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Family help in Boone County, Missouri

57 places and programs in and around Boone County that help families with food, diapers, healthcare, childcare, housing, and bills. Everything here is free to browse and free to contact.

Please call before you go. Hours and eligibility come from public records refreshed monthly, not in real time. A quick phone call saves a wasted trip, and staff can tell you what to bring.

Food assistance

16 listed
  • Annie Fisher Pantry

    616 Park Ave, Columbia, MO 65201, 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.

  • Columbia Center For Urban Agriculture - Food Distribution Center

    1209 Smith St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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.

  • Columbia Square Town Homes - Food Distribution Center

    1715 W Worley St Ste A1, Columbia, MO 65203, 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.

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  • Feeding Missouri

    2306 Bluff Creek Dr, Columbia, MO 65201, 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: 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.

  • Fifth Street Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center

    401 N 5th St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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.

  • Food Circles Networking Project - Food Distribution Center

    201 Gentry, Columbia, MO 65201, 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.

  • Loaves & Fishes

    1509 Ashley St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Who it is for: Open to families and individuals in need of food. Call ahead to ask what to bring.

  • Oak Chapel Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center

    411 Circus Ave, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: Closed · Tuesday: Closed · Wednesday: Closed · Thursday: Closed · Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM · 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.

  • Progressive Missionary Baptist Church - Food Distribution Center

    702 Banks Ave, Columbia, MO 65203, 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.

  • Russell Chapel Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center

    108 E Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, 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.

  • Sturgeon Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry - Food Distribution Center

    101 E Smith St, Sturgeon, MO 65284, 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.

  • The Food Bank Central Pantry

    Columbia, MO 65202, 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.

  • The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri

    2101 Vandiver Dr, Columbia, MO 65202, USA

    Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM · 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.

  • The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri

    2101 Vandiver Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202

    Regional Feeding America food bank serving central and northeastern Missouri. They supply food pantries, mobile distributions, and meal programs throughout Boone County and the surrounding area. Visit their website or call to find the food pantry or distribution closest to you.

    Who it is for: Open to families and individuals in need of food.

  • The Food Bank Market

    705 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: Closed · Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM · 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.

  • University of Missouri Tiger Pantry & Truman's Closet

    299 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: Closed · Tuesday: 4:30 – 6:30 PM · Wednesday: 4:30 – 6:30 PM · Thursday: Closed · Friday: 4:30 – 6:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM

    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.

Diapers & baby supplies

1 listed
  • Super Start Preschool & Infant Care

    300 Portland St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

Maternal & infant health

2 listed
  • Missouri WIC (Women, Infants and Children)

    Free nutrition program for pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5. Provides healthy food benefits, breastfeeding support, and referrals. Call TEL-LINK or visit the site to find your local WIC clinic.

    Who it is for: Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women and children under 5 who meet income guidelines

  • Nurses for Newborns

    Free in-home nurse visits for expecting and new parents across Missouri. Nurses check the health of mom and baby, teach newborn care and safe sleep, and connect families to other resources, all at no cost.

    Who it is for: Expecting and new families; no cost

Healthcare & clinics

2 listed
  • Columbia/Boone County Public Health & Human Services

    1005 W Worley St, Columbia, MO 65203, 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

  • Find a Community Health Center (Missouri Primary Care Association)

    Missouri's Community Health Centers provide medical, dental, and behavioral health care on a sliding fee scale, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. Use the locator to find a center near you.

    Who it is for: Open to all; sliding-scale fees based on income

Childcare & early education

10 listed
  • A Good Start Preschool

    10 N Grace Ln, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 PM · Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 PM · Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 PM · Thursday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 PM · Friday: 6:30 AM – 5:45 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.

  • Bear Creek Head Start

    1400 Elleta Blvd, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 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.

  • Center for Early Learning North

    2191 E Smiley Ln, Columbia, MO 65202, USA

    Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM · Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 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.

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  • Centralia Head Start

    402 W Fairgrounds Rd, Centralia, MO 65240, 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.

  • Child Care Aware of Missouri

    Free help finding quality, affordable child care anywhere in Missouri. Specialists provide personalized referrals and information about child care assistance.

    Who it is for: Open to all Missouri families

  • CMCA Head Start

    807 N. Providence1402, W Worley St, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 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.

  • Head Start and Early Head Start (Missouri)

    Free early learning, health, and family support for children from birth to age 5. Early Head Start also serves pregnant women. Use the center locator to find a program near you.

    Who it is for: Families at or below the federal poverty level; foster, SSI/TANF, and homeless families may also qualify

  • Mary Lee Johnston Community Learning Center

    1509 Hinkson Ave, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM · Friday: 7:00 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.

  • Mother's Day Out Preschool

    101 N 10th St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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 – 5:00 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.

  • Sprout Academy Pre-School LLC

    600 Silvey St, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM · Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM · Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM · Thursday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM · Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 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.

Housing & shelter

3 listed
  • Missouri 211 (United Way)

    24 hours a day, 7 days a week

    Free, confidential helpline available 24/7. Dial 211 to reach a specialist who can connect you to food, housing, rent and utility assistance, childcare, healthcare, and other local services.

    Who it is for: Open to everyone

  • Missouri Housing Development Commission

    State housing agency that funds rental assistance, homeless services, and low-cost housing through local nonprofits and Community Action Agencies across Missouri. Visit the site to find housing help and your local agency.

    Who it is for: Income-based; varies by program

  • Salvation Army Harbor House (Emergency Shelter)

    602 N Ann St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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

Utilities & financial help

9 listed
  • Boone County Community Services Work

    705 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.

  • Boone County Family Resources

    2700 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, 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.

  • Boone County Family Support Division

    601 Business Loop 70 W #272, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

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  • CMCA Administrative Offices

    807 N Providence Rd, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 – 5:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed

    Employment and job training

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

  • CMCA Services and Assistance

    800 N Providence Rd, Columbia, MO 65203, 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.

  • Missouri Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)

    Helps income-eligible households pay heating and cooling bills, including crisis help when you face disconnection or run out of fuel. Apply online or through your local Community Action Agency.

    Who it is for: Income-eligible Missouri households

  • Salvation Army Harbor House

    602 N Ann St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Who it is for: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.

  • Show-Me Community Services, LLC.

    222 Elizabeth St, Hallsville, MO 65255, 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

    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 Columbia Social Services

    1108 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, 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: Help is usually income-based and varies by program. Call and ask what is available and what to bring.

Mental & behavioral health

2 listed
  • In2Action

    1403 Lakewood Dr Apt. C, Columbia, MO 65202, 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

    Reentry support and recovery for recently incarcerated

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

  • NAMI Missouri

    Support, education, and resource referrals for people living with mental illness and their families. Call the NAMI HelpLine for non-crisis support and connections to local programs.

    Who it is for: Open to all; free

Domestic violence & safety

2 listed
  • Bboone County Community Against Violence

    500 E Walnut St #105, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Wednesday: Closed · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Friday: Closed · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

  • Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence

    Connects survivors to local domestic and sexual violence programs across Missouri, including shelters, counseling, and court advocacy. Use their map to find a member agency near you. For 24/7 crisis help, call 1-800-799-7233.

    Who it is for: Survivors of domestic or sexual violence

Employment & job training

1 listed
  • Missouri Job Centers

    Free help finding work and training across Missouri. Job Centers offer job listings, computers and printers for your search, resume help, and skills-training programs.

    Who it is for: Open to all job seekers

Transportation

1 listed
  • OATS Transit

    Nonprofit providing affordable, door-to-door transportation in 87 mostly rural Missouri counties for the general public, seniors, and people with disabilities. Call or visit the site to find service in your county.

    Who it is for: Open to all ages in served counties

Community centers & general help

4 listed
  • Adventist Community Service Center

    Centralia, MO 65240, USA

    Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Tuesday: Closed · Wednesday: Closed · Thursday: 6:00 – 8:00 PM · Friday: Closed · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: Closed

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

  • Love Columbia

    1209 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

    Monday: 9:30 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

    Connects families with community relationships and resources

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

  • Progressive Missionary Baptist

    702 Banks Ave, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

    Monday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Saturday: Closed · Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

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  • VAC - Voluntary Action Center

    1300 Bowling St, Columbia, MO 65201, 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

    Community center and assistance

    Who it is for: Call to ask what is available and who qualifies.

Do you qualify for more than you use?

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.

Wherever you are

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.

However you got here

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 Boone 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.

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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.

One click gets you off the list at any time. We never sell or share your information.