Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in Kentucky
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Kentucky
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Kentucky‑specific guide to help you get free or nearly free furniture, beds, and basic household items fast. Every program or organization mentioned is linked so you can tap and go. Expect straight talk about timelines, documents, and real‑world hurdles. Keep your phone handy and screenshot what you need.
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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call 211 right now and ask for furniture vouchers, “beds for kids,” and emergency household goods in your county; if 211 doesn’t work from your phone, call 1‑888‑322‑2154 or use the county map on Kentucky 211. Also ask for immediate referrals to St. Vincent de Paul and local “community ministries” in your ZIP. (kentucky211.org)
- Ask your local Community Action office for a same‑week appointment; request a Goodwill voucher and a referral for beds or household items. Find your office via Community Action Kentucky (CAK) network or call 1‑800‑456‑3452. Mention you’re a single mother setting up a home. (danielboonecaa.org)
- If you are facing shutoff or just moved after a crisis, apply today for LIHEAP (energy bill help) and utility hardship programs; these can free up money for essentials and sometimes come with agency‑delivered “move‑in” kits. Start with LIHEAP in Kentucky (official) and your county’s Community Action office. In Louisville, also ask about MSD EWRAP wastewater discount. (chfs.ky.gov)
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Quick Help Box — Key Contacts to Keep Handy
- Statewide referrals: Call 211 or 1‑888‑322‑2154; text your ZIP to 898‑211; search by county at Kentucky 211. For Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati metro, UW 211 NKY is 1‑800‑233‑4357. (kentucky211.org)
- Find your Community Action office (vouchers/utilities): Call 1‑800‑456‑3452 or use the statewide directory at CAK Network; Louisville’s LIHEAP hub is Louisville Metro OSS. (danielboonecaa.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul (furniture/clothing vouchers): Northern Kentucky assistance line 1‑859‑341‑3219 at SVDP NKY; Louisville conference referrals at SVDP Louisville. (svdpnky.org)
- Water bill help: MSD EWRAP 30% discount; Louisville Water Drops of Kindness 1‑888‑535‑6262; Kentucky American Water H2O $250 grants. (louisvillemsd.org)
- After a disaster (furniture lost): Apply for Individual Assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1‑800‑621‑3362; check Kentucky’s current declarations on FEMA’s KY pages. (fema.gov)
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What You Can Get — Fast Snapshot
| Program | What they often provide | Who they prioritize | How to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Vincent de Paul conferences (statewide) | Vouchers for furniture/housewares, clothing; home visit assessment | Families in crisis; parish areas | Call your local conference or SVDP line; NKY 1‑859‑341‑3219 at SVDP NKY. (svdplou.org) |
| Community Action | Goodwill store vouchers; utility relief; move‑in support via partners | Income‑eligible households | Call your county office; ask for Goodwill voucher and LIHEAP appointment. (bsacap.org) |
| Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) | Free twin beds/bunks for kids (ages 3–17) | Children sleeping on floors | Apply with your nearest KY chapter (Louisville, Owensboro, Clay Co., Ohio Co., Kenlake region). (shpbeds.org) |
| New Life Furniture Bank | Full home setups via partner referrals (serves Northern KY) | Families leaving homelessness or DV | Ask your caseworker for a referral; they deliver when approved. (nlfurniture.org) |
| Lexington Rescue Mission | Furniture deliveries for housed clients; Goodwill clothing vouchers | Homeless families moving into housing | Walk‑in resource hours; ask for housing/furniture help. (lexingtonrescue.org) |
| Catholic Charities of Louisville | Furniture/housewares for resettled/eligible families; scheduled pickup | Refugee and low‑income families via programs | Email donations@archlou.org; ask staff about client assistance timeline. (cclou.org) |
Reality check: most agencies don’t hand items out the same day; expect 3–14 days for scheduling and delivery, and longer when donation stock is low. Always ask for a voucher or referral while you wait.
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How to Get Free Furniture in Kentucky — Step by Step
Start with the fastest paths, then layer in backups. Use these steps in order and keep notes on who you spoke with and when.
- Call 211 and ask for furniture vouchers and bed programs in your county: Request direct referrals to St. Vincent de Paul, Community Action, and any local “free store” days. Ask about delivery help if you don’t have a truck. (kentucky211.org)
- Request a Goodwill voucher from Community Action: Many Kentucky agencies issue 25–25–75 store vouchers (up to $250 after a fire/flood) that you can use for kitchenware, small furniture, and linens. Tell them if you’ve had a disaster loss. (bsacap.org)
- Ask SVDP for a home visit or phone intake: St. Vincent de Paul conferences can give vouchers for furniture and household goods and sometimes deliver items if the store has stock. In Northern Kentucky, call 1‑859‑341‑3219; in Louisville, ask for a parish conference referral. (svdpnky.org)
- Apply to Sleep in Heavenly Peace for kids’ beds: Find your closest Kentucky chapter and complete the “Request a Bed” form; they deliver when your name reaches the list. Chapters are active in Louisville, Owensboro, Clay County, Ohio County, and the Kenlake region. (shpbeds.org)
- In Northern Kentucky, ask a caseworker to refer you to New Life Furniture Bank: They serve Boone, Campbell, and Kenton via partner agencies and deliver full home packages after referral approval. If you don’t have a caseworker, ask Brighton Center or your CAK office to help. (nlfurniture.org)
- Louisville/Jefferson County tip: Some families get vouchers through Louisville Metro’s Goodwill Voucher Program (at or below 200% FPL, Jefferson residents) and referrals from Neighborhood Place. Ask for help with delivery planning. (louisvilleky.gov)
- Lexington/Bluegrass tip: Visit or call Lexington Rescue Mission to request furniture for move‑ins; ask their Resource Coordinator for Goodwill vouchers and household supplies. Check The Nest for diapers and baby gear. (lexingtonrescue.org)
- If you lost items in a declared disaster: Apply to FEMA for “Other Needs Assistance,” which can cover essential personal property and furnishings that insurance didn’t pay. Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov and watch Kentucky’s current declarations on FEMA.gov. (fema.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school’s Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC) for a referral; FRYSCs often know local donors who sponsor “apartment kits.” Also search Freecycle and Buy Nothing groups for same‑day pickup.
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Eligibility Rules, Documents, and Timelines (Kentucky‑Specific)
- Goodwill Vouchers (via Community Action): Income usually at or below 200% FPL (standard vouchers), 25–25–75 per year, plus up to $250 for verified disaster losses with documentation; show ID, Social Security numbers, proof of address, and prior‑month income. Expect same‑week issuance when funds are available. (bsacap.org)
- LIHEAP (energy costs so you can spend on goods): Kentucky’s active components in 2025 include Winter Crisis (Jan 7–Mar 15), Spring Subsidy (Apr 15–May 30), and Summer Subsidy (Jul 28–Sep 12), with most components using 150% FPL. Benefits pay your vendor directly. Book early; slots fill. (commaction.org)
- MSD EWRAP (Louisville wastewater discount): 30% discount on MSD wastewater charges for households at or below 150% FPL; annual re‑application required. Verify processing times (usually within 1–2 billing cycles). (louisvillemsd.org)
- **Kentucky American Water H2O (250maxgrant):∗∗Incomeupto225250 max grant):** Income up to 225% FPL; must have paid 25 in past 180 days and owe at least $50; administered by Community Action Council. Expect 5–10 business days after a complete application. (amwater.com)
- Beds for kids (SHP): Ages typically 3–17; wait times vary 2–8 weeks based on donations and build events; they provide bed, mattress, and bedding. (shpbeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker to “bundle” supports—LIHEAP, water discounts, and vouchers—so you free up cash for thrift purchases while you wait for furniture delivery. Use Neighborhood Place or OHPI Lexington to troubleshoot barriers. (louisvilleky.gov)
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Quick Eligibility & Benefit Matrix
| Resource | Income guideline | Typical benefit | Proof needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goodwill voucher via Community Action | ≤200% FPL (standard); disaster vouchers no income test | 25–25–75 per year; up to $250 disaster | IDs, SSNs, prior‑month income, proof of address; disaster letter if applicable. (bsacap.org) |
| LIHEAP Crisis/Subsidy | ≤150% FPL | Crisis up to local fuel cost or $400 (electric/gas); subsidy 1‑time credit | IDs/SSNs, prior‑month income, bill, disconnect/eviction for Crisis. (kyjustice.org) |
| MSD EWRAP | ≤150% FPL | 30% wastewater discount | Proof of MSD account and income; annual renewal. (louisvillemsd.org) |
| KAW H2O | ≤225% FPL | Up to $250/year | Bill showing 50+owed;50+ owed; 25 payment in last 180 days. (amwater.com) |
| SHP Beds | Need‑based (children 3–17) | Bed, mattress, bedding, delivery | Simple online request; local chapter confirms need. (shpbeds.org) |
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Where to Go in Your Area (with Verified Contacts)
Louisville / Jefferson County
Start with a voucher and a referral, then plan delivery.
- Ask for Goodwill vouchers and referrals through Louisville Metro: Apply at the Goodwill Voucher Program site; check Neighborhood Place for an appointment and document list. Keep proof of income and ID ready. (louisvilleky.gov)
- Use SVDP Louisville conferences for furniture vouchers: Call SVDP Louisville to be routed to a parish conference that assists your neighborhood; conferences often issue thrift vouchers after a quick assessment. Thrift pickup for donors is available at SVDP Thrift, which keeps store stock moving. (svdplou.org)
- For partner‑referral furniture banks, ask your caseworker: Happy Home Furniture Bank serves Metro Louisville via agency referrals only; ask Neighborhood Place, a shelter, or Catholic Charities to refer. You can also schedule donor pickups for large items to boost availability. (happyhomefb.org)
- Delivery help tip: Wayside Christian Mission runs a large thrift system; while not a free source, case managers sometimes coordinate low‑cost delivery. Ask if your voucher can be used there. (waysidechristianmission.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211, then ask Neighborhood Place to connect you with a nearby “community ministry” like Jeffersontown Area Ministries or Highlands Community Ministries for stop‑gap household goods. (louisvilleky.gov)
Lexington / Bluegrass Region
Secure the basics for move‑in and kids first.
- Furniture and move‑in help: Visit Lexington Rescue Mission during walk‑in hours to request help moving into housing, including furniture deliveries when available. Also ask the Resource Coordinator about household supplies and Goodwill vouchers. (lexingtonrescue.org)
- Baby and family items: The Nest provides diapers, baby gear, car seats, and toiletries monthly; plan a pickup day and bring ID. For safe‑sleep needs, ask your health department about HANDS home visiting and Pack‑N‑Play availability. (thenestlexington.org)
- Beds for kids: Apply at SHP Louisville West or check nearby chapters; some Lexington families are served when chapters have capacity. Confirm delivery radius before applying. (shpbeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school FRYSC for a one‑time furniture or bedding referral; many FRYSCs coordinate with local donors. For water/sewer bill help in Lexington, check LexServ and KAW H2O to free up cash for goods. (chfs.ky.gov)
Northern Kentucky (Boone, Campbell, Kenton and nearby)
Tap several strong voucher and referral partners.
- SVDP NKY assistance line: Call 1‑859‑341‑3219 for furniture, clothing, and household vouchers; volunteers assess needs and issue store vouchers when funds allow. Check hours before calling. (svdpnky.org)
- CARE Mission (Alexandria): Offers food, clothing, household items, and furniture monthly; bring ID and proof of address; hours Tue/Thu and 1st/3rd Sat. (caremission.net)
- Furniture bank referral: If you have a case manager, request a referral to New Life Furniture Bank; they deliver to Northern Kentucky families exiting homelessness or DV. Ask Brighton Center about clothing vouchers and emergency assistance while you wait. (nlfurniture.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask United Way 211 NKY for other household goods pantries (e.g., Thrifting on Eastern) and church‑based closets. Keep checking SHP chapters for child bed builds nearby. (211uwgc.org)
Western & South‑Central Kentucky
Focus on beds for kids, DV agencies, and county Community Action.
- Beds for kids: Active SHP chapters include Owensboro, Kenlake region, and Ohio County; apply early and answer chapter calls quickly to keep your spot. (shpbeds.org)
- Domestic violence programs with relocation support: BRASS, Inc. (Barren River area) provides shelter, housing advocacy, and essentials; call their main line at 1‑270‑632‑4400 and ask about move‑in help. (brassinc.org)
- Community Action: If you’re in Lake Cumberland or Pennyrile areas, ask for Goodwill vouchers through your local CAA office while you wait on SHP or church deliveries. Keep receipts for any required proof. (danielboonecaa.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for county churches that run “free stores,” then confirm pickup times; cross‑check with your kids’ FRYSC for a one‑time bedding or kitchen kit referral. (chfs.ky.gov)
Eastern Kentucky / Appalachia
Transportation and distance make planning key.
- Beds for kids close by: SHP Clay County is active; check Facebook for build days. If your county lacks a chapter, apply to the nearest one and note your distance needs. (shpbeds.org)
- Community Action offices serve all counties for LIHEAP and vouchers; some offer small “household set‑up” aid through CSBG funds. Call the CAK network line to find your nearest office. (danielboonecaa.org)
- Specialized support after floods or storms: If your county is under a 2025 FEMA disaster, apply for IA, which may cover essential furnishings not insured; verify your county on FEMA KY disaster notices. (fema.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local health department’s HANDS program if they have Pack‑N‑Plays or baby gear; request a school FRYSC referral to a church free store. (brackenhd.org)
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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Kentucky Today
- Call your Community Action office for LIHEAP Crisis: Crisis runs in winter (Jan–Mar) and sometimes summer; it pays the minimum to stop shutoff up to local caps (e.g., $400 for electric/gas), with income at or below 150% FPL. Bring your disconnect notice and ID. (nkytribune.com)
- Louisville Water Bill Help: Apply for MSD EWRAP 30% discounts, and ask Louisville Water about Drops of Kindness payment plans. Appointments often combine LIHEAP and MSD discount screening. (louisvillemsd.org)
- Lexington & Central Kentucky Water Help: Apply for Kentucky American Water’s H2O program (up to $250, ≤225% FPL). Administration is through Community Action Council. (amwater.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask if your city offers budget billing or arrearage forgiveness; have your FRYSC advocate call the utility with you to set a plan. For rural systems, call your water district’s customer line listed on NKWD contacts or your bill. (nkywater.org)
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Special Sources for Single Moms in School or Job Training
- Scholar House model: One Parent Scholar House (Lexington) and Family Scholar House (Louisville) provide income‑based apartments, on‑site child care, and supportive services for student parents; ask about furnished units and move‑in kits. KHC’s Scholar House page explains eligibility (full‑time student, Housing Choice Voucher eligible). (oneparentscholarhouse.org)
- Campus‑adjacent help: Ask your school’s TRIO/Student Parent program and the FRYSC network (for K‑12 families) about emergency pantry items, “apartment kits,” and thrift vouchers. (chfs.ky.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Join local Buy Nothing and Freecycle groups; search by your exact neighborhood for faster pickup.
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Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Family Scholar House about inclusive housing and advocacy; DV survivors can seek confidential help through GreenHouse17 or Lotus, which provide trauma‑informed support and referrals for household needs. TTY and interpretation support are available—tell staff if you need language access. (greenhouse17.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: FRYSCs coordinate local donors and adaptive equipment; call your school’s FRYSC. For home safety and lower bills, ask Kentucky Housing Corporation’s Weatherization about repairs that reduce energy costs; bring medical‑necessity letters if equipment impacts your bill. (kyhousing.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask VA social work about furniture vouchers and SSVF move‑in support; in Lexington, Goodwill has provided VA voucher partnerships. Confirm local capacity with Goodwill Kentucky and the VA social work line. Also ask Volunteers of America Mid‑States about SSVF in your county. (goodwillky.org)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Catholic Charities of Louisville and Kentucky Refugee Ministries coordinate donated furniture and housewares; ask your caseworker for an item request or pickup timeline. (cclou.org)
- Tribal‑affiliated families: If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe living in Kentucky, ask your tribal social services about relocation kits; also request referrals through Community Action and 211 for local voucher partners. (kentucky211.org)
- Rural single moms (limited transport): Ask agencies if they deliver; New Life Furniture Bank and SHP chapters deliver in service areas. For water bill help, call your district; NKWD’s after‑hours line is 1‑513‑244‑9016 per NKWD. (nlfurniture.org)
- Single fathers: You qualify for the same programs; ask SVDP for vouchers and Community Action for LIHEAP and Goodwill. Programs serve households regardless of gender. (svdpnky.org)
- Language access: Ask for interpreter services when calling Neighborhood Place or DCBS Family Support at 1‑855‑306‑8959. Many agencies provide tele‑interpretation and large‑print forms on request. (louisvilleky.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your FRYSC to join calls as your advocate and request TTY/relay or large‑print forms; all public agencies must provide reasonable accommodations.
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Reality Check — Stock, Wait Times, and Denials
- Stock is donation‑driven: Vouchers don’t guarantee the exact item you want the same week. SVDP and thrift stocks change daily, and furniture banks schedule deliveries by route and staff availability. Ask when trucks deliver and shop that day. SVDP NKY explains how vouchers work in their area. (svdpnky.org)
- Timeline examples (recent): LIHEAP Crisis decisions are same‑day to 72 hours; Spring/Summer Subsidy benefits post within 10 business days. Goodwill vouchers are often issued same‑week; bed programs can take several weeks. Always “call to confirm current availability before applying.” See Community Action Council LIHEAP timelines and SHP events for current cycles. (commaction.org)
- Disasters shift rules: After major storms, FEMA deadlines and counties change—check FEMA KY notices before you apply because coverage varies by county and date. (fema.gov)
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing the wrong documents: Vouchers and LIHEAP almost always require IDs/SSNs for everyone and prior‑month income; bring the latest bill, lease, and any disconnect/eviction notices. Check the doc list on your agency site, like Louisville LIHEAP forms. (louisvilleky.gov)
- Not asking about delivery: Many programs don’t deliver. SVDP may give a voucher but you need a truck. Ask about delivery partners (church youth groups, volunteer teams) or schedule a low‑cost delivery at check‑out.
- Missing build or pickup calls: SHP and furniture banks often call once; missed calls can delay weeks. Save the program number and keep voicemail clear. See your chapter page, like SHP Louisville West. (shpbeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you were denied due to missing documents, fix the gap and reapply; keep a folder with copies and photos of everything on your phone.
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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Where to start | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture voucher | SVDP (local conference); SVDP NKY line | Community Action Goodwill voucher; CARE Mission. (svdpnky.org) |
| Beds for kids | SHP chapter near you | Ask FRYSC and SVDP for bedding vouchers. (shpbeds.org) |
| Household starter kit | Lexington Rescue Mission; Brighton Center | Neighborhood Place referral. (lexingtonrescue.org) |
| Utility shutoff | LIHEAP Crisis via CAK | MSD EWRAP, KAW H2O. (kyjustice.org) |
| Disaster loss | FEMA IA | Community Action for stop‑gap help. (fema.gov) |
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Application Checklist — Screenshot and Use This
- Photo IDs for all adults: Driver’s license or other ID; if missing, ask DCBS Family Support how to proceed. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Social Security numbers/cards for everyone: Adults and kids; bring a birth certificate for infants if SSN is pending.
- Income for past 30 days: Pay stubs, child support printout, benefits letter; self‑employment ledger if applies.
- Current bills/lease: Electric, gas, water/sewer, and lease with your name; disconnect or eviction notices if in crisis.
- Proof of disaster (if claiming): Fire report, FEMA letter, or emergency management note.
- School enrollment letter (if using FRYSC): Any letter showing your child is enrolled locally.
- Case numbers (if you have them): LIHEAP appointment, SVDP conference name, or referral code.
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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
- Louisville/Jefferson: Neighborhood Place one‑stop; SVDP Louisville conferences for vouchers; Happy Home Furniture Bank by agency referral; Wayside Mission Thrift for low‑cost furniture. (louisvilleky.gov)
- Lexington/Fayette & Bluegrass: Lexington Rescue Mission move‑in support; The Nest diapers and baby gear; GreenHouse17 for DV survivor referrals and vouchers (via Goodwill/Habitat partners). (lexingtonrescue.org)
- Northern Kentucky: SVDP NKY vouchers; CARE Mission furniture/housewares monthly; Brighton Center clothing vouchers and food. (svdpnky.org)
- Western & South‑Central: SHP Owensboro/Kenlake/Ohio Co. beds; BRASS Inc. DV housing and basics; Community Action network vouchers and utility help. (shpbeds.org)
- Eastern/Appalachia: SHP Clay County; Local HANDS for baby supplies; Community Action for vouchers. (shpbeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 to run a “household items” search for your county and text you the list; many church closets don’t advertise widely. (kentucky211.org)
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Government Programs That Indirectly Help You Afford Basics
- KTAP (cash aid) with work supports: Kentucky’s TANF cash program, KTAP, includes relocation and work‑related bonuses while you participate in Kentucky Works; apply by calling 1‑855‑306‑8959 or via kynect. See typical maximum payments by family size on CHFS KTAP. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Weatherization (fixes that lower bills): Kentucky Housing Corporation’s Weatherization Assistance Program funds insulation and HVAC repairs via local Community Action agencies—freeing cash for household necessities. (kyhousing.org)
- FRYSC school centers: Ask your child’s FRYSC to connect you to local donors for beds, kitchen sets, and “apartment kits,” especially at the start of a school term. (chfs.ky.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DCBS worker to combine KTAP with LIHEAP so your cash stretches to cover household goods. (kyjustice.org)
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Kentucky Water Bill Help — Location‑Specific
- Louisville Water Bill Help: Apply for MSD EWRAP or the Senior Discount and ask Louisville Water about Drops of Kindness payment plans. Call 1‑888‑535‑6262 with your account number. (louisvillemsd.org)
- Lexington Water Bill Help: Apply for KAW H2O grants through Community Action Council; check your LexServ bill for sewer adjustments after leaks. (amwater.com)
- Northern Kentucky Water District: Call your district early to set payment plans; see NKWD contacts and hours for 2025 schedule and after‑hours numbers. Pair with LIHEAP where eligible. (nkywater.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your FRYSC or Community Action caseworker to call with you; utilities respond faster when an agency is on the line.
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Required Documents — Table You Can Print
| Program | IDs | SSNs | Income (past 30 days) | Lease/Bill | Crisis/Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goodwill Vouchers | Yes | Yes | Yes | Proof of address | Disaster letter for $250 vouchers. (bsacap.org) |
| LIHEAP | Yes | Yes | Yes | Utility bill | Disconnect/eviction for Crisis. (commaction.org) |
| MSD EWRAP | Yes | N/A | Yes | MSD account | Annual renewal required. (louisvillemsd.org) |
| KAW H2O | Yes | Yes | Yes | KAW bill | $25 payment in last 180 days. (amwater.com) |
| SHP | Parent ID | Child info | N/A | Address | Statement of need. (shpbeds.org) |
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Typical Wait Times — Expectation Setter
| Service | Usual wait | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Goodwill vouchers | 0–7 days | Same‑week possible; varies by county. (gatewaycaa.org) |
| LIHEAP Crisis | Same‑day to 72 hours | Funds limited; book early. (kyjustice.org) |
| SHP beds | 2–8 weeks | Watch for chapter build days. (shpbeds.org) |
| Furniture bank deliveries | 1–3 weeks | Based on truck routes and stock. (nlfurniture.org) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for used air mattresses and cookware while you wait; many pantries and churches keep a small supply.
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If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask for the reason in writing: Programs must tell you why. For LIHEAP, ask the Community Action office how to fix the gap and reapply during the window posted on their LIHEAP page. (commaction.org)
- Submit missing documents fast: Many denials are for proof gaps—upload or bring items the same day. Screenshot your uploads.
- Appeal when allowed: FEMA decisions can be appealed online at DisasterAssistance.gov; LIHEAP denials may be reconsidered if you show a new bill or updated income. (fema.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a teacher, pastor, or case manager to write a confirmation letter of need; bring it to SVDP or your FRYSC to support a voucher request.
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FAQs (Kentucky‑Specific)
- How do I get a free bed for my child quickly? Apply at your nearest Sleep in Heavenly Peace chapter; if your county has no chapter, apply to the closest one and ask if they deliver to your ZIP. While waiting, ask SVDP for a bedding voucher. (shpbeds.org)
- Can LIHEAP help if my electricity is about to be shut off? Yes. LIHEAP Crisis (winter) pays the minimum to stop shutoff up to set caps; bring your disconnect notice. Check your dates at Community Action Council’s LIHEAP updates and the statewide notices. (commaction.org)
- Does Louisville have extra help for household items? Jefferson County residents at ≤200% FPL may get Goodwill vouchers via Metro; ask Neighborhood Place for referrals to church free stores in your area. (louisvilleky.gov)
- Who delivers furniture in Northern Kentucky? New Life Furniture Bank delivers after a partner referral; SVDP NKY may provide vouchers, but you may need your own pickup. (nlfurniture.org)
- What’s the fastest way to get pots, pans, and linens? Ask Community Action for Goodwill vouchers; check CARE Mission in NKY; search Freecycle for local pickups. (caremission.net)
- I’m leaving domestic violence—who helps with household setup? Contact GreenHouse17 in Central KY or BRASS Inc. in the Barren River area; both connect survivors to housing and essentials, often through vouchers and donor drives. (greenhouse17.org)
- Is there water bill help in Lexington? Yes—KAW H2O (≤225% FPL, up to $250) administered by Community Action Council. (amwater.com)
- My baby needs a safe crib—who helps? Ask your health department about HANDS and local Cribs for Kids efforts; many counties provide Pack‑N‑Plays after a brief safe‑sleep session. (christiancountyhd.com)
- Do schools help with household items? Yes—FRYSC centers link families to donors for beds, microwaves, and kitchen kits during moves. Call your child’s school office for the FRYSC number. (chfs.ky.gov)
- What if I just moved into housing with nothing? Ask your caseworker for a referral to SVDP and any furniture bank; layer Goodwill vouchers for kitchenware, then apply to SHP for kids’ beds. (bsacap.org)
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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
Use estos contactos primero: marque 211 o 1‑888‑322‑2154 y pida vales de muebles y camas para niños; busque su oficina local en Community Action Kentucky para vales de Goodwill y LIHEAP (asistencia de energía). Familias en Louisville pueden solicitar MSD EWRAP; en Lexington pida KAW H2O. Para camas infantiles, solicite en el capítulo cercano de Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Después de un desastre, aplique a FEMA llamando al 1‑800‑621‑3362. Verifique elegibilidad y documentos con su oficina local antes de aplicar.
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About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Kentucky 211 and United Way 211 NKY for referral coverage and phone/text options. (kentucky211.org)
- Community Action Kentucky network, LIHEAP updates, and Kentucky Justice Online LIHEAP notice for dates, eligibility, and contacts. (commaction.org)
- Kentucky Housing Corporation Weatherization and Scholar House program pages. (kyhousing.org)
- MSD EWRAP and KAW H2O for water/wastewater discount rules. (louisvillemsd.org)
- SVDP NKY assistance and SVDP Louisville conferences for voucher access; SHP Kentucky chapters for child bed requests. (svdpnky.org)
Last verified September 2025, next review 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.
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Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance for Kentucky residents and is not legal advice. Programs change, funding runs out, and eligibility varies by county. Always call or check the linked official site to confirm current availability, required documents, and processing times before you apply. For emergencies, dial 911; for resource referrals, dial 211 or use your county’s page on Kentucky 211. (kentucky211.org)
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What to Do If This Still Doesn’t Get You What You Need
Keep knocking on doors. Ask every agency you contact to “warm transfer” you to another partner with stock on hand. Re‑check Community Action’s announcements weekly for new funding windows, and monitor your local SHP chapter page for new build dates. If you’re in a disaster‑declared county, re‑verify FEMA status and appeal if needed. (commaction.org)
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End of guide.
🏛️More Kentucky Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kentucky
- 📋 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
