Families from low-income backgrounds face many challenges. A small or non-existent budget can make it difficult to feed, clothe, or shelter family members. However, there are nonprofit organizations that help low income families and meet their fundamental needs, ensuring they have access to basic necessities.
In life, there are times when you need assistance. While adults are proud of their independence, there are times when they need emergency assistance. When they admit they can't do it independently, they may feel weak. There might be a fear of stigmas associated with people who need help, especially among needy families. The truth is, we all need support at one point or another, and several charitable organizations are designed to provide a wide range of services.
Charities And Organizations
Seeking help is a courageous choice. If you run into trouble and need help for yourself or your family, check out these organizations that help low income families.
I Have A Dream Foundation
I Have A Dream Foundation provides social, emotional, academic, and financial support to young people from under-resourced communities from kindergarten to college and guaranteed tuition assistance. It is one of the many financial assistance programs aimed at ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. Over 200 programs have been offered nationally, and nearly 18,000 dreamers have been served since I Have A Dream was founded in 1981 by Eugene Lang.
Parents As Teachers
There are more than 195,000 members of Parents As Teachers in 50 states of the United States. A wide range of local communities in the United States and other countries are supported by Parents as Teachers. The Parents as Teachers network consists of more than 1,000 affiliates implementing an evidence-based model to make a real difference for families. In addition, Parents as Teachers works with subscribing organizations and other specialized programs to engage and support parents. Their programs are a testament to how government programs and nonprofits can collaborate to uplift communities.
LIFT
LIFT has helped more than 100,000 people in America escape poverty since it opened its doors 20 years ago. They offer cash assistance for immediate needs and work towards long-term solutions, emphasizing the importance of basic essentials for survival. According to a company spokesman, the organization works with low-income parents and caregivers of children younger than eight years old to build their “social networks, financial strength, and personal well-being.”
LIFT coaches will guide on career, education, and finances for parents who need it. The program will be complete in two years. Besides providing funds for emergency needs, LIFT also focuses on long-term sustainability. There are four requirements to receive assistance from LIFT:
- You must be a parent or caregiver of a child aged eight or younger (including expecting parents).
- Having a stable home for the next six months
- Employed or enrolled in an educational program
- Looking for coaching opportunities
Family Promise
In addition to providing housing assistance programs, Family Promise offers invaluable services for homeless people. According to its website, Family Promise provides food, shelter, and support services to homeless families and provides “advice and advocacy for at-risk families in order to prevent homelessness.”
In addition to helping more than 825,000 people, the group conducts educational outreach and assistance with the help of "thousands of volunteers." Moreover, within nine weeks after coming to the organization, 82 percent of homeless families are housed.
Bridge of Hope
In its mission to provide health services and more, Bridge of Hope notably supports single mothers, connecting them with Christian churches and volunteers to combat homelessness. The program will provide case managers and six to 10 Christian “neighborhood volunteers” who will act as a “familial system” that offers emotional and spiritual support while encouraging a faith-based lifestyle.
Feeding America
In the United States, Feeding America is one of the most important hunger-relief organizations. Its mission is to ensure that Americans have equitable access to nutritious food, working with food banks, policymakers, supporters, and the communities they serve.
It is almost unthinkable that anyone could go hungry in America, considering how much food is wasted each year. It is estimated that many children and adults do not receive adequate nutrition each day. Feeding America provides nutritious food to those in need by partnering with farmers, manufacturers, and retailers. In addition, they aim to help create a pathway to a more prosperous and food-secure future.
For more than 40 years, Feeding America has responded to the needs of people experiencing food insecurity in the United States. As long as the mission to end hunger remains unchanged, Feeding America will never waver from its mission.
In the case of families who cannot afford enough food, other basic needs may be neglected. They may neglect housing, work, health care, and other necessities. Feeding America uses the following four-part approach to fight hunger nationally.
- Food Rescue—Saving good food from going to waste: We have enough food in America to feed everyone, but we waste 108 billion pounds of it every year. Nearly 40% of that food never gets consumed. Its mission is to collect food before it goes to waste by working with manufacturers, distributors, retailers, food service companies, and farmers.
- Foods That Nourish—Healthy, high in protein, and nutrient-rich: Poor nutrition and hunger can have devastating long-term effects. That's why providing food for families isn't enough. It is important to provide them with healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean proteins. Feeding America does more every year to ensure that these foods are available to its nationwide food banks.
- Food Safety—Ensuring families receive good, safe food: Before, food banks and food pantries often stocked non-perishable goods such as canned goods and packaged foods. In addition to making sure Americans facing hunger receive healthier foods, they also work to ensure that foods - including perishable items like fresh produce and lean protein - are safe.
- Food Security—Ending hunger: The organization Feeding America is leading the fight against hunger in the United States. Their organization not only provides meals to hungry people but also raises awareness about the problem, advocates on their behalf, and conducts in-depth research to understand the issue better. By working together, they hope to end poverty and hunger.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international movement that can assist needy Americans regardless of religious beliefs. The Salvation Army offers emergency financial assistance, food and nutrition programs, family counseling, transitional housing, emergency shelters, music and arts programs, and church services as part of its disaster recovery work.
Bell ringers from the Salvation Army are stationed outside popular businesses during the Christmas season. The Salvation Army collects donations in red containers. They use this money to provide necessities, such as Christmas dinners, clothing, toys, seasonal assistance, and holiday aid, to those in need.
Visit the Salvation Army's website to locate a Salvation Army near you. By searching by zip code, you can find local Salvation Army locations and learn more about their services. Location-specific services may also be available.
Catholic Community Services
Catholic Community Services serve a variety of areas in the US. These non-profits support the basic needs of people of all faiths and are sponsored by Catholic dioceses. Additionally, Catholic Community Services provides emergency financial assistance for rent and utilities and various services for the homeless, such as showers, laundry facilities, and haircuts. In some communities, Catholic Community Services offers services related to pregnancy and newborns in addition to addiction recovery programs.
Those in need can use Google to find out if Catholic Community Services offers services in their area by searching "Catholic Community Services" followed by their location, such as New York, Seattle, or Salt Lake City. Charities can assist with rent, living expenses, eviction prevention, utility bills, etc. Some organizations provide free medical services, prevent diseases, and fund health care expenses. You may also be able to obtain gasoline and a car to commute to your job through some charities and receive training and employment opportunities.
You may also be able to find assistance and aid programs from charities and non-profit organizations. Hospital staff can offer referrals and serve as resources.
American Red Cross
American Red Cross branches provide disaster relief to families affected by fires, floods, hurricanes, or other natural disasters. Shelters, clothing vouchers, hotel rooms, and hot meals are among the forms of support available. The Red Cross may also offer other assistance, including aid to military families, health and safety classes, disaster assistance, and grants.
Red Cross branches in different locations can assist consumers according to their needs. In emergencies, it is also crucial that the American Red Cross always has a reserve fund. Almost all of the Red Cross's money for distribution is derived from private donations and grants from non-profit organizations like the United Way.
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities USA has dedicated its services to the poor and disadvantaged since its founding more than a century ago. Catholic Charities assists all people in poverty and other difficult situations, regardless of their faith. Aside from its advocacy and disaster relief programs, CCUSA also supports member agencies in its network to provide assistance and hope to their neighbors across the country. Their collective goal is to positively impact the lives of people in need through strategic priorities.
Regardless of your background or religion, this charity organization may be able to help you financially, with cash assistance, or with other resources. Thousands of locations can be found nationwide to assist those in need.
Jewish Federation of North America
The Jewish Federation of North America provides funding to non-profit organizations throughout the country. Families of all races, religions, and ages can receive assistance at most of these locations. You can get assistance with rent, homelessness, energy bills, and other social services. The federation also provides training and job development services.
Love INC
The Love INC organization, also known as In The Name of Christ, provides various services. Families have access to dozens of locations run by the charity that provides a clearinghouse for their needs. These solutions are provided by churches, including shelter, meals, clothing, and housing. These churches and charities may assist with cash for past-due bills, such as rent, medication, and utility bills.
Lutheran Services in America
Lutheran Services in America partners with numerous community service organizations and charities to help the needy and less fortunate. The programs can also assist with bills that need to be paid and provide housing, medical care, and meals. Among the many in need served by this non-profit charity are the poor, the elderly, and the struggling.
United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church provides a broad range of programs. Ministry services can include providing transportation (repairing cars or arranging rides), free meals, and partnering with local housing organizations. Charity organizations, churches, and non-profit groups assist the poor.
National Assistance League
Despite the National Assistance League’s nationwide reach, its local offices are dedicated to serving the local needs. Each local chapter provides an array of essential services. School clothes, books, and other items are provided to students through Operation School Bell. The organization provides dental care, meals, social services, daycare, and other support services. This organization is made up of thousands of volunteers.
Net Wish
A single individual founded the non-profit Net Wish. The organization provides emergency cash grants and free money in an emergency to help qualified individuals pay their bills. Seniors and children with disabilities are given priority. The non-profit organization was founded to assist the less fortunate.
Operation Homefront
Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization, offers financial assistance, grants, counseling, and other services to military personnel in need. Veterans and current members of the military will both benefit from this. In addition to receiving assistance for wounded soldiers, service organizations assist their families.
Operation Round Up
Operation Round Up provides assistance through utility and gas companies in several states. Funds and grants will be available through this organization to families and individuals in need of energy assistance. A majority of funding will come from the donations of customers. Additional aid, such as assistance with medical bills, rent, or housing costs, will be provided through the program.
Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
Regardless of your religion or background, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul can assist you with bills and basic needs. A limited amount of funding may be available for low-income families needing assistance during a crisis.
Samaritan Ministries
Faith-based organizations will most likely be affiliated with the Samaritan Ministries. There are no specific Good Samaritan Centers affiliated with one charity network, but rather dozens of organizations and hospitals that offer assistance. Less fortunate people will be provided financial aid, health care, food, and transportation assistance.
United Way
United Way provides information about hundreds of programs. This organization has databases with information about charities and non-profits. With the free 211 phone service, clients can contact many charities near them that can help with housing, food, financial assistance, holiday toys, addiction assistance, and more. These are only a few of the resources available.
National Urban League
Through its economic empowerment programs, the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization, seeks to elevate living standards in historically underserved urban communities.
National Urban League is a non-profit organization based in New York City. Several local affiliates carry out its programs, conduct public policy research, and advocate for public policy. National Urban League affiliates serve 300 communities in 37 states and the District of Columbia through 90 chapters. Two million people benefit from its services throughout the country.
People with low incomes and those working in poverty receive services, counseling, jobs, and indirect financial assistance. The non-profit organization aims to provide housing, health care, job placement, and education to the community.
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America stands out as a charity that takes action whenever the most vulnerable are in need. To help the poorest among us, they have taken on the most difficult tasks over the past 125 years. They go deeper than just providing charitable assistance. This charity has more than 16,000 employees who work to rebuild lives and empower individuals in need.
Volunteers of America provides more than 400 human service programs in 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, including health care and housing. The organization supports and empowers America's most vulnerable groups, such as veterans, at-risk youth, the elderly, prisoners, the homeless, those with disabilities, and those recovering from addictions.
A total of about 60,000 volunteers assist the company's employees in providing these life-changing services. These non-profits help the less fortunate create new lives and start over. In addition to long-term self-sufficiency, short-term financial assistance and resources may also be provided. Assistance with housing, disaster relief, job training, and other services is available.
YMCA
You can improve your community and your life by joining the YMCA. By empowering young people, improving individual and community well-being, and inspiring action, they seek to create meaningful change across the nation.
Children, job seekers, and unemployed individuals are some of the YMCA's main focus areas. Children in low-income families will receive assistance to ensure they are properly fed, even on holidays and during summer holidays. Furthermore, the YMCA provides daycare to children whose parents seek employment or learn new skills.
YWCA
With over 160 years of service, the YWCA has been at the forefront of the most pressing social movements, including voting rights, civil rights, affordable housing, and pay equity. To generate institutional change, they combine advocacy and programming in three key areas:
- Racial justice and civil rights
- Economic advancement and women's empowerment
- Health and safety for women and girls
Its resources are focused on helping women, children, single parents, and those who are struggling. In addition to providing daycare and job training, the organization offers transitional housing. This charity helps women gain a sense of self-sufficiency by empowering them. Veterans and victims of domestic violence can also benefit from its programs.
Health Care Charities
Low-income families and individuals are served primarily by charities that provide health care, but many charities assist low-income families with various aspects of their daily lives. Here's a list of charities that provide free/low-cost health care for low-income families.
CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation
CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation can assist people with medical bills that they cannot pay. Patients diagnosed with cancer will be aided with expenses incurred by their diagnosis.
Financial barriers to cancer treatment can be overcome by helping people with co-payments for prescribed treatments. They will approve your loan the same day, whether you apply by phone, online, or in person.
CaringBridge
Patients, families, and friends can share information, support, and love with one another during serious medical conditions or events through Caringridge’s free information and website. Information about treatment options is also available to patients and families.
The mission of CaringBridge is to make it easy and safe for everyone to provide and receive support when it is most needed. More than 300,000 people use their ad-free platform to post updates about their health and rally around loved ones each day. CaringBridge helps people share their health journeys. Each CaringBridge site is updated every ten minutes to provide updates and support. A loved one's page receives 1,800 messages of encouragement every hour.
Children’s Health Fund (CHF)
The Children's Health Fund is working to ensure that children reach their full potential throughout the United States, from South Los Angeles to the Mississippi Delta, from the South Bronx to Puerto Rico.
These programs provide high-quality healthcare in the homes, schools, and parks of children and families. By partnering with NYC schools, Healthy and Ready to Learn aims to overcome health barriers to learning, chronic absenteeism, and trauma effects on children.
As a result of deplorable health conditions affecting children living in homeless shelters in New York City, Children's Health Fund was founded in 1987. They are currently a part of a national network of 25 programs operating in 15 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. These programs provide care through clinics, schools, Head Start programs, local agencies, and shelters for the homeless. CHF responds to medical emergencies such as flooding, hurricanes, and pandemics and provides health programs.
The organization advocates for families that cannot access medical care and social services. They have achieved important policy improvements by advocating on behalf of their communities.
Free Prescription Medications
Prescription medication can be obtained for a discounted or free price through several programs. Some of the programs are listed below.
Dispensary of Hope
Dispensary of Hope helps manage the pharmaceutical supply chain with innovative stewardship, managing the collection and distribution of millions of dollars of pharmaceuticals to pharmacies and safety-net clinics for dispensing to low-income, chronically ill patients each year. Through meaningful partnerships, pharmacies and clinics can improve access to affordable medications in their communities through the Dispensary of Hope program. Dispensary of Hope programs are essential to population health initiatives and help reduce hospital readmissions and emergency room visits caused by a lack of affordable medication access.
Together RX Access
The Together RX Access card helps keep you healthy by saving you money on prescription drugs. In addition to providing information about the Health Insurance Marketplace, the Affordable Care Act, patient assistance programs from pharmaceutical companies, and other resources related to patient assistance, their website provide patient assistance resources.
Together Rx Access offers uninsured Americans immediate savings on prescription medications at their local pharmacies while also connecting them to resources to take care of what's important to them-their health.
NeedyMeds
Want to learn more about how NeedyMeds could save you or your loved ones money on healthcare costs? Have you contacted their helpline counselors before? It would be great if you could leave a review on GreatNonProfits.org. Your feedback helps them improve their services to serve you better.
Medivizor gives you access to research findings, clinical trials, and treatment options for your medical condition. Send to your inbox the latest news and your diagnosis. Medical equipment can be bought at a 40% discount with the NeedyMeds Drug Discount Card.
You will save on diabetic supplies, braces, splints, catheters, incontinence supplies, bath safety products, compression stockings, mobility aids, footwear, and bladder control pads. NeedyMeds Drug Discount Card may allow you to save up to 80% when you buy prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and pet prescriptions from a pharmacy.
Patient Advocate Foundation
The Patient Advocate Foundation ensures the safety and protection of patients while facilitating access to health care. Learn about resources to help you pay your medical bills, maintain your financial stability, and maintain employment if you have been diagnosed with a debilitating or life-threatening illness.
The Diapers Bank
The Diapers Bank was created in 2004 to raise money and distribute diapers, incontinence supplies for youth and adults, period products, and incontinence supplies for low-income families in Connecticut. In Connecticut, diapers & incontinence supplies are distributed to daycare centers, soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, and social service organizations.
Like-minded non-profits across the country can take inspiration from this organization. The Diaper Bank has distributed more than 26 million diapers to low-income families and individuals in New Haven, Hartford, Fairfield, Middlesex, and Windham counties. By purchasing diapers in bulk and distributing them through their Diaper Distribution Network (DDN), the Diaper Bank collects diapers and cash donations. Families must meet the federal poverty level criteria of under 200% of the federal poverty level to receive assistance.
An executive director, business manager, distribution manager, program manager, and development coordinator lead the Diaper Bank, governed by a board of directors comprised of volunteers. Regular volunteer help is provided in sorting, repackaging, and delivering diapers.
HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation can help people pay for their prescription medications if they need financial assistance. This organization also provides financial assistance for out-of-pocket medical expenses, such as insurance premiums and prescription drugs.
Mission of Mercy, Inc.
Through a mobile medical clinic run by healthcare volunteers of the Mission of Mercy, prescription medications, dental treatment, x-rays, and lab tests are free and accessible to uninsured and underinsured patients.
Patient Access Network (PAN)
A non-profit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, the PAN Foundation assists individuals with chronic or rare diseases with the cost of prescription medications resulting from out-of-pocket expenses.
Those with health insurance also struggle with paying for essential medical care, which is not just a problem for the uninsured. It is becoming increasingly difficult for many people to afford necessary medical treatment due to rising premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
In addition to assisting uninsured, chronic, and rare disease patients, PAN works to increase access to treatment and care for those suffering from life-threatening, chronic, and rare diseases.
By partnering with generous donors, healthcare providers, and pharmacists, they provide access to healthcare treatments to underinsured individuals, focusing on improving their quality of life. Financial assistance for uninsured patients has totaled more than four billion dollars over the past five years.
Patient Services, Inc.
Medical expenses and health-related concerns weigh heavily on so many people. Patient Services, Inc. makes a difference in patients' lives through financial assistance, legal support, and advocacy. Patients with chronic illnesses, who have low incomes, and are uninsured can apply for financial assistance for medical bills and insurance premiums.
Shepherd's Hope, Inc.
Shepherd's Hope offers free, high-quality, compassionate medical care in Central Florida to the uninsured and underinsured. Moreover, it lowers the cost of health insurance for the region's business community and helps relieve the overburden on the healthcare system. The all-volunteer medical staff and care are provided to lower-income, uninsured families. Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals give their time and service for free.
UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation
Families can apply to the UHCCF for monetary grants of up to $5,000 for medical expenses for their children. Families in need can use the funds to pay for non-covered medical services, bills, and expenses from their commercial health insurance plan.
Charities And Organizations That Provide Housing Assistance
The following charities, agencies, and programs provide housing assistance to low-income families.
CoAbode
CoAbode emphasizes the importance of human connection and community to physical and emotional health. Initially, CoAbode was founded on the idea that two single moms raising children together can accomplish more than one going it alone. When single mothers combine resources, they can afford a better home in a better school district, lighten the burden of parenting and childcare, and improve their economic opportunities.
Taking social interaction off the screen and into everyday life, CoAbode is the next generation of social networking. The purpose of matching people for home-sharing is to build a community based on personality and values, build stable family homes, share child care, and provide stability during uncertain economic times. Their approach to community building through CoAbode includes social connection and home-sharing, building health and well-being for millions of Americans.
A couple living together enjoys the financial benefits of a married couple, has more time, has greater access to opportunities, and the security of knowing that their children are safe and their bills are paid.
Family Promise
Families experiencing homelessness can meet their basic needs and regain their independence and dignity with the support of Family Promise (formerly known as Interfaith Hospitality Network). The problem of poverty is complex. Simple solutions are not going to work. Integrated approaches that go beyond immediate needs are needed.
More than 3 million American children experience homelessness each year. The chances of these children repeating a grade are 8-9 times higher, the chances of them being placed in special education programs are three times higher, and the chances of them attempting suicide are seven times higher. A total of 42% of students will drop out of school, and 47% will suffer from anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.
People in poverty may feel powerless to change their circumstances, and the issue may seem overwhelming. More than 200,000 people have found a way to volunteer for Family Promise.
More than 125,000 families are provided with temporary housing, meals, and services each year due to their collaboration. Families at risk of homelessness are mentored through this collaboration. They provide financial literacy education. They assist with job hunting and housing searches. They tailor their programs to meet the specific needs of the communities they serve. Additionally, they promote public policies aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting the economic stability of low-income families.
Mercy Housing
Low-income, affordable housing is being redefined by Mercy Housing. Mercy Housing is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a more humane world where individuals can pursue their full potential and communities are healthy.
The Mercy Housing Corporation is a leader in affordable housing in the United States. They create, preserve, manage, and finance affordable, program-enriched housing across the country through their work. Acquisition and renovation of existing housing and the development of new affordable rental properties are their specialties.
National Coalition for the Homeless (NHC)
Founded by people currently experiencing homelessness and people who have experienced homelessness, the National Coalition for the Homeless is a nationwide network of people. It has a common vision: To prevent and end homelessness while ensuring the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness are met, and their civil rights are upheld. Their vision is that everyone has a safe, decent, affordable, and accessible home.
Their goal is to eliminate homelessness by creating the systemic and attitude changes required. Their work goes hand in hand with the principle that people who experience homelessness or have experienced homelessness in the past should be actively involved. They focus on housing justice, economic justice, health care justice, civil rights, policy advocacy, and grassroots organizing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Charities provide a range of services to low-income families, including financial assistance, food, clothing, housing, educational support, healthcare access, job training, and employment placement services.
You can start by contacting local organizations such as United Way, Salvation Army, or Catholic Charities in your area. They can guide you to resources and programs that are available in your community. Additionally, you can search online for national organizations like Feeding America or Habitat for Humanity, which have local chapters that provide assistance.
Yes, Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. They work with a network of food banks, pantries, and meal programs to provide food assistance to millions of people in need.
Habitat for Humanity is a global non-profit organization that focuses on building and improving homes for low-income families. They partner with communities and families to provide affordable housing and promote self-reliance. Other organizations, like The Salvation Army and Catholic Charities, may also offer housing assistance programs.
You can support these charities in several ways, such as making monetary donations, volunteering your time, participating in fundraising events, or donating goods and services. Visit the charity's website or contact them directly to learn about specific opportunities and ways to get involved.
If you are struggling with rent or housing, there are also churches that help with rent or housing. You can find out about it in one of our articles.
Are you interested in learning more about different grants and programs that can help you with your living situation? Check out the rest of Gov Relations’ blog section today!
