Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in North Carolina
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in North Carolina
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built to help you get real, practical help finding free beds, furniture, and essential household items across North Carolina. Every paragraph includes direct links so you can apply fast or call the right office. Always verify availability because stock and funding change week to week.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or text for referrals through [NC 211’s statewide helpline] and request furniture or household goods programs in your county, then ask the specialist to warm-transfer you to an agency that makes referrals to furniture banks today.
- Ask your county social services about [Work First Emergency Assistance] and whether they’ll pay for move‑in essentials or delivery fees after a crisis like fire, DV, or homelessness re‑housing; apply online through [ePASS] if you can’t get there in person. (ncdhhs.gov)
- If your child is sleeping on the floor, apply for a free bed through [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] and check for North Carolina chapters like [SHP Wilmington] or SHP Greenville; most chapters require a quick online form and a phone number to schedule delivery. (shpbeds.org)
Quick Help Box — Keep These Handy
- Dial statewide information at [NC 211] or 1-888-892-1162 and ask for “furniture bank referral and household goods today”; you can also request a callback through [NCCARE360’s Assistance Request] if phone lines are busy. (unitedwaync.org)
- For shutoff threats or high power bills, call [NC Utilities Commission – Public Staff Consumer Services] at 1-866-380-9816 and ask about a hold on disconnection while they mediate, then ask your utility about [Duke Energy’s Disconnect Date Extension] if you’re in Duke territory. (publicstaff.nc.gov)
- For heating help (winter) or a no‑AC emergency (summer), apply for [Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)] and [Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)] through your county DSS or online via [ePASS]. (ncdhhs.gov)
- If you were hit by flooding or storms, apply now at [DisasterAssistance.gov] and call [NC Disaster Case Management (NC‑DCM)] at 1-844-746-2326 for long‑term help replacing essentials. (fema.gov)
- In Mecklenburg or Wake, ask your caseworker about furniture referrals to [Crisis Assistance Ministry] (Charlotte) or [The Green Chair Project] (Raleigh). Both operate large furniture programs and children’s bed initiatives with agency referrals. (furniturebanks.org)
What Counts as “Free” Furniture in NC and How to Access It Fast
Most “free furniture” in North Carolina moves through nonprofit furniture banks that only serve clients referred by social workers, school social workers, or housing programs. Start with [NC 211] and tell them “I need a referral to a furniture bank today,” then ask for the name and number of a partner agency that can submit the referral on your behalf; if you’re in Wake or Mecklenburg, ask about [The Green Chair Project] or [Crisis Assistance Ministry] by name. In the Triad, ask specifically for [The Barnabas Network] or [greeNest Winston‑Salem] and whether they’ll waive fees for DV or disaster clients. (unitedwaync.org)
Expect two common referral paths. First, your housing or DV case manager submits an online referral to a furniture bank such as [Beds for Kids] (Mecklenburg) or [The Green Chair Project] (Wake). Second, a community nonprofit like [Catholic Charities – Cape Fear Region] or [World Relief Triad] gives you a letter or completes a partner referral for essential household items. Ask directly: “Can you submit the furniture bank referral for me this week?” and be ready to answer your phone to schedule delivery. (bedsforkids.org)
If your child lacks a bed tonight, combine options. Apply online to [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] and also ask your school social worker to refer you to [Beds for Kids] in Charlotte or [The Barnabas Network] in Greensboro. If you cannot get a referral, call [NC 211] back and ask for “two more partner agencies that can submit referrals.” This multi‑track approach raises your odds because waitlists move as stock arrives. (shpbeds.org)
Statewide Programs That Indirectly Cover Furniture or Essential Household Goods
Some programs don’t hand you a couch, but they free up cash or provide appliances and essentials so you can use your own money for furniture. Start with energy and crisis programs, then layer in local furniture help.
- Energy Bill Help First: Apply for [LIEAP] in winter and [CIP] year‑round for no‑heat or no‑AC crises; both are managed by [NC DHHS] and your county DSS through [ePASS]. According to NCDHHS (Nov 2024 press release), LIEAP accepted general applications Jan 2–Mar 31, 2025, and prioritizes older adults and people with disabilities in December; CIP takes crisis cases as long as funds last. Call to confirm current season dates in your county. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Weatherization and Appliance Replacement: The [Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)] through [NC DEQ’s State Energy Office] can repair or replace unsafe HVAC systems and address major efficiency problems; DEQ notes frequent HVAC replacements and safety measures statewide, and in Sept 2025 launched $10M in readiness funds to help Western NC homes deferred from weatherization get repairs and move forward. These upgrades can reduce bills and cover critical appliances so you can focus your limited cash on beds or tables. (deq.nc.gov)
- Utility Company Aid: If you’re a Duke customer, ask about [Share the Light Fund] and [Disconnect Date Extensions]. Duke reports millions in annual assistance distributed via partner agencies and monthly credits for qualifying customers. Always ask the agent for the nearest agency that processes Share the Light applications by county. (news.duke-energy.com)
- TANF/Work First Emergency Assistance: Under [Work First] (NC’s TANF), every county must operate [Emergency Assistance] for sporadic crises like an eviction or utility cut‑off; county plans can set income up to 150%–200% of poverty and may cover short‑term needs up to four months. Ask your DSS if benefit diversion or emergency funds can pay delivery fees, basic cookware, or a child’s bed when you’re moving from shelter to housing. Apply at DSS or online via [ePASS]. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Phone/Internet for Safety and Job‑Searching: Use [Lifeline] for a monthly phone or internet discount if your income is at or under 135% FPL or you receive programs like SNAP or Medicaid; the NC DOJ page also explains your rights and how to apply through a provider. This keeps your phone on while you coordinate deliveries and referrals. (usac.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [NC 211] to create a 3‑way call with a local partner that can submit a furniture bank referral; then ask your DSS to add a note confirming your move‑in date so agencies can prioritize a bed for your child. If you still hit a wall, contact the [NC Utilities Commission – Public Staff] to pause shutoffs while you sort your budget, and re‑apply to [NCCARE360] for a callback. (publicstaff.nc.gov)
Major Furniture and Household Programs in North Carolina
Below is a quick snapshot of the most reliable programs. Use the “How to access” column to reduce back‑and‑forth.
| Program | Area | What you can get | How to access |
|---|---|---|---|
| [Crisis Assistance Ministry] | Mecklenburg/Charlotte | Free beds, dressers, tables, appliances via Furniture & Appliance Bank; clothing Free Store | Referral from partner agency; ask intake about furniture referral at 500‑A Spratt St or through their partner network. (govserv.org) |
| [Beds for Kids] | Charlotte region | Free beds and essential furniture for families with children | Referral by approved partner agency; ask your caseworker to submit online. (bedsforkids.org) |
| [The Green Chair Project] | Wake County (Raleigh) | Full home packages; free twin beds/cribs for kids via Sweeter Dreams; queen bed add‑on for adults; delivery | Agency referral required; children’s beds/cribs are 0,adultqueenpackagemaybe0, adult queen package may be 350; main package fee often covered by agencies. (thegreenchair.org) |
| [The Barnabas Network] | Guilford/Greensboro | Free furniture for qualified families; picks up donations | Referral from partner agency; call to ask for appointment and delivery timeline. (wfmynews2.com) |
| [greeNest Winston‑Salem] | Forsyth/Triad | Low‑fee “Finally Home” showroom; “Up Off the Floor” provides new kids’ beds | Referral from partner agency; small program fee often sponsored by agencies. (greenestws.org) |
| [DIG Furniture Bank] | Eastern NC (regional) | Free furniture and household items with agency referral | Ask your partner agency to submit a referral; showroom choice with delivery. (digfb.org) |
| [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] | Chapters statewide (e.g., Wilmington, Greenville, Williamston) | Free twin beds/bedding for children | Apply online and check coverage by ZIP; volunteer‑run waitlists vary by chapter. (shpbeds.org) |
| [Catholic Charities – Raleigh/Cape Fear] | Triangle & Wilmington area | Diapers, baby supplies, hygiene items; may have limited household goods | Walk‑in or call during posted hours; bring ID and proof of need; confirm stock before travel. (catholiccharitiesraleigh.org) |
Reality Check: Fees and wait times change monthly based on donations. Ask if your agency can cover any service fee (for example, $200 at [The Green Chair Project] for a full package) and whether delivery is included. Confirm bedbug policies and “one‑time only” rules before you schedule. (thegreenchair.org)
How to Apply for a Furniture Bank Referral (Step‑by‑Step)
- Get on the referral path fast through [NC 211] or your existing caseworker, and ask for a “furniture bank referral for move‑in.” If you have no caseworker, request a warm transfer to a partner agency listed in [NCCARE360] that can submit referrals. (unitedwaync.org)
- If you live in Mecklenburg, ask your housing navigator to refer you to [Crisis Assistance Ministry] or [Beds for Kids]; in Wake, ask for [The Green Chair Project]; in Guilford, ask for [The Barnabas Network]; in Forsyth, ask for [greeNest]. (furniturebanks.org)
- Keep your phone on for scheduling. Programs like [The Green Chair Project] and [Beds for Kids] call to confirm your address, bed sizes, and delivery windows; missed calls can push you down the list. (thegreenchair.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school social worker to submit the referral; schools are frequent partners with [Beds for Kids] and [Barnabas]. If you still cannot get a referral, call [NC 211] and request two more agencies or ask for a supervisor callback. (bedsforkids.org)
North Carolina Programs That Can Free Up Cash for Household Essentials
Use these benefits to keep money in your pocket for a dresser, pots and pans, or sheets.
- Energy Programs: Apply for [LIEAP] in winter and [CIP] for emergencies. LIEAP accepted general applications Jan 2–Mar 31, 2025; some households were auto‑paid and notified in Nov 2024; CIP is open during heating and cooling crises until funds run out. Apply via DSS or [ePASS] and ask about average processing times. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Weatherization/Appliance: Through [WAP] at [NC DEQ], homes can get insulation, air sealing, and repair/replacement of unsafe HVAC; DEQ’s program update in Sept 2025 added $10M to move Western NC homes off deferral lists after Helene. Waitlists vary by county provider. (deq.nc.gov)
- Work First Cash: If you have a low income and a child in your home, [Work First Family Assistance] can help with short‑term cash; the maximum monthly payments are listed by assistance unit size (for example, $272 for three), and [Work First Emergency Assistance] may address a utility cutoff or short‑term crisis up to four months. Apply at your county DSS or online via [ePASS]. (ncdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DSS about “benefit diversion” under [Work First] to cover a one‑time crisis; then call [NC 211] again to identify a church partner that can cover a modest furniture fee or delivery. (ncdhhs.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in North Carolina Today
If disconnection is looming, act in this order.
- Call your utility and request a payment plan, then immediately call [Public Staff Consumer Services] at 1-866-380-9816 and ask them to place a hold while they mediate your complaint. Use [NC DOJ’s utility rules page] to know your rights—regulated utilities must give at least 10‑day written notice and cannot disconnect on Fridays, weekends, state or federal holidays or the day before a holiday. (publicstaff.nc.gov)
- Ask your DSS about [CIP] (crisis energy) and [LIEAP] if in season; then ask your utility about special programs like [Duke Energy’s Disconnect Date Extension] and [Share the Light Fund] partners in your county. Note: winter protections exist from Nov 1–Mar 31 for eligible households certified by DSS, which can delay disconnections if criteria are met. (duke-energy.com)
- If your child relies on electric‑powered medical equipment, ask your doctor to complete the utility’s medical certification, then call [Public Staff] to add this to your case file. Keep your phone on and be available for callbacks. (publicstaff.nc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a formal complaint at [NC Utilities Commission – Formal Complaints] and copy [Public Staff’s complaint portal]; in parallel, seek [Duke Energy Share the Light] funds via county partners and reapply for [CIP] if your status worsens. (ncuc.gov)
Reality Check — Delays, Stockouts, and Delivery Fees
Furniture programs depend on donations and warehouse capacity. [Crisis Assistance Ministry] and [The Green Chair Project] move thousands of items but delivery schedules can fill quickly; [Beds for Kids] and [SHP] rely on volunteers and may pause applications when stock is low. Always ask, “What’s the next delivery date you can offer and can my agency cover fees?” Keep a backup plan with thrift vouchers from [The Salvation Army — Wake & Lee] or ask [Goodwill of Northwest NC] if they have disaster “Good Neighbor” vouchers active in your area. (mapquest.com)
Where to Find Specific Items (Beds, Cribs, Cookware, Linens)
- Children’s beds and cribs: [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] provides twin beds; [The Green Chair Project] provides free kids’ twin beds/cribs for Wake residents; [greeNest Up Off the Floor] provides new beds for kids in Forsyth. Ask your caseworker to submit the referral and confirm sizes. (thegreenchair.org)
- Full home setup: [The Green Chair Project] leverages Wake County’s Bridge to Home to supply couch, dining set, storage, towels, cookware, plus children’s beds; [Beds for Kids] can furnish entire homes through partner referrals in Charlotte. (thegreenchair.org)
- Basic household goods or hygiene: [Catholic Charities – Cape Fear Region] lists regular distribution of diapers, hygiene, and cleaning items; statewide diapers are available through [Diaper Bank of North Carolina] branches (Triangle, Triad, Charlotte, Lower Cape Fear). (catholiccharitiesraleigh.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [NC 211] for two more referring agencies; then request thrift vouchers from [The Salvation Army — Wake/Lee] or explore [Habitat ReStore (Wake County)] for low‑cost items while you wait. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Safety Tip — Avoid Bedbugs When Getting Free Furniture
Before accepting used furniture, read [NC Department of Agriculture’s bed bug prevention guidance] and your county guidance such as [Wake County’s bed bug page]; avoid curb‑picked upholstery and inspect seams and joints before loading. NC law requires sanitized used bedding sold at retail to be processed by a licensed sanitizer—ask the furniture program about its sanitation policies and refuse any item with signs of infestation. (ncagr.gov)
Resources by Region — Where to Go Near You
- Charlotte/Mecklenburg: Start with [Crisis Assistance Ministry] for referrals and [Beds for Kids] for family furnishings; LGBTQ youth can find housing support at [Time Out Youth], and veterans can connect to housing help through [Veterans Bridge Home]. (govserv.org)
- Triangle (Wake/Durham/Orange): Ask agencies to refer you to [The Green Chair Project]; DV survivors in Wake can shop at no cost at [InterAct’s Pass It On Thrift] with staff; LGBTQ families can find community support through [Equality NC’s Resource Hub]. (thegreenchair.org)
- Piedmont Triad (Greensboro/Winston‑Salem/High Point): Seek referrals to [The Barnabas Network] or [greeNest]; diapers through [Diaper Bank – Greater Triad]; resettling refugee moms can ask [World Relief Triad] about welcome kits. (furniturebanks.org)
- Mountains/Western NC (Asheville, Hendersonville): For disaster‑impacted families, use [NC‑DCM] for long‑term recovery and ask about furniture partners; check [DEQ’s Weatherization updates] for Helene‑related readiness funding moving homes off deferral lists. (ncdps.gov)
- Coastal/Lower Cape Fear (Wilmington area): Apply to [SHP Wilmington] for kids’ beds; get diapers/hygiene via [Diaper Bank — Lower Cape Fear]; contact [Catholic Charities – Cape Fear Region] for household and baby items. (shpbeds.org)
- Eastern NC (Greenville and surrounding counties): Apply to [SHP Greenville] for kids’ beds; for veterans, contact the [NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs] for local service officers; call [NC 211] for county‑specific furniture partners. (shpbeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask [NC 211] to search by “furniture bank” and “household goods” plus your county, then request a callback from a partner agency to complete the referral while you are on the line. (nc211.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access Notes
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use [Time Out Youth] for housing case management in Mecklenburg and [LGBTQ Center of Durham] for support groups and resources; advocacy statewide is led by [Equality NC]. Ask for confidential safety planning if fleeing DV, and request a case manager to submit furniture referrals on your behalf. TTY or relay services are available through 711 for state hotlines. (timeoutyouth.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your DSS to flag accessibility needs when applying for [WAP at NC DEQ], which can fund safety‑related repairs and accessibility fixes tied to energy measures; if your power is at risk, ask the utility about medical certifications and call [Public Staff Consumer Services] to pause disconnection. Request large‑print applications or telephone interviews. (deq.nc.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Contact [NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs] for benefits navigation and local Service Officers; in Charlotte and surrounding areas reach [Veterans Bridge Home] for housing and stabilization help, and ask them to coordinate furniture referrals with partner agencies. Language access and TTY services are available via DMVA offices. (milvets.nc.gov)
- Immigrant or refugee single moms: In the Triad, [World Relief Triad] can supply welcome kits and help coordinate furniture; statewide, ask [NCCARE360] for a navigator who speaks your language; if you are EBCI citizen or another federally recognized tribe in Western NC, contact [EBCI Public Health & Human Services] for TANF and family supports. Ask for interpretation and translated forms. (worldrelief.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: For Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians on the Qualla Boundary, contact [EBCI PHHS] or [EBCI TANF] about supports and referrals; you can also reach the Tribe’s main line for program connections. Accessibility and after‑hours contacts are listed on PHHS pages. (phhs.ebci-nsn.gov)
- Rural single moms: If your county lacks a furniture bank, ask [NC 211] to search two adjacent counties for programs that deliver into your ZIP. Pair that with [WAP at DEQ] to cut energy costs and ask your utility about [Share the Light Fund] through local agencies. Consider [NCWorks Career Centers] to stabilize income for the long run. (news.duke-energy.com)
- Single fathers and kinship caregivers: You can access the same programs. For Work First, relatives caring for children can apply for child‑only cases; ask [Work First] staff at your DSS about eligibility and emergency options. For support groups, check [Equality NC’s resource hub] or local faith partners connected via [NC 211]. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Language access: When you call [NC 211] or apply at [NC DHHS ePASS], request an interpreter. For disaster cases, [FEMA] and [NC‑DCM] will arrange language services during applications or appeals; TTY is available via Relay 711 on state hotlines. (fema.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not asking for a referral. Most NC furniture banks require an agency referral. Use [NC 211] to identify a partner agency and ask them to submit it now; do not wait for an email reply. (unitedwaync.org)
- Missing calls. Programs like [The Green Chair Project] or [Beds for Kids] schedule by phone. If you miss the call, your spot can slip. Answer unknown local numbers for two weeks after applying. (thegreenchair.org)
- Ignoring bedbug safety. Read [NCDA&CS bed bug prevention] and inspect used items. Never pick up upholstered items left on the curb. Confirm the program’s sanitation and bedbug policy. (ncagr.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Where to start | Backup option |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture referral | [NC 211] to locate a referring partner | Call county DSS or a DV/rehousing caseworker to submit |
| Kids’ beds tonight | [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] online application | Ask school social worker to refer to [Beds for Kids] or [Barnabas Network] |
| Full home setup | [The Green Chair Project] (Wake) or [Crisis Assistance Ministry] (Mecklenburg) | [greeNest] (Forsyth) or [DIG Furniture Bank] (East) |
| Heating/cooling crisis | [CIP] through DSS or [ePASS] | [Public Staff Consumer Services] to pause shutoff |
| Appliance/HVAC | [WAP – NC DEQ] local provider | Ask utility about bill credit programs like [Share the Light Fund] |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID for adults — driver’s license, state ID, or other approved ID; if none, ask how to verify identity through [NC DHHS/DSS] or your referring agency. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Proof of address — lease or utility bill; if fleeing DV, ask [InterAct] or your DV advocate how to protect your location while applying for services. (interactofwake.org)
- Household info — Social Security numbers or verification for adults and children (DSS can advise on alternatives); child ages/bed sizes for bed requests. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Income proof — recent pay stubs, benefits letter, or statement for [Work First], [LIEAP/CIP], or [WAP]. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Referral contact — name/phone of your caseworker or school social worker to confirm eligibility with [Green Chair], [Beds for Kids], or [Barnabas]. (thegreenchair.org)
- Delivery details — working phone, building access notes, and a clear room to receive deliveries; confirm time window and any fees your agency will pay. (thegreenchair.org)
Timelines You Can Expect
| Program | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture banks (after referral) | 1–3 weeks for delivery | Faster when items are in stock; ask for next available date at [Crisis Assistance Ministry] or [Green Chair]. (mapquest.com) |
| SHP children’s beds | 1–6+ weeks | Depends on local chapter build days; check your chapter’s page like [SHP Wilmington]. (shpbeds.org) |
| LIEAP non‑crisis | Up to 30 days | Based on county workload; December priority for older adults and people with disabilities. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| CIP crisis | Several days | Faster if life‑safety risk; ask DSS for expedited processing. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| WAP | Months (waitlist) | Ask provider to confirm your position; Western NC has new readiness funds post‑Helene. (deq.nc.gov) |
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask why in writing and request the exact rule or item you’re missing. Then ask the agency to suggest a different referring partner (schools, DV programs, housing nonprofits). Use [NC 211] to identify two more referring agencies and try again this week. (unitedwaync.org)
- For utility shutoffs, call [Public Staff Consumer Services] and ask for immediate mediation; if needed, file a formal complaint through the [NC Utilities Commission] while you set up a payment arrangement and apply to [CIP]. (ncuc.gov)
- For disaster aid denials, visit a [FEMA Disaster Recovery Center] or call 1‑800‑621‑3362 to appeal; ask [NC‑DCM] to help gather documents or connect you to free legal aid for appeals. (fema.gov)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
- Work First Emergency Assistance income limits can be 150% or 200% of poverty depending on your county plan, and covered needs differ. Confirm your county’s rule on your first call to [Work First Emergency Assistance] or ask [NC 211] to check. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Utility protections and payment plans vary if your power is provided by a municipal system or co‑op that is not NCUC‑regulated; contact your town utility manager and then ask [Public Staff] where to file complaints for non‑regulated providers. (publicstaff.nc.gov)
- Disaster recovery priorities change by county. If you live in a [Helene‑declared county], ask about FEMA appeals, NC‑DCM case management, and whether local Long‑Term Recovery Groups are distributing furniture. (fema.gov)
Tables — Program Comparison and Contacts
Core Programs That Help You Free Up Cash or Get Items
| Program | Who qualifies | What it covers | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| [LIEAP] | Low‑income households responsible for heating costs | One‑time payment to your heating vendor | County DSS or [ePASS]; seniors/disabled prioritized in Dec. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| [CIP] | Household with heating/cooling crisis | Emergency assistance to stop cutoffs/restore service | County DSS or [ePASS]; ask about expedited processing. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| [WAP – DEQ] | ≤200% FPL or on TANF/SSI | Insulation, HVAC repair/replace, safety | Apply via local provider listed at DEQ WAP page. (deq.nc.gov) |
| [Work First Emergency Assistance] | Families with a child; county rules vary | Short‑term crisis help up to 4 months | Apply at DSS; ask specifically for Emergency Assistance. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| [Share the Light Fund] | Duke Energy customers w/ past‑due bills | Help with energy bills, deposits, reconnection | Apply through listed partner agency by county. (news.duke-energy.com) |
Largest NC Furniture Resources
| Organization | Area | Access path | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| [Crisis Assistance Ministry] | Mecklenburg | Partner agency referral | Furniture & Appliance Bank and Free Store. (govserv.org) |
| [The Green Chair Project] | Wake | Partner agency referral | Kids’ beds/cribs free; package fee often covered. (thegreenchair.org) |
| [Beds for Kids] | Mecklenburg | Partner agency referral | Full home furnishings for families with kids. (bedsforkids.org) |
| [Barnabas Network] | Guilford | Partner agency referral | Free furniture; pickup/delivery varies. (wfmynews2.com) |
| [greeNest] | Forsyth | Partner agency referral | Low-fee model; sponsors can cover fee. (greenestws.org) |
Disaster Help That Can Replace Essentials
| Program | What it can do | How to start |
|---|---|---|
| [FEMA Individual Assistance] | Temporary housing, repairs, essential household items and personal property after disaster | Apply at [DisasterAssistance.gov] or call 1‑800‑621‑3362 before the deadline; appeal denials. (fema.gov) |
| [NC‑DCM] | Case management to connect you to resources and fill gaps | Complete NC‑DCM survey or call 1‑844‑746‑2326. (ncdps.gov) |
Contacts You’ll Use Most
| Service | Phone | Link |
|---|---|---|
| [NC 211] | 1‑888‑892‑1162 | 24/7 referrals statewide. (unitedwaync.org) |
| [Public Staff – Consumer Services] | 1‑866‑380‑9816 | Utility complaint mediation. (publicstaff.nc.gov) |
| [NC DSS directory] | Varies | Find your local DSS. (ncdhhs.gov) |
| [NCCARE360] | Online | Request assistance; navigator callback. (nccare360.org) |
| [NCWorks Career Centers] | Varies | Job search and training support. (commerce.nc.gov) |
Real‑World Examples
- Wake County: A mom moving from DV shelter received a [Green Chair] referral through her advocate—she selected a couch, dining set, dressers, cookware, and free twin beds for two kids; the agency paid the package fee and delivery was booked the same week. (thegreenchair.org)
- Charlotte: A school social worker referred a family to [Beds for Kids]; two twin beds, a queen bed, sofa, and table were delivered after a brief phone screening; clothing and shoes were later obtained via [Crisis Assistance Ministry Free Store] visit. (bedsforkids.org)
- Triad: After a fire, a Greensboro mom worked with her housing case manager to get a [Barnabas Network] referral and a [CIP] payment to reconnect power; a week later, [Diaper Bank – Greater Triad] provided diapers and hygiene. (wfmynews2.com)
FAQs for North Carolina Single Moms
- How do I get a referral if I don’t have a caseworker?
Call [NC 211] and ask for a nonprofit partner authorized to refer to a furniture bank in your county; request a warm transfer. If they cannot reach anyone, submit an online request via [NCCARE360] for a callback. (unitedwaync.org) - Are furniture banks really free?
Most do not charge for kids’ beds, and essentials are free when sponsored by agencies. Some, like [greeNest] and [The Green Chair Project], use small service fees that partner agencies often cover—ask your caseworker to sponsor it. (greenestws.org) - Can any program replace a refrigerator or stove?
If the issue is safety or energy, [WAP at NC DEQ] can repair/replace HVAC and address critical efficiency issues; utilities may have programs and rebates; call [NC 211] to see if any local fund covers appliances after fires or disasters. (deq.nc.gov) - What if my power is about to be disconnected?
Call [Public Staff Consumer Services] and your utility immediately; ask about a payment plan and [Duke Energy’s Disconnect Date Extension] if applicable. Apply to [CIP] the same day. (publicstaff.nc.gov) - When does LIEAP open?
Per NCDHHS, LIEAP prioritized seniors and people with disabilities in December 2024; other eligible households applied Jan 2–Mar 31, 2025. Check your county DSS or [LIEAP program page] for the current season dates. (ncdhhs.gov) - I’m a veteran. Who can coordinate my housing and furniture?
Contact [NC DMVA] for benefits and a Service Officer; in Charlotte, [Veterans Bridge Home] coordinates housing and can link to local furniture partners through your case manager. (milvets.nc.gov) - I’m a DV survivor. How do I get essentials safely?
Ask your advocate to submit referrals to [Green Chair] (Wake) or [Crisis Assistance Ministry] (Mecklenburg); in Wake, [InterAct Pass It On Thrift] provides no‑cost shopping for clients. Ask for address confidentiality when scheduling. (thegreenchair.org) - Can I get diapers and formula regularly?
Yes—visit [Diaper Bank of North Carolina] branches (Triangle, Triad, Charlotte, Lower Cape Fear) and check [Catholic Charities Cape Fear] for hygiene and baby items in Wilmington. (ncdiaperbank.org) - Are there protections from winter shutoffs?
NC has winter protections Nov 1–Mar 31 for certain households certified by DSS as eligible for energy help; see [NC 211 winter termination guide] and [NC DOJ’s utility rules] for details. (nc211.org) - I lost everything in the storm. How do I replace basics?
Apply at [DisasterAssistance.gov] and then connect with [NC‑DCM]; ask your case manager to request furniture support from Long‑Term Recovery partners, and keep receipts/photos for appeals. (fema.gov)
Spanish summary — Resumen en español
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre la información llamando a las oficinas oficiales.
- Para referencias y ayuda rápida llame a [NC 211] (1‑888‑892‑1162) o complete la solicitud de [NCCARE360] para que un navegador le devuelva la llamada. Pida una “referencia para banco de muebles.” (unitedwaync.org)
- Para camas gratis de niños aplique en [Sleep in Heavenly Peace] (SHP) y pregunte por los capítulos de Carolina del Norte como [SHP Wilmington] o Greenville; para Raleigh pida a un trabajador social una referencia a [The Green Chair Project]. (shpbeds.org)
- Para pago de calefacción/Refrigeración use [LIEAP/CIP] a través de su DSS o [ePASS]; para evitar cortes eléctricos llame a [Public Staff Consumer Services] (1‑866‑380‑9816). (ncdhhs.gov)
- Para desastres, solicite ayuda en [DisasterAssistance.gov] y pida al [NC‑DCM] (1‑844‑746‑2326) que le asigne un gestor de caso para reemplazar artículos esenciales. (fema.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- [NC Department of Health and Human Services]
- [United Way of North Carolina — NC 211]
- [NC Department of Environmental Quality — Weatherization Assistance Program]
- [NC Utilities Commission – Public Staff Consumer Services]
- [Duke Energy – Share the Light Fund and customer assistance]
- [FEMA — Individual Assistance for North Carolina]
- [The Green Chair Project] and [Crisis Assistance Ministry] program pages
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.
Disclaimer
This content is for general information. Program rules, funding, and availability change often. Always call or check official pages like [NC DHHS] and [NC 211] to confirm current eligibility, required documents, and wait times. If you are in danger or fleeing abuse, call 911 or a local DV hotline like [Safe Alliance — Greater Charlotte Hope Line] at 1‑980‑771‑4673 or [InterAct of Wake County] at 1‑919‑828‑7740 for immediate, confidential help. (safealliance.org)
Tables, amounts, timelines, and program windows reflect the most current information available from state or program websites as of September 2025. Always re‑check before you apply. (ncdhhs.gov)
🏛️More North Carolina Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Carolina
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- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
