State resources

Alabama Resources for Dads

Programs we've checked for Alabama, plus nationwide programs that also apply.

Filter the directory to Alabama All states

Resources on this page were last checked against their official sources on October 26, 2026. Each card shows its own date and source. Programs change, so check the official site before you go.

Divorce

Statewide

More about Divorce

Custody & Parenting Time

Statewide

  • Alabama Model Parenting Plan Court Forms and Time-Sharing Schedules

    Alabama Law Institute

    This site has model parenting plan court forms for parents, lawyers, and judges, plus suggested time-sharing schedules based on the child's best interests. A parenting plan covers custody decisions and a general time-sharing schedule.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For parents creating a parenting plan for court. Plans have no legal effect unless the court assigned to the case adopts them, and the site isn't legal advice.

    Topics: Custody & Parenting TimeDivorce

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Model Parenting Plan Court Forms and Time-Sharing Schedules)

  • AlabamaLegalHelp.org

    Legal Services Alabama (with Pro Bono Net)

    AlabamaLegalHelp.org is a guide to free and low-cost legal aid in Alabama, produced by Legal Services Alabama on Pro Bono Net's LawHelp platform. It covers topics such as divorce, child support, and housing, and explains how to apply to LSA for free civil legal aid online or by phone.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    LSA serves qualifying low-income families in civil matters in all 67 counties and accepts cases based on client need, safety, and staff availability. Apply online or call to find out; LSA decides. If you don't qualify, the site points to the Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service (1-800-392-5660).

    Topics: DivorceCustody & Parenting TimeChild SupportHousing

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for AlabamaLegalHelp.org)

  • Cooperative Parenting After Separation and Divorce

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    APEC offers Cooperative Parenting training sessions to help parents going through separation or divorce understand and support their children. Participants learn to communicate peacefully, resolve parental disputes, and find resources during and after family restructuring.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For adults whose families are changing through separation, divorce, remarriage, or similar transitions. Check APEC's calendar for upcoming classes.

    Topics: DivorceCustody & Parenting TimeFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Cooperative Parenting After Separation and Divorce)

County programs

  • Fathers and Families Forward

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    In partnership with Elmore County DHR and the Elmore County District Circuit Court Child Support Division, this program helps Elmore County parents connect with their children legally, emotionally, and financially. Services include individual development plans, fathers' classes such as 24/7 Dad, and resource and employment skill sessions.

    Where
    Elmore County, Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents, especially dads, in Elmore County. Contact APEC to confirm eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingChild SupportCustody & Parenting Time

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Fathers and Families Forward)

More about Custody & Parenting Time

Child Support

Statewide

  • AlabamaLegalHelp.org

    Legal Services Alabama (with Pro Bono Net)

    AlabamaLegalHelp.org is a guide to free and low-cost legal aid in Alabama, produced by Legal Services Alabama on Pro Bono Net's LawHelp platform. It covers topics such as divorce, child support, and housing, and explains how to apply to LSA for free civil legal aid online or by phone.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    LSA serves qualifying low-income families in civil matters in all 67 counties and accepts cases based on client need, safety, and staff availability. Apply online or call to find out; LSA decides. If you don't qualify, the site points to the Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service (1-800-392-5660).

    Topics: DivorceCustody & Parenting TimeChild SupportHousing

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for AlabamaLegalHelp.org)

  • Child Support Enforcement Program

    Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Child Support Enforcement Division

    Alabama's Child Support Enforcement (IV-D) program helps families establish paternity when necessary, obtain child support orders, and get compliance with those orders. Services include order review and adjustment, locating a parent, payment collection, and enforcement.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents and families who need help establishing, changing, collecting, or enforcing child support. See the page's "Applying for Child Support Services" section; DHR decides who can be served.

    Topics: Child Support

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Child Support Enforcement Program)

  • Child Support Forms

    Alabama Administrative Office of Courts (AOC)

    The Alabama AOC's official court forms for child support, including petitions for support, modification and contempt petitions, paternity complaints, withholding forms, and the CS-42 Child Support Guidelines forms.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents and others filing child support matters in Alabama courts. Check with the court about which forms apply to your case.

    Topics: Child Support

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Child Support Forms)

  • Fatherhood Programs

    Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children's Trust Fund of Alabama)

    The Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention funds fatherhood programs across the state with TANF dollars from DHR. The programs serve families, including mothers, and track child support payments, job placements, and food assistance enrollment. A Strengthening Families through Fathers pilot offers free education and employment services to parents involved in SNAP, child care subsidy, or child support cases.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    Local funded programs set their own eligibility. The Strengthening Families through Fathers pilot is for fathers and mothers involved in SNAP, the child care subsidy program, or child support cases in three regions of the state.

    Topics: Family CounselingChild Support

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Fatherhood Programs)

County programs

  • Fathers and Families Forward

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    In partnership with Elmore County DHR and the Elmore County District Circuit Court Child Support Division, this program helps Elmore County parents connect with their children legally, emotionally, and financially. Services include individual development plans, fathers' classes such as 24/7 Dad, and resource and employment skill sessions.

    Where
    Elmore County, Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents, especially dads, in Elmore County. Contact APEC to confirm eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingChild SupportCustody & Parenting Time

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Fathers and Families Forward)

More about Child Support

Financial Aid

Statewide

More about Financial Aid

WIC

Statewide

  • WIC Program

    Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)

    WIC is a supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last six months, infants, and children under five. Families apply by making an appointment at their county health department.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Applicants must meet income guidelines, live in Alabama, and be seen by a health professional at the WIC clinic, where nutritional risk is evaluated. Bring ID, proof of residence, and proof of Medicaid, SNAP, or Family Assistance enrollment or household income. The WIC clinic decides eligibility.

    Topics: WICInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for WIC Program)

More about WIC

SNAP (Food Assistance)

Statewide

  • Food Assistance Program (SNAP)

    Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Food Assistance Division

    Alabama DHR's Food Assistance Division runs SNAP in Alabama, providing monthly benefits to eligible low-income households to help them buy food. Applications are available online, in print, and at all county DHR offices.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For eligible low-income households. Eligibility rules and benefit amounts are based on income and household size under USDA regulations; a simplified application (AESAP) exists for households where all members are 65 or older with no earned income. DHR decides eligibility.

    Topics: SNAP (Food Assistance)

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Food Assistance Program (SNAP))

More about SNAP (Food Assistance)

Housing

Statewide

  • Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA)

    Alabama Housing Finance Authority

    AHFA, a public corporation created by the Alabama Legislature, offers homeownership and rental opportunities for low- and moderate-income Alabamians. It offers home-buying programs such as Step Up and First Step and finances affordable rental housing.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For low- and moderate-income Alabama residents. Each program has its own requirements, and AHFA or its lenders decide eligibility.

    Topics: Housing

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA))

  • AlabamaLegalHelp.org

    Legal Services Alabama (with Pro Bono Net)

    AlabamaLegalHelp.org is a guide to free and low-cost legal aid in Alabama, produced by Legal Services Alabama on Pro Bono Net's LawHelp platform. It covers topics such as divorce, child support, and housing, and explains how to apply to LSA for free civil legal aid online or by phone.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    LSA serves qualifying low-income families in civil matters in all 67 counties and accepts cases based on client need, safety, and staff availability. Apply online or call to find out; LSA decides. If you don't qualify, the site points to the Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service (1-800-392-5660).

    Topics: DivorceCustody & Parenting TimeChild SupportHousing

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for AlabamaLegalHelp.org)

More about Housing

Childcare

Statewide

  • Subsidized Child Care

    Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Child Care Services Division

    DHR's Child Care Services Division runs Alabama's child care subsidy program, which aims to give low- and moderate-income families access to affordable, quality child care while they work, attend school, or train. The division also licenses child care centers and homes and offers a provider search and statewide directory.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For low- and moderate-income families taking part in work, education, or training activities. DHR decides eligibility.

    Topics: Childcare

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Subsidized Child Care)

More about Childcare

Family Counseling

Statewide

  • Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ACADV)

    Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence

    ACADV is a statewide network that connects domestic violence survivors and their families with local crisis programs, emergency shelters, and confidential support in all 67 Alabama counties. Advocates help with safety planning whether a person decides to stay or leave.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For anyone affected by domestic violence in Alabama and for people trying to help them.

    Topics: Emergency AssistanceFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ACADV))

  • Alabama Family Central

    Alabama Children's Cabinet and partner state agencies

    Alabama Family Central is a one-stop website that collects state agency resources on education, health care, child services, and family support. It highlights the free, confidential Parenting Assistance Line (PAL), early intervention, and Help Me Grow.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For Alabama parents, family members, caregivers, and teachers. Each listed program sets its own eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingMental HealthSpecial-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Family Central)

  • Cooperative Parenting After Separation and Divorce

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    APEC offers Cooperative Parenting training sessions to help parents going through separation or divorce understand and support their children. Participants learn to communicate peacefully, resolve parental disputes, and find resources during and after family restructuring.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For adults whose families are changing through separation, divorce, remarriage, or similar transitions. Check APEC's calendar for upcoming classes.

    Topics: DivorceCustody & Parenting TimeFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Cooperative Parenting After Separation and Divorce)

  • Fatherhood Programs

    Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children's Trust Fund of Alabama)

    The Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention funds fatherhood programs across the state with TANF dollars from DHR. The programs serve families, including mothers, and track child support payments, job placements, and food assistance enrollment. A Strengthening Families through Fathers pilot offers free education and employment services to parents involved in SNAP, child care subsidy, or child support cases.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    Local funded programs set their own eligibility. The Strengthening Families through Fathers pilot is for fathers and mothers involved in SNAP, the child care subsidy program, or child support cases in three regions of the state.

    Topics: Family CounselingChild Support

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Fatherhood Programs)

  • Special Families Project

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    The Special Families Project provides prevention services to parents of children with disabilities to help them parent their children and connect with other families and community resources, reducing parental stress and isolation. It also trains agency staff and the community on disability issues.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents of children with disabilities or special needs. Contact APEC to confirm availability in your area.

    Topics: Special-Needs ParentingFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Special Families Project)

County programs

  • Fathers and Families Forward

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    In partnership with Elmore County DHR and the Elmore County District Circuit Court Child Support Division, this program helps Elmore County parents connect with their children legally, emotionally, and financially. Services include individual development plans, fathers' classes such as 24/7 Dad, and resource and employment skill sessions.

    Where
    Elmore County, Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents, especially dads, in Elmore County. Contact APEC to confirm eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingChild SupportCustody & Parenting Time

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Fathers and Families Forward)

More about Family Counseling

Mental Health

Statewide

  • Alabama Family Central

    Alabama Children's Cabinet and partner state agencies

    Alabama Family Central is a one-stop website that collects state agency resources on education, health care, child services, and family support. It highlights the free, confidential Parenting Assistance Line (PAL), early intervention, and Help Me Grow.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For Alabama parents, family members, caregivers, and teachers. Each listed program sets its own eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingMental HealthSpecial-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Family Central)

  • Child & Family Services

    Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH), Office of Child & Family Services

    ADMH's Office of Child & Family Services supports children and families statewide with infant and early childhood mental health, autism services, mental illness treatment, adolescent substance use treatment, intensive home-based services, and suicide prevention. Child and adolescent mental health services are offered in all 67 counties.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    Varies by service. Mental health services are for youth who meet criteria for Serious Emotional Disturbance up to their 21st birthday. Autism services are for Medicaid-eligible children and youth from birth through age 20. Adolescent substance use treatment is for ages 13 to 18 through certified providers. Providers decide eligibility.

    Topics: Mental HealthSpecial-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Child & Family Services)

More about Mental Health

Infant Care

Statewide

  • Alabama's Early Intervention System (EI)

    Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS)

    Early Intervention provides supports and services for infants and toddlers under age three with a developmental delay or a diagnosis that can delay development. Services focus on teaching parents and caregivers how to help the child learn through everyday activities, guided by an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For children from birth to age 3 who have a diagnosed condition likely to cause developmental delay, or a delay in cognitive, physical, communication, social/emotional, or adaptive development. Eligibility is determined after an evaluation with an assigned service coordinator. Referrals can be made through the Child Find line or NeverTooEarlyAL.org.

    Topics: Special-Needs ParentingInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama's Early Intervention System (EI))

  • Cribs for Kids® - Alabama

    Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), State Perinatal Program

    ADPH partners with the national Cribs for Kids® program to give a limited number of pack-n-plays to families who need a safe sleep space for an infant under one year old. Families are referred by partner agencies.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For families who need a safe sleep environment for an infant under one year old. A partner agency must submit a referral packet (English or Spanish). Supply is limited.

    Topics: Infant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Cribs for Kids® - Alabama)

  • WIC Program

    Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)

    WIC is a supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last six months, infants, and children under five. Families apply by making an appointment at their county health department.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Applicants must meet income guidelines, live in Alabama, and be seen by a health professional at the WIC clinic, where nutritional risk is evaluated. Bring ID, proof of residence, and proof of Medicaid, SNAP, or Family Assistance enrollment or household income. The WIC clinic decides eligibility.

    Topics: WICInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for WIC Program)

More about Infant Care

Special-Needs Parenting

Statewide

  • Alabama Family Central

    Alabama Children's Cabinet and partner state agencies

    Alabama Family Central is a one-stop website that collects state agency resources on education, health care, child services, and family support. It highlights the free, confidential Parenting Assistance Line (PAL), early intervention, and Help Me Grow.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For Alabama parents, family members, caregivers, and teachers. Each listed program sets its own eligibility.

    Topics: Family CounselingMental HealthSpecial-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Family Central)

  • Alabama Parent Training & Information (AL PTI)

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    AL PTI gives free information and training to Alabama families of children with disabilities from birth to age 26, helping them advocate for their children. Services include individual help preparing for IEP, 504, and other school meetings, workshops on special education law and disabilities, and a resource library.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For Alabama families with children ages birth to 26 with disabilities.

    Topics: Special-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama Parent Training & Information (AL PTI))

  • Alabama's Early Intervention System (EI)

    Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS)

    Early Intervention provides supports and services for infants and toddlers under age three with a developmental delay or a diagnosis that can delay development. Services focus on teaching parents and caregivers how to help the child learn through everyday activities, guided by an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For children from birth to age 3 who have a diagnosed condition likely to cause developmental delay, or a delay in cognitive, physical, communication, social/emotional, or adaptive development. Eligibility is determined after an evaluation with an assigned service coordinator. Referrals can be made through the Child Find line or NeverTooEarlyAL.org.

    Topics: Special-Needs ParentingInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Alabama's Early Intervention System (EI))

  • Child & Family Services

    Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH), Office of Child & Family Services

    ADMH's Office of Child & Family Services supports children and families statewide with infant and early childhood mental health, autism services, mental illness treatment, adolescent substance use treatment, intensive home-based services, and suicide prevention. Child and adolescent mental health services are offered in all 67 counties.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    Varies by service. Mental health services are for youth who meet criteria for Serious Emotional Disturbance up to their 21st birthday. Autism services are for Medicaid-eligible children and youth from birth through age 20. Adolescent substance use treatment is for ages 13 to 18 through certified providers. Providers decide eligibility.

    Topics: Mental HealthSpecial-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Child & Family Services)

  • Children's Rehabilitation Service (CRS)

    Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS)

    CRS is a statewide system of services for children with special health care needs and their families, and for adults with hemophilia, run through 14 community-based offices. Services include specialty clinics, care coordination, information and referral, and a Parent Connection program with parent consultants who have raised children with special health care needs.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For Alabama children and youth with special health care needs and their families, and adults with hemophilia. CRS decides eligibility.

    Topics: Special-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Children's Rehabilitation Service (CRS))

  • Division of Developmental Disabilities

    Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH)

    ADMH's Division of Developmental Disabilities provides services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through Medicaid waivers. Its call center handles first screening and referral for the waiver waiting list.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Waiver services depend on each person's level of care and assessed needs, and ADMH decides eligibility for the waiting list.

    Topics: Special-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Division of Developmental Disabilities)

  • Special Families Project

    Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

    The Special Families Project provides prevention services to parents of children with disabilities to help them parent their children and connect with other families and community resources, reducing parental stress and isolation. It also trains agency staff and the community on disability issues.

    Where
    Alabama
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For parents of children with disabilities or special needs. Contact APEC to confirm availability in your area.

    Topics: Special-Needs ParentingFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Special Families Project)

More about Special-Needs Parenting

Emergency Assistance

Statewide

More about Emergency Assistance

Nationwide programs that also apply

These programs serve families anywhere in the U.S., including Alabama.

  • 211 (United Way 211)

    United Way 211

    Call 211 for confidential help connecting to local community services, such as housing, homelessness, and utility bill assistance. 211.org can also help you find your local 211.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Phone
    211
    Who it's for

    Free and confidential to call. Programs you're referred to set their own rules. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Emergency AssistanceHousing

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for 211 (United Way 211))

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

    Free, confidential support 24/7 by call, text, or chat. You don't have to be suicidal to reach out; reasons include relationships, economic worries, substance use, depression, and loneliness. Spanish: press 2 or text AYUDA to 988. Veterans: press 1.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Phone
    988
    Who it's for

    Available to anyone in the United States and its territories. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Mental HealthEmergency Assistance

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

  • ChildCare.gov

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Child Care

    Helps parents find safe, quality child care in their community that fits their family's needs. It links to each state's or territory's child care websites, where parents can search for child care and consumer education information.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Information site open to everyone. The state programs it links to set their own rules. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Childcare

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for ChildCare.gov)

  • Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

    Childhelp

    A safe, nonjudgmental space by call, text, or chat for anyone concerned about or affected by child abuse. It is not a reporting line and is not connected to 911; the site lists each state's child abuse reporting contacts.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Open to anyone. The hotline may have to share information with authorities if a child is being harmed or someone intends to act on suicidal thoughts. In California, child abuse reports go to your county's CPS line. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Emergency AssistanceFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline)

  • Crisis Text Line

    Crisis Text Line

    Free, confidential, 24/7 support by text message. Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to reach a trained volunteer crisis counselor for stress, anxiety, loneliness, substance use, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Available to anyone in the United States. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Mental HealthEmergency Assistance

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Crisis Text Line)

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

    Internal Revenue Service

    A federal tax credit that helps low- to moderate-income workers and families reduce taxes owed and possibly increase their refund. The IRS site has a qualification checker and links to free tax preparation help.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For workers with low to moderate income; the amount can depend on children or dependents and other factors. The IRS notes refunds for EITC claims are held until mid-February. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Financial Aid

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC))

  • Find Shelter

    U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

    HUD's tool for finding housing, shelter, health care, and clothing resources by location. It also links to help paying rent, applying for a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), talking to a housing counselor, and reporting housing discrimination.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Open to anyone searching. Each local program found through the tool has its own eligibility rules. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: HousingEmergency Assistance

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Find Shelter)

  • Find Your Parent Center (Parent Training and Information Centers)

    Center for Parent Information and Resources

    A finder for the nearly 100 Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) and Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs) in the US and territories. These centers work with families of infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities, birth to 26, and help parents take part in their children's education and development.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Cost varies
    Who it's for

    For families of children and youth with disabilities, birth to 26. Each Parent Center sets its own services. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Special-Needs Parenting

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Find Your Parent Center (Parent Training and Information Centers))

  • FindTreatment.gov

    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

    A confidential, anonymous search tool for finding mental health and substance use treatment facilities in the United States, with guides on treatment options and paying for treatment.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Free to search. Each facility sets its own intake rules and costs. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Mental Health

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for FindTreatment.gov)

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline

    National Domestic Violence Hotline

    Free, confidential, 24/7 support from advocates by call, chat, or text (START to 88788), including crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to local resources. Help is available for anyone affected by relationship abuse.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Open to anyone. The Hotline does not give direct financial help (like cash or hotel vouchers) but can connect you with local resources. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Emergency AssistanceFamily Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for National Domestic Violence Hotline)

  • National Parent & Youth Helpline

    Parents Anonymous

    Free, confidential support for parents, children, and youth from trained Helpline Specialists by call, text, or live chat, available 24/7. Run by Parents Anonymous, which also offers Parents Anonymous support groups.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For parents, children, and youth. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Family CounselingMental Health

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for National Parent & Youth Helpline)

  • National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (Fatherhood.gov)

    U.S. Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance

    A federally funded national resource for fathers. Offers a library of fatherhood resources, activities for dads and kids, topics like co-parenting, blended families, and economic stability, a Program Map to find local fatherhood programs, and a National Call Center for dads.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Open to all fathers and the public. Local programs found through the Program Map set their own eligibility. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Family Counseling

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (Fatherhood.gov))

  • Postpartum Support International: Help for Dads

    Postpartum Support International (PSI)

    Support for fathers dealing with depression or anxiety during pregnancy or after a baby arrives. Includes a call/text HelpLine, free peer support such as support groups (including a group for dads) and a peer mentor program, a weekly Chat with an Expert call, and a directory of perinatal mental health providers.

    Not for emergencies. The PSI HelpLine is not a crisis hotline and does not handle emergencies. In a crisis, call 988 or your local emergency number, or call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 833-852-6262 (24/7).

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For dads facing perinatal mental health challenges. The PSI HelpLine is not a crisis hotline and does not handle emergencies. You leave a confidential message any time and a trained volunteer returns your call or text; messages are returned every day, within 8am-11pm EST. In a crisis, call 988 or your local emergency number, or call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 833-852-6262 (24/7).

    Topics: Mental HealthInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Postpartum Support International: Help for Dads)

  • Safe to Sleep

    National Institutes of Health (NICHD)

    A national campaign with evidence-based guidance to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related infant deaths, plus tummy time tips and free printable materials for parents and grandparents.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Free information for anyone caring for a baby. Talk with your child's doctor about your baby's specific needs. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Infant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Safe to Sleep)

  • SAMHSA's National Helpline

    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

    Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service in English and Spanish for people and families facing mental health or substance use disorders. Connects callers with local treatment, support groups, and community organizations. It does not provide counseling.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    Open to anyone. No insurance needed; people without insurance may be referred to state-funded or sliding-fee programs. TTY: 1-800-487-4889. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: Mental Health

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for SAMHSA's National Helpline)

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

    U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Administration

    The federal SNAP program provides food benefits to low-income families to help with their grocery budget. In California, SNAP is called CalFresh and you apply through the state.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    For low-income households. In California, apply for CalFresh; the county decides eligibility. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: SNAP (Food Assistance)

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP))

  • WIC: Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children

    U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Administration

    The federal WIC program provides healthy foods, personalized nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals from pregnancy until a child turns 5. Includes an eligibility checker and a tool to find WIC near you.

    Where
    Nationwide
    Cost
    Free
    Who it's for

    WIC serves women who are pregnant, recently pregnant, or breastfeeding, and babies and kids under 5. USDA says moms, dads, foster parents, and anyone raising kids under 5 can apply for the children in their care. See the official site for current rules.

    Topics: WICInfant Care

    Last verified October 26, 2026 (source for WIC: Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)