Organizations that help low-income families

Low-income families face different challenges. Food, clothing, shelter and entertainment for children can be difficult to afford on a small or non-existent budget. However, there are numerous government or community resources that have been created to benefit low-income families and help them with their basic needs.

The Salvation Army is an international movement of the Christian Church. However, any American in need can receive assistance from this movement, regardless of their religious beliefs. Services offered by The Salvation Army include disaster recovery services, emergency financial assistance, food and nutrition programs, family counseling, transitional housing, emergency shelters, music organizations that help families financially and arts programs, Church services, and camps for young boys. During Christmas, the Salvation Armies place bell ringers outside popular establishments. These people collect donations in bright red containers. The money is used to provide Christmas dinners, clothes, toys, help for the station and for basic needs to people and families in need. Families in need can find the location of their local Salvation Army. A search by zip code will reveal all Salvation Army locations and the services it offers. Services may vary depending on location

Various regions of the United States have local charitable organizations known as Catholic Community Services. These entities are sponsored by the local Catholic diocese but provide basic needs assistance to people of any religious belief. Catholic community services offer different types of assistance, including emergency financial assistance for rent or utilities, hot meals, and various homeless resources such as access to showers, laundry facilities, and haircuts. In some areas, Catholic community services may operate a food bank, provide pregnancy or newborn assistance, and addiction recovery programs.

Although they are not charitable organizations, federal and state government agencies provide assistance to low-income families. Emergency food assistance, health insurance, and financial support may be available to eligible low-income individuals and families. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers food stamp benefits with an EBT card (Electronic Benefit Transfer) that can be used exactly like a cashier card in most shopping. Eligibility is primarily determined by family size compared to family income.