Hello there!
It's Erin, again.
I mentioned on the first blog post that I would be posting some resources. Times are hard, things are overwhelming, and a lot of people feel like they are drowning.
There is hope. If you're struggling but don't know where to start, have no fear.
*This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it is a good starting place. All resources listed here are USA based (just like STP).*
- First up we have 211.
You can call by dialing 2-1-1 or go online to www.211.org. The hotline can give you contact information for the resources and community programs in your area. 211 is run by United Way and they are a great place to start for general guidance. They can direct you to local state service centers for things like SNAP/EBT, Medicaid/Medicare, Child Care assistance, WIC, Food Pantries and more. They can also direct you to community partners with assistance for paying bills or dealing with emergency situations.
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FindHelp.org
You can view their services by visiting www.findhelp.org and selecting your need and entering your zip code. They are a medical/social services database that can help connect you to reduced cost health care, social service programs, emergency services, community partners, crisis helplines, legal services and so much more. They offer assistance with finding temporary shelter, financial assistance for rent/utilities, supplies for new mothers and babies and children, transit assistance, education, employment, basically, if you have a need, they probably have a connection for you.
- Office of Community Services
The Office of Community Services is a branch of the Administration for Children & Families. You can visit their website at https://acf.gov/ocs/help. They have information on programs for energy assistance, diapers for children, disaster assistance, food, housing, job training, health care, child care, economic development opportunities, counseling and caretaker support, addiction support, programs for youths that are considered to be "at-risk", and water/wastewater programs in rural communities.
- Your local state service building- Department of Health and Social Services/Department of Social Services/Department of Human Services
There have been a lot of Federal cuts to social programs, but you may still qualify for assistance you weren't sure about. You can apply for any or all of the programs offered and the state will evaluate your eligibility. It is worth a try. Almost every state offers online applications for health and social services. You can also walk in and apply in person. The programs offered are SNAP/EBT (food benefits), Medicaid (for people under 65 years of age)/Medicare (for people over 65 years of age or with disabilities), Child Care subsidies, and Cash Assistance/TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). There is also Family Support Services/Emergency Services (for rent/shelter/utilities) in most states. DHSS can be a great place to find additional resources.