Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives practical, step‑by‑step ways to get free or very low‑cost furniture and household items across North Dakota. Every section starts with the most important action. Each paragraph includes direct ways to contact real programs so you can move fast.
If you’re in danger or need emergency shelter, call the statewide crisis lines in the “Quick help box” below, or dial 911. You can also reach statewide resource navigation any time by dialing the 24/7 helpline at FirstLink 2‑1‑1 and texting your ZIP code to 898‑211. (myfirstlink.org)
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call the state customer support line to prevent shutoff or get energy crisis help today: North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 and ask for LIHEAP crisis help; then ask your local Community Action office about “Energy Share” if your electricity (not primary heat) is the issue. LIHEAP page explains eligibility and emergencies, and CAPND agencies can help with related services. (hhs.nd.gov)
- If you live near Fargo/West Fargo/Moorhead and need furniture now, ask a partner agency (like YWCA Cass Clay or Presentation Partners in Housing or SENDCAA ) to refer you to the Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley for free beds, sofas, tables and more. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
- In Grand Forks, ask for a store voucher for furniture/household items through St. Joseph’s Social Care & Thrift Store, or connect through Global Friends Coalition if you’re a refugee/new American being placed in housing. The Salvation Army Family Store also issues need‑based vouchers. (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)
Quick help box — numbers and links to keep handy
- Crisis navigation and local resources: call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 at 1‑701‑235‑7335 or text your ZIP to 898‑211; national mental health crisis: dial 988 Lifeline. (myfirstlink.org)
- Family violence and safety planning: CAWS North Dakota (state coalition directory) 1‑888‑255‑6240; national DV hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233; local advocates help with emergency relocation and basic goods. City of Fargo page lists area crisis contacts too. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- State benefits, applications and status questions: HHS Customer Support Center 1‑866‑614‑6005 for TANF cash, SNAP, child care, and LIHEAP energy help. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Homelessness response and rapid‑rehousing connections: North Dakota Continuum of Care (CARES Coordinated Entry); the CoC is staffed by North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA). (ndcontinuumofcare.org)
- Baby sleep space and safety: ask for a free Pack‑’n‑Play through Cribs for Kids (ND HHS); local public health partners like Bismarck‑Burleigh Public Health Safe Sleep can screen you. (hhs.nd.gov)
At‑a‑glance contacts (save or screenshot)
Program | How they help | Contact |
---|---|---|
HHS Customer Support Center | LIHEAP crisis, TANF/SNAP applications, document upload instructions | 1‑866‑614‑6005; email applyforhelp@nd.gov |
FirstLink 2‑1‑1 | 24/7 referral to furniture help, shelter, vouchers | Dial 2‑1‑1; 1‑701‑235‑7335; text ZIP to 898‑211 |
CAP Agencies Directory | Local clothing closets, Energy Share, weatherization | Find your regional CAP office |
ND CoC – CARES | Coordinated Entry for homelessness and rapid rehousing | Start at CARESlink.org |
CAWS ND | Domestic/sexual violence advocates and shelters | 1‑888‑255‑6240; local center directory |
Cribs for Kids (ND) | Free Pack‑’n‑Play kits and safe sleep education | Request via local public health |
What to expect this fall: funding, referrals, and wait times
North Dakota shifted some pandemic‑era rent and household stabilization programs in 2025. The state announced it would ramp down homeless re‑housing services funded by the American Rescue Plan; as of March–May 2025 some application windows closed, and HHS said households with existing commitments would get guidance to other resources. Plan for more referrals through the Continuum of Care and Community Action while these transitions settle. HHS Housing Stabilization updates explain the ramp‑down, and NDHFA notes federal CoC grants continue to fund projects statewide. According to HHS, households often need several months to secure housing, so move early on furniture options once you have a lease. (hhs.nd.gov)
Where to get free furniture and basic household goods fast
Fargo/West Fargo/Moorhead: best first steps
Start by asking a partner agency for a direct referral to the Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley. This nonprofit furnishes families exiting crisis—beds, sofas, tables, lamps—at no cost; referrals come from partners like YWCA Cass Clay, Presentation Partners in Housing, SENDCAA, Fargo Housing, and others listed by the Mission. Warehouse appointments and donation drop‑offs generally run Wednesdays. For overflow needs, check Heirlooms Thrift & Gift for low‑cost items or request clothing/hygiene help through YWCA while you wait for move‑in. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
If you’re setting up a place from scratch, the Habitat Lake Agassiz ReStore in Moorhead (serving Fargo‑Moorhead) sells furniture and building materials at a discount and offers pickup for large donations—hours are typically Tue–Fri 10–6 and Sat 10–4; call 218‑284‑5253. For quick free finds, join a local Freecycle or Buy Nothing group and post an “ISO” list (bed, dresser, pots, towels) with your cross‑streets for safe porch pickups. (lakeagassizhabitat.org)
Bismarck & Mandan: best first steps
Walk‑in or call the Community Action Program Region VII Clothing Closet for free clothing, household goods and available furniture on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; ask about special help if you’re leaving an unsafe home or have a medical need. Pair that with a call to St. Vincent de Paul – Bismarck at 1‑701‑222‑8011 for a confidential needs meeting; volunteers can provide targeted material aid or a voucher. For clothing and basics, Heaven’s Helpers Closet 701 runs a free “shopping” experience and seasonal drives; for low‑cost furniture, Heaven’s Helpers Re‑Purpose Store sells donated items and offers paid delivery. (cap7.com)
Grand Forks & East Grand Forks: best first steps
Call St. Joseph’s Social Care at 1‑701‑795‑8614 and ask for a furniture/household voucher redeemable at their thrift store; they also provide emergency support and pantry basics. Check the Salvation Army Family Store for voucher availability and low‑cost furniture; call 1‑701‑775‑2597 to ask about eligibility. Newly arrived refugees can get fully furnished units through Global Friends Coalition—they coordinate move‑ins and collect household kits—so ask your case manager or contact the office for welcome box items or furniture. (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)
Minot & the surrounding region: best first steps
Schedule the Project BEE Career Closet and Basic Needs Pantry for free household essentials (linens, small kitchenware, hygiene). For clothing and low‑cost items, check ReStore Thrift (Rehab Services Inc.) and Goodwill Minot; for victims of violence, call the Domestic Violence Crisis Center crisis line at 1‑701‑852‑2258 to access relocation and basic needs support. Families fostering children can also contact the CASO Foster Care Closet highlighted by local news for clothing and items during transitions. (projectbeend.org)
Williston, Dickinson, and rural western counties: best first steps
Ask Community Action Partnership—Dickinson/Williston Regions about clothing/household rooms and voucher partnerships; they cover 10 western counties. In Williston, the Salvation Army Family Store offers case‑by‑case pick‑ups and may provide store vouchers—call 1‑701‑572‑2921 (services) or 1‑701‑572‑2217 (store) to check. Then scan Freecycle Bismarck‑Mandan and West Fargo Freecycle for no‑cost local pickups and post your needs list. (dickinsoncap.org)
By situation: the best first call or click
Your situation | Start here | Why this helps |
---|---|---|
Leaving abuse and need to set up a new place quickly | CAWS ND directory + YWCA Cass Clay | Advocates can fund emergency stays and often supply move‑in kits; YWCA helps furnish new units. (cawsnorthdakota.org) |
Exiting homelessness or just leased an apartment | CARES Coordinated Entry + CAP agencies | Coordinated Entry teams triage and link to rapid rehousing; CAPs have closets and kits. (ndcontinuumofcare.org) |
New American/refugee family | Global Friends Coalition + New American Consortium/WE Center | Local partners furnish apartments and help with household kits in Grand Forks/Fargo areas. (givingheartsday.org) |
Veteran mom (or spouse) | VA Fargo HCHV/HUD‑VASH + ND Dept. of Veterans Affairs | VA’s homeless programs and HUD‑VASH provide housing with setup support across ND. (va.gov) |
Baby due or newborn at home without a crib | Cribs for Kids (ND HHS) + your local public health unit (e.g., Bismarck‑Burleigh) | Free Pack‑’n‑Play kits and safe‑sleep coaching statewide. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Disability or medical equipment need at home | NDAD – Equipment Loan Program + ND HHS Adaptive Equipment Services | Free 90‑day loans of durable medical equipment and long‑term assistive tech options. (ndad.org) |
Eligibility rules, how to apply, documents, and realistic timelines
Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley (Fargo area)
Most important step: Ask any approved partner agency to submit an online referral on your behalf to the Furniture Mission of the RRV; families cannot self‑refer. Partners include YWCA Cass Clay, SENDCAA, Presentation Partners in Housing, Fargo Housing and more. Bring your photo ID and lease or placement letter to your appointment. Expect to choose basics (beds, dressers, kitchen table, sofa, lamps); availability varies. The Mission has served thousands of families in its first five years, so book early and answer phone calls quickly to confirm your appointment. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your case manager to try another referral partner on the Mission’s list, search Freecycle and Buy Nothing groups for stop‑gap items, and shop low‑cost at the Lake Agassiz Habitat ReStore while you wait. (lakeagassizhabitat.org)
St. Joseph’s Social Care & Thrift (Grand Forks)
Most important step: Call St. Joseph’s Social Care at 1‑701‑795‑8614 and request a voucher for furniture and household items; staff also assist with emergencies and food. Bring ID and proof of address. Thrift store hours and pickup windows are posted on their site; plan ahead for delivery or pickup. (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask The Salvation Army Family Store at 1‑701‑775‑2597 for voucher screening and check Global Friends Coalition if you’re a new arrival placed by resettlement partners. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
Salvation Army store vouchers (various cities)
Most important step: Call your local Salvation Army family services to ask if furniture/household vouchers are available. In Grand Forks, call 1‑701‑775‑2597; in Williston, call 1‑701‑572‑2921 (services) or the store at 1‑701‑572‑2217 about same‑day options. Bring ID and your lease or shelter letter. Stock changes daily; arrive early. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a case manager or FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to search other voucher partners and church pantries near you. (myfirstlink.org)
Community Action clothing/household closets (multiple regions)
Most important step: Visit your regional Community Action Agency (e.g., CAP Region VII – Bismarck/Mandan; SENDCAA – Region V; CAP Dickinson/Williston). Ask about free household items, Energy Share for electric emergencies, and weatherization if you have approval for LIHEAP. Bring ID, proof of income, and your disconnect or move‑in paperwork. Note: Red River Valley Community Action announced it ceased daily operations on Aug. 15, 2025—call to confirm current referrals in Grand Forks County and ask CoC or 2‑1‑1 for alternatives. (commerce.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the ND CoC CARES access point or FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to connect you to other closets or church partners. (ndcontinuumofcare.org)
Baby items and cribs
Most important step: Request a free Pack‑’n‑Play through Cribs for Kids (ND HHS) via your local public health unit (for example Bismarck‑Burleigh Public Health or First District Health Unit – Minot). Bring photo ID and your expected due date or baby’s DOB. Many sites also stock a fitted sheet, pacifier and swaddle sack; supplies vary. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC clinic (statewide info via ND WIC) or your local domestic violence center via CAWS ND for safe sleep kits or emergency baby supplies. (fns.usda.gov)
Adaptive equipment and accessibility (for moms or kids with disabilities)
Most important step: Borrow durable medical equipment for free (up to about 90 days) from NDAD’s Healthcare Equipment Loan Program—they have offices in Grand Forks, Fargo, Minot, Bismarck, Williston and Dickinson. For longer‑term solutions or custom‑fit items (like shower chairs, bed rails, ramps), contact HHS Adaptive Equipment Services for low‑ or no‑cost loans and sliding‑fee options. (ndad.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to search other loan closets or VA Fargo HCHV/HUD‑VASH if the household includes a veteran. (va.gov)
“How do I stop a utility shutoff in North Dakota today?”
Do this first: call the HHS Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 and state you have a “heating or electricity emergency.” Ask what documents they need for a LIHEAP crisis decision (bill, shutoff notice, proof of income) and whether your case can be expedited. Use the LIHEAP page to see current income limits and year‑round application options. If electric is not your primary heat, ask your CAP agency about “Energy Share” emergency electric help with your LIHEAP approval notice. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Call your utility’s collections line and ask for a short‑term plan while your LIHEAP is pending. Ask about medical certification if a doctor can verify a life‑threatening need (fridge insulin, oxygen). Use FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to ask for local charities that help with deposits/arrears. (myfirstlink.org)
- Timelines: crisis LIHEAP decisions are prioritized; non‑crisis applications can take more time during peak season. Ask the Customer Support Center for the current estimated turnaround where you live, and document every call. The state accepts LIHEAP applications year‑round and lists 2024–25 income limits online; approved households may also access weatherization via CAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a supervisor callback at HHS, then contact your Human Service Zone to ask who handles escalations. If you’re facing homelessness from arrears, connect to the ND CoC CARES access point to explore prevention funds. (hhs.nd.gov)
Reality check
- Funding changes: Pandemic‑era rent stabilization and re‑housing supports are winding down in 2025; HHS closed some application windows and shifted households toward other programs. Expect more referrals and longer search times. Always ask about what’s funded this week, not last month. HHS updates explain current status, and NDHFA continues CoC‑funded homeless services. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Grand Forks county: Red River Valley Community Action ceased daily operations Aug. 15, 2025, so some services moved or paused. Use FirstLink 2‑1‑1 or CARES to find active alternatives. (rrvca.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not getting a referral: Some furniture banks only serve clients referred by partner agencies. Get a case manager (YWCA, CAP, Coordinated Entry) to send your referral to the Furniture Mission RRV before you shop for other items. YWCA Cass Clay can help in Fargo area. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
- Missing documents: Bring a photo ID, your lease or shelter letter, and any disconnect/eviction notices to every appointment. If applying for energy help, print the LIHEAP checklist and gather paystubs, childcare costs, and your heating bill. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Assuming next‑day delivery: Most programs rely on volunteers and scheduled warehouse days. Ask upfront about appointment windows and whether delivery is available or if you must arrange your own pickup; Habitat ReStore LAHFH lists pickup options, and St. Joseph’s Thrift posts pickup times. (lakeagassizhabitat.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Need | Fastest path | Backup |
---|---|---|
Free furniture (Fargo region) | Partner referral to Furniture Mission RRV | Buy Nothing + Habitat ReStore |
Voucher for household items (Grand Forks) | St. Joseph’s Social Care | Salvation Army vouchers |
Free clothing/household goods (Bismarck/Mandan) | CAP Region VII Closet | St. Vincent de Paul |
Baby crib | Cribs for Kids (ND HHS) | Local public health (e.g., Bismarck‑Burleigh) |
Energy shutoff | LIHEAP crisis help via 1‑866‑614‑6005 | FirstLink 2‑1‑1 for local stop‑gaps |
Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups to call
- Fargo/West Fargo/Moorhead: Furniture Mission of the RRV, YWCA Cass Clay, Presentation Partners in Housing, Lake Agassiz Habitat ReStore, Heirlooms Thrift & Gift. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
- Bismarck/Mandan: Community Action Program Region VII, St. Vincent de Paul – Bismarck, Heaven’s Helpers Closet 701, Re‑Purpose Store. (cap7.com)
- Grand Forks/East Grand Forks: St. Joseph’s Social Care & Thrift, Salvation Army Family Store, Global Friends Coalition (furnished units for new arrivals). (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)
- Minot/Ward County: Project BEE – Career Closet/Basic Needs, Domestic Violence Crisis Center (ask advocates for move‑in items), Goodwill Minot. (projectbeend.org)
- Williston/Dickinson/Western Counties: Community Action Partnership – Dickinson/Williston, Salvation Army Williston Family Store. (dickinsoncap.org)
Resources by region (fast directory)
Region | Primary contact(s) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Fargo/Cass | Furniture Mission RRV, YWCA Cass Clay, SENDCAA | Mission requires partner referral; YWCA can furnish supportive housing units. (furnituremissionrrv.org) |
Bismarck/Burleigh‑Morton | CAP Region VII Closet, SVdP Bismarck, Closet 701 | Free clothing/household items; case‑by‑case vouchers via SVdP. (cap7.com) |
Grand Forks | St. Joseph’s Social Care, Salvation Army Store, Global Friends Coalition | RRVCA announced closure of daily ops Aug 15, 2025; call for alternatives. (rrvca.com) |
Minot/Ward | Project BEE, DVCC Minot, thrift options (RSI ReStore Thrift, Goodwill Minot ) | Project BEE’s Basic Needs Pantry includes household items. (projectbeend.org) |
Williston/Dickinson and rural west | CAP Dickinson/Williston, Salvation Army Williston | Ask CAP for Energy Share and closets; SA has vouchers. (dickinsoncap.org) |
Tables of what to bring, hours, and timelines
Documents and proof you’ll usually need
Item | Why they ask | Where to get it |
---|---|---|
Photo ID | Confirms identity for vouchers/referrals | DMV/tribal ID; shelter ID letter |
Lease/shelter letter | Confirms you have a place to furnish | Lease printout; case manager letter |
Income proof (last 30 days) | Needed for LIHEAP/closets | Employer stub; SNAP/TANF notice |
Utility bill/shutoff notice | Needed for energy crisis help | Download from utility portal |
Baby DOB/due date | For crib programs | Hospital discharge or prenatal record |
Use the HHS LIHEAP checklist and keep electronic copies ready to upload through the state Self‑Service Portal or by email to applyforhelp@nd.gov. For closets and vouchers, your case manager can often email documents. (hhs.nd.gov)
Typical hours to know (always call to confirm)
Program | Typical hours | Tip |
---|---|---|
Furniture Mission RRV | Donation/appointments commonly Wed 10–5 | Arrange a truck/volunteers for pickup |
Lake Agassiz Habitat ReStore | Tue–Fri 10–6; Sat 10–4 | Call 218‑284‑5253 for pickup scheduling |
St. Joseph’s Thrift – GF | Store: M–F 11–6; Sat 10–5 | Schedule pickups on Mon/Wed after 1 PM |
Heirlooms Thrift & Gift | Mon–Fri 10–6; Sat 10–5 | Low‑cost, quality furniture and decor |
Hours change with staffing and donations; check each site before traveling. (lakeagassizhabitat.org)
Energy help path (quick flow)
Step | Who to call | Link |
---|---|---|
1. Report emergency | HHS Customer Support 1‑866‑614‑6005 | LIHEAP |
2. If electric not primary heat | Local CAP | Ask for “Energy Share” |
3. Short‑term plan with utility | Your utility’s collections desk | Ask for medical certification |
4. Find local help | FirstLink 2‑1‑1 | Text ZIP to 898‑211 |
The LIHEAP page explains crisis eligibility and year‑round applications. CAP agencies deliver weatherization and related supports for approved households. (hhs.nd.gov)
“I just got housed” — furnishing order of operations
Day | Action | Why |
---|---|---|
Day 0–1 | Ask your case manager to refer you to Furniture Mission RRV (Fargo) or request a St. Joseph’s voucher (GF) | Locks in your spot |
Day 1–2 | Join Freecycle and Buy Nothing; post list | Porch pickups fill gaps |
Day 2–5 | Call Habitat ReStore for low‑cost staples | Mattress frame, tools, etc. |
Day 2–7 | Ask CAP for cleaning kit, household room | Towels, cookware, linens |
Where vouchers are common
Location | Who issues | What you get |
---|---|---|
Grand Forks | St. Joseph’s Social Care; Salvation Army | Furniture/household item vouchers |
Williston | Salvation Army Family Services | Case‑by‑case vouchers |
Bismarck/Mandan | SVdP Bismarck | Targeted material aid |
Diverse Communities: targeted tips and resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Connect with YWCA Cass Clay for inclusive shelter and supportive housing that routinely equips apartments with essentials, and ask FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to locate affirming churches that provide household kits. For safety planning, use the national hotlines listed on CAWS ND and request an advocate who understands LGBTQ+ needs; many centers can provide toiletries and bedding. (ywcacassclay.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Borrow medical gear for free from NDAD’s Equipment Loan Program while HHS Adaptive Equipment Services fits longer‑term solutions (grab bars, shower chairs). Ask CAP agencies about accessibility modifications funded locally and request large‑print forms or TTY (711) when calling HHS. (ndad.org)
Veteran single mothers: The Fargo VA Health Care System – HCHV/HUD‑VASH covers Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, Dickinson, Williston, Minot, and Belcourt with housing supports; ask about move‑in necessities and transportation help. Combine this with Furniture Mission RRV via a VA social worker referral in Cass/Clay. (va.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: In Grand Forks, Global Friends Coalition finds housing and furnishes apartments; in Fargo, the New American Consortium/WE Center offers community support and can help collect essential kits. Ask case managers for a Furniture Mission RRV referral if you settle in the Fargo area. (givingheartsday.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Tribal programs can provide household supports and LIHEAP on reservations—see Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians LIHEAP notices and contact tribal social services; Standing Rock has WIC and FDPIR contacts listed by USDA FNS; Spirit Lake lists FDPIR and senior nutrition contacts at FNS. Ask your tribal TANF/General Assistance office about move‑in kits, and use CAWS ND for shelter connections that often include household goods on exit. (tmchippewa.com)
Rural single moms with limited access: Call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to ask for churches that deliver across county lines; for western counties, start with CAP Dickinson/Williston for closets and Energy Share. If you can’t get to a store, ask if a volunteer can hold items until your next trip or if deliveries are available (some groups arrange once‑a‑week truck runs). (dickinsoncap.org)
Single fathers: Most programs serve any parent with custody. Use HHS TANF cash toward household goods, and ask CAP for closets. If you are a veteran, reach out to VA HCHV/HUD‑VASH for housing+setup options. (hhs.nd.gov)
Language access: Ask for interpreters when calling HHS Customer Support or meeting with CAP agencies; public services can connect via language lines. Refugee partners like Global Friends and WE Center can also help with forms and translation. (givingheartsday.org)
Application Checklist (printable)
- Photo ID for you (and for any adult picking up items). Use the HHS contact page to ask about acceptable IDs.
- Lease, shelter letter, or housing verification. If placed by CoC, ask CARES to email your verification.
- Utility bill or disconnect notice for energy help. See LIHEAP page for crisis guidance.
- Income proof (last 30 days) or benefit notices (SNAP/TANF). Check TANF page for accepted proofs.
- Baby documentation (due date or birth record) if requesting Cribs for Kids.
- Referral contact info for programs requiring it (e.g., Furniture Mission RRV partners).
If your application gets denied
- Ask why, in writing: Request the denial reason and what specific document was missing. Use the appeal form noted on HHS pages (same process applies for LIHEAP) and keep copies of what you submit. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Fix and resubmit: If it’s a document issue, resend with clear photos or PDFs. Ask FirstLink 2‑1‑1 for a navigator who can scan and email if you don’t have a printer. (myfirstlink.org)
- Use alternatives while you wait: Visit a CAP closet, request a voucher through St. Joseph’s or Salvation Army, and post on Freecycle or Buy Nothing. (commerce.nd.gov)
FAQs (North Dakota‑specific)
- Can I use TANF cash to buy furniture and household items?
Yes. TANF is cash assistance and can be used for household goods. Ask your worker about Diversion if you’re in short‑term crisis, and remember TANF is separate from vouchers through St. Joseph’s or Salvation Army. (hhs.nd.gov) - What if I need furniture outside Cass/Clay?
Check your regional CAP agency for closets and ask nearby churches. In Bismarck/Mandan, try CAP Region VII’s Clothing Closet and SVdP Bismarck; in Williston, Salvation Army has vouchers. (cap7.com) - How long does it take to get furniture after a Furniture Mission referral?
Appointment timing depends on referrals, warehouse scheduling, and availability. Respond to calls fast and be flexible on pickup times. Furniture Mission RRV notes a partner referral is required before scheduling. (furnituremissionrrv.org) - Are there free cribs anywhere?
Yes—Cribs for Kids (ND HHS) with local public health (e.g., Bismarck‑Burleigh Public Health) can provide Pack‑’n‑Play kits to eligible moms. (hhs.nd.gov) - My electricity is getting shut off, but my main heat is gas. Who helps?
Apply for LIHEAP anyway and ask your CAP office about “Energy Share” with your LIHEAP approval letter; this can address emergency electric costs. (hhs.nd.gov) - I’m a veteran. Does VA help furnish housing?
VA Fargo HCHV/HUD‑VASH can assist with housing and may coordinate basic household needs through partners in Fargo, Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, Dickinson, Williston, Belcourt and more. Ask your VA social worker about community partners. (va.gov) - Where can I find free items online without paying?
Join Freecycle groups in your town and download the Buy Nothing app to ask for furniture, cookware, linens, and baby gear. Safety tip: arrange porch pickups in daylight. (freecycle.org) - Do Goodwill or thrift stores give vouchers?
Some do through partner agencies. Ask your caseworker if they have agreements with Easter Seals Goodwill ND or nearby thrifts, or call the store to ask about any agency voucher programs. You can always shop low‑cost at Goodwill Minot or Heirlooms Thrift & Gift. (esgwnd.org) - Is there help if I need ramps, shower chairs, or hospital beds?
Yes—borrow from NDAD’s HELP program and ask HHS Adaptive Equipment Services about long‑term options and delivery statewide. (ndad.org) - Who do I call if I can’t find any open programs?
Dial FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to search active resources by ZIP, or contact the HHS Customer Support Center to ask about state‑funded alternatives. If homeless or at risk, use CARES Coordinated Entry. (myfirstlink.org)
County‑specific notes and variations
- Cass/Clay: The Furniture Mission RRV serves roughly a 100‑mile radius of Fargo‑Moorhead by referral; YWCA Cass Clay also furnishes supportive housing units and posts needed items weekly. (furnituremissionrrv.org)
- Burleigh/Morton: CAP Region VII hosts a free Clothing Closet with some furniture/household available; Heaven’s Helpers Closet 701 offers free clothing. (cap7.com)
- Grand Forks County: With RRVCA closing daily operations as of Aug. 15, 2025, lean on St. Joseph’s, The Salvation Army, and Global Friends for furniture and basic goods. (rrvca.com)
- Ward County: Project BEE runs a Basic Needs Pantry and Career Closet; foster families can ask local closets highlighted by news for clothing and essentials during placement. (projectbeend.org)
Tips that save time and money
- Bring a measuring tape and door widths to every pickup, and keep bungee cords, a sheet, and a small tool kit in your trunk. Search Freecycle and Buy Nothing for dollies and moving straps before renting. (freecycle.org)
- Ask for delivery only if there’s a medical need; otherwise try to borrow a truck. Some stores like Heaven’s Helpers Re‑Purpose Store offer paid delivery in Bismarck‑Mandan. (repurposebismarck.com)
- Combine vouchers with discounts: shop Habitat ReStore for bed frames and tools, then redeem a St. Joseph’s voucher for small housewares—carry your voucher rules with you. (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)
Spanish summary — Resumen en español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
- Para ayuda inmediata, llame a FirstLink 2‑1‑1 (1‑701‑235‑7335 o 2‑1‑1) para ubicar cuartos de ropa, vales de muebles y ayuda local; para violencia doméstica busque CAWS North Dakota (1‑888‑255‑6240). (myfirstlink.org)
- Para evitar corte de luz/calefacción, llame al Centro de Soporte de HHS 1‑866‑614‑6005 y pida ayuda de crisis de LIHEAP; si su calefacción principal no es eléctrica, pregunte a su Agencia Community Action por “Energy Share.” (hhs.nd.gov)
- Para muebles gratis en Fargo y alrededores pida una referencia de su trabajadora social a Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley; en Grand Forks pida un vale en St. Joseph’s Social Care o Salvation Army. Para cunas/Pack‑’n‑Play use Cribs for Kids (HHS). (furnituremissionrrv.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- North Dakota Health and Human Services (LIHEAP/TANF/benefits pages). (hhs.nd.gov)
- Community Action Agencies Directory (ND Dept. of Commerce). (commerce.nd.gov)
- North Dakota Continuum of Care / CARES and ND Housing Finance Agency. (ndcontinuumofcare.org)
- FirstLink 2‑1‑1 (statewide resource and crisis lines). (myfirstlink.org)
- CAWS North Dakota (state coalition for domestic/sexual violence). (cawsnorthdakota.org)
- Furniture Mission RRV and St. Joseph’s Social Care (local furnishing/voucher providers). (furnituremissionrrv.org)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced under our Editorial Standards using official sources, updated regularly, but it is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note: despite careful verification, errors may occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we will respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance. Program rules, funding, and availability change frequently. Always confirm current rules, documents, and hours with the agency or organization before traveling or applying. Use safety precautions when picking up items from private parties.
🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota
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- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
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- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
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- ⚡ Utility Assistance
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- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery