Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in California

Last updated: September 2025

This is your practical, California‑specific guide to getting free or very low‑cost furniture, beds, cribs, appliances, and basic household goods. Every program, agency, or help line mentioned is linked for quick action. Keep your documents ready and always call to confirm current availability.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call or text your county’s 2‑1‑1 to ask for “furniture voucher,” “move‑in kit,” or “free bed/crib” referrals, and request help applying for CalWORKs Homeless Assistance or Housing Support if you qualify; use the statewide hub at [211 California] and, if needed, the statewide finder at [866‑FIND‑211] (1‑866‑346‑3211). (211ca.org)
• If you were displaced by wildfire, flood, or another declared disaster, apply for FEMA Individuals & Households “Personal Property” assistance (covers basic furnishings) at [DisasterAssistance.gov] and check your county’s updates via [Cal OES] right away; deadlines are strict. (fema.gov)
• For a child sleeping on the floor, submit a bed request to a California chapter of [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] and call 2‑1‑1 for partner agencies that can also issue bed or furniture vouchers in your county; check chapter pages like [SHP CA‑Sacramento] to see current activity. (shpbeds.org)

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• Dial 2‑1‑1 for local referrals; if you can’t connect, call [211 California] at 1‑877‑355‑8922 or use the statewide finder [866‑FIND‑211] (1‑866‑346‑3211). (211ca.org)
• CalWORKs Housing Programs: ask your county welfare office about Homeless Assistance and Housing Support via [CDSS Housing Programs], and apply online at [BenefitsCal]. (cdss.ca.gov)
• Disaster help: apply for [FEMA Individual Assistance] and verify deadlines on [Cal OES News] for your incident. (fema.gov)
• Safety checks on donated goods: search recalls and report unsafe items at [CPSC SaferProducts.gov] and read safe‑sleep guidance from [CDPH Safe Sleep]. (saferproducts.gov)
• Veterans: call the VA National Call Center 1‑877‑424‑3838 and ask for SSVF furniture/household setup support via [VA Homeless Programs] and your local [HUD‑VASH] team. (va.gov)

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How This Guide Works

Start with the statewide options that move fastest, then check regional resources. We include eligibility, how to apply, what to expect, and Plan B if funds are tight. Use county 2‑1‑1 and [CDSS county contacts] when a listing says “ask your local office.” Keep receipts and case numbers to speed approvals. (cdss.ca.gov)

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What You Can Realistically Get Right Now in California

Many counties issue furniture vouchers through faith‑based and nonprofit partners, some programs deliver “move‑in kits,” and disaster aid can reimburse basic furnishings. Start with [2‑1‑1 California] to locate active furniture banks and voucher issuers, then ask your caseworker about [CalWORKs Homeless Assistance (HA)] or [CalWORKs Housing Support (HSP)] add‑ons that cover moving costs or starter goods. Funding varies by county and month—always call first. (211ca.org)

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The Fastest Statewide Paths to Furniture and Household Goods

CalWORKs Housing Programs (if you have minor children)

If you’re a CalWORKs applicant or recipient, ask your worker to screen you for housing‑related help the same day you apply. Under [CalWORKs Homeless Assistance], counties can pay for up to 16 days of temporary shelter (hotel/motel) and cover deposits or rent arrears; under [CalWORKs Housing Support (HSP)], counties can fund housing navigation, moving costs, and related needs. Apply via your county or online at [BenefitsCal] and keep a copy of your CW‑42 form. Typical temporary shelter caps are $85perdayforuptofourpeople,plus$15 per extra person (max $145). (cdss.ca.gov)

Eligibility: Must be CalWORKs‑eligible (low income with a minor child) and homeless or at risk; each county sets processes within state rules—use [CDSS CalWORKs contacts] to reach your local office. Expect same‑day or within‑3‑day action for pressing needs in many counties; ask for “Immediate Need” and “HA.” (cdss.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your worker to refer you to nonprofit partners for furniture vouchers (like [St. Vincent de Paul of Los Angeles]), and call [2‑1‑1] to find “free furniture” or “household goods” listings open to non‑CalWORKs families. (svdpla.org)

Disaster Survivors (wildfire, flood, storms)

If your home or essential items were damaged in a declared disaster, apply to FEMA now for Individuals & Households “Personal Property” aid that covers basic home furnishings and appliances. File at [DisasterAssistance.gov] and track California updates via [Cal OES Newsroom] for deadlines; if SBA refers you to a loan, complete that step so FEMA can process Other Needs Assistance if you’re denied or under‑approved. (fema.gov)

Eligibility: Losses due to the specific declared event, not fully covered by insurance; renters can qualify for essential household items. Direct program pages list personal‑property categories like “home furnishings.” (fema.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your disaster case manager about local “move‑in kits” through [LA Family Housing] or [PATH LA], and request referrals to nonprofits furnishing homes for families exiting homelessness, such as [Humble Design San Diego]. (lafh.org)

Free Beds and Cribs for Kids

If your child is sleeping on the floor, request a bed from [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] (multiple CA chapters). If you need a safe infant sleep space, use [Cribs for Kids partner finder] and ask your county health department about safe‑sleep programs; follow [CDPH Safe Sleep] guidance while you wait. Always confirm chapter waitlists and delivery areas. (shpbeds.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [2‑1‑1] and ask for “crib/pack‑n‑play” programs, check your hospital’s social work office, and ask WIC or Public Health nurses for local “safe sleep” distributions connected to [Cribs for Kids] affiliates. (cribsforkids.org)

Energy‑Saving Appliance Replacement (refrigerators, etc.)

If your utility bills are high and your fridge is failing, ask about the [Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program] through your utility. ESA can provide no‑cost measures including energy‑efficient refrigerators for eligible homes, with 2024‑2025 income limits set at up to 250% of the federal poverty level; call your utility or the CPUC ESA page to start. (cpuc.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for [LIHEAP in California] and check your local provider’s weatherization offerings; use the CSD “Find Services” map or call 1‑866‑675‑6623 for LIHEAP eligibility and availability. (csd.ca.gov)

Medical and Disability Equipment

If you need hospital beds, shower chairs, or similar, ask your doctor to prescribe durable medical equipment (DME) through Medi‑Cal or your plan (see [DHCS benefits] and a county plan like [L.A. Care DME benefits]). For donated equipment, use [Ability Tools’ reuse network] or Bay Area [ReCares], and ask your county Independent Living Center. (dhcs.ca.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan for a case manager, then search [Ability Tools Reuse] listings again in nearby counties; keep calling because inventory changes weekly. (exchange.abilitytools.org)

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Safety First: Avoid Recalls and Bedbugs on Freebies

Before bringing used cribs, dressers, or appliances into your home, search [CPSC | Recalls] and the public database at [SaferProducts.gov] for safety complaints or bans (crib bumpers are banned under federal law). For upholstered items, follow [EPA’s bed bug guidance]—never pick up suspect curbside furniture; bag and label infested items if discarding to protect neighbors. (cpsc.gov)

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Statewide Programs at a Glance

Sources: [CDSS HA] and [CDSS HSP]; [FEMA IHP (Personal Property)]; [CPUC ESA]; [Ability Tools Reuse]. Timelines vary; call to confirm. (cdss.ca.gov)

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Where Furniture Vouchers and Free Goods Actually Come From

Most free household items flow through partner nonprofits that get referrals from county agencies or 2‑1‑1. Ask for a voucher or letter of need when you talk to your worker or a 2‑1‑1 advisor. In many CA counties, [St. Vincent de Paul (Los Angeles Council)] issues furniture and clothing through its Free Distribution program with conference approval, and many [Salvation Army Family Stores] redeem clothing/household vouchers given by their Corps offices. For families exiting homelessness, [Humble Design] (San Diego) fully furnishes homes by referral from partner agencies. (svdpla.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Post needs in [Buy Nothing Project] and join [Freecycle] in your area; ask regional agencies (like [LA Family Housing] or [PATH LA] ) for “Welcome Home” or “Move‑In Kit” assistance. (buynothingproject.org)

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How to Get a Free Crib or Bed for Your Child (Today)

• Call [2‑1‑1] and ask for “crib/pack‑and‑play distribution” and “beds for kids” referrals, then apply to [Sleep in Heavenly Peace]. If you delivered recently or are working with home‑visiting or WIC, ask about safe‑sleep kits linked to [Cribs for Kids] partners the nurse can connect you to. (shpbeds.org)
• If you’re in a shelter, have your case manager email or call a partner like [Baby2Baby] or [Good+ Foundation] (they distribute through agencies only, not to the public). Confirm current availability and wait times. (baby2baby.org)

Reality Check: Most bed programs have waitlists; ask about loaners (air mattresses, cots) and check [CPSC Recalls] before accepting any used crib or mattress. (cpsc.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in California Today

• Enroll in ESA/CARE/FERA via your utility or the [CPUC ESA page] (ESA includes energy‑efficient refrigerators in some homes). If you’re in Los Angeles, ask [LADWP EZ‑SAVE] about discounts and [LADWP assistance programs] like Level Pay or payment plans to avoid shutoffs. (cpuc.ca.gov)
• If a disaster damaged your appliances, apply for [FEMA IHP] “Personal Property” aid; for bill help, contact [LIHEAP in California] and ask your local provider about priority appointments. (fema.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for same‑day utility assistance appointments; bring ID, the shutoff notice, and your last bill. [HUD California’s utility help page] also points to LIHEAP (1‑866‑675‑6623). (hud.gov)

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Eligibility, Documents, and Typical Wait Times

• Eligibility basics: Most furniture banks serve low‑income families with a referral from a caseworker (county, shelter, or faith‑based). Programs like [CalWORKs HA/HSP] serve households with minor children and acute housing needs; [FEMA IHP] serves disaster survivors in declared areas; [ESA] uses statewide income limits. Always verify your county’s current rules. (cdss.ca.gov)
• Documents to prepare: Photo ID; proof of residence or homelessness (notice, letter); child’s proof (birth certificate, Medi‑Cal card); income proof (pay stubs or benefits); and any referral letter. For FEMA, add disaster number, insurance papers, and photos. See [CDSS CalWORKs] and [FEMA IHP] checklists for specifics. (cdss.ca.gov)
• Timelines: CalWORKs emergency shelter often issues the first 3 days immediately with up to 16 cumulative days allowed; county practice varies—ask for “Immediate Need.” FEMA decisions vary by case; after inspection, allow 1–3 weeks. ESA scheduling can take 2–8 weeks depending on backlog. Always ask about waitlists and cancellations. (reg.summaries.guide)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the agency for written denial reasons and appeal instructions; then call 2‑1‑1 to find another provider that accepts self‑referrals, and contact a legal aid via [LawHelpCA] if benefits are wrongly delayed.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not asking for a voucher: When you call [2‑1‑1] or meet a caseworker, say “I need a furniture voucher or move‑in kit.” Many programs require that language in referrals. Pair it with [CalWORKs HA/HSP] asks if you qualify. (cdss.ca.gov)
• Skipping safety checks: Always search [CPSC Recalls] and [SaferProducts.gov] before accepting used cribs or appliances. For upholstered items, follow [EPA bed bug guidance] to avoid infestations. (cpsc.gov)
• Waiting to apply: Disaster aid and charity supplies are limited; apply to [FEMA IHP] quickly and keep your phone on for inspection calls, then appeal fast if you’re denied. (fema.gov)

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Reality Check — What We’re Seeing on the Ground

• Vouchers run out: Peak demand months drain voucher funds. Keep calling weekly and ask if [St. Vincent de Paul] or [Salvation Army stores] can place you on a waitlist or honor a caseworker voucher later. (svdpla.org)
• Disaster timelines are strict: Cal OES updates deadlines often; keep checking [Cal OES News] and submit your FEMA application even if you’re waiting on insurance. (news.caloes.ca.gov)
• Furnishing help is often referral‑only: Groups like [Baby2Baby] and [Good+ Foundation] distribute through partner agencies. Ask shelters, clinics, or schools if they are partners. (baby2baby.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Sources as linked above.

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID: driver’s license or consular ID; add child’s Medi‑Cal card if available — get a referral letter from [2‑1‑1] or your caseworker.
• Proof of situation: homelessness/eviction/shutoff notices, disaster number, or DV police report — ask [CDSS CalWORKs] or a DV advocate which docs to bring.
• Income and household: recent pay stubs or benefits, child birth certificates — needed for [CalWORKs HA/HSP] and [ESA] eligibility screens.
• Receipts/quotes: hotel receipts for HA, simple furniture list/quote for voucher — many [St. Vincent de Paul] conferences want a brief list.
• Safety checks: run [CPSC Recalls] searches and skim [EPA bed bug tips] for used items before pickup.

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Local Organizations, Churches, and Support Groups You Can Ask

• St. Vincent de Paul (Los Angeles Council): Ask parish conferences for home visit and furniture vouchers; see Free Distribution details at [SVdP LA — Find Assistance] and thrift locations at [SVdP Thrift Store]. Helpline 1‑888‑552‑7872. (svdpla.org)
• The Salvation Army (various Corps/Family Stores): Some Corps issue clothing/household vouchers redeemable at [Family Stores]; call your Corps for rules. See examples on [211LA listings]. (211la.org)
• Humble Design (San Diego): Agency referral only; fully furnishes homes for families exiting homelessness; contact via your case manager or learn more at [Humble Design San Diego]; outcomes show 98% housing retention. (humbledesign.org)
• LA Family Housing / PATH LA: Case‑managed “Welcome Home” and move‑in kits through [LA Family Housing] and [PATH LA]; ask your housing case manager for an in‑kind referral. (lafh.org)
• Ability Tools Reuse Network: Free or low‑cost medical equipment statewide; start with [Ability Tools] and a local reuse partner; Bay Area residents can also try [ReCares]. (exchange.abilitytools.org)
• Community service centers: In San Jose, [Sacred Heart Community Service] offers clothes/linens and connects to utility help; in San Francisco, [Homeless Prenatal Program] provides diapers/formula and partner referrals for move‑in items. (sacredheartcs.squarespace.com)

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Resources by Region

Los Angeles County

Start with [211 LA] to be screened into the Coordinated Entry System for Families (CES‑F), then ask Family Solution Centers about motel vouchers and move‑in goods; LAHSA’s CES connects to multiple partners. Add [SVdP LA] for furniture vouchers and [LADWP EZ‑SAVE] for utility relief. (211la.org)

• Key contacts: 211 LA (alt) 1‑800‑339‑6993 via [LA Almanac’s 211 page]; DPSS CalWORKs Homeless Programs page at [DPSS CalWORKs HA]. (laalmanac.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [LA Family Housing] for Welcome Home Basket referral and check [Home Bank LA] for donated basics. (lafh.org)

San Diego County

Call [211 San Diego] or (858) 300‑1211 (TTY 1‑800‑735‑2929) for referrals to move‑in kits and partner furniture banks; veterans can call [Veterans Village SSVF] for moving costs and starter goods. Ask your caseworker about [Humble Design San Diego] for full home furnishing by referral. (211sandiego.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Corps for [Salvation Army Kroc Center] vouchers or basic household items (service area rules apply). (sd.kroccenter.org)

San Francisco / Marin

Contact [HPP — Homeless Prenatal Program] for emergency goods (diapers, formula) and housing support; check [St. Anthony’s Free Clothing Program] listings posted by partners; ask [Cribs for Kids] partners or the SF Department of Public Health for safe‑sleep cribettes. (homelessprenatal.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your HSA worker for a furniture‑voucher referral to a partner like [SVdP (local council)] or try [Freecycle] and [Buy Nothing]. (freecycle.org)

Santa Clara / San Jose

Use [Sacred Heart Community Service] for clothing/linens and LIHEAP application help; reach [SVdP Santa Clara] for parish‑based furniture support; use [Ability Tools] or [ReCares] for donated DME. (sacredheartcs.squarespace.com)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Post needs in [Buy Nothing] and check [Freecycle] San Jose. (buynothingproject.org)

Sacramento Region

Call [LIHEAP provider CRP] for weatherization and appliance help; get referrals via [211 Connecting Point] to furniture resources and CalWORKs offices; check SHP chapters like [SHP CA‑Sacramento] for kids’ beds. (communityresourceproject.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county worker about HSP and vouchers, and try [Freecycle] Sacramento.

Orange County & Inland Empire

Ask [211OC] for furniture vouchers and crib referrals; for veterans, [HUD‑VASH (Orange County)] and SSVF can fund move‑in and basic household items. Use [Ability Tools] to find reuse partners in OC. (ochousing.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your Tribal TANF office if eligible (see below), and post needs in [Buy Nothing].

Central Valley (Fresno, Kern)

Check local [SHP Fresno] for kids’ beds; find ESA/LIHEAP help through utilities or [CSD’s LIHEAP page]; veterans can call the VA hotline (1‑877‑424‑3838) for SSVF in Kern ([CAVAF SSVF]). (shpbeds.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county CalWORKs office for HA/HSP and a voucher referral.

North Coast & Rural Counties

Use [211 Connecting Point] and [Ability Tools] to find nearby reuse centers; for tribal households, call your [California Tribal TANF Partnership] office for supportive services or ask the BIA agency social services office. (cde.211connectingpoint.org)

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Connect with [Freecycle] in your nearest town and post in [Buy Nothing] for local pickups.

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Diverse Communities — What to Ask For and Where

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your caseworker to connect you with inclusive partners through [LAHSA CES] or [211 California]; if you are a recent asylee or refugee, verify resettlement supports (furniture on move‑in) through [IRC LA] or [HIAS partners like JFCS East Bay]. (lahsa.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request DME via [DHCS Medi‑Cal benefits] or your plan (e.g., [L.A. Care DME]), and contact [Ability Tools] for equipment reuse; ask about large‑print forms and TTY lines when you call agencies. (dhcs.ca.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Call the VA National Call Center at 1‑877‑424‑3838 and ask for [SSVF] and local [HUD‑VASH]; SSVF can help with move‑in costs, supplies, and sometimes furniture via partners. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Resettlement agencies (e.g., [IRC Welcome Home] and [JFCS East Bay Refugee Resettlement]) arrange furnished apartments at arrival; for non‑refugees, ask community centers for vouchers and call [2‑1‑1] for diaper and baby‑gear partners like Baby2Baby affiliates. (rescue.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Contact [California Tribal TANF Partnership] or your tribal TANF office; if TANF isn’t available, ask BIA’s [Financial Assistance & Social Services] for emergency help with essential needs. (cdss.ca.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask 2‑1‑1 for volunteers willing to deliver (some partner agencies provide transport) and use [Freecycle] and [Buy Nothing] to arrange porch pickups. If you lack transport, ask your CalWORKs worker or church for delivery help.

Single fathers: Most programs are household‑based; fathers with kids should use all pathways listed. Ask [2‑1‑1] and county CalWORKs for HA/HSP, and seek bed programs like [SHP].

Language access: Request interpreters when calling [FEMA], [2‑1‑1], and county offices; many lines offer Spanish and other languages and TTY services (e.g., [211 San Diego TTY/VCO/HCO]). (211sandiego.org)

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Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply and Follow Through

• Step 1 — Call 2‑1‑1 and your county: Ask for “furniture voucher” and “move‑in kit” resources; then apply for [CalWORKs] and request HA/HSP if eligible. Save confirmation numbers. (cdss.ca.gov)
• Step 2 — Book disaster or utility help: If affected by a disaster, file with [FEMA IHP]; for appliances, apply to [ESA] via your utility. (fema.gov)
• Step 3 — Secure donations: With a referral, contact [SVdP LA] or your local council, and check [Salvation Army Family Stores] policies. Use [Buy Nothing]/[Freecycle] as back‑ups. (svdpla.org)
• Step 4 — Safety check: Run [CPSC Recalls] and [SaferProducts.gov] searches; follow [EPA bed bug] disposal and prevention tips. (cpsc.gov)
• Step 5 — Delivery: Ask if the agency can deliver; if not, ask your worker for transport help or request a volunteer pickup through your church or [Freecycle] group.

What to do if this doesn’t work: File appeals where allowed, ask for supervisor review at your county office, and contact legal aid via [LawHelpCA].

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Tables — Targeted Options

Beds & Cribs Options

Sources as linked. (shpbeds.org)

Appliance/Utility Programs

Sources as linked. (cpuc.ca.gov)

Housing‑Linked Supports

Sources as linked. (cdss.ca.gov)

Disaster Recovery (Furniture)

Sources as linked. (fema.gov)

Donation & Voucher Partners

Sources as linked. (svdpla.org)

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If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for the reason in writing: For [FEMA IHP], you can submit missing documents and appeal within 60 days; for [CalWORKs HA/HSP], request a supervisor review or state hearing. (fema.gov)
• Fix common issues: Upload clearer IDs, add proof of child in home, or provide disaster photos; ask 2‑1‑1 for a case manager who can help you re‑apply.
• Find an alternate program: If HSP is full, ask for a voucher referral (e.g., [SVdP]), and use [Buy Nothing]/[Freecycle] to bridge.

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FAQs (California‑Specific)

1. How do I get furniture if I’m moving from a shelter to an apartment?
   Ask your case manager for a furniture voucher and “move‑in kit” referral. Programs like [SVdP LA] issue vouchers, and groups like [LA Family Housing] or [PATH LA] assemble home‑starter kits. If you’re a veteran, contact [SSVF via VA 1‑877‑424‑3838]; some providers fund basic household items. (svdpla.org)
2. Can FEMA replace my couch and table after a wildfire?
   Yes—under Personal Property, FEMA can cover basic home furnishings if they were disaster‑damaged and uninsured. Apply at [DisasterAssistance.gov] and check [Cal OES] for your county’s deadlines. (fema.gov)
3. Who gives out free beds for kids in California?
   [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] chapters serve many counties; some churches and 2‑1‑1 partners also provide beds. For infants, use [Cribs for Kids] via local partners, and follow [CDPH Safe Sleep] tips. (shpbeds.org)
4. Will Medi‑Cal pay for a hospital bed or shower chair?
   Medi‑Cal covers medically necessary DME when prescribed; contact your plan (see [DHCS benefits] or plan handbooks like [L.A. Care DME]). For donated items, search [Ability Tools Reuse]. (dhcs.ca.gov)
5. How do I avoid bringing bedbugs home with used furniture?
   Check [CPSC Recalls] for safety, then follow [EPA bed bug guidance] for inspection and treatment; avoid curbside sofas and mattresses, and quarantine suspect items. (epa.gov)
6. Are there programs that install free refrigerators?
   Possibly under [ESA] if your home qualifies; utilities replace inefficient fridges in eligible households. Also check [LIHEAP California] for weatherization help. (cpuc.ca.gov)
7. Can CalWORKs pay for deposit and basic furnishings?
   [CalWORKs HA/HSP] can pay deposits and moving costs; for furnishings, counties usually issue referrals to partners (vouchers or kits). Ask your worker for a voucher referral and call [2‑1‑1] for additional options. (cdss.ca.gov)
8. What if I’m a tribal member?
   Contact [California Tribal TANF Partnership]; if TANF isn’t available or you’ve timed out, ask BIA [Financial Assistance & Social Services] about emergency help for essentials. (cdss.ca.gov)
9. I’m in LA and terrified of a shutoff—who do I call?
   Call [LADWP EZ‑SAVE] at 1‑800‑342‑5397 to enroll in discounts/payment plans and ask [211 LA] for local emergency utility aid while you apply for [LIHEAP] or [ESA]. (acquia.ladwp.com)
10. How do I find legit free stuff online, safely?
    Use [Buy Nothing] and [Freecycle] groups; meet in public places, avoid recalled baby gear via [CPSC Recalls], and follow [EPA bed bug] steps for upholstered items. (buynothingproject.org)

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Spanish Quick Summary — Resumen rápido en español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las fuentes oficiales.

• Llame al [2‑1‑1 California] o use 1‑877‑355‑8922 para pedir “vales de muebles,” “kits de mudanza,” o “camas/cunas gratis.” Aplique a [CalWORKs] (HA/HSP) si tiene hijos menores. (211ca.org)
• Si perdió muebles por un desastre, solicite [FEMA — Asistencia Individual] y revise plazos en [Cal OES]. Traiga fotos y papeles del seguro. (fema.gov)
• Para camas de niños, aplique a [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] y busque cunas seguras con [Cribs for Kids]; siga [CDPH: Sueño Seguro]. (shpbeds.org)
• Para neveras/ahorro de energía, pida el programa [ESA — CPUC] por medio de su compañía de luz/gas; para ayuda con la factura, [LIHEAP California]. (cpuc.ca.gov)
• Revise seguridad/recalls en [SaferProducts.gov] y evite chinches siguiendo [EPA: Chinches]. (saferproducts.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [California Department of Social Services — Housing Programs] (CalWORKs HA/HSP, program rules). (cdss.ca.gov)
• [Department of Community Services & Development — LIHEAP California] (income limits and provider finder). (csd.ca.gov)
• [California Public Utilities Commission — Energy Savings Assistance] (ESA measures and income limits). (cpuc.ca.gov)
• [FEMA — Individuals & Households Program] (Personal Property assistance). (fema.gov)
• [California Victim Compensation Board — Relocation (statute/regulations)] (limits and rules). (victims.ca.gov)
• [VA — Homeless Programs / SSVF] (national call center and SSVF supports). (va.gov)
• [Ability Tools — California AT Reuse] (statewide DME reuse network). (exchange.abilitytools.org)
• [LAHSA / 211 LA — Coordinated Entry for Families] (access points for LA County). (211la.org)
• [CPSC Recalls and SaferProducts.gov] (product safety checks). (cpsc.gov)
• [CDPH Safe Sleep] (infant sleep safety). (cdph.ca.gov)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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

This guide is for general information only. Program rules change and funding is limited. Always confirm details with your county, agency, or nonprofit before you apply or make purchases. When picking up donated items, check safety via [CPSC Recalls] and follow [EPA bed bug guidance]. If you are in immediate danger, call 9‑1‑1; for DV support, call 1‑800‑799‑7233 or visit the [National Domestic Violence Hotline]. (cpsc.gov)

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What to do if this doesn’t work

If you strike out on the first try, try again. Call [2‑1‑1 California] weekly, ask your worker for new referral letters, and post needs in [Buy Nothing] and [Freecycle] while you pursue [CalWORKs], [FEMA IHP], [ESA] or [LIHEAP]—and double‑check safety on [SaferProducts.gov]. (211ca.org)

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Tips: Keep a simple binder with copies of IDs, benefits letters, eviction/shutoff notices, hotel receipts (for HA), referral letters, and your item list. That paper trail turns “maybe” into “approved.”

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• 🧠 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