Direct Assistance

Practical help for urgent household needs

We help with one emergency at a time, and we help you plan for the next one with straightforward guidance and direct vendor payments.

Housing & Utilities

Qualifying for rent and utility relief

When a shut-off notice or a landlord demand arrives, quick action makes a difference. We work directly with utility providers and property owners to clear past-due balances for eligible Central Ohio households, preventing immediate displacement and keeping essential services connected.

Please bring your current bill, your lease agreement or shut-off notice, proof of household income for the past thirty days, and a valid photo ID. Our intake volunteers review these documents with you in person to determine exactly what our current emergency funds can cover.

Employment Transit

Keeping your car running for work

A broken alternator or failed brakes should not cost someone their job. Our vehicle repair assistance covers essential mechanical work required for verified employment across Columbus, Delaware, Newark, Lancaster, and Marion.

Benefits Navigation

Navigating public programs together

Programs

Programs we help access

We guide applicants through Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid medical coverage, and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) filings.

Preparation

What to bring with you

Bring identification for household members, social security numbers, proof of income, and recent utility statements to make your intake session straightforward.

Workshops

Free budgeting and money classes

Practical instruction designed for working households managing tight monthly margins.

Basics
Credit
Savings

Budget Basics

Building Credit

Saving on a Small Paycheck

Simple methods to track income, map fixed expenses, and build a realistic spending plan that holds up through unpredictable weeks.

Understand credit reports, correct reporting errors, and learn safe ways to establish positive credit history without high-fee products.

Actionable strategies for setting aside small amounts consistently to handle minor vehicle or medical costs before they turn into crises.