Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows where to get free furniture and basic household items fast in Arkansas, plus how to avoid shutoffs and stretch limited cash. Keep this page handy. Save numbers in your phone. Bookmark the links.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call now for live referrals: Dial 2-1-1 to reach trained specialists at Arkansas 211 and ask for “furniture vouchers,” “household goods,” and “moving-in kits.” Ask for agencies that issue thrift-store vouchers and home-setup help. If lines are busy, use the online search at Arkansas 211 — How it works and request a texted list so you don’t lose it. (arkansas211.org)
- Stop a shutoff before it happens: Tell your utility you need a payment plan today, then call the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) Consumer Services to log a complaint if you can’t reach a deal. While APSC investigates, your service generally should not be shut off on the disputed portion, and utilities must respond to APSC within 15 days. Use seniors/medical protections when applicable. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Apply for cash help you can spend on basics: File for Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA) through Access Arkansas. TEA cash grants for a family of three are 204permonth,witha12‑monthstatetimelimiteffectiveApril1,2024;somefamiliesalsoqualifyforWorkPays(204 per month, with a 12‑month state time limit effective April 1, 2024; some families also qualify for Work Pays (204/month) after TEA closes. Call to confirm current rules. (casetext.com)
Quick Help Box — Phone Numbers and Links You’ll Use A Lot
- Arkansas 211 live referrals: 1-866-489-6983 and Arkansas 211; text your ZIP to 898211; TTY available. Also see Hark NWA for Northwest Arkansas navigation. (arkansas211.org)
- APSC utility complaints and shutoff help: 1-800-482-1164 and APSC Consumer Services; file online if lines are busy. See “Suspension of Service” rules on the APSC site. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Legal backup if a utility won’t work with you: Legal Aid of Arkansas helpline 1-800-952-9243 and utility protection guides at Arkansas Law Help. (arlegalaid.org)
- HUD Arkansas — housing counselors & crisis programs: HUD Arkansas and housing counseling options under “Where to get help.” Use this to find Rapid Re‑Housing or local Continuum of Care contacts. (hud.gov)
- DHS county office and benefits: Arkansas DHS hotlines page and Access Arkansas for online applications (SNAP, TEA, Medicaid). Keep your case number handy during every call. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
How to Use This Guide (and What’s Realistic)
Start with the fastest options: referrals and vouchers from Arkansas 211, then reach out to local agencies that issue thrift-store credits such as Samaritan Community Center — Samaritan Shops in Northwest Arkansas and Our House Resale Store in Little Rock area. Most programs run on donated inventory and may be out of stock—always call first and ask about waitlists. (arkansas211.org)
If you’re setting up housing after crisis, check with domestic violence programs like Peace at Home Family Shelter Thrift — voucher program and ask your case manager to request furniture vouchers or household “starter kits.” Also look at community gifting networks including Buy Nothing and Freecycle — Little Rock for same‑day pickups. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
Where Single Moms Can Get Free or Low-Cost Furniture and Household Items (Statewide First)
Fast local referrals and voucher programs
Start with a live referral through Arkansas 211 and ask specifically for “furniture banks,” “thrift vouchers,” and “move‑in kits.” Mention if you’re leaving shelter, exiting homelessness, or moving from disaster housing so they can prioritize you. In Northwest Arkansas, ask about the voucher process at Samaritan Community Center — “Samaritan Shops”, which redeems vouchers for clothing and household goods issued by its food pantries and partner agencies; in Central Arkansas, ask about Our House Resale Store donation pipeline for clients served by programs on campus. (arkansas211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for other voucher‑issuing partners like Helping Hands NWA and church-based closets such as City Center — Clothing Closet in Little Rock; also contact Catholic Charities of Arkansas to ask about local parish resources. Keep asking for a written referral you can present to a thrift partner. (helpinghandsnwa.org)
Habitat for Humanity ReStores and pickups
Many families find sturdy furniture, appliances, and housewares at Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas ReStore and at Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Arkansas ReStore locations. Some Habitat affiliates partner with agencies that provide store vouchers—ask your caseworker to check. Arrange a donation pickup if a friend is giving you furniture and can’t deliver; Central Arkansas lists a pickup request line at 1-501-414-6815. (habitatcentralar.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Arkansas 211 and ask for any ReStore voucher partners in your county; ask your Community Action Agency (see statewide list at ACAAA ) for a referral letter to support your need. (arkansas211.org)
Salvation Army social services and disaster furniture
Local Salvation Army corps sometimes issue clothing vouchers and, after disasters, may help with furniture when stock allows. In NWA, the social services page lists “Clothing Vouchers” and “Disaster Relief Furniture,” and appointments run through county lines. Call 1-479-521-2151 and ask about current availability in Fayetteville/Rogers/Springdale. Also contact your nearest corps through Arkansas 211 for similar services. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a referral to another voucher partner via Arkansas 211 and check church-based closets such as City Center in Little Rock, which resupplies small household items through partner networks. (arkansas211.org)
Refugee/immigrant families and new arrivals
If you’re an immigrant or refugee mom in NWA, Furniture Friends provides free loaner furniture and coordinates monthly delivery “Serve Days.” You create a profile, enter your needs, and the volunteer team schedules pickup/delivery. If you received resettlement services, contact Canopy NWA for move‑in and welcome kit support or a referral. (furniturefriends.co)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Catholic Charities of Arkansas — Immigration Services for referrals, and have Arkansas 211 text you the nearest churches that maintain “household kit” closets. (dolr.org)
Domestic violence survivors leaving shelter
Survivors often receive vouchers to shop at agency thrift stores for furniture and household essentials. In NWA, the Peace at Home Family Shelter Thrift issues client vouchers for furniture and home goods. In Central Arkansas, call Women & Children First about household starter items and relocation support. Use the National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233 if you need confidential safety planning. (peaceathomeshelter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the shelter advocate to write a referral for any Habitat ReStore or thrift partner like Our House Resale Store, and have Arkansas 211 add you to agencies’ internal call-backs for bed sets and kitchen kits. (ourhouseshelter.org)
At‑a‑Glance: Where to Look for Specific Items
| Item you need | Try these first | Eligibility and notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beds and dressers | Samaritan Shops (NWA) • Peace at Home Thrift (NWA) • Habitat ReStores | Ask for vouchers via food pantry/case manager; DV clients often get thrift vouchers; ReStores sell low-cost sets. (samcc.org) |
| Couches, tables, lamps | Our House Resale Store (LR/NLR) • Helping Hands NWA • Freecycle Little Rock | Our House prioritizes its clients first; Helping Hands offers low-cost goods and assists fire/disaster cases; Freecycle is public/free. (ourhouseshelter.org) |
| Baby sleep space | Cribs for Kids — Find a crib • Arkansas Dept. of Health Safe Sleep • WIC clinic | Many partners provide a free portable crib with education; call your local health unit via ADH and ask about safe sleep programs. (cribsforkids.org) |
| Kitchen kits, dishes | Samaritan Community Center • Canopy NWA — Welcome Kits • City Center Little Rock | Inventory varies; ask for a “kitchen starter kit” or thrift voucher; some sites serve program clients first. (samcc.org) |
| Durable medical equipment | Goodwill of Arkansas – HELPS • Arkansas 211 • Local hospital social work | Goodwill’s HELPS loans medical equipment free statewide; call your closest store to check stock. (goodwillar.org) |
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Arkansas Today
Call your utility and ask for a payment plan: Ask to set up a budget bill or installment plan. For electric customers, Entergy Arkansas — The Power to Care helps seniors and people with disabilities; gas customers can ask Summit Utilities for payment arrangements and medical protections. If you’re in Black Hills Energy territory, review Black Hills Energy – Arkansas assistance and ask about Black Hills Cares. (entergy.com)
File a complaint with the APSC if talks stall: If you dispute a bill or a plan falls through despite good‑faith efforts, contact APSC Consumer Services at 1-800-482-1164 and log the issue. Utilities must respond to APSC within 15 days, and your service generally should not be cut off on the disputed portion during the investigation. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
Apply for utility bill help (LIHEAP): From January–March (heating) and July–August (cooling), apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program through your local Community Action Agency; in 2025 the LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists heating benefits up to 475andcoolingupto475 and cooling up to 287, with crisis aid up to $500 (dates vary slightly by year). Start online at ADEE — LIHEAP, and confirm current windows with your CAA. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Use local water options: Central Arkansas Water offers flexible plans through Promise—see CAW Payment Options or call 1-501-372-5161; Rogers Water Utilities runs an H2O — Help to Others assistance program screened by a local nonprofit. Keep copies of every arrangement. (carkw.com)
Watch for scams: The Arkansas Attorney General warns that utilities don’t demand gift cards or crypto; if someone threatens immediate disconnection by phone, hang up and call the number on your bill. (arkansasag.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Arkansas 211 for emergency funds like the Summit Heating Assistance Fund (seasonal, typically up to $200) and ask your Community Action Agency to issue a “vendor guarantee” to pause shutoff while payment is processed. (arkansas211.org)
Programs That Can Help You Pay for Furniture or Essentials
TEA cash and Work Pays incentives
The state’s TEA (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) can free up cash for household basics while you work your plan. Maximum monthly TEA cash for a family of three is 204;thestatetimelimitis12monthsasofApril1,2024,withWorkPays(forworkingTEAleavers)offering204; the state time limit is 12 months as of April 1, 2024, with Work Pays (for working TEA leavers) offering 204/month up to program limits. Apply through Access Arkansas, and review TEA/Work Pays time limit changes before you plan your budget. (casetext.com)
Eligibility and documentation: Bring photo ID, kids’ Social Security numbers, proof of income, rent/lease, and recent utility bills. Find DHS hotlines and translations at DHS hotlines and ask the county worker to print your “needed documents” list. Use Access Arkansas to upload if you can’t get time off. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Community Action Agency via ACAAA list for “one‑time, short‑term” help (if offered) and ask 211 to locate a charity that issues vouchers (Salvation Army, churches). (acaaa.org)
Veterans: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
If you’re a veteran mom, SSVF can fund move‑in costs and essential furnishings when needed to stabilize housing. In Arkansas, St. Francis House (SSVF) serves most counties; start with their online form or call your local VA social worker. The VA also lists SSVF providers by region. (ssvfarkansas.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the HUD Arkansas office for Continuum‑of‑Care contacts and ask for “Rapid Re‑Housing” providers who can supply move‑in kits. Also call Arkansas 211 to widen your search. (hud.gov)
When your family has a new baby: safe sleep and baby gear
Ask your county health unit through ADH Parent Support about safe sleep education and whether any partners have free portable cribs. Search Cribs for Kids — Find a Crib for local providers that offer a Cribette and sleep sack after education. Use ARKids First for children’s coverage if you lack insurance. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC clinic to connect you to safe‑sleep partners, and request a referral from Arkansas 211 for any “crib closet” programs. (arkansas211.org)
Key State and Federal Contacts (Bookmark These)
| Service | How to contact | What to ask for |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas 211 | 1-866-489-6983 • Text ZIP to 898211 | “Furniture vouchers,” “household goods,” “Rapid Re‑Housing” referrals, and “church closets.” (arkansas211.org) |
| APSC Consumer Services | 1-800-482-1164 • Complaint forms online | Help with shutoff disputes; ask about Cold/Hot Weather Rules and complaint status updates. (apsc.arkansas.gov) |
| ADEE — LIHEAP info | See site for local CAA contacts | Heating/cooling and crisis dates; required documents; where to apply. (adeq.state.ar.us) |
| HUD Arkansas | Online info & housing counselors | CoC/Rapid Re‑Housing, rental help, fair housing complaints. (hud.gov) |
| Legal Aid of Arkansas | 1-800-952-9243 | Utility and housing rights help; fair housing line 1-870-338-9834. (arlegalaid.org) |
Reality Check — What to Expect
- Wait times and stock levels: LIHEAP windows fill fast; non‑crisis applications often take about two weeks and crisis aid can be faster—confirm locally. Utility complaint investigations trigger a utility response within 15 days by rule; don’t skip interim payments you’ve agreed to. ADEE LIHEAP and APSC “Filing a Complaint” are your source for dates and timelines. (adeq.state.ar.us)
- Voucher rules: Thrift vouchers usually cover essentials, not collectibles or electronics, and expire quickly. Programs like Samaritan Shops and Peace at Home Thrift prioritize households working with their social workers. Keep your referral letter. (samcc.org)
- Safety and scams: Meet in public for online pickups (use Buy Nothing or Freecycle), never prepay strangers, and report “utility shutoff” phone threats to the Arkansas Attorney General. (buynothingproject.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Situation | Do this first | Then do this |
|---|---|---|
| Need beds, table, dishes after a move | Call Arkansas 211 and ask for thrift vouchers | Ask Samaritan Shops or Our House Resale Store about referrals and pickup. (arkansas211.org) |
| Power or gas shutoff threat | Call utility and request a payment plan; give any medical documentation | File an APSC complaint at APSC Consumer Services if needed; apply for LIHEAP. (apsc.arkansas.gov) |
| Water bill past due | Enroll in CAW Promise payment plan or ask your water utility about hardship funds | Ask Arkansas 211 for local H2O‑type assistance, e.g., Rogers H2O. (carkw.com) |
| Leaving DV shelter with nothing | Ask about thrift vouchers at Peace at Home Thrift or a partner store | Request a referral letter and check Habitat ReStores for larger items. (peaceathomeshelter.org) |
| Baby needs safe sleep space | Ask local health unit via ADH Parent Support | Search Cribs for Kids — Find a Crib for a free portable crib provider. (healthy.arkansas.gov) |
Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Local Doors to Knock On
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Arkansas 211 for affirming shelters and voucher partners, and use Peace at Home Thrift if you’re in NWA. If a provider treats you differently, call Legal Aid of Arkansas and mention fair housing protections. (arkansas211.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When seeking payment plans, ask utilities for medical protections; Summit Utilities and Black Hills Energy have illness/medical policies. Contact Arkansas Rehabilitation Services for assistive supports and statewide resources. (summitutilities.com)
- Veteran single mothers: Apply to SSVF Arkansas — St. Francis House for housing stabilization that can include furniture and household goods; coordinate with HUD Arkansas and your VA social worker for Rapid Re‑Housing if needed. (ssvfarkansas.org)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: In NWA, connect with Furniture Friends for free loaner furniture and monthly delivery days, and contact Canopy NWA for home setup support. Use interpreters through Arkansas 211 when you call. (furniturefriends.co)
- Tribal members (Cherokee, Choctaw, Quapaw, and others): If you live in a tribe’s service area or are a citizen, ask about emergency assistance. Cherokee Nation Family Assistance and Emergency Housing Assistance may help with urgent housing costs; Choctaw Nation Emergency Services can assist in hardships; Quapaw Nation Utility Assistance supports eligible members. Call to confirm availability and service‑area limits. (cherokee.org)
- Rural single moms: Ask ACAAA for your Community Action Agency’s mobile hours and delivery options; request that a voucher be mailed/emailed if travel is hard. Use Freecycle and Buy Nothing to find items close to home without long drives. (acaaa.org)
- Single fathers: Every program in this guide also serves single dads. Use Arkansas 211 for the same voucher and furniture leads, and contact APSC Consumer Services for shutoff issues. (arkansas211.org)
- Language access and accessibility: Arkansas 211 offers interpreters in 150+ languages and TTY; APSC has TDD 1-800-682-2698. Ask every agency for large‑print forms or TTY numbers when needed. (arkansas211.org)
Resources by Region (Local Doors to Knock On)
Central Arkansas (Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Faulkner)
Start here: Our House Resale Store (Little Rock/NLR) for clients engaged in programs; Central Arkansas ReStores for low‑cost furniture; City Center — Clothing Closet for clothing and some small household items. Call APSC if you’re facing a shutoff. (ourhouseshelter.org)
Plan B: Use Arkansas 211 to find church voucher closets; check CAW Payment Options for water plans; use HUD Arkansas for housing counselors. (arkansas211.org)
Northwest Arkansas (Benton, Washington)
Start here: Samaritan Community Center — Vouchers via Samaritan Shops and Habitat NWA ReStores; ask Furniture Friends for free loaner furniture; DV survivors can shop with Peace at Home Thrift vouchers. (samcc.org)
Plan B: Connect with Helping Hands NWA for household goods and disaster cases; use Hark NWA to map all local resources. (helpinghandsnwa.org)
River Valley (Sebastian, Crawford)
Start here: Contact your CAA, Crawford‑Sebastian Community Development Council, about utility help and referrals to thrift partners; shop Habitat ReStore Fort Smith area listings for affordable furniture. Use APSC Consumer Services for shutoff complaints. (acaaa.org)
Plan B: Request 211 referrals and check with local Salvation Army social services via Arkansas 211 if you had a fire or disaster. (arkansas211.org)
Northeast Arkansas (Craighead, Mississippi, Greene)
Start here: Contact Crowley’s Ridge Development Council (CRDC) for LIHEAP and referrals; call The Salvation Army — Jonesboro to ask about any vouchers and warming center supplies; browse Freecycle Jonesboro area for immediate pickups. (acaaa.org)
Plan B: Ask 211 for other church closets in your ZIP and visit regional Habitat ReStores for low‑cost options when vouchers aren’t available. Use HUD Arkansas to find Rapid Re‑Housing if you’re exiting homelessness. (arkansas211.org)
Southwest/Delta (Jefferson, Phillips, Ashley, Desha)
Start here: Central Delta Community Action Agency (CDCAA) posts office hours and accepts email submissions for LIHEAP; ask about crisis referrals to furniture partners. Use Arkansas 211 for church vouchers and disaster kits. (cdcaa.org)
Plan B: Contact Mid‑Delta Community Services or CADC via ACAAA list for backup programs. (acaaa.org)
Tables You Can Screenshot
TEA and LIHEAP — 2025 Snapshot
| Program | Who it helps | Typical benefit or cap | When to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEA cash | Caregivers with children | Max 204/monthfora3‑personfamily;12‑monthstatetimelimit;WorkPays204/month for a 3‑person family; 12‑month state time limit; Work Pays 204/month for working leavers | Year‑round via Access Arkansas; changes effective April 1, 2024. (casetext.com) |
| LIHEAP 2025 | Low‑income households with utility bills | Heating up to 475;coolingupto475; cooling up to 287; crisis up to $500 (amounts vary) | Heating opens January; cooling in July; crisis windows run longer. Confirm dates locally. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov) |
Key Thrift and Furniture Sources
| Area | Where to ask first | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Central AR | Our House Resale Store • Habitat Central AR ReStore | Donations prioritize clients; ReStore offers pickups and low‑cost items. (ourhouseshelter.org) |
| NWA | Samaritan Shops • Furniture Friends • Habitat NWA ReStores | Vouchers issued via SCC programs; Furniture Friends loans furniture and coordinates deliveries. (samcc.org) |
| Statewide | Arkansas 211 • Salvation Army — NWA Social Services | Use 211 for voucher partners; Salvation Army offers clothing vouchers and disaster furniture where available. (arkansas211.org) |
Utility Help — Who to Call
| Utility | Contact | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Electric (Entergy) | Entergy — Power to Care | Ask for agency partners and any senior/disabled funds. (entergy.com) |
| Gas (Summit) | Summit Utilities — Assistance | Payment plan, medical protections, deposit waiver for domestic crime survivors. (summitutilities.com) |
| Gas (Black Hills) | Black Hills — Arkansas assistance | Black Hills Cares and community referrals via 211/Hark. (blackhillsenergy.com) |
| Water (Central AR) | CAW payment options | Promise plan enrollment and fee waivers if eligible. (carkw.com) |
Online Free‑Item Networks
| Platform | How to use it | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Buy Nothing | Download the app and search your neighborhood; post “ASK: Sofa for two kids” | Buy Nothing Project |
| Freecycle | Join your town group; check “Offers” and post “Wanted” items | Freecycle Little Rock |
| Facebook Marketplace | Filter “Free” and set alerts; meet in public with a friend | Use your FB app; follow AG scam tips at Arkansas AG (arkansasag.gov) |
Community Action Agencies by Region (Find Your CAA)
| Region | CAA | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Central & South | CADC | ACAAA master list |
| Delta | CDCAA | ACAAA |
| NWA | EOA Washington County | ACAAA |
| River Valley | C‑SCDC | ACAAA |
| Northeast | CRDC | ACAAA (acaaa.org) |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID and SSNs: Adult IDs, Social Security cards for adults, SSNs for kids, and birthdates; see DHS hotlines if documents are missing. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Proof of address: Lease or a current utility bill; for shelter exits, ask staff for a verification letter; upload via Access Arkansas if applying for TEA or Medicaid.
- Income proof: Last 30 days’ pay stubs, child support printout, benefits letters (SNAP/SSI/SSDI); needed by LIHEAP and by thrift voucher programs. (adeq.state.ar.us)
- Bills or estimates: Utility past‑due notices, move‑in deposits, or itemized needs list (beds/table/kitchen kit) for your case manager’s referral to Samaritan Shops or Habitat ReStore. (samcc.org)
- Backup plan: Numbers for APSC and Legal Aid of Arkansas in case of denial or shutoff. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming inventory exists without a referral: Many stores need a voucher from a partner. Always ask Arkansas 211 who can write it for you, and confirm pickup hours at Samaritan Shops or Habitat ReStores before you go. (arkansas211.org)
- Waiting to call about shutoffs: Call the utility and APSC early; don’t wait until the day of disconnection. Then apply for LIHEAP crisis aid right away. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Missing documents: TEA/LIHEAP denials often happen due to missing pay stubs or mismatched addresses. Upload promptly through Access Arkansas and respond to caseworker requests within 48 hours.
- Online pickup safety: Don’t share your home address with strangers from Freecycle or Buy Nothing until you confirm the item and time in public.
County‑Specific Differences You’ll Notice
- Pulaski/Saline/Lonoke: Bigger networks and more donations flow through Our House Resale Store and Central Arkansas ReStores; water customers can use CAW Promise plans to stabilize bills. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Benton/Washington: Voucher redemptions through Samaritan Shops are common; Furniture Friends loans furniture to internationals and some low‑income families; Hark NWA can build a custom plan. (samcc.org)
- Jefferson/Lincoln/Arkansas County: CDCAA posts office hours by county and accepts emailed LIHEAP packets, which saves trips for working parents. (cdcaa.org)
Real‑World Examples
- New lease after shelter: A mom in NLR worked with Our House case management and got thrift vouchers for cookware and linens, then used Habitat ReStore for a low‑cost sofa. She scheduled CAW payments through CAW Promise to avoid a deposit hit. (ourhouseshelter.org)
- Utility shutoff avoided: In Jonesboro, a mom called APSC and got an informal complaint filed; the utility had to respond within 15 days. She applied for LIHEAP and used a church voucher for small appliances. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask for a written reason: Request the denial letter and what’s missing; upload through Access Arkansas for TEA/Medicaid or bring papers back to the CAA for LIHEAP.
- Escalate calmly: For utilities, call APSC Consumer Services and give your case number; for benefits, request a supervisor call‑back and ask for a list of acceptable documents. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Get legal backup: Call Legal Aid of Arkansas at 1-800-952-9243 if a denial seems wrong or discriminatory. Use HUD Arkansas for fair housing issues. (arlegalaid.org)
Quick Tips to Stretch a Tiny Setup Budget
- Pair vouchers with app groups: Use a small voucher at Samaritan Shops for “must‑have” items and fill in the rest through Buy Nothing and Freecycle. (samcc.org)
- Shop ReStore clearance: Ask Habitat ReStore or Central AR ReStore about “as‑is” sections and weekday markdowns. (habitatnwa.org)
- Time your calls: Call Arkansas 211 early mornings for faster pick‑ups and live transfers.
FAQs (Arkansas‑Specific)
- How long does LIHEAP take in 2025?
Expect two weeks for non‑crisis when paperwork is complete; crisis cases can be faster. Dates and amounts this year show heating up to 475,coolingupto475, cooling up to 287, and crisis up to $500; contact your CAA and apply as soon as the window opens. See ADEE LIHEAP and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse 2025 profile. (adeq.state.ar.us) - Can TEA or Work Pays help me buy household items?
Yes—cash benefits can cover any family need. TEA maximums include 204forafamilyofthree,andWorkPaysoffers204 for a family of three, and Work Pays offers 204/month when you’re working after TEA closes; state time limit is 12 months. Apply via Access Arkansas and review TEA time limit changes. (casetext.com) - Where can I get a free crib or pack‑and‑play?
Ask your local health unit through ADH Parent Support and search Cribs for Kids for local partners giving portable cribs after safe sleep education. (healthy.arkansas.gov) - Do charities pick up donated furniture if someone offers me items?
Yes. Ask Habitat ReStore (Central AR) for pickup scheduling, or coordinate with the donor’s preferred charity. In NWA, check ReStore locations and large thrift stores. (habitatcentralar.org) - I’m a veteran—can anyone help with beds or move‑in items?
Contact SSVF Arkansas — St. Francis House to see if your plan can include essential furnishings. Your VA social worker can also refer you to housing programs. (ssvfarkansas.org) - Is there free medical equipment for my child or parent?
Try Goodwill HELPS statewide for free loans of walkers, wheelchairs, and other items; check stock by calling your nearest store. Also ask Arkansas 211 for alternate loan closets. (goodwillar.org) - How do I get help if I speak Spanish or another language?
Use Arkansas 211 for interpreters; many agencies have bilingual staff and TTY/711 services. For water, CAW posts TTY info; see CAW helpful info. (arkansas211.org) - What if a utility won’t work with me and threatens same‑day shutoff?
Call APSC Consumer Services and file a complaint; utilities must respond to APSC within 15 days. Then seek emergency funds via Arkansas 211 or energy‑specific funds like the Summit Heating Assistance Fund (seasonal). (apsc.arkansas.gov) - Are there tribal programs that can help me with utilities or rent?
Check your nation’s services: Cherokee Nation Family Assistance, Choctaw Emergency Services, and Quapaw Utility Assistance list aid for eligible citizens within service areas. (cherokee.org) - Can I get vouchers from Salvation Army?
In some areas. The Salvation Army NWA Social Services page lists clothing vouchers and disaster furniture. Call your local corps through Arkansas 211 to confirm availability. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta guía fue traducida con herramientas de IA; verifique detalles por teléfono antes de ir.
- Dónde empezar: Llame a Arkansas 211 (marque 2‑1‑1) para pedir “vales para tiendas de segunda mano,” “muebles,” y “kits de cocina.” Pida un mensaje de texto con direcciones. (arkansas211.org)
- Evitar cortes de servicios: Hable con su compañía y luego llame a APSC 1-800-482-1164 para una queja. Solicite LIHEAP para ayudar con electricidad o gas. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Tiendas y vales: Pida ayuda en Samaritan Shops (Noroeste), Our House Resale Store (Little Rock), y Habitat ReStore (varias ciudades). (samcc.org)
- Bebés/Seguridad al dormir: Consulte ADH — Apoyo a Padres y Cribs for Kids para cunas portátiles gratuitas. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
- Asistencia legal: Si niegan su solicitud o hay un corte injusto, llame a Legal Aid of Arkansas 1-800-952-9243. (arlegalaid.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Arkansas 211
- Arkansas Public Service Commission — Consumer Services
- ADEE — LIHEAP and LIHEAP Clearinghouse 2025
- Arkansas DHS (TEA/Work Pays and ARKids)
- HUD Arkansas
- Samaritan Community Center — Samaritan Shops and Habitat ReStores
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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.
Disclaimer
This is a practical information guide, not legal advice. Program rules, funding, amounts, and hours change frequently. Always confirm details with the program directly by phone or on its website. Use Arkansas 211 to verify current availability, and call agencies to confirm income limits, documents required, and wait times. (arkansas211.org)
What to Do If This Doesn’t Work
- Try another door immediately: Ask Arkansas 211 for two more agencies and ask them to email you the referral list so you don’t lose it. Use Freecycle and Buy Nothing for stopgap items today. (arkansas211.org)
- Escalate utility issues: File with APSC, then call Legal Aid of Arkansas if your rights are ignored. Apply for LIHEAP or crisis funds even if you’ve made a payment plan. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
- Ask for case manager help: If you don’t have one, ask 211 to connect you to a navigator (e.g., Hark NWA in the NWA region) who can call on your behalf and push the referral through. (harknwa.com)
Extra: Little Rock Water Bill Help — Where to Start
- Contact Central Arkansas Water: Call 1-501-372-5161 and enroll in CAW’s Promise payment program; ask about “free overdue bill help” listed on the CAW homepage and TTY 711 access under helpful information. If your account is with another utility, ask for that utility’s hardship program. (carkw.com)
- Use 211 to find aid: Ask Arkansas 211 for “water assistance” and city programs; in Rogers, for example, the H2O Program supports families screened by a local nonprofit. (arkansas211.org)
- If denied: Call APSC Consumer Services for guidance and consider contacting Legal Aid of Arkansas if billing disputes continue. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
You’ve got options. Use the phone numbers, show the docs, and ask for the referral you need. When one door shuts, call two more.
🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas
- 📋 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
- 🏫 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
