DC’s most comprehensive website for accessing resources is https://www.findhelp.org/, which uses your zip code to point you toward help in your community. In addition, we’ve compiled a list of some resources that may be able to provide support for our families. These are organizations that can provide help, refer you to support, or provide information. Use the menu below to review some resources by category or click the button for some organizations providing additional resources.
FOOD RESOURCES
The DC Food Project has compiled a list of food locations including food banks, free groceries, and restaurants offering free meals. This list includes all of the sites they have identified in Ward 4.
Bread for the City is offering both a grocery pick-up and a weekly grocery delivery. Check their website here for information on both programs and to sign up for the weekly delivery. No registration is required for their grocery pick-up.
Martha’s Table is distributing groceries, prepackaged food, and diapers for families with young children in need of them. Check their website for their full distribution schedule.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
United Way can provide assistance in getting help with bills, rent, and food. Call 1-866-211-9966 or 211 for their confidential hotline.
The Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists low-income District residents reduce their utility costs. To qualify, your utility bills need to be in your name and you must meet income guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For Lifeline discount phone service call 1-800-253-0846.
Georgia Ave Collaborative supports families with resources and has a list of resources from their partners around the city. You can also call them at (202) 722-1815.
RENT & UTILITIES
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)- helps income-eligible Washington, DC residents facing housing emergencies. The program provides funding for overdue rent if a qualified household is facing eviction (including late costs and court fees). The program also supports security deposits and the first month’s rent for residents moving to new apartments.
Office of Tenant Rights- OTA advises tenants on resolving disputes with landlords, identifies legal issues and the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, and provides legal and technical assistance for further action such as filing tenant petitions. Phone only: (202) 719-6560
The Greater Washington Urban League- (GWUL or the League) is on a mission to increase the economic and political empowerment of historically vulnerable and diverse populations. The organization provides housing support, counseling, and resources.
UNEMPLOYMENT
Should you need to, you can file for unemployment benefits here.
MEDICAID
Low-income families in need of medical insurance can apply for Medicaid. See the DC Medicaid website to apply or get more information.
CRISIS INTERVENTION & MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
If your child is in danger of hurting himself/herself or others, please call 911.
Psychiatric Institute of Washington- provides both child and adolescent inpatient services. The Comprehensive Clinical Assessment Center (CCAC) can listen to your problem and help determine treatment options. This is a free, confidential service available 24 hours a day. 1-800-369-CARE or 202-885-5610.
ChAMPS- Children and Adolescent Mobile Psychiatric Unit- ChAMPS staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist families with psychiatric, emotional, behavioral, or family-related problems. No charge to the family for services. Intake: 202-481-1450.
Latin American Youth Center- serves low-income youth in a variety of ways, including assistance with academics, finding safe housing, providing arts and recreation programs, and providing health and wellness resources. This includes free mental health for youth ages 12-21 years old in English and/or Spanish. 202-319-2225
Mary's Center- a community health center that provides therapy to children of all ages. The clinic also has many mental health clinicians who are bilingual and can conduct therapy in Spanish. Most types of insurance, including Medicaid, are accepted. 1-844-796-2797
Additional websites that have compiled resources to support children and families:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline- We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text 988 right away if you or your loved one is having thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
DC Department of Mental Health Crisis Hotline- the gateway to mental health services in DC. Tell them what your needs are and they can point you in the right direction. They can help you find an agency that will accept your insurance, is convenient to where you live, and that offers the services you seek. 1-888-7WE-HELP or 1-888-793-4357
