Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows you fast, real‑world ways to get beds, tables, dishes, and basic home goods in West Virginia. It also covers crisis help after a fire or flood, and how to stretch state and federal programs to free up money for home setup.
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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call 211 now: Ask for “furniture vouchers, household goods, or emergency basic needs.” Tell the specialist you are a single mom, share your county, and ask for same‑week help. Try both the short dial and the toll‑free line if needed. Use West Virginia 211 and the state’s description page for WV 211. (wv211.org)
- Stop any utility shutoff first: Ask your electric/gas/water company for a “deferred payment plan” and request winter/medical protections. If they refuse, call the Public Service Commission (PSC) Consumer Affairs at 1-800-642-8544 and ask for help negotiating a plan. Learn your rights in PSC rules and summaries at PSC consumer assistance. (psc.state.wv.us)
- If disaster damaged your home: Apply to FEMA today. Grants can cover beds, room furnishings, appliances, and essentials. Use DisasterAssistance.gov and call 1-800-621-3362. Check WV Emergency Management Division updates for your county. (fema.gov)
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Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Furniture and baby basics: Call Gabriel Project of WV at 304-205-5865 for cribs, car seats, diapers; confirm your nearest site. Check WV WIC apply page for formula support. (gabrielwv.org)
- State human services and local offices: Use WV Department of Human Services (DoHS) – Field Offices to find your county phone number. See DoHS home for program links. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Utility bill grants (last‑resort): Check Dollar Energy Fund – WV and WV American Water H2O Help to Others for grant windows and amounts. (dollarenergy.org)
- Disaster help & shelter: Call the American Red Cross Central Appalachia at 1-800-RED‑CROSS. For local unmet needs in disasters, contact WV VOAD at 304-553-0927. (redcross.org)
- Client services hotline (DoHS): Call DoHS Client Services at 1-800-642-8589 for benefit questions and office help. Also apply on WV PATH. (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Who This Is For and How to Use It
This hub is built for single mothers who need basic furniture and household items fast. Each section starts with the most direct action. Every paragraph includes descriptive links so you can open the exact page you need.
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How to Get Free or Low‑Cost Furniture Fast in West Virginia
Start with programs that regularly place couches, tables, and beds. Then layer in church‑run vouchers and community swaps. Always call first; stocks change daily.
- Ask 211 for a “furniture voucher” referral: The specialist can search their statewide database for agencies in your ZIP. Save both the main line and the text option (text your ZIP to 898‑211). Use WV 211 contact and the state’s DoHS WV 211 explainer. (wv211.org)
- Check local ministries and community action: Many offer thrift vouchers you can redeem for furniture and kitchen items. In the Kanawha/Putnam area, ask for “furniture vouchers” at Heart + Hand Outreach Ministries and call 1-304-342-0029; they serve several communities. Statewide, find your agency via WV Community Action Partnership – Find Your Agency. (hhomwv.org)
- Union Mission, Mountain Mission, and Salvation Army: In the Charleston area, ask Union Mission about furniture availability and referrals, and check Mountain Mission thrift locations for pickup options. For disaster or domestic‑violence referrals, call The Salvation Army — Charleston WV Social Services and ask about “furniture and household items by referral.” (unionmission.com)
- Use community gifting networks: Join your area group and post a “Needed: bunk bed, twin mattresses, pots, and pans” request with your cross streets. Try Freecycle – Charleston and Buy Nothing Project. (freecycle.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for other “basic needs” agencies within 25 miles and request same‑week vouchers or delivery options. Try Community Resources, Inc. (Parkersburg) — Thrive for household goods support, or contact your DoHS field office by county and request “Emergency Assistance” for household supplies after a verified crisis. (cricap.org)
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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
When the lights or gas are at risk, stabilize utilities first. Utilities will often give better payment terms once you start a plan and apply for help.
- Call your utility and ask for a “deferred payment agreement”: WV rules require a standard 12‑month plan to catch up on arrears. You must also keep current bills paid. If talks stall, call the PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-642-8544 and request help; you get seven days of protection while PSC reviews your request. See detailed rules on deferred payment in WV water rule excerpts. (psc.state.wv.us)
- Use LIEAP/E‑LIEAP and special discounts: Apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) for regular heating help each winter, and E‑LIEAP for emergencies with a shutoff notice (dates vary by year). For FY2025, LIEAP used 60% of State Median Income guidelines; emergency windows opened again July 28–Aug 8, 2025. Start at Bureau for Family Assistance—LIEAP and check announcements from DoHS news. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Ask about medical and seasonal shutoff protections: If someone in your home has a serious medical condition, your doctor can file a medical certificate to delay shutoff (renewals may apply). During winter months, extra protections may apply under state rules and PSC practices. Use LIHEAP Clearinghouse — state disconnect policies and the PSC’s complaint page for help. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Apply for last‑resort utility grants: Check program status and “sincere payment” rules. Dollar Energy Fund grants in WV often help with AEP/ApCo, Mon Power/Potomac Edison, Hope/Mountaineer Gas, and WV American Water when funding is open. See Dollar Energy WV and WV American Water H2O Help to Others. (dollarenergy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File an informal complaint and ask PSC to help you set a 12‑month plan while you apply for LIEAP or Dollar Energy. Use PSC informal complaint form and, if needed, call 1-800-642-8544 for urgent shutoff issues. Also ask your local Community Action Agency to submit a Dollar Energy application on your behalf. (psc.state.wv.us)
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Quick Table — Utility Help Options and What They Cover
| Program | What you can get | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIEAP (regular) | Heating payment to utility or you | Income within FY guidelines; responsible for heat | Apply via BFA LIEAP or WV PATH during the seasonal window. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| E‑LIEAP (crisis) | Fast help if shutoff is pending/off | Same as LIEAP + shutoff notice/low fuel | Watch DoHS news and local press dates. (dhhr.wv.gov) |
| 20% Utility Discount | 20% off gas, winter electric, year‑round water | On SNAP age 60+, or SSI 18+, or WV WORKS | Ask your county office via DoHS field offices. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| Dollar Energy Fund | One‑time grant to stop shutoff/restore | Income and payment history vary by utility | Apply through Dollar Energy WV or agency. (dollarenergy.org) |
| WV American Water H2O | Up to 350twiceperyear(350 twice per year (700/year) | Income ≤ 200% FPL + payment minimums | Check H2O Help to Others. (amwater.com) |
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Fire, Flood, or Domestic Violence — Replacing Furniture and Essentials Now
If your home was damaged or you fled with nothing, use disaster and survivor‑focused programs to rebuild basic household goods.
- Apply to FEMA: Grants can cover essential contents like beds, room furnishings, and appliances when not covered by insurance. Call 1-800-621-3362, or apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. Check WV Emergency Management Division for active counties and DRCs. (fema.gov)
- Get immediate disaster help: The American Red Cross Central Appalachia can arrange short‑term assistance and referrals; call 1-800-RED‑CROSS. For local rebuilding coalitions and unmet needs, contact WV VOAD or ask 211 to connect you. (redcross.org)
- If you are leaving abuse: Domestic‑violence programs can help with rapid rehousing and basic setup items. In Charleston, call YWCA Resolve/Sojourner’s Shelter and ask about transition supports; many programs accept small furniture donations for rehoused families. If you are in Wheeling, the YWCA Wheeling accepts furniture for their residents and transitional units. (ywcacharleston.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑check your county’s FEMA status and deadlines on current press advisories from FEMA Region 3 and WVEMD news. Ask 211 to locate a Disaster Recovery Center or to find churches providing “Welcome Home” kits. In Kanawha, the Kanawha Valley Collective — Welcome Home Program supplies new household item kits for newly housed families. (fema.gov)
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State Programs That Can Indirectly Pay for Furniture
These benefits free up your cash so you can pick up a used bed or cookware, and some programs can cover household supplies after a crisis.
- Emergency Assistance (DoHS): This program can cover short‑term emergencies, including rent, utilities, food, household supplies, and clothing, for one 30‑day period in any 12 months. Apply at your county office listed on DoHS field offices and read the program page at Bureau for Family Assistance — Emergency Assistance. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- WV WORKS (TANF) cash: Monthly cash and short‑term supports help with basics while you work on income. It can bridge you to a furniture pick‑up or thrift voucher. Use BFA – WV WORKS and apply on WV PATH. (bfa.wv.gov)
- LIHEAP Repair & Replace (RRP) for unsafe HVAC: When your home has a non‑operable or unsafe heating/cooling unit and you have a young child, senior, or disabled person in the home, RRP can repair or replace systems and sometimes free up your budget for other household needs. See the state’s RRP page at WV CAD – LIHEAP Repair and Replace and check BFA LIEAP for season dates. (wvcad.org)
- WIC (formula and baby foods): WIC can offset grocery and formula costs, freeing cash for a crib or cookware. Apply or check eligibility at WV WIC — Apply and review food benefits at WIC Foods. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker about diversionary WV WORKS help, check for LIEAP supplemental payments in the news (these sometimes appear late in the season), and re‑apply during the next window. Watch DoHS news releases and local updates like WSAZ LIEAP supplemental. (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Table — State Programs at a Glance for Single Moms
| Program | What it helps | Typical timeline | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Assistance (EA) | Short burst for rent, utilities, food, household supplies | 3–10 business days; ask for urgent review | BFA – Emergency Assistance and your county field office. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| WV WORKS (TANF) | Ongoing cash; work supports | Varies; 30 days typical after complete app | BFA – WV WORKS and WV PATH. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| LIEAP/E‑LIEAP | Heat crisis and winter fuel | Crisis decisions can be same‑day to 48 hours | BFA – LIEAP and DoHS news. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| LIHEAP RRP | Repair/replace unsafe HVAC | Seasonal; faster in summer cooling window | WV CAD – RRP and Community Action locator. (wvcad.org) |
| WIC | Formula, baby foods, produce | 1–2 weeks after intake | WV WIC Apply and WIC clinics. (dhhr.wv.gov) |
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Baby and Toddler Gear: Cribs, Car Seats, Diapers, and Safety
- Gabriel Project of WV: Portable cribs (Pack ’n Plays), convertible car seats, formula, diapers, and more for children under age 2. Call the State Office at 304‑205‑5865 for your nearest site. Use Gabriel Project locations and follow updates on their Facebook page. (gabrielwv.org)
- Cribs for Kids and hospital safe‑sleep partners: Several WV hospitals and health departments participate; ask your birth hospital or county health department about safe‑sleep classes that provide a Pack ’n Play. See WVU Medicine – Jefferson Medical Center Safe Sleep and the national program at Cribs for Kids. (wvumedicine.org)
- Diapers and hygiene: Ask 211 for diaper banks in your county. In Charleston and nearby counties, contact Diaper Drop Charities and ask agencies to place a referral. Also check Covenant House service center for diapers and hygiene items. (fivepromises.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician or WIC clinic about local safe‑sleep classes that include a cribette, and request a written referral to a partner charity. Use WV WIC Apply and call WV 211 back to search again under “maternity and baby supplies.” (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Community Sources: Churches, Thrift Vouchers, and Reuse
- Heart + Hand Outreach (Kanawha/Putnam): Offers furniture, clothing, and household vouchers when you meet with a caseworker and live in their service area. Start at Heart + Hand – Social Services and save their donation scheduling line to ask about furniture pickup. Use Heart + Hand donate info for furniture donation rules (helps restock). (hhomwv.org)
- Union Mission and Mountain Mission (Charleston): Ask about thrift‑store vouchers and in‑kind help in crisis cases. Check Union Mission Thrift Store and contact the main office at 1‑304‑925‑0366. Verify Mountain Mission thrift locations via Mountain Mission Thrift Store listing. (unionmission.com)
- Goodwill voucher programs: Some Goodwill regions in North‑Central WV provide store vouchers to partner nonprofits or through case managers. Ask your caseworker to request a Goodwill “Give Back” voucher. See Goodwill NCWV — Give Back Program and Goodwill Welcome Center. (goodwillncwv.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul & Salvation Army: Many local conferences and stores provide furniture vouchers during home visits or with partner referrals. In Wheeling, contact the St. Vincent de Paul store and call 304‑242‑8868 to ask about assistance; in Charleston, see Salvation Army — Social Services. (mapquest.com)
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Low‑cost furniture and housewares; sometimes donate unsold items to partners. Confirm your nearest store: Habitat ReStore – Charleston & Teays Valley and ReStore – Eastern Panhandle. (charlestonwvrestore.org)
- Freecycle and Buy Nothing: Post detailed needs with sizes and your available pickup times. Use Freecycle – Charleston or Morgantown Freecycle, and the Buy Nothing app. (freecycle.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local Community Action Agency for a thrift voucher or a partner referral. If you’re in Parkersburg/Wood, ask Community Resources—Thrive about off‑the‑shelf household supplies while you search. (wvcap.org)
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Table — Where to Find Specific Items
| Item | Try these first | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | Heart + Hand, Union Mission, Freecycle | Ask for vouchers. Always inspect for bedbugs; request photos before pickup. (hhomwv.org) |
| Cribs/Car seats | Gabriel Project of WV, hospital Safe Sleep | Bring baby’s due date or birth cert. Some locations require short class. (gabrielwv.org) |
| Cookware/dishes | Habitat ReStore, Goodwill vouchers | ReStores often have durable cookware; vouchers stretch budgets. (charlestonwvrestore.org) |
| Diapers/wipes | Covenant House, WV 211 | Ask for “diaper bank” search if one pantry is out. (wvcovenanthouse.org) |
| Small appliances | Habitat ReStore – East Panhandle, Buy Nothing | Post sizes; confirm cords and safety before pickup. (habitatep.org) |
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Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your caseworker for affirming services and privacy protections during home visits. For advocacy and referrals, contact Fairness West Virginia and ask 211 to filter partners by “inclusive services.” For DV housing and safe setup, connect with YWCA Resolve/Sojourner’s. Accessibility and privacy notes: ask for initials only on donation lists and request appointments during staffed hours. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When calling agencies, ask for large‑print forms or phone application options. Access TTY/relay support via WV Relay Service and the direct service site West Virginia Relay. For court matters needing interpreters, note the judiciary’s interpreter process at Access to Justice — WV Courts. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask for “SSVF general housing stability items” when working with community action partners that run the VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families in your county. Start at WVCAP SSVF and the state WV Department of Veterans Assistance for coordinated entry phones. Accessibility notes: ask for gas cards or moving cost help if you need to travel to pick up furniture. (wvcap.org)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can apply for most local charity help regardless of status. Use WV 211 and request language assistance. For federal disaster filings, FEMA supports multilingual help; call 1‑800‑621‑3362. See FEMA assistance contact. Accessibility note: ask for interpreter at intake and written instructions to take home. (wv211.org)
- Tribal members living in WV: For health and support navigation, contact the Nashville Area of the Indian Health Service which covers West Virginia, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Eastern Region. Use IHS Nashville — Contact and BIA Eastern Region contact. Accessibility note: ask for culturally responsive services and local referrals. (ihs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited transport: Ask every agency, “Do you deliver? Do you have volunteers for pickup?” Try Freecycle posts with “porch pickup” requests and call WV 211 to locate churches that deliver. For utilities, handle plans by phone and PSC; use PSC complaint info. (freecycle.org)
- Single fathers: Most programs listed here are household‑based. Use the same steps with 211 and caseworkers. For quick vouchers, check Heart + Hand Social Services and Goodwill voucher programs. Accessibility note: bring proof of custody when asking for baby items. (hhomwv.org)
- Language access: When you call any state agency, say “Interpreter please.” For hearing or speech barriers, dial 711 or use numbers on WV Relay. Many disaster and court processes provide language services; review WV Courts Access to Justice. (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Resources by Region — Where to Start Locally
- Charleston & Kanawha Valley: Ask Heart + Hand Outreach for furniture/household vouchers and Union Mission Thrift for items. For rehousing kits, contact KVC Welcome Home through an HMIS‑partner agency. (hhomwv.org)
- Huntington & Cabell/Wayne: Check the Tri‑State Habitat ReStore — Huntington for low‑cost furniture. For state office support, find your county DoHS on field offices list and ask about Emergency Assistance. (hahabitat.org)
- Morgantown & Monongalia: Use Morgantown Freecycle for free picks and contact WV 211 for thrift vouchers nearby. If flooded this year, check FEMA county listings via FEMA WV 2025. (freecycle.org)
- Wheeling & Northern Panhandle: Call the St. Vincent de Paul store about assistance and voucher processes, and check YWCA Wheeling for household support to survivors. Use CHANGE, Inc. via WVCAP for county services. (mapquest.com)
- Eastern Panhandle (Martinsburg/Berkeley/Jefferson): Visit the Habitat ReStore — Eastern Panhandle for furniture and ask your hospital about Safe Sleep classes. Contact your DoHS field office to confirm Emergency Assistance eligibility. (habitatep.org)
- Beckley/Raleigh & Southern Coalfields: Call Raleigh County Community Action Association for local programs and ask about household items. Use WV 211 for churches offering vouchers and deliveries. (rccaa.org)
- Bluefield/Princeton (Mercer) & McDowell/Wyoming/Mingo: If you had flood damage, recheck FEMA timeframes for your county and ask about personal property aid. Use FEMA WV DR‑4861 and call 1‑800‑621‑3362. For veteran moms, ask WVCAP SSVF to cover basic setup items. (fema.gov)
- Parkersburg & Mid‑Ohio Valley: Contact Community Resources, Inc. — Thrive for emergency supplies and case management. Use WV 211 to find any regional furniture banks or voucher partners. (cricap.org)
- Clarksburg/Bridgeport (Harrison/Lewis): Reach out to Central WV Community Action for local assistance and ask 211 about furniture voucher partners. Confirm ReStore options in nearby counties using Habitat ReStore lists. (centralwvaction.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county’s DoHS office for a written list of “community resource partners” and call each one the same day. Re‑call WV 211 and ask them to expand the search radius to 50 miles. (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing no documents: Most voucher programs still ask for ID and proof of address. Keep a small folder ready. Confirm what to bring on DoHS field office listings and ask 211 to verify each charity’s intake rules at WV 211. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Not asking about delivery: Many moms skip items because they can’t haul them. Always ask, “Do you have volunteers or partner delivery?” Try Union Mission Thrift for larger items and post in Buy Nothing for someone with a truck. (unionmission.com)
- Ignoring utility rights: If you get a shutoff notice, ask for a 12‑month plan and call PSC if needed. Start with PSC consumer page and review deferment rules in state regulations. (psc.state.wv.us)
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Reality Check — Funding Gaps and Delays
Reality Check: Furniture stocks change daily at church pantries and thrift partners. Always call before you go, and bring a Plan B. Back‑up sources include Freecycle and Habitat ReStores. (freecycle.org)
Reality Check: Utility grants open and close during the year. Programs like Dollar Energy Fund may show “funds exhausted” for some utilities until the next cycle. Always apply for LIEAP and ask your utility for a payment plan first. (dollarenergy.org)
Reality Check: Disaster aid windows are strict. Check current county declarations and deadlines on FEMA WV pages and WVEMD news updates before you assume a benefit exists. (fema.gov)
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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- One number for referrals: WV 211 — dial 211 or 1‑833‑848‑9905, text ZIP to 898‑211. Ask for “furniture & household vouchers.” (wv211.org)
- State benefits online: WV PATH — apply for LIEAP, WV WORKS, and more. Confirm office addresses via DoHS field offices. (learning-public.wvpath.wv.gov)
- Utility shutoff issues: PSC Consumer Affairs — 1‑800‑642‑8544. Ask for a 12‑month plan and note medical protections. (psc.state.wv.us)
- Disaster help: FEMA assistance, 1‑800‑621‑3362; Red Cross Central Appalachia. (fema.gov)
- Veteran families: WVCAP SSVF for move‑in and household setup. WV Dept. of Veterans Assistance for contacts. (wvcap.org)
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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID: State ID, driver’s license, or school ID. Get office info at DoHS field offices. Use WV 211 if you need ID clinics. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Proof of address: Lease, mail, or current bill. If displaced, request a letter from Red Cross or your shelter such as YWCA Sojourner’s. (redcross.org)
- Proof of children in home: Birth certificates or school letters. Ask DoHS Client Services if missing documents. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Income proof (if asked): Pay stubs, benefit letters. For LIEAP/WV WORKS, start on WV PATH. (learning-public.wvpath.wv.gov)
- Shutoff/termination notice: Required for E‑LIEAP or utility grants. See E‑LIEAP announcement and Dollar Energy WV. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Referral from case manager: Needed for some furniture banks or “Welcome Home” kits; ask your Community Action Agency. For veterans, ask SSVF. (wvcap.org)
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If Your Application Gets Denied — Troubleshooting
- Ask for the rule in writing: For DoHS benefits, you have a right to a fair hearing; deadlines apply. Use BFA LIEAP page to review rights and call DoHS Client Services at 1‑800‑642‑8589. (bfa.wv.gov)
- For utility plans: If a utility won’t offer a reasonable plan, call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑642‑8544. If needed, file a formal complaint; PSC resolves many informal cases within 30 days. (psc.state.wv.us)
- For disaster claims: Recheck your FEMA portal and upload missing proofs. If deadlines passed but your county just got added, review updated notices at FEMA WV pages and call the helpline. (fema.gov)
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County‑Specific Notes That Often Matter
- Kanawha/Putnam/Boone/Fayette: Heart + Hand regularly issues household/furniture vouchers for residents in their service area; call to verify stock. See Heart + Hand Social Services and ask about Dollar Energy intake. (hhomwv.org)
- Mercer/McDowell/Mingo/Wyoming/Logan/Wayne: 2025 storms brought FEMA help in phases; if you missed a window earlier this year, call FEMA now to confirm your county’s status and late options via FEMA WV DR‑4861. Pair with WV 211 for furniture leads. (fema.gov)
- Berkeley/Jefferson: ReStore inventory changes weekly; always call ahead. Review hours at Habitat EP ReStore and safe‑sleep options at WVU Medicine — Jefferson. (habitatep.org)
- Wood/Pleasants/Ritchie/Wirt: Community Resources’ “Thrive” can bridge you with cleaning and household basics while you wait on a voucher. Use CRI Thrive and WV 211 for other partners. (cricap.org)
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Question‑Based How‑Tos (Search‑Intent Quick Answers)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
Call your utility and ask for a 12‑month deferred payment plan. Then apply for LIEAP/E‑LIEAP and a Dollar Energy grant if open. If you hit any roadblocks, call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑642‑8544 and ask them to mediate a plan. Start at BFA LIEAP and Dollar Energy WV. (psc.state.wv.us)
Where Can I Get Free Baby Furniture in WV This Week?
Check Gabriel Project of WV for cribs and car seats, and ask hospital safe‑sleep programs for Pack ’n Plays. If you’re in crisis, call 211 and ask for baby supply referrals. See WV WIC apply for formula support. (gabrielwv.org)
Who Delivers Furniture to Low‑Income Families?
Ask Heart + Hand, Union Mission, and any 211‑listed churches about volunteer deliveries. Also post in Buy Nothing requesting help with pickup. Confirm with Union Mission Thrift if staff can help load. (buynothingproject.org)
Can FEMA Replace My Beds and Appliances?
If your county is declared and losses aren’t covered by insurance, FEMA may cover room furnishings and appliances. Apply at 1‑800‑621‑3362 or DisasterAssistance.gov. (fema.gov)
Where Do I Find My County DoHS Office?
Use DoHS field offices by county for the phone, hours, and address. If you can’t travel, apply on WV PATH. (dhhr.wv.gov)
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Three More Helpful Tables
Table — Fastest Furniture Leads by Situation
| Situation | First call | Also try |
|---|---|---|
| Fleeing abuse | YWCA Sojourner’s | Salvation Army — Charleston (ywcacharleston.org) |
| Post‑flood | FEMA helpline | Red Cross Central Appalachia (fema.gov) |
| New lease, no furniture | Heart + Hand | Buy Nothing app (hhomwv.org) |
| New baby | Gabriel Project of WV | WV WIC (gabrielwv.org) |
Table — Timeline Expectations
| Program | Typical wait | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Agency furniture voucher | 1–7 days | Depends on stock; call daily. Use WV 211. (wv211.org) |
| LIEAP (regular) | 10–15 business days | Crisis may be faster. See BFA LIEAP. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| Dollar Energy | 3–10 business days | Only when funding is open. Check program page. (dollarenergy.org) |
Table — Who Can Help When Phones Are a Barrier
| Need | Resource | How to access |
|---|---|---|
| Relay calls (hearing/speech) | WV Relay Service | Dial 711 or numbers on the relay page; ask for Spanish if needed. (dhhr.wv.gov) |
| Spanish disaster help | FEMA helpline | Press 2 for Spanish; request interpreter. (fema.gov) |
| Court interpreters | WV Courts — Access to Justice | Call 304‑558‑0145 for sign language services. (courtswv.gov) |
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Real‑World Examples
- Kanawha mom rehousing: She called 211 and asked for furniture vouchers within 10 miles. She got a same‑week Heart + Hand voucher and filled in missing items with a Freecycle pickup. Use WV 211 and Heart + Hand. (wv211.org)
- Mercer renter after flood: She applied to FEMA the day her county opened and requested “other needs” for furnishings. She also asked WV VOAD for unmet needs. (fema.gov)
- Cabell utility catch‑up: She set a 12‑month plan, applied for LIEAP, and then got a Dollar Energy grant when funding opened. She started at BFA LIEAP and checked Dollar Energy WV updates. (bfa.wv.gov)
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Eligibility Rules, How to Apply, and Documents
- Eligibility basics: Most charities ask for ID, proof of address, and children in the household. For DoHS programs, check income guidelines and apply on WV PATH. Locate your office at DoHS field offices. (learning-public.wvpath.wv.gov)
- How to apply: Ask 211 for the exact intake times and any referral needed. For veterans, ask SSVF if “household setup” is eligible. Use WVCAP SSVF and WV 211. (wvcap.org)
- Required documents: Keep a folder with ID, lease or mail, birth certificates, income proof, and any disaster or shutoff notices. See BFA LIEAP for energy paperwork and DoHS emergency assistance for crisis supplies. (bfa.wv.gov)
Call to confirm current availability before applying; stocks, grant windows, and income limits change by season and county.
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10 Frequently Asked Questions (WV‑Specific)
- Can I get a free crib in WV without income proof?
Some sites like Gabriel Project do not require income proof, but items are subject to availability and age limits. Start at Gabriel Project of WV and ask your county health office about safe‑sleep classes that include a Pack ’n Play, such as Jefferson Medical Center Safe Sleep. (gabrielwv.org) - My power has a shutoff date — what do I say?
Say: “I want a 12‑month deferred payment agreement” and “I’m applying for LIEAP and Dollar Energy today.” If they refuse, call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑642‑8544. (psc.state.wv.us) - Is there a winter shutoff moratorium?
Protections exist for qualifying customers, plus medical protections all year. The PSC enforces notice and payment plan rules. Check LIHEAP Clearinghouse — state policies and call the PSC to confirm your status. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov) - Who helps after a fire?
Red Cross can assist immediately; FEMA can cover essential household items after declared disasters. Use American Red Cross Central Appalachia and FEMA WV updates. (redcross.org) - Can Community Action give furniture?
Some agencies provide vouchers or partner referrals; availability varies. Start at WVCAP agency locator and ask 211 for the closest partner with stock. (wvcap.org) - I’m a veteran mom — can SSVF help with beds?
SSVF can assist with general housing stability items when rehousing or preventing homelessness. Ask your local SSVF team. Use WVCAP SSVF and state Veterans Assistance contacts. (wvcap.org) - Where do I apply online for state help?
Apply for LIEAP, WV WORKS, and more on WV PATH. Find your local office on DoHS field offices. (learning-public.wvpath.wv.gov) - What if I can’t lift or transport furniture?
When you call, say “I need delivery or volunteer pickup.” Ask Heart + Hand and post on Buy Nothing for pickup help with a truck. (hhomwv.org) - Can WV American Water help with a past‑due bill?
Yes, through the H2O program grant of up to $350 twice a year, if open and you meet income and payment minimums. See WV American Water H2O. (amwater.com) - How do I find low‑cost furniture if nothing is free?
Check Habitat ReStores and watch for weekly sales. Use Freecycle to fill missing pieces for free. (charlestonwvrestore.org)
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What to Do If This Doesn’t Work
- Escalate with 211: Ask for a supervisor callback and request “expanded radius search” for furniture and household vouchers. Use WV 211 and note the names of agencies they provide. (wv211.org)
- Ask DoHS for a printed partner list: Visit your DoHS county office and ask for “community resource partners” that give vouchers or delivery. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Try regional swaps: Post in multiple nearby Buy Nothing communities if the app shows overlap, and search multiple Freecycle towns. (buynothingproject.org)
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Spanish — Resumen Rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
- Para ayuda inmediata, llame al WV 211 (marque 211 o 1‑833‑848‑9905) y pida “vales de muebles y artículos del hogar.” Para desastres, solicite a FEMA al 1‑800‑621‑3362. (wv211.org)
- Para facturas de servicios, pida un plan de pago de 12 meses y solicite LIEAP. Si la compañía no ayuda, llame a PSC al 1‑800‑642‑8544. Revise Dollar Energy si hay fondos. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Bebés y pañales: Llame a Gabriel Project of WV para cunas y asientos de auto; use WV WIC para fórmula. Pida bancos de pañales a 211. (gabrielwv.org)
- Encuentre su oficina local: Use DoHS oficinas por condado y aplique por internet en WV PATH. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Acceso al idioma y personas con discapacidad: Pida intérprete. Para TTY/voz, marque 711 (ver WV Relay). (dhhr.wv.gov)
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About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- WV Department of Human Services (DoHS)
- Bureau for Family Assistance — LIEAP & Emergency Assistance
- Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC)
- West Virginia 211
- Dollar Energy Fund — WV
- FEMA Region 3 WV disaster pages
- American Red Cross — Central Appalachia
- WV Community Action Partnership (WVCAP)
- WV WIC — Apply
- Gabriel Project of WV
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
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Disclaimer
This content is for general information. Program rules change and vary by county and funding. Always confirm current eligibility, dates, and paperwork with the agency before you travel. Use caution when picking up used items; inspect for safety and cleanliness. For legal questions about utilities or housing, contact the Public Service Commission or ask WV 211 for a legal aid referral. (psc.state.wv.us)
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