Idaho Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help Box (fastest actions)

• Call or text 988 (Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline) for immediate help, safety planning, or to request a Mobile Response Team anywhere in Idaho — 24/7. Phone: 988. Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline: what to expect. (idahocrisis.org)
• Have Idaho Medicaid? Call Magellan (the state’s behavioral health plan) any time to get a therapist or psychiatrist, or to change providers. Phone: 855‑202‑0973 (TTY 711). Magellan of Idaho – for members. (magellanofidaho.com)
• Need a ride to counseling or psychiatry (Medicaid members)? Schedule Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) with MTM. Call at least two business days ahead. Phone: 877‑503‑1261. Idaho Medicaid NEMT page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, mtm-inc.net)
• Pregnant or postpartum and overwhelmed? Text or call the free Maternal Mental Health Hotline 24/7. Phone/Text: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262). HRSA’s Maternal Mental Health Hotline (official FAQ). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• No insurance or can’t afford care? Idaho’s 2‑1‑1 CareLine will search local sliding‑fee clinics, support groups, and crisis help. Dial 2‑1‑1 or 800‑926‑2588; Text 898211 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm MT). 2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Why this guide matters right now

• Idaho moved behavioral health care into a single statewide plan (Idaho Behavioral Health Plan, “IBHP”) administered by Magellan on July 1, 2024. This is where most Idaho Medicaid mental health services and many state‑funded non‑Medicaid services are coordinated. Members call: 855‑202‑0973. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Idaho now provides 12 months of postpartum Medicaid/CHIP coverage (approved by CMS Jan 17, 2025). If you had Medicaid during pregnancy, you’re covered a full year after the pregnancy ends. (medicaid.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• In 2023, 457 Idahoans died by suicide; Idaho’s rate was 1.6× the national average and ranked 4th highest that year—quick access to help is vital. Call/text 988 any time. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Crisis options you can use today

Table: Idaho crisis and urgent support (free, available statewide)

Reality check and tips

• Not every center has beds open at all times. Call 988 first to discuss the best option and to confirm availability. (idahocrisis.org)
• Stays are brief (up to 24 hours). You’ll leave with a plan and referrals—this is step one, not long‑term care. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask 988 to connect you directly to a crisis center staffer, or go to the nearest ER if you cannot stay safe. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Do you qualify for Medicaid mental health coverage?

Start here: If you (or your child) qualify for Idaho Medicaid, your counseling/psychiatry through Magellan’s network typically has $0 co‑pay. “If you have Medicaid, you will not have to pay anything when you visit a Magellan network provider.” (magellanofidaho.com)

• Apply online at idalink, by phone 877‑456‑1233, by mail/fax, or in person. Processing may take up to 45 days; respond quickly to any requests for proof. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• If transportation is a barrier, Medicaid covers rides to care via MTM 877‑503‑1261 (schedule at least two business days ahead). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, mtm-inc.net)

2025 Idaho Medicaid/CHIP income limits (monthly)

Table below shows common single‑parent household sizes. If pregnant, count the unborn child(ren) in your household size.

Official source: Idaho Medicaid Program Income Limits (effective Jan 2025). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Eligibility reminders

• Postpartum: Idaho now guarantees 12 months of continuous Medicaid/CHIP coverage after the pregnancy ends if you had Medicaid while pregnant (CMS approval Jan 17, 2025). (medicaid.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• Children under 21 on Medicaid can get extra medically necessary mental health services through EPSDT—this can exceed typical plan limits when a provider documents the need. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re denied or your case stalls beyond 45 days, call 877‑456‑1233 to check status, and consider filing an appeal (you generally have 30 days from the notice). Appeals & Fair Hearings. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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How to apply fast (step‑by‑step)

• Create or log in to your idalink account, or call 877‑456‑1233 to apply by phone. Gather ID, proof of income, housing costs, and immigration status if applicable. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Upload documents promptly. If you get a notice asking for more proof, respond before the deadline (missing docs are the #1 reason for delays). Processing can take up to 45 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Once approved, your Medicaid plan is chosen and you can call Magellan 855‑202‑0973 to pick a provider. (magellanofidaho.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask 2‑1‑1 (800‑926‑2588) for local application help or in‑person assistance at a DHW office near you: Find a DHW location. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Using your Idaho Medicaid mental health benefits

Most important action: call Magellan 855‑202‑0973 (24/7) to get matched, switch providers, ask about authorizations, or find in‑network telehealth. (magellanofidaho.com)

What’s covered

• Outpatient therapy, psychiatry, peer and recovery supports, crisis services, and many inpatient/residential services—all coordinated by Magellan under the Idaho Behavioral Health Plan. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• For Medicaid members: visits with an in‑network provider have no co‑pay for behavioral health services. (magellanofidaho.com)
• Telehealth is allowed by video and by audio‑only. Idaho Medicaid recognizes phone‑only in certain cases and allows providers located outside Idaho if they meet Idaho licensure and registration rules. Useful if you live rural or can’t travel. (cchpca.org, law.justia.com)
• Need a ride? Book NEMT at least two business days ahead with MTM 877‑503‑1261 (24/7 scheduling). (mtm-inc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you hit a roadblock with a provider, call Magellan member services. If your health plan denies a mental health service, you can appeal or—if it’s private insurance—file a complaint with the Idaho Department of Insurance: (208) 334‑4250 or (800) 721‑3272. DOI File a Consumer Complaint. (doi.idaho.gov)

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If you don’t qualify for Medicaid: low‑cost clinics with counseling

These nonprofit community health centers offer sliding‑fee behavioral health care. Call and ask for “behavioral health” or “counseling” appointments. Many offer telehealth and bilingual services.

Table: Sliding‑fee mental health clinics (selected)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 2‑1‑1 for more local options and waitlist workarounds, or ask clinics about same‑day “walk‑in behavioral health assessments.” (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Pregnancy & postpartum mental health (Idaho specifics)

Most important action: for emotional distress in pregnancy or after birth, text or call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) for free, 24/7 counselors who can connect you with local/telehealth care and support groups. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Key facts you can use

• Idaho Medicaid now covers pregnant members for pregnancy and 12 months postpartum (state plan approved by CMS effective Jan 1, 2025). If you had Medicaid while pregnant, you keep comprehensive coverage for the full year after the pregnancy ends. (medicaid.gov)
• Idaho’s pregnancy coverage requires you to meet monthly income limits (see table above), and the program explicitly includes postpartum care. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• If your OB or pediatric clinic screens you positive for depression or anxiety, ask them to send an electronic referral to a Magellan network therapist—appointments often open sooner when the clinic sends the referral directly. (magellanofidaho.com)
• For perinatal substance use, the Idaho Pregnant & Perinatal Opioid Support System (I‑PPOSS) builds rural peer support and care coordination. Ask 2‑1‑1 to locate services in your county. (c-who.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you lose coverage or were on non‑Medicaid insurance, appeal any mental‑health denial and ask your plan for the mental health parity documentation; you can also file a complaint with the Idaho Department of Insurance at (208) 334‑4250. (doi.idaho.gov)

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Children and teens: Youth Empowerment Services (YES)

Start here: If your child under 18 has a mental health diagnosis and struggles at home/school/community, ask for a YES functional assessment. Families up to 300% FPG can qualify for Medicaid‑funded YES; families above that may still qualify for services through the Division of Behavioral Health. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

How to start

• Schedule the CANS/functional assessment with Liberty Healthcare: 877‑305‑3469. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Call Magellan at 855‑202‑0973 for help finding a children’s therapist or psychiatrist and to ask about non‑Medicaid YES access if you’re over income. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• If it’s urgent, call or text 988. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Table: YES at a glance (2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Use the YES website to contact program staff and your regional supports, or file a YES concern. YES.Idaho.gov contacts and supports. (yes.idaho.gov)

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Telehealth from home (and across state lines)

• Idaho Medicaid covers real‑time video and many audio‑only behavioral health visits; phone‑only is allowed in defined cases. Out‑of‑state clinicians can treat Idaho patients via telehealth if they meet Idaho’s Virtual Care Access Act and mental/behavioral health rules (licensure or registration, Idaho standard of care). (cchpca.org, law.justia.com, legislature.idaho.gov)
• If broadband or privacy is a barrier, ask your clinic about phone‑only sessions and how to protect your privacy (headphones, parked car, or a clinic room). (cchpca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Request an in‑person appointment; ask about walk‑in assessment hours or same‑week openings (many FQHCs reserve some slots each week). (trhs.org)

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Transportation: getting to care

• Medicaid NEMT through MTM 877‑503‑1261 books rides 24/7; schedule at least two business days in advance (exceptions for urgent discharges). If your pickup is late, call the same number. Language interpreters are available for free. (mtm-inc.net)
• If you live far from town, ask MTM about mileage reimbursement or gas cards. (mtm-inc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call the MTM We Care line 866‑436‑0457 to file a complaint, then notify your clinic and Magellan so they can document access concerns. (mtm-inc.net)

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Insurance denials and your rights (parity)

• Idaho Department of Insurance can help when private plans deny mental health care or set stricter limits than medical/surgical care (parity). Consumer Affairs: (208) 334‑4250 or (800) 721‑3272; online complaint form available. (doi.idaho.gov, apps.doi.idaho.gov)
• For state employees, Idaho law requires parity for serious mental illness and serious emotional disturbance. (legislature.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• File an external review (timelines often ≤ 42 days; ≤ 72 hours if expedited) and then a DOI complaint. (coveragerights.org)

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Local support organizations (non‑crisis)

• Empower Idaho’s statewide resource page (links to NAMI Idaho, FindHelp, and more). Idaho behavioral health resources. (empoweridaho.org)
• NAMI (support groups, classes for families) — find your local NAMI Idaho affiliate via Empower Idaho’s link above. (empoweridaho.org)
• Idaho Youth Ranch (therapy and family services for youth). Idaho Youth Ranch. (empoweridaho.org)
• St. Luke’s “Help Is Here!” county‑by‑county mental health resource guides (English/Spanish). (stlukesonline.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Contact 2‑1‑1 to locate church‑based counseling, community support groups, and sliding‑fee options closest to you. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Diverse Communities: tailored Idaho resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• 988 offers specialized support; ask the counselor for LGBTQ‑affirming resources near you. For youth, Magellan can help locate affirming providers. Magellan 855‑202‑0973. (magellanofidaho.com)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child

• Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and EPSDT can cover needed behavioral health care and supports if income‑eligible. Check the current 2025 income/resource thresholds on the state page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Veteran single mothers

• Vet Centers provide confidential counseling at no cost (even if not enrolled in VA health care). After hours, call the Vet Center Call Center 877‑927‑8387. Boise Vet Center info: see VA page. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms

• DHW offers free interpreter services and auxiliary aids. Call 2‑1‑1 or 800‑926‑2588 to request language assistance and get referrals. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources

• Coeur d’Alene Tribe (Marimn Health Wellbriety & Behavioral Health): 208‑686‑0411. (marimnhealth.org)
• Shoshone‑Bannock Tribes Counseling & Family Services (Fort Hall): 208‑478‑4026; IHS Fort Hall Service Unit 208‑238‑5400. (sbtribes.com, ihs.gov)
• Kootenai Tribe of Idaho Health Clinic (behavioral health counselors): 208‑267‑5223. (kootenai.org)
• If you are a tribal member using Medicaid, you can still access Indian Health Service or Tribal clinics and coordinate with Magellan for specialty referrals. (magellanofidaho.com)

Rural single moms

• Use telehealth (video or audio‑only) if travel is hard—Idaho allows phone‑only in defined cases and out‑of‑state providers if compliant with Idaho rules. If bandwidth is limited, ask your clinic for a private room for tele‑visits. (cchpca.org, law.justia.com)

Single fathers and other caregivers

• Most programs above are household‑based. 2‑1‑1 and Magellan can connect any caregiver to services—use the same steps and numbers. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, magellanofidaho.com)

Language access

• DHW provides free interpreters and accessible formats. Call 2‑1‑1 or your clinic to request language services. For ASL interpreters, the Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing lists statewide resources. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, cdhh.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you face bias or barriers, ask for a patient advocate through your clinic or hospital, or file a civil rights complaint via DHW’s nondiscrimination office listed on its site. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Resources by region (adult walk‑in crisis centers)

• Region 1 (North): 208‑625‑4884 — Northern Idaho Crisis Center (Coeur d’Alene). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Region 2 (North‑Central): Rural Crisis Center Network — Moscow 208‑669‑2729; Lewiston 208‑748‑9846; Orofino 208‑400‑0799. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Region 3 (Southwest): 208‑402‑1044 — Western Idaho Community Crisis Center (Caldwell). (swdh.id.gov)
• Region 4 (Treasure Valley): 833‑527‑4747 — Pathways Community Crisis Center of SW Idaho (Boise). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Region 5 (Magic Valley): 208‑772‑7825 — Crisis Center of South Central Idaho (Twin Falls). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Region 6 (Southeast): 208‑909‑5177 — Southeast Idaho Behavioral Crisis Center (Pocatello). (seibcc.com)
• Region 7 (East): 208‑522‑0727 — Behavioral Health Crisis Center of East Idaho (Idaho Falls). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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State hospitals (last‑resort inpatient)

• State Hospital North (Orofino): 208‑476‑4511. Adult inpatient psychiatric care. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• State Hospital South (Blackfoot): 208‑785‑1200. Adult/adolescent psychiatric and skilled nursing. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• State Hospital West (Nampa): 208‑606‑7777. Adolescent psychiatric facility (ages 12–17). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Tip: admissions are typically via court/commitment or ER referral. If you think this level of care is needed, go to an ER or call 988 to discuss options. (idahocrisis.org)

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Application checklist (have these ready)

• Government ID (driver’s license or other ID).
• Proof of income (recent paystubs, child support, unemployment, benefits).
• Housing costs (rent/mortgage, utilities if requested).
• Immigration status documents if applicable.
• For kids: school contacts/IEP (if any) and names of current providers/meds.

Source: Idaho “Apply for Medicaid” pages. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long to schedule a ride. MTM needs two business days for routine rides. Urgents are allowed but can be harder to arrange. (mtm-inc.net)
• Skipping document requests. If DHW mails you a “verification needed” letter, the clock is ticking—missing the deadline can close your case. Typical processing can take up to 45 days. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Not appealing denials. You usually have 30 days to appeal a Medicaid denial or reduction—missing this kills your chance. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Sticking with a poor fit. You can switch Magellan network providers; call 855‑202‑0973 and ask for a new list. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Assuming telehealth requires video. Phone‑only may be covered; ask your provider. (cchpca.org)

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Real‑world examples

• Boise mom with postpartum anxiety: She texts 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, gets a same‑day list of local providers and a warm handoff to Magellan, who books a telehealth therapy visit for the next week. She schedules MTM rides for psychiatry later that month and doesn’t pay a co‑pay. (mchb.hrsa.gov, magellanofidaho.com, mtm-inc.net)
• Twin Falls mom whose 14‑year‑old can’t attend school: She calls 855‑202‑0973 to ask about YES, schedules her child’s functional assessment via Liberty (877‑305‑3469), and EPSDT allows extra therapy hours. She uses phone‑only therapy while waiting for in‑person. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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Quick tables you can screenshot

1. What to call for what

2. Medicaid timelines and tips

3. Income quick‑look (monthly, 2025)

4. Where to walk in during a crisis (adults)

5. Postpartum coverage & help

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Top content gaps we fixed (vs. what you’ll see on Google)

• Many pages still mention Optum Idaho; we verified the current contractor is Magellan (since July 1, 2024) and gave working numbers, provider search links, and 24/7 access. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Few guides include Idaho‑specific crisis center phone numbers by region—we listed them all and explained what to expect. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Most articles don’t show 2025 income limits or the postpartum 12‑month coverage approval date; we included current monthly dollar amounts and CMS approval details. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, medicaid.gov)
• Transportation is often missed—we added MTM’s 877‑503‑1261, scheduling window, and complaint line. (mtm-inc.net)
• For kids, access usually stops at “call your pediatrician.” We outlined concrete YES steps with phone numbers and income rules. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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FAQs (Idaho‑specific)

• How fast can I see someone through Magellan?
  • Call 855‑202‑0973 and ask for providers with soonest openings; if you’re in crisis, call 988. Magellan must maintain adequate access; they can help you switch if wait times are long. (magellanofidaho.com, idahocrisis.org)
• Do I pay co‑pays for therapy with Medicaid?
  • Behavioral health visits with in‑network Magellan providers have no co‑pay for Medicaid members. (magellanofidaho.com)
• Can I do therapy by phone?
  • Yes, Idaho Medicaid allows audio‑only in certain cases. Ask your provider if your visit qualifies. (cchpca.org)
• I live rural. Can an out‑of‑state therapist see me?
  • Yes, if they meet Idaho’s Virtual Care Access Act and register as required. (law.justia.com)
• I lost Medicaid after pregnancy. Can I get it back?
  • If you had Medicaid during pregnancy, Idaho now covers you for 12 months postpartum; call 877‑456‑1233 if coverage ended early. (medicaid.gov)
• My teen needs more than weekly counseling. What program fits?
  • Ask for a YES functional assessment (Liberty 877‑305‑3469). EPSDT can authorize extra services when medically necessary. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• What if my plan denies a treatment my child’s doctor says is needed?
  • Appeal immediately (deadline usually 30 days); for private plans, you can also file a DOI complaint. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov, doi.idaho.gov)
• I can’t get to appointments—no car, no childcare.
  • Book NEMT (Medicaid) 877‑503‑1261; ask clinics about telehealth or evening slots; call 2‑1‑1 for childcare resources. (mtm-inc.net, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Where do I go at 2 a.m. if I’m in crisis but not safe at home?
  • Call 988 and go to your regional Adult Crisis Center (see numbers above) for up to 24 hours of free stabilization. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• How bad is suicide in Idaho?
  • In 2023, Idaho had 457 suicide deaths, and the rate was 1.6× the national average—please use 988 or your local crisis center early. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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What to expect: timelines

• Medicaid eligibility: up to 45 days (longer for disability). Faster if your documents are complete. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• NEMT scheduling: ≥ 2 business days before (urgent exceptions). (mtm-inc.net)
• Crisis help: Immediate via 988; crisis centers accept walk‑ins 24/7 for adults. (idahocrisis.org, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers

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• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery