Mental health care is essential healthcare, but cost and access barriers keep many people from getting help. Here are resources for affordable mental health support. Crisis Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7) Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 Veterans Crisis Line: 988 then press 1 SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 for…
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is one of the most powerful anti-poverty programs in America, yet millions of eligible families do not claim it. This refundable credit could put thousands of dollars in your pocket. Who Qualifies? You must have earned income from work Income limits depend on filing status and number of children…
Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are nonprofit organizations that fight poverty at the local level. They offer a wide range of services and can connect you with resources you might not know exist. Services Commonly Offered Emergency assistance (rent, utilities, food) LIHEAP energy assistance Head Start early childhood education Weatherization programs Housing counseling Job training and…
Losing your job is stressful, but unemployment insurance can help bridge the gap while you search for new work. Here is everything you need to know about filing for benefits. Eligibility Requirements Lost your job through no fault of your own (layoffs, reduction in force) Worked and earned enough wages in the past year (varies…
The National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs help millions of children get nutritious meals each school day. Here is what parents need to know about these important programs. Who Qualifies? Free meals: Family income at or below 130% of poverty level Reduced-price meals: Income between 130-185% of poverty level Automatic eligibility: Families receiving SNAP,…
Drowning in debt can feel hopeless, but you do not have to figure it out alone. Nonprofit credit counseling agencies offer free or low-cost help to get your finances back on track. What Credit Counselors Do Review your complete financial situation Help create a realistic budget Negotiate with creditors on your behalf Set up debt…
If you need a safe place to stay tonight, emergency shelters provide temporary housing along with meals and supportive services. Here is how to find help quickly. Find Shelter Now Call 211: Available 24/7 to connect you with local shelters Homeless hotlines: Many cities have dedicated homeless services lines Coordinated Entry: The single point of…
Dental care is often overlooked in health coverage, leaving many people suffering with tooth pain or infections they cannot afford to treat. But free and low-cost dental care is available if you know where to look. Community Health Centers Many Federally Qualified Health Centers offer dental services on a sliding fee scale based on income….
Before a utility company can disconnect your service, they must follow certain rules. Understanding your protections and acting quickly can help you keep the lights on. Common Shutoff Protections Medical certificates: Protection if someone in the household has a serious illness Winter moratoriums: Many states prohibit shutoffs during extreme cold Notice requirements: Companies must provide…
If you served in the military, you may qualify for a wide range of benefits – from healthcare to education to housing assistance. Many veterans do not realize all the programs available to them. Here is an overview of key benefits. VA Healthcare The VA provides comprehensive healthcare including primary care, mental health services, specialty…
