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Family help in San Mateo County, California
62 places and programs in and around San Mateo County that help families with food, diapers, healthcare, childcare, housing, and bills. Everything here is free to browse and free to contact.
Food assistance
12 listedAids Community Research Consortium
855 Douglas Ave, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: Closed · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Food assistance, food pantry, meals
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Call Primrose Center - Food Distribution Center
139 Primrose Rd, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA
Monday: 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM · Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM · Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM · Thursday: 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM · Friday: 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Most community pantries and supply banks are open to any family in need in their service area; some ask for an ID or a referral. Call ahead to confirm hours and what to bring.
Ecumenical Hunger Program - Food Distribution Center
2411 Pulgas Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM · Friday: Closed · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Most community pantries and supply banks are open to any family in need in their service area; some ask for an ID or a referral. Call ahead to confirm hours and what to bring.
Show the other 9 in Food assistanceShow the first 3 only
Grace Covenant Church - Food Distribution Center
740 Del Monte Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
Who it is for: Most community pantries and supply banks are open to any family in need in their service area; some ask for an ID or a referral. Call ahead to confirm hours and what to bring.
My New Red Shoes - Food Distribution Center
555 Airport Blvd., Burlingame, CA 94010, USA
Who it is for: Most community pantries and supply banks are open to any family in need in their service area; some ask for an ID or a referral. Call ahead to confirm hours and what to bring.
Oriental Food Association
345 Lorton Ave Ste 202, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Open to families and individuals in need of food. Call ahead to ask what to bring.
Redwood City Catholic Worker
545 Cassia St, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Food assistance for the very poor through visiting encampments weekly
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Second Harvest of Silicon Valley
750 Curtner Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125
Food bank serving San Mateo County, California. They distribute food through local pantries, mobile distributions, and meal programs in the San Mateo County area. Visit their website or call to find the food assistance nearest you.
Who it is for: Open to families and individuals in need of food.
Second Harvest of Silicon Valley
1051 Bing St, San Carlos, CA 94070, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Open to families and individuals in need of food. Call ahead to ask what to bring.
St Anthony's Padua Dining Room
3500 Middlefield Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Sunday: Closed
Meals and groceries distribution
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Trader Joe's
45 W Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Food pantry and distribution services
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Wally's Place - Food Distribution Center
695 Fifth Ave, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Who it is for: Most community pantries and supply banks are open to any family in need in their service area; some ask for an ID or a referral. Call ahead to confirm hours and what to bring.
Maternal & infant health
3 listedSan Mateo County WIC Program
2342 El Camino Real, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: WIC serves pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 in families with limited income. Many working families qualify, and families on Medicaid or SNAP automatically meet the income rule. Call to confirm and set up an appointment.
WIC Program
2450 Euclid Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Open 24 hours · Sunday: Open 24 hours
Who it is for: WIC serves pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 in families with limited income. Many working families qualify, and families on Medicaid or SNAP automatically meet the income rule. Call to confirm and set up an appointment.
WIC Program
1731 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: WIC serves pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 in families with limited income. Many working families qualify, and families on Medicaid or SNAP automatically meet the income rule. Call to confirm and set up an appointment.
Healthcare & clinics
7 listedArea Agency On Aging
2000 Alameda de las Pulgas #210, San Mateo, CA 94497, USA
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Health Plan of San Mateo
801 Gateway Blvd #100, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Samaritan House Free Clinic
19 W 39th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
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San Mateo County Health Department
225 37th Ave #11, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
San Mateo County Health Foundation
222 W 39th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
San Mateo Medical Center
222 W 39th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: Open 24 hours · Tuesday: Open 24 hours · Wednesday: Open 24 hours · Thursday: Open 24 hours · Friday: Open 24 hours · Saturday: Open 24 hours · Sunday: Open 24 hours
Volunteer Opportunities: Mills Health Center
100 S San Mateo Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: Open 24 hours · Tuesday: Open 24 hours · Wednesday: Open 24 hours · Thursday: Open 24 hours · Friday: Open 24 hours · Saturday: Open 24 hours · Sunday: Open 24 hours
Childcare & early education
12 listedAnne Campbell Child Development Center
65 Tower Rd, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Child Care Coordinating Council of San Mateo County
330 Twin Dolphin Dr Suite 119, Redwood City, CA 94065, USA
Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Head Start-Moonridge
2001 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
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Headstart
825 Southwood Dr, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Highlands Recreation Early Education Center
1851 Lexington Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
Monday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Thursday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Izzi at East Palo Alto
1395 Bay Rd, East Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Preschool and toddler program with family services.
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Izzi Early Education
370 San Bruno Ave W, San Bruno, CA 94066, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Little Bloom Child Development Center
1911 Elkhorn Ct, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Magnolia Head Start
1425 Bay Rd, East Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Menlo Park Head Start
419 Sixth Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
San Mateo County First 5
1700 S El Camino Real #405, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
San Mateo Parent's Nursery School
1732 Monte Diablo Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Head Start (ages 3 to 5) and Early Head Start (pregnancy through age 3) are free for children in families with limited income. Children in foster care, families experiencing homelessness, and families receiving TANF or SSI qualify regardless of income. Contact the program to apply.
Housing & shelter
7 listedDept of Housing | San Mateo County
264 Harbor Blvd # A, Belmont, CA 94002, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: Closed · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Goodwill Store & Donation Center
28 W 25th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM · Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Housing assistance and shelter
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Heart of San Mateo
2905 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Affordable housing development and homebuyer programs.
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
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HIP Housing
111 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County
2905 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
LifeMoves | First Step for Families
325 Villa Terrace, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Emergency shelter and services for homeless families
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Homeless Help Center
50 N B St, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Utilities & financial help
14 listedAssistance League of San Mateo
528 N San Mateo Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: Closed · Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: Closed · Thursday: Closed · Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Coastside Hope
248 Main St #200, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA
Monday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Food clothing rent utility assistance
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Daly City Community Services Center
350 90th St, Daly City, CA 94015, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
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Fair Oaks Community Center
2600 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Family Resource Center
1764 Marco Polo Way, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Freedom Debt Relief
1875 S Grant St Ste 300, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
Monday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Thursday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Friday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM · Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Pacifica Resource Center (PRC)
1809 Palmetto Ave, Pacifica, CA 94044, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 – 7:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Samaritan House of San Mateo County
4031 Pacific Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Samaritan House Worker Resource Center
171 N Amphlett Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Saturday: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
San Mateo County Human Services
2500 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
San Mateo County Human Services
271 92nd St, Daly City, CA 94015, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
San Mateo County Human Services
400 Harbor Blvd # B, Belmont, CA 94002, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul District Council
50 N B St, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
The Salvation Army Social Service
660 Veterans Blvd, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.
Public benefits & family services
1 listedEl Concilio of San Mateo County
2396 University Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Education and employment services for underserved communities.
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Clothing & household goods
1 listedCounty of San Mateo Children’s Fund
1 Davis Dr, Belmont, CA 94002, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Clothing and toy donations to children in need
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Mental & behavioral health
1 listedMental Health Association of San Mateo County
Education & after-school
1 listedYMCA Community Resource Center
1486 Huntington Ave #100, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Tuesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: Closed · Thursday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM · Friday: Closed · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Community centers & general help
3 listedSan Mateo County Parks Foundation
Captains House, 1701 Coyote Point Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Service League-San Mateo County
727 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
St. Francis Center
151 Buckingham Ave, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
Monday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM · Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM · Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM · Thursday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM · Friday: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed
Essential services, education, affordable housing
Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.
Two minutes, no name, nothing saved.
Most families are eligible for programs they have never applied to. WIC reaches fewer than half the children who qualify, and one in five eligible workers never claims a tax credit worth thousands. Answer five things and see what is probably yours.
National helplines, open to every family
These work anywhere in the United States, most of them around the clock.
Feeding America Food Bank Finder
Find your local Feeding America food bank and nearby pantries anywhere in the United States.
Who it is for: Open to everyone
SNAP Food Assistance (USDA state directory)
Apply for SNAP (food stamps) to help buy groceries. Use the directory to find your state SNAP office and application.
Who it is for: Income-eligible households
USDA National Hunger Hotline
Monday to Friday, 7am to 10pm ET
Free help finding food assistance anywhere in the country. Call to be connected with food pantries, meal sites, and benefit programs. Available in English and Spanish.
Who it is for: Open to everyone
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National Diaper Bank Network
Find a diaper bank near you anywhere in the United States.
Who it is for: Families in need of diapers
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential support before, during, and after pregnancy. Call or text 24/7; interpreter services available.
Who it is for: Pregnant and postpartum people and their families
Postpartum Support International
Support and resources for parents experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety challenges. Call or text the helpline to be connected with local support.
Who it is for: New and expecting parents
WIC Nutrition Program (USDA)
Free healthy food, nutrition support, and breastfeeding help for pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children under 5. Find and apply at your local WIC clinic.
Who it is for: Income-eligible pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children under 5
Find a Health Center (HRSA)
Find a community health center near you that provides care on a sliding fee scale, regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
Who it is for: Open to all; sliding-scale fees
Health Insurance Marketplace (HealthCare.gov)
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Enroll in health coverage for your family, with financial help based on income. Call or apply online; the call center is open 24/7.
Who it is for: Open to all; subsidies based on income
Insure Kids Now (Medicaid and CHIP for children)
Free or low-cost health and dental coverage for children and teens through Medicaid and CHIP. Call to be connected with your state program and get help enrolling.
Who it is for: Children and teens in income-eligible families
Childcare.gov
Find child care options, financial assistance, and your state child care resources anywhere in the United States.
Who it is for: Open to all families
Head Start and Early Head Start
Free early education, child care, and family support for income-eligible families with children from birth to age 5. Use the locator to find a program near you.
Who it is for: Income-eligible families with children birth to age 5
211 (United Way)
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential help available 24/7 in every state. Dial 211 to connect with local resources for housing, food, utilities, healthcare, and more.
Who it is for: Open to everyone
HUD Housing Counseling
Free, HUD-approved counseling for renters and homeowners. Get help finding rental assistance, avoiding eviction or foreclosure, and locating affordable housing.
Who it is for: Open to renters and homeowners
National Runaway Safeline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Help and resources for youth experiencing homelessness or thinking about running away, and for their families. Available 24/7 by call, text, or chat.
Who it is for: Youth and families
LIHEAP Energy Assistance (National Energy Assistance Referral)
Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm ET
Free help paying heating and cooling bills. Call to be connected with the energy assistance office that serves your area, or visit EnergyHelp.us to find it.
Who it is for: Income-eligible households
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential crisis support available 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress or thinking about suicide. Call or text 988, or chat online. Help is available in English and Spanish.
Who it is for: Anyone in crisis; free and confidential
Disaster Distress Helpline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential crisis counseling for anyone in emotional distress related to a disaster. Call or text 24/7.
Who it is for: Anyone affected by a disaster
SAMHSA National Helpline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information for mental health and substance use, in English and Spanish.
Who it is for: Open to everyone; free and confidential
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
24/7 confidential support for children, teens, parents, and anyone worried about a child. Counselors answer questions, talk through difficult situations, and connect you with local resources. Call or text.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential support 24/7 for anyone affected by domestic violence. Call, text START to 88788, or chat online to talk with an advocate, plan for safety, and find local help.
Who it is for: Anyone affected by domestic violence; free and confidential
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Free, confidential support for survivors of sexual assault, available 24/7. Call or chat online to reach a trained advocate.
Who it is for: Survivors of sexual assault; free and confidential
Find Legal Aid (Legal Services Corporation)
Search for the free civil legal aid office that serves your county. LSC funds nonprofit legal aid organizations in every state for issues like housing, custody, benefits, and debt.
LawHelp.org (free legal aid finder)
Find free legal aid and self-help resources in your state for housing, family, public benefits, safety, and more.
Who it is for: Income-eligible individuals and families
CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor)
Free job search help, training and certification info, and resume guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor. Use the Local Help section to find your nearest American Job Center for free in-person employment services.
211 Transportation Help (United Way)
Free, confidential referrals to local transportation help such as rides to medical appointments, bus passes, and gas vouchers where available. If you have Medicaid, also ask your state Medicaid office about free rides to covered medical appointments.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America (club finder)
After-school and summer programs for ages 6 to 18, including sports leagues, STEM labs, and meals at many clubs. Use the finder to locate a club near you.
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Free, age-appropriate books mailed each month to children from birth to age 5, at no cost to families. Available where a local program operates; use the finder to check your area and register your child online.
Who it is for: Any Missouri child under age 5, regardless of income
YMCA (Find Your Y)
Youth programs, child care, camps, and family activities at local YMCAs nationwide. Use the locator to find your nearest Y and see which youth programs it offers.
What happens next
You need help right now
Everything on this page is free to contact, and you never need an account to look. Neighbors post free baby gear, clothes, and household things on the Family Barter System, and the helplines above answer around the clock.
You want to help families in San Mateo County
This list is free to use and always will be. Keeping it accurate takes real work, and there are three ways to pitch in: fund it, tell us about a place we missed, or push for the policies that would make a list like this less necessary.
Browse every county in California · Put your organization's name on this page
Want to know when this list grows?
We add listings county by county. Once a month we send one email with what is new, what is moving on the Family Barter System, and the research behind all of it. No account needed.