North Dakota Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, State‑Specific Guide (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in North Dakota. It tells you exactly where to call, what’s covered, income limits that apply right now, and realistic timelines. Every claim links to an official source. If you’re in crisis, start with the Quick Help box below.

Quick Help (fast actions you can take now)

• Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988. Answered in North Dakota by FirstLink. Free, 24/7. Learn about 988 in ND. (myfirstlink.org)
• Walk into your regional Human Service Center (HSC) Monday–Friday for a same‑day behavioral health assessment (8 a.m.–5 p.m.). No appointment. Sliding‑fee if you’re uninsured. Find your HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Pregnant or recently gave birth? Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262), 24/7 text or call. Official HRSA page. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Need ND program help (Medicaid, SNAP, etc.) or to check an application? Call ND Customer Support Center: 1‑866‑614‑6005. Apply for Help portal. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Text your ZIP code to 898‑211 to ask FirstLink for housing, food, and mental health referrals. FirstLink get help. (myfirstlink.org)
• If you feel unsafe at home, call the North Dakota Domestic & Sexual Violence Coalition (formerly CAWS ND): 1‑888‑255‑6240 to connect to your local shelter/advocate. NDDSVC. (cawsnorthdakota.org, nddsvc.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What we checked (and what’s usually missing online)

We reviewed the top results for “North Dakota Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers” including ND’s Help Is Here portal, FirstLink, PSI‑ND, MHA‑ND and several directories. Most lists are helpful but:

• They rarely include exact 2025 income limits (so you don’t know if you qualify). We include current Medicaid, CHIP, and pregnancy coverage amounts effective April 1, 2025. (hhs.nd.gov)
• They don’t tell you you can walk into any HSC on weekdays for a same‑day assessment, or how sliding‑fee discounts actually work. We include hours, phones, and how the 2025 sliding scale applies. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Maternal mental health hotlines are often missing or outdated. We link the federal 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA hotline and PSI‑ND. (mchb.hrsa.gov, psichapters.com)
• Phone numbers are scattered. We put all eight HSC phone numbers in one table (below) and added FQHC clinics that offer low‑cost counseling. (hhs.nd.gov, famhealthcare.org, spectrahealth.org)

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Start Here: Crisis and High‑Stress Moments

Act first—sorting insurance can wait.

• Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support. FirstLink answers all 988 calls/texts from North Dakota and can safety‑plan, loop in mobile crisis when needed, and connect you to local care. FirstLink’s 988 page. (myfirstlink.org)
• Walk in to your regional HSC Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.. You’ll meet a triage specialist the same day; urgent cases are served immediately. Others are scheduled within “one to several days” or referred to another provider. Region I (Williston) example—process & hours. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If you’re not safe at home, call 1‑888‑255‑6240 (ND Domestic & Sexual Violence Coalition) to reach your local advocacy center for safety planning and shelter. Get help. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
• Newly pregnant or recently delivered and feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? Call/text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262)—free, confidential, 24/7 with English/Spanish counselors and interpreters in 60 languages. HRSA FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If phones are busy or you can’t wait, go to your nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 and say “psychiatric emergency.” If domestic violence is involved, ask to speak to an officer trained in crisis intervention. For ongoing resource navigation, text your ZIP code to 898‑211. FirstLink 211. (myfirstlink.org)

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Free & Low‑Cost Counseling and Psychiatry: Human Service Centers

The eight state‑run Human Service Centers (HSCs) provide outpatient therapy, psychiatry, addiction treatment, case management, and crisis response. They do not turn you away for inability to pay and use a sliding‑fee schedule.

• Sliding‑fee discounts in 2025: up to a 100% discount at 125% of FPL, decreasing by 10% steps down to a 10% discount at 200% of FPL. HSC sliding fee policy. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Open access: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. walk‑ins for behavioral health assessments (see each region page). Same‑day triage; urgent cases seen immediately. Example: Williston, Region I. (hhs.nd.gov)

Human Service Centers (by region)

Real‑world timeline example:

• You walk into the Williston HSC at 10:30 a.m. Monday. Intake and triage happen the same day. If your symptoms are severe, you may see a clinician immediately; if not, they’ll schedule within “one to several days.” Bring ID and any insurance; if uninsured, they’ll screen you for sliding‑fee discounts. Region I process. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the HSC can’t see you quickly and you can pay low fees, try a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) below for counseling/psychiatry on a sliding scale. If you need a temporary safe place to stabilize symptoms in Bismarck or Fargo, ask about local Crisis Stabilization Units operated with HSC referrals. Dacotah Foundation CSU information. (dacotahfoundation.org)

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Coverage and Costs: Medicaid, Children’s Coverage (CHIP), and Pregnancy/Postpartum in 2025

All amounts below are official North Dakota figures effective April 1, 2025 unless noted. If you qualify, mental health and substance use services are covered.

Key income limits (monthly) and who qualifies

What’s covered:

• For kids under 21 on Medicaid (Health Tracks/EPSDT): psych evals, inpatient psych, therapy (individual/family/group), partial hospitalization, and residential treatment. Health Tracks mental health benefits. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Postpartum: ND Medicaid now covers eligible new moms for 12 months after birth; behavioral health is included. You must notify the Customer Support Center when you become pregnant, if your due date changes, and when the pregnancy ends. ND Medicaid postpartum extension. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to apply (fastest first):

• Online via the ND Apply for Help portal, or call 1‑866‑614‑6005 to apply by phone, or visit your local Human Service Zone office. You can upload documents in the Self‑Service Portal. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Typical timelines: under federal rules, most Medicaid decisions are made within about 45 days (90 days if disability is a factor). If urgent care is needed, ask providers about presumptive eligibility or use sliding‑fee at HSCs while your application is pending. (General Medicaid timeliness standard; confirm with your worker.)

Required documents (have these ready):

• Photo ID and proof you live in ND (license, lease, or mail).
• Social Security numbers (or proof of application).
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs or employer letter).
• If pregnant: proof of pregnancy (clinic note or WIC proof is fine).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re denied or your plan won’t cover therapy or meds you need, contact the ND Insurance Department consumer assistance line (701) 328‑2440 for help with appeals and mental health parity problems. You can also file a complaint online. Contact & complaints • Complaints portal. (insurance.nd.gov)

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Maternal & Postpartum Mental Health (pregnancy to 12 months)

Facts to know in North Dakota:

• About 13.1% of ND women reported postpartum depression in 2017–2021 PRAMS data (year‑to‑year varied). Younger mothers had higher rates. ND Compass summary of ND PRAMS. (ndcompass.org)
• In 2018 PRAMS, ND’s postpartum depressive symptoms were 11.7%. Screening by providers in ND was high—about 94% reported being asked about depression at postpartum visits. CDC PRAMS MMWR table. (cdc.gov)

Immediate supports:

• Call/text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) any time for real‑time help from trained counselors; interpreters are available in 60 languages. HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• PSI‑ND (Postpartum Support International, North Dakota) runs peer support and can point you to ND‑based providers who specialize in perinatal mood/anxiety disorders. PSI‑ND page. For the PSI Helpline, call 1‑800‑944‑4773 or text 800‑944‑4773 (English) / 971‑203‑7773 (Spanish). (psichapters.com, postpartum.net)
• If you’re on ND Medicaid during pregnancy, you remain covered for 12 months postpartum—including behavioral health therapy and medications. Tell the Customer Support Center when you’re pregnant and when the pregnancy ends. ND Medicaid postpartum coverage. (hhs.nd.gov)

Real‑world example:

• You deliver in Fargo in June. Two weeks later you feel nonstop worry and can’t sleep. You text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, then call Southeast HSC (701‑298‑4500). They book therapy and a med appointment; Medicaid covers it because your pregnancy was reported. Southeast HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If appointments are far out, ask PSI‑ND for a local perinatal‑trained therapist and join a PSI online support group while you wait. If your coverage lapsed, apply again immediately—postpartum extension lasts 12 months, but you must have been on Medicaid during pregnancy. PSI get help • Apply for Help. (postpartum.net, hhs.nd.gov)

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Kids & Teens (for your child or teen)

• Under ND Medicaid Health Tracks (EPSDT), kids get robust mental health coverage: evaluations, inpatient psych (as needed), individual/family/group therapy, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment. Health Tracks mental health. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Parent‑Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) providers operate in multiple ND cities (Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Wahpeton, etc.). Sessions usually last 12–20 weeks. Provider list and phones are posted by ND HHS. PCIT providers & contacts (scroll to PCIT). (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re over income for Medicaid but your child needs care, apply for CHIP (up to 205% FPL) or ask your HSC about client‑share programs or sliding‑fee. CHIP income chart. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Low‑Cost Clinics (Sliding Fee) with Behavioral Health

These clinics serve everyone—insured or not—and offer discounts based on income.

Tip: To find other community health centers near you, use HRSA’s “Find a Health Center” (search by ZIP). If you need a specific therapy (e.g., trauma‑focused CBT), also use the ND Mental Health Program Directory. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the clinic for a “good faith estimate” and payment plan. If costs are still too high, return to your HSC for sliding‑fee or ask FirstLink (dial 211) for faith‑based counseling programs and local support groups. FirstLink 211. (myfirstlink.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Options

LGBTQ+ single mothers:

• Many HSC clinicians and FQHCs offer affirming care. When you call, say you prefer an LGBTQ+‑affirming therapist. For crisis lines that center LGBTQ+ youth/young adults in your home, see The Trevor Project: 1‑866‑488‑7386 (for your teen). NAMI ND crisis page lists inclusive hotlines. (naminorthdakota.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities:

• Ask about transportation help and therapy accessible by telehealth through your HSC. Children qualify for EPSDT mental health benefits; apply for Medicaid or CHIP if uninsured. Health Tracks coverage. (hhs.nd.gov)

Veteran single mothers:

• The Fargo VA Health Care System provides women’s mental health, maternity care coordination, and postpartum support. Call VA Fargo main: (701) 239‑3700 (toll‑free 1‑800‑410‑9723), or ask for the Women Veterans Program. VA Women Veteran care (Fargo) • VA Fargo contact. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms:

• HSCs and FQHCs offer interpreter services (e.g., Family HealthCare lists multiple languages) and can help you navigate care regardless of status for crisis services; ask about privacy if you’re concerned. Family HealthCare language access. (famhealthcare.org)

Tribal‑specific resources (Spirit Lake, Standing Rock, Turtle Mountain, MHA Nation, Trenton Service Area):

• If you’re eligible for IHS/Tribal services, contact your service unit clinic for behavioral health, or use your HSC in coordination with Tribal health. Find ND facilities and service units under IHS Great Plains (includes Spirit Lake, Standing Rock, Turtle Mountain, Trenton). IHS Great Plains facilities list. (ihs.gov)

Rural single moms:

• Use telehealth when possible (ask HSC/FQHC for video visits). For after‑hours questions or when you can’t drive in winter, call 988 or FirstLink (211) for safety planning and referrals. FirstLink. (myfirstlink.org)

Single fathers & other caregivers:

• The same HSC, Medicaid, and hotline resources apply regardless of gender. If you’re a dad or guardian reading this, use the same steps.

Language access:

• 988 offers Spanish via the main line and interpreters for many languages; HSCs and FQHCs can arrange interpreters if you ask when scheduling. 988 FAQ (SAMHSA). (mhand.org)

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Private Insurance & Mental Health Parity

If your plan denies therapy/meds without a clear reason or creates barriers that don’t exist for medical/surgical care, that may violate parity rules.

• Get help from the ND Insurance Department: (701) 328‑2440 or email insurance@nd.gov. You can also file a complaint online if the issue isn’t fixed. Contact ND Insurance Dept. • Complaints. (insurance.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your provider to send a “medical necessity” letter. Request an internal appeal and an external review if needed. Meanwhile, continue care at an HSC under sliding‑fee to avoid gaps.

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Resources by Region (add these to your phone)

Fargo & surrounding (Region V):

• Southeast HSC: (701) 298‑4500; toll‑free (888) 342‑4900. Region V HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Family HealthCare (behavioral health): (701) 271‑3344. Behavioral health. (famhealthcare.org)

Bismarck‑Mandan & surrounding (Region VII):

• West Central HSC: (701) 328‑8888; toll‑free (888) 328‑2662. Region VII HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Crisis Stabilization Unit (referrals via HSC): ask West Central HSC; Dacotah Foundation lists CSU address at 1041 Basin Ave. Referrals page. (dacotahfoundation.org)

Grand Forks & NE (Region IV):

• Northeast HSC: (701) 795‑3000; toll‑free (888) 256‑6742. Region IV HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Spectra Health (behavioral health): (701) 757‑2100 (GF); (701) 343‑6418 (Larimore). Behavioral Health. (spectrahealth.org)

Minot & North Central (Region II):

• North Central HSC: (701) 857‑8500; toll‑free (888) 470‑6968. Region II HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

Dickinson & SW (Region VIII):

• Badlands HSC: (701) 227‑7500; toll‑free (888) 227‑7525. Region VIII HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

Jamestown & South Central (Region VI):

• South Central HSC: (701) 253‑6300; toll‑free (800) 260‑1310. Region VI HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

Williston & NW (Region I):

• Northwest HSC: (701) 774‑4600; toll‑free (800) 231‑7724. Region I HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

Devils Lake & Lake Region (Region III):

• Lake Region HSC: (701) 665‑2200; toll‑free (888) 607‑8610. Region III HSC. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Application Checklist (print/save)

• Photo ID and proof of ND residency.
• Social Security numbers (or proof you applied).
• Proof of all income for the past 30 days.
• Pregnancy proof (if applying for pregnancy coverage).
• List of current medications and past mental health treatment (helps the intake go smoother).
• A safe callback number/voicemail that you can check daily.

Where to submit: Upload in the Self‑Service Portal, email applyforhelp@nd.gov, or fax 701‑328‑1006 to the ND Customer Support Center. Apply for Help. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply. If you’re pregnant, notify ND Medicaid as soon as possible so your 12‑month postpartum coverage activates. Postpartum extension. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Skipping the walk‑in option. HSCs see you same‑day during business hours. Don’t wait weeks if you’re struggling. HSC open access. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Not using sliding‑fee because you assume you “won’t qualify.” Discounts go up to 100% at 125% FPL. Ask the business office. Sliding‑fee schedule. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Dropping therapy while appealing an insurance denial. Keep care going through HSC/FQHC sliding‑fee and file a complaint if needed. ND Insurance Dept. help. (insurance.nd.gov)

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Reality Check: Safety, Wait Times, and What’s “Normal” to Feel

• Safety first. If you or your child is in danger of harm (including from a partner), use 911 or a local shelter line via NDDSVC (1‑888‑255‑6240). Get help. (cawsnorthdakota.org)
• North Dakota recorded 142 deaths by suicide in 2023. Take suicidal thoughts seriously and use 988. ND HHS news release, 2024. (hhs.nd.gov)
• First appointments: HSC triage is same‑day; follow‑up therapy/meds can be a few days to a couple weeks depending on region. Ask to be placed on a cancellation list and to start with telehealth if travel is hard. Region pages, example Region I & V • Region V. (hhs.nd.gov)

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FAQs (North Dakota‑specific)

• Where can I get help tonight?

  Call/text 988. For local referrals and a listening ear, dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. FirstLink. (myfirstlink.org)

• I don’t have insurance. Will the state clinic see me?

  Yes. HSCs won’t deny you for inability to pay and use a sliding‑fee scale (up to 100% discount at 125% FPL). HSC policy. (hhs.nd.gov)

• I’m pregnant. What coverage can I get?

  ND Medicaid covers pregnant individuals up to 175% FPL and then extends coverage 12 months postpartum (behavioral health included). Eligibility & postpartum extension • New moms page. (hhs.nd.gov)

• My teen needs counseling. Is it covered?

  Yes, under Medicaid Health Tracks/EPSDT. If uninsured and over income for Medicaid, check CHIP (up to 205% FPL). Health Tracks • CHIP. (hhs.nd.gov)

• I have private insurance but they denied therapy. Who can help?

  Call ND Insurance Dept. (701) 328‑2440 for parity/appeal help and file a complaint if needed. Contact. (insurance.nd.gov)

• Are there support groups?

  NAMI North Dakota offers support and education; see statewide crisis/helpline list and programs. NAMI ND. (naminorthdakota.org)

• I’m a veteran. Where do I go?

  VA Fargo offers women’s mental health and maternity care coordination. Call (701) 239‑3700 (or 1‑800‑410‑9723). Ask for Women Veterans Program. VA Fargo Women Veteran care. (va.gov)

• How fast will Medicaid decide?

  Most applications are determined in about 45 days (up to 90 if disability is involved). While waiting, use HSC sliding‑fee or FQHCs. Apply for Help. (hhs.nd.gov)

• What if I live on a reservation?

  Use your local IHS/Tribal clinic for behavioral health and/or your HSC. See IHS Great Plains facilities list (Spirit Lake, Standing Rock, Turtle Mountain, Trenton). IHS facilities. (ihs.gov)

• Where can I see all programs in one place?

  ND’s “Help Is Here” portal links crisis, treatment, and assistance programs across the state. Help Is Here ND. (helpishere.nd.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Don’t Lose Time (scan and go)

• Call 988 if you’re in crisis; text your ZIP to 898‑211 for local help while you line up services. (myfirstlink.org)
• Walk into your HSC 8–5 on weekdays for a same‑day assessment; ask about the sliding‑fee. Bring ID, proof of income, and any insurance. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Apply for Medicaid/CHIP if eligible (amounts above). If pregnant, report immediately to trigger postpartum coverage. Call 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
• If you can pay a little, call Family HealthCare (701) 271‑3344 (Fargo) or Spectra Health (701) 757‑2100 (Grand Forks) for sliding‑fee therapy. (famhealthcare.org, spectrahealth.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), HRSA, CDC/PRAMS, VA, and established nonprofits (FirstLink, PSI, NAMI). It follows our Editorial Standards—official sources only, cross‑verified, and kept current. We confirm direct phone numbers, income limits, and walk‑in hours at publication and monitor for changes. See our Editorial Policy.

• Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
• Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, phone numbers, income limits, and clinic hours can change. Always verify with the agency or clinic before you go or apply.
• This guide is for general information and is not legal, medical, or case‑specific advice. Use emergency services (including 988 and 911) for urgent safety or medical concerns.
• Security: Do not email private health details; use official portals or call centers listed above. We link only to official government or established nonprofit sites.

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Sources (selected)

• Regional Human Service Centers: hours, sliding‑fee, and contacts. ND HHS pages for HSC home and regions: Williston, Minot, Devils Lake, Grand Forks, Fargo, Jamestown, Bismarck, Dickinson. (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND Medicaid & CHIP income limits (effective Apr 1, 2025). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Postpartum Medicaid extension (12 months). (hhs.nd.gov)
• Health Tracks mental health benefits for children. (hhs.nd.gov)
• FirstLink 988/211 services in ND. (myfirstlink.org)
• Maternal Mental Health Hotline (HRSA). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• ND suicide deaths (2023). (hhs.nd.gov)
• ND PRAMS/PPD data (ND Compass) & CDC PRAMS. (ndcompass.org, cdc.gov)
• VA Fargo—Women Veteran care and main contacts. (va.gov)
• IHS Great Plains—ND service units/facilities. (ihs.gov)
• FQHC behavioral health: Family HealthCare (Fargo), Spectra Health (Grand Forks/Larimore). (famhealthcare.org, spectrahealth.org)
• ND Insurance Department consumer help & complaints. (insurance.nd.gov)

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If you need one page to keep on your phone, screenshot the Quick Help and HSC table. Then make your first call. You’ve got real options in North Dakota—today.

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🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota

• 📋 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