Ohio Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, State‑Specific Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This page is written for single moms in Ohio who need real, fast, and verified help for mental health — for themselves and their kids. Everything here links to official sources and statewide nonprofits you can actually call or click today.

Quick Help Box (save or screenshot)

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988; chat at 988lifeline.org. Ohio law requires high schools to share 988 info; it’s live statewide. Average in‑state answer times have been among the fastest in the country. (education.ohio.gov, ohiocapitaljournal.com)
• Ohio CareLine (24/7 emotional support and referrals): 1‑800‑720‑9616. Staffed by mental health professionals; free and confidential. (education.ohio.gov)
• Maternal Mental Health (pregnancy & postpartum support, 24/7): 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) call or text. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Find your local county ADAMH/mental health board (for sliding‑fee clinics, crisis teams, and local programs): Use the official county board locator. (oacbha.org)
• Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline (eligibility, plans, help choosing providers): 1‑800‑324‑8680. (ohiomh.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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If You Need Help Right Now (don’t wait)

• Call or text 988. It’s 24/7, free, and connects you to trained specialists right here in Ohio. The state has invested in a robust in‑state network, and answer times are fast. If you prefer chat, go to 988lifeline.org. (education.ohio.gov, ohiocapitaljournal.com)
• Prefer a longer, supportive conversation that isn’t strictly “crisis”? Call the Ohio CareLine: 1‑800‑720‑9616 (24/7). You’ll get emotional support and a warm handoff to local services. (education.ohio.gov)
• If you’re pregnant or recently had a baby and your thoughts feel unsafe or nonstop: Call or text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA — counselors answer within minutes and can connect you to local care. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• If there’s an immediate danger to you or your child, call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)–trained officer if available. (namiohio.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Try a second route in parallel: call 988, and also call your county crisis line (see “Resources by Region” below). If one line is busy, the other can pick up quickly. (adamhscc.org, adamhfranklin.org)

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Get Covered for Mental Health Care (Medicaid/CHIP in Ohio)

The fastest way to get free or low‑cost therapy, psychiatry, meds, and crisis follow‑up is to get (or confirm) Medicaid coverage. Ohio Medicaid covers outpatient counseling, psychiatry, substance use care, peer support, crisis services, telehealth, and more. Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months. (codes.ohio.gov, cms.gov)

How to apply in minutes:

• Online: benefits.ohio.gov (24/7). If the site is down for maintenance, call your county or the state hotline. (ssp.benefits.ohio.gov)
• By phone: 1‑800‑324‑8680 (Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline). (ohiomh.com)
• If you prefer in person: use the Medicaid Consumer site to “Locate your local County Agency” and bring required documents (see checklist below). (ohiomh.com)

Eligibility rules that matter for single parents:

• Adults (19–64): Eligible up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Ohio uses MAGI and applies a standard 5% disregard near the cutoff. (codes.ohio.gov, medicaid.gov)
• Pregnant/postpartum: Covered to at least 200% FPL during pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum (continuous). Family size includes the unborn child. The 5% disregard can help if you’re just over the line. (codes.ohio.gov, cms.gov)
• Children under 19: Covered if household income is at or below 206% FPL if the child is uninsured (156% FPL if the child has other credible coverage). (codes.ohio.gov)

2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) used by Ohio Medicaid

• 2025 FPG (48 states): 1‑person $15,650\ast \ast ;2‑person\ast \ast$21,150; 3‑person $26,650\ast \ast ;4‑person\ast \ast$32,150; each additional person +$5,500. (govinfo.gov)

Table: Ohio Medicaid mental health coverage — who qualifies in 2025 (common family sizes)

Sources: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines; Ohio Medicaid rules for pregnancy and children; 5% disregard guidance (MAGI). Exact eligibility is determined by Ohio Medicaid. (govinfo.gov, codes.ohio.gov, medicaid.gov)

What mental health services are covered?

• Outpatient therapy and psychiatry, diagnostic evaluations, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization (with prior auth after certain hour limits), residential treatment when needed, crisis intervention, peer recovery support, and more — when medically necessary under Ohio’s behavioral health coverage rules. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Telehealth is covered for mental health (including phone/video psychotherapy) subject to program rules; Ohio codified broad Medicaid telehealth standards in 2025. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Cost‑sharing: Most mental health visits have no copay. Pharmacy copays for some adults can be $2–$3 for certain drugs; emergency department copays can apply for non‑emergencies. Providers cannot refuse care solely because you can’t pay a copay. (codes.ohio.gov)

How long will approval take?

• Timelines vary. Online applications are fastest; upload documents right away. If you’re pregnant or in active treatment, tell the caseworker — some verifications can be expedited. Use the hotline (1‑800‑324‑8680) if you don’t get status updates. (ohiomh.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your managed care plan’s Member Services once enrolled (numbers below). If you’re stuck before enrollment, call the state hotline (1‑800‑324‑8680) and ask for help with a pending Medicaid application. If denied, request an appeal and call NAMI Ohio’s Client Navigator (1‑800‑686‑2646) for help troubleshooting. (ohiomh.com, namiohio.org)

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Your Medicaid Plan: Behavioral Health and Transportation Numbers (keep this handy)

Ohio’s “Next Generation” managed care plans include mental health benefits, crisis help coordination, and non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to therapy/psychiatry when eligible. Here are official phone lines:

Also: your County Job & Family Services may offer NEMT directly; for example, Franklin County’s line is 614‑233‑2381 (book ≥24 hours ahead). Check your county JFS site for local instructions. (franklincountyohio.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a ride is late or missed, call your plan’s NEMT vendor right away and your plan’s Member Services to log a complaint so the trip does not count against any trip limits. The Medicaid Consumer Hotline (1‑800‑324‑8680) can help if you can’t resolve it with the plan. (ohiomh.com)

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Maternal & Postpartum Mental Health (Ohio‑specific help)

Most moms will feel stressed; some develop anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts during pregnancy or the first year postpartum. You are not “failing”—you need care and relief, and Ohio has concrete options.

• Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (852‑6262) any time for real‑time support and referrals. Help is in English/Spanish with interpreters in 60+ languages. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Medicaid covers a full 12 months postpartum after pregnancy in Ohio (retroactive to April 1, 2022). If you were covered during pregnancy, you stay covered a full year for mental health care. (cms.gov, medicaid.gov)
• POEM (Perinatal Outreach & Encouragement for Moms), run by Mental Health America of Ohio, offers Ohio‑wide peer support, support groups (including Black moms’ groups), and care navigation. Central contact: 614‑315‑8989. (mhaohio.org)
• Postpartum Support International (PSI): Find local Ohio coordinators and therapists trained in perinatal mental health. 1‑800‑944‑4773, or use the directory. (postpartum.net)

Table: Maternal mental health resources for Ohio moms

Real‑world example:

• A single mom in Dayton with a 3‑month‑old reports panic attacks. She calls 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, is connected to a local PSI‑trained therapist who accepts Medicaid, and gets her first telehealth session the next week. She also enrolls in a POEM virtual group for weekly peer support. (mchb.hrsa.gov, mhaohio.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a therapist can’t see you quickly, ask your plan for “rapid access” options, try a community mental health clinic from your county ADAMH list, and call POEM for interim peer support. If your thoughts feel unsafe, call 988 immediately. (oacbha.org, mhaohio.org)

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Behavioral Health for Kids and Teens (OhioRISE + MRSS)

• OhioRISE is the statewide Medicaid managed care program for kids and teens (0–20) with significant behavioral health needs. It offers specialized services, intensive care coordination, and connections to local providers. Member Services: 1‑833‑711‑0773. (aetnabetterhealth.com)
• Mobile Response & Stabilization Services (MRSS) supports families of youth in crisis — help usually arrives quickly and can continue for up to 45 days to stabilize things at home. Statewide MRSS line: 1‑888‑418‑6777 (TTY 711). (hi.aetnabetterhealth.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your county ADAMH board to ask which provider handles MRSS locally and how to get a same‑day child evaluation. If you’re not on Medicaid, still call — most boards have safety‑net options. (oacbha.org)

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Telehealth: When leaving home is hard

Ohio Medicaid pays for many mental health services by phone or video — including therapy, psychiatric check‑ins, and psychological testing — when medically appropriate and documented. This flexibility is written into state rules and statute. If a provider tells you “we can’t do telehealth,” ask them to review current Ohio Medicaid telehealth coverage. (codes.ohio.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your managed care plan to help you switch to an in‑network provider that offers telehealth. If transportation is the barrier, ask for NEMT rides to appointments (see table above). (ohiomh.com)

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Resources by Region (major counties)

Use your county’s crisis numbers first — these lines route you to local teams and mobile responders.

Franklin County (Columbus)

• Adult Crisis Hotline (Netcare Access): 614‑276‑CARE (2273). Youth crisis: 614‑722‑1800. (adamhfranklin.org)
• Chat with a clinician via Netcare’s site for non‑emergency support. (netcareaccess.org)

Cuyahoga County (Cleveland)

• 24‑hour Suicide Prevention/Mental Health/Addiction Crisis Hotline (FrontLine Service): 988 or 216‑623‑6888. (adamhscc.org)

Hamilton County (Cincinnati)

• Talbert House Crisis Hotline: 513‑281‑CARE (2273) (text “TALBERT” to 839863). Mobile Crisis via University Hospital: 513‑584‑5098. Psychiatric Emergency Services: 513‑584‑8577. (hcmhrsb.org, talberthouse.org)

Summit County (Akron)

• ADM Mental Health Crisis Line: 330‑434‑9144 (24/7). Kids’ emergencies at Akron Children’s: 330‑543‑7472 (or 1‑866‑443‑7472). (admboard.org, namisummit.org)

Lucas County (Toledo)

• Zepf Center Crisis CARE Helpline: 419‑904‑CARE (2273) (24/7). Psychiatric urgent care available. (zepfcenter.org)

Montgomery County (Dayton)

• Local crisis services have recently changed; use 988 or Montgomery County’s resources hub. Miami Valley Warmline: 937‑528‑7777 for non‑crisis support. (spectrumnews1.com, sbhihelp.org)

If your county isn’t listed here, use the statewide ADAMH Board map and select your county to get the official crisis line and provider list. (oacbha.org)

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Local and Statewide Support Groups and Nonprofits

• NAMI Ohio Client Navigator (find groups, troubleshoot care): 1‑800‑686‑2646 (Mon–Fri). NAMI also lists crisis options (including Veterans Crisis Line “988, press 1”). (namiohio.org)
• POEM & POEM Rise (Black maternal mental health) — central line 614‑315‑8989; in‑person and virtual support groups statewide. (mhaohio.org)
• For youth/teens: 988, county hotlines, and the Crisis Text Line (“text 4HOPE to 741741” in Ohio). (ohiomindsmatter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your ADAMH board which agencies have “open access/same‑day” intake this week, and ask your Medicaid plan for a fast‑track appointment. (oacbha.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Doors In

• LGBTQ+ moms and teens: The Trevor Project 1‑866‑488‑7386; 988 also routes to specialized supports. (namiohio.org)
• Black moms: POEM Rise provides culturally matched peer support and referrals. Call/text 614‑315‑8989. (mhaohio.org)
• Moms with disabilities or caring for children with developmental disabilities: OhioRISE for complex behavioral health needs (1‑833‑711‑0773), and your County Family & Children First Council can coordinate multi‑system help (each county has one). (aetnabetterhealth.com, ofcfcassociation.org)
• Veterans (women veterans too): Use 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line; ask your VA clinic about women’s mental health services. (namiohio.org)
• Immigrant/refugee moms and anyone needing language help: Your Medicaid plan must provide free interpreter services; OhioRISE also provides interpreters on request. (hi.aetnabetterhealth.com)
• Rural moms with limited access: Use telehealth for therapy/med management — Ohio Medicaid covers it. Ask for NEMT rides when in‑person is required. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Single fathers raising kids and other caregivers: Every service on this page is open to you; county boards and 988 are for all Ohioans. (oacbha.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 988 for immediate support and a warm referral, then call your county ADAMH board to ask for providers who have lived‑experience peers or culturally specific programs. (oacbha.org)

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Application Checklist (Medicaid and clinics)

Bring or upload clear photos of:

• Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID), and Social Security number for you and children (when available). (codes.ohio.gov)
• Proof of Ohio address (recent mail, lease, or utility bill). (codes.ohio.gov)
• Proof of income (recent paystubs, employer letter, 1099, or benefit letter). If your income changes seasonally, tell them — Ohio uses “reasonably predictable changes” rules. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Pregnancy verification only if requested (self‑attestation is acceptable in most cases; verification is required if multiple fetuses change eligibility). (codes.ohio.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting for a perfect opening. Many clinics use “open access/same‑day” intakes — ask your county ADAMH board which agencies do this. (oacbha.org)
• Not listing all household members or unborn child on your Medicaid application. Family size changes your income limit. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Skipping telehealth because you think it’s not covered. Ohio Medicaid covers many behavioral health services by phone/video. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Missing rides because you didn’t book early. Most NEMT trips require booking at least 2 business days in advance; same‑day may be possible for urgent needs. (amerihealthcaritasoh.com, anthem.com)
• Forgetting postpartum coverage lasts 12 months — even if your income changes. If you had Medicaid during pregnancy, you keep it for a full year postpartum. (cms.gov)

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Plan B Options (if you hit a wall)

• Call or text 988 to vent and get a second set of hands on your situation right now. (education.ohio.gov)
• Use the ADAMH county map to switch to another local provider with sooner access; ask specifically for “same‑day access” or “walk‑in intake.” (oacbha.org)
• Ask your managed care plan for help finding an in‑network clinician with openings (and for transportation). If you can’t get help, call the Medicaid Consumer Hotline 1‑800‑324‑8680. (content.govdelivery.com)

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Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• 988 in Ohio handles thousands of calls, texts, and chats monthly; in many cases your call is answered in under a minute. If lines are busy, stay on — most crises can be de‑escalated on the phone without police or ER. (ohiocapitaljournal.com)
• Local crisis lines are run by county partners like Netcare (Columbus), FrontLine (Cleveland), Talbert House (Cincinnati), Zepf (Toledo), and ADM partners (Akron). These teams can send mobile responders and schedule next‑day clinic visits. (adamhfranklin.org, adamhscc.org, hcmhrsb.org, zepfcenter.org)
• After you apply for Medicaid, upload documents promptly in your online account or turn them in to your county JFS. Use the Consumer Hotline if your case stalls. (ohiomh.com)
• Use telehealth to shorten wait times — many clinics will do your first therapy session by video or phone under state rules. (codes.ohio.gov)

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Tables to Save

Table: Immediate numbers to keep on your phone

Table: County crisis lines (selected metros)

Table: Medicaid income quick‑look (2025)

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines; Ohio Medicaid rules. Your actual eligibility may include a 5% disregard near the cutoff. (govinfo.gov, codes.ohio.gov)

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FAQs for Single Mothers in Ohio (state‑specific)

• How fast will 988 answer in Ohio?

  Ohio’s network has reported fast answer times; recent state reporting cited average answer times under a minute. If you hang up, you may lose your place — stay on; chat and text are also options. (ohiocapitaljournal.com)

• Is postpartum mental health covered even if I lose income eligibility later?

  Yes. If you had Medicaid during pregnancy, you keep full benefits for 12 months postpartum. (cms.gov)

• I’m over income by a hair. Do I have any wiggle room?

  Ohio applies a standard 5% FPL “disregard” near income cutoffs for MAGI groups, which can tip borderline cases into eligibility. (medicaid.gov)

• I don’t have childcare. Can I do therapy by phone?

  Often, yes. Ohio Medicaid covers many behavioral health services by phone/video under state telehealth rules. Ask the clinic if they offer telehealth. (codes.ohio.gov)

• Who can help me get my teen into care quickly?

  Call OhioRISE 1‑833‑711‑0773 and ask about a CANS assessment, MRSS, or care coordination through a local Care Management Entity. (aetnabetterhealth.com)

• I’m enrolled in Medicaid but can’t get to appointments.

  Use your plan’s NEMT benefit (schedule at least 2 business days ahead). If stuck, call the Medicaid Consumer Hotline 1‑800‑324‑8680. (ohiomh.com)

• Where can I find a sliding‑fee clinic if I’m uninsured right now?

  Start with your county ADAMH board’s provider list — most boards fund safety‑net mental health clinics and crisis care. (oacbha.org)

• Does 988 help with more than suicide?

  Yes — 988 supports any mental health or substance‑use crisis and can connect you to local services; it’s not just for suicide. (education.ohio.gov)

• Are there Ohio‑specific text options?

  Yes. You can text 4HOPE to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line through Ohio’s keyword. (ohiomindsmatter.org)

• I’m in Montgomery County and heard crisis services changed. What do I do?

  Use 988 for immediate help and the county’s LocalHelpNow site for resources; the Warmline (937‑528‑7777) offers non‑crisis support. (spectrumnews1.com, sbhihelp.org)

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What to Expect (realistic timelines)

• Crisis support: Answered immediately to under a minute in most cases; mobile teams vary by county and time of day. (ohiocapitaljournal.com)
• First therapy appointment: Same‑day or within 1–2 weeks at many county‑funded clinics; ask for “open access” or telehealth if schedules are tight. (oacbha.org)
• Medicaid enrollment: Online applications are fastest; follow up with documents quickly and call the hotline if you don’t get updates. (ohiomh.com)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), Ohio Department of Medicaid, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, CMS/HHS (federal), and established nonprofits (NAMI Ohio, Mental Health America of Ohio). It 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. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please send corrections to info@asinglemother.org — we respond within 72 hours. (education.ohio.gov)

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Disclaimer

• Program details, phone numbers, and dollar amounts can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or make care decisions. We link to official government pages wherever possible.
• Mental health is sensitive and personal. This page is informational and not medical advice. If you are in danger, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call/text 988. Keep your device secure; avoid sharing personal health details over unsecured Wi‑Fi. See our editorial standards for how we verify sources and fix errors quickly. (education.ohio.gov)

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Sources (selected, verified August–September 2025)

• Ohio Department of Education & Workforce — 988 requirement for schools (3/4/2025). (education.ohio.gov)
• Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services and partners — Ohio CareLine info; state education toolkits referencing CareLine and Crisis Text Line (2025). (education.ohio.gov)
• Ohio Medicaid rules on eligibility, children’s coverage (200% pregnancy base rule; 206% kids), verification, 5% disregard. (codes.ohio.gov)
• CMS/HHS — 12‑month postpartum coverage approved for Ohio (8/16/2022). (cms.gov, medicaid.gov)
• HHS/ASPE — 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines. (govinfo.gov)
• Medicaid/CMS FAQ — MAGI 5% disregard explanation. (medicaid.gov)
• Ohio Administrative Code — Behavioral health coverage details; copay policies; telehealth rules. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline — plan hotlines (official). (content.govdelivery.com)
• Aetna Better Health of Ohio (OhioRISE) — member and MRSS contacts. (hi.aetnabetterhealth.com)
• NAMI Ohio — Client Navigator, crisis page (Veterans “press 1”), statewide affiliates. (namiohio.org)
• MHA Ohio — POEM & POEM Rise programs (statewide). (mhaohio.org)
• County/local crisis providers — Franklin (Netcare), Cuyahoga (FrontLine/ADAMHS), Hamilton (Talbert House, Mobile Crisis, PES), Summit ADM, Lucas (Zepf). (adamhfranklin.org, adamhscc.org, hcmhrsb.org, admboard.org, zepfcenter.org)
• OACBHA — County Board Directory/Map (official). (oacbha.org)

If you find any outdated item or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it — fast.

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🏛️More Ohio Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Ohio

• 📋 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