We often stress the value of having a healthy emergency fund and some flexibility in your budget. While that’s the ideal, millions actually live paycheck to paycheck without much — or any — savings. A sudden job loss, reduced benefits or an unplanned large bill can quickly make it difficult to cover essentials like rent and groceries. If you find yourself in need of basic assistance, a variety of charities and private organizations can provide help.
8 Ways to Get Assistance With Essential Needs During a Crisis
Below are several options you can explore for support.
1. United Way and 211
The United Way’s 211 network is a useful tool that links people to local health and human services, such as housing help or food distribution sites. Simply dial 211 on your phone or visit 211.org to find resources nearby.
Chris Preston, former vice president of corporate relations at United Way Worldwide, suggests asking for assistance sooner rather than waiting until you have an unpaid bill. Getting help early can prevent problems from escalating.
Click here to locate your local United Way.
2. Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers aid to those in need through services like emergency shelters and community kitchens, and it can help with bills such as rent and utility payments.
They also run programs targeted to specific groups, including veterans, older adults and survivors of domestic violence.
Services differ by location. Use this search tool to find the Salvation Army nearest you.
3. Manage Debt Payments
If a drop in income or lost benefits makes it harder to keep up with debt obligations, you have several approaches to consider.
One avenue is working with debt relief firms like National Debt Relief, which specialize in assisting people in financial distress. These companies negotiate with creditors to try to reduce the amount owed. Our National Debt Relief review outlines how the process works.
Another option is a balance transfer credit card, which can offer temporary relief from interest charges. You transfer your balance to the new card and benefit from a 0% APR introductory window, commonly lasting 12–21 months.
If you can’t even make the minimum payment, contact your credit card issuer to inquire about a hardship program. It won’t erase the debt, but it may provide short-term breathing room.
4. Food Pantries
Feeding America and its network of food banks help connect millions of people to local food pantries. They can also point you to federal nutrition programs when they’re available and to community-based options.
You can search for a food bank by zip code or state to find assistance in your area.
5. Utility Companies
If you think you won’t be able to pay an upcoming water, electricity or gas bill, call your provider to explain your situation. Ask for any assistance plan in writing rather than relying on verbal assurances that services will continue. For example, Duke Energy offers options such as payment arrangements and due date extensions for customers facing hardship.
6. Churches and Religious Organizations
Most houses of worship offer some form of help to people in need.
Beyond food programs and communal meals, many congregations provide support with housing and utility costs. Some even supply essentials like laundry detergent and personal care items.
Contact the local parish office to learn what that particular church provides. You can also search for your local St. Vincent de Paul Society, which helps with rent, food, clothing and other urgent needs.
7. Family, Friends, Neighbors and Social Networks
Posting that you need help on social platforms such as GoFundMe or Nextdoor doesn’t guarantee assistance, but it increases the chance that someone in your circle — or their networks — can lend a hand compared with keeping the problem to yourself.
8. Modest Needs
Modest Needs is a nonprofit that issues grants to low-income individuals facing a crisis to cover necessary expenses like rent, utility bills and medical costs. They often prioritize those living alone, recently returned veterans, teachers and first responders.
Find more details about the application process on their site.
Nicole Harper is a senior writer at Savinly. Senior managing editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors updated this article.
