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your hospital lactation team before discharge for a pump prescription and local low‑cost rental options.

Stretch your budget with New Jersey‑specific savings

• Clothing sales tax: New Jersey exempts most clothing and footwear from sales tax under longstanding rules. The Division of Taxation notes a separate statutory exemption for clothing, which includes items like T‑shirts and socks. Always check your receipt and dispute incorrect clothing tax. (nj.gov)
• Note: The annual back‑to‑school sales tax holiday was repealed in 2024, so standard tax rules apply unless the Legislature creates a new holiday. (nj.gov)

Regional diaper and clothing resources

Tables you can use right now

WIC cash‑value benefit amounts FY 2025

Source USDA FNS WIC Policy Memorandum FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

WIC income limits 185 percent FPL (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026)

Source USDA FNS WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines 2025–26. (fns.usda.gov)

SNAP maximum allotments FY 2025 (48 states and DC, valid through Sept 30, 2025)

Source USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

Car seat help — quick contacts

State directory Find a NJ Child Passenger Safety Technician. (nj.gov)

Statewide lifelines for parents

Sources DCF Hotlines, NJ Safe Haven, NJ 211. (nj.gov, nj211.org)

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your local Family Success Center for clothing closets and safe‑space parenting groups. In Mercer County, The Closet – HiTOPS offers clothing, toiletries, and gender‑affirming accessories for youth. Phone 609‑453‑2555. (nj.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: When applying to WIC or SNAP, note medical expenses and accessibility needs. Navigators can help complete applications and request reasonable accommodations. SNAP Navigator list is on the state site. (nj.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask your County Veterans Services or NJ 211 to connect you with local diaper and clothing partners plus emergency grants. WIC and SNAP eligibility rules are the same for veterans, but Navigators can fast‑track applications.
• Immigrant or refugee single moms: WIC eligibility is based on residency and income, not immigration status for the child, and many diaper banks do not ask about status. NJ 211 can identify status‑neutral resources near you. (nj.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Contact NJ 211 for regional partners familiar with Tribal families and culturally specific supports. Many statewide diaper programs serve any NJ resident in need. (nj211.org)
• Rural single moms with limited transport: Ask diaper banks about mobile or pop‑up pickups. The Maker’s Place runs diaper distributions at locations across Trenton and schedules by appointment. (makersplace.org)
• Single fathers: All programs listed, including WIC for eligible caregivers of infants and children, are open to dads. Use the Find a WIC Local Agency page to connect. (nj.gov)
• Language access: NJ WIC materials and portals are in multiple languages, and Family Connects NJ reports home visits in more than 24 languages. Ask for an interpreter when you call. (nj.gov)

Application checklist

• Photo ID and proof of NJ address.
• Proof of income for the last 30 days: Pay stubs, benefit letters, child support order.
• Birth certificates for each child and pregnancy verification if applying while pregnant.
• Immunization record and Universal Child Health Record for WIC children. (nj.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming online pre‑screens finish the job: You must complete a WIC clinic appointment and SNAP interview to receive benefits. (nj.gov)
• Not asking about “immediate need”: For Work First New Jersey and SNAP, tell the worker if you lack food, clothing, or shelter so they can assess you for faster help. (nj.gov)
• Missing diaper bank emails or texts: Appointments and pickup reminders often arrive electronically. Re‑join the waitlist monthly where required. (makersplace.org)
• Skipping seat checks: The state emphasizes that many child seats are installed incorrectly. Book a check before your due date. (nj.gov)

If you still can’t find what you need

• Call 2‑1‑1 and say “I need diaper banks and children’s clothing closets in my county”.
• Ask your county Family Success Center for a direct referral to a diaper bank, crib program, or car seat partner. (nj.gov)

Ten New Jersey‑specific FAQs

• How much are WIC fruit and veggie benefits in 2025: Children $26\ast \ast ,\ast \ast pregnantandpostpartum\ast \ast \ast \ast$47, mostly or fully breastfeeding $52 per month through Sept 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• What are the WIC income limits for a family of three for 2025–26: $4,109 monthly at 185 percent FPL. (fns.usda.gov)
• What are the SNAP maximums for a family of four through Sept 2025: $975 per month in the 48 states and DC. (fns.usda.gov)
• How fast can I get SNAP: The state says most decisions are made within 30 days and screens all applicants for immediate need. Apply online or with a Navigator. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• Where can I get diapers in Central Jersey this week: Try Central Jersey Diaper Bank (732‑296‑9922) or ask NJ 211 for the nearest CFBNJ partner pantry carrying diapers. (idakushnercjdp.org, cfbnj.org)
• Does NJ have free or low‑cost car seats: Programs vary by county and nonprofit. Moms Helping Moms runs Safe Start for brand‑new seats via partners, and the state offers free installation checks statewide. (momshelpingmoms.org, nj.gov)
• Where do I request a safe crib: Use the Cribs for Kids partner map and ask your Family Success Center or hospital social worker for a referral. (cribsforkids.org)
• Is clothing taxed in New Jersey: Most clothing and footwear are exempt from sales tax under NJ law. Verify on receipts and ask the retailer to correct errors. (nj.gov)
• Can WIC give me a breast pump: Yes, when needed, and you also have pump coverage through your health plan under federal rules. (nj.gov, hhs.gov)
• Who can help me fill out SNAP or WIC forms: SNAP Navigators listed by county can help for free, and WIC clinics help complete your application at the appointment. (nj.gov)

What to expect by timeline

• Today: Call 2‑1‑1 for diaper and clothing sites; book a car seat check; start WIC and SNAP pre‑screens.
• Within one week: Confirm a diaper pickup or waitlist appointment; gather documents for WIC or SNAP.
• Within two to four weeks: Complete WIC clinic appointment; get SNAP decision; attend safe‑sleep or car seat class if required by local programs.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, NJ Department of Health, NJ Department of Children and Families, USDA FNS, and established nonprofits. It follows our Primary Sources Only and Cross‑Reference Verification standards, with live links to application portals and phone numbers where available. See our full Editorial Standards.

Last verified: September 2025
Next review: April 2026

Found an update or correction info@asinglemother.org

Disclaimer

General information only: Program rules, amounts, and availability change frequently. Always confirm with the agency or nonprofit before you travel or submit documents.

Security: Use only official .gov sites or known nonprofits we link in this guide. Never share your Social Security number or EBT card details by text or with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Lock your EBT card in the state app when not in use.

Health and safety: Follow your pediatrician’s guidance for infant feeding, safe sleep, and car seat use. Safety checks and classes listed here do not replace medical advice.

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Source highlights

• WIC benefits and 2025 CVB amounts. (fns.usda.gov)
• WIC income limits 2025–26. (fns.usda.gov)
• NJ WIC apply and local agency finder. (nj.gov)
• SNAP FY 2025 maximums. (fns.usda.gov)
• NJ SNAP applications and Navigators. (nj.gov)
• Diaper resources and county listings. (nj.gov)
• Key diaper banks: Central Jersey Diaper Bank, Maker’s Place, HomeFront, Baby Basics. (idakushnercjdp.org, makersplace.org, homefrontnj.org, cafsnj.org)
• CFBNJ diaper and hygiene programs. (cfbnj.org)
• Safe sleep and crib access. (nj.gov, cribsforkids.org)
• Car seat checks and law. (nj.gov)
• Family Success Centers. (nj.gov)
• Breast pump coverage and sales tax exemption. (hhs.gov, nj.gov)
• Clothing sales tax exemption reference. (nj.gov)

If something here didn’t solve your need, email us with your county and what you’re looking for. We’ll help you find the right door faster.

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🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey

• 📋 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
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🎒 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