Resources for Assistance in Florida
National and State Organizations & Programs
FLORIDA
Angels for Kids (http://www.angelsforkids.org)
A Non Profit Child Enrichment Foundation - Focused on funding enrichment activities to children in the Central Florida area. Small expenses a child might need- musical instruments, athletic equipment, etc.
Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice (FL) Emergency Services (http://www.catholiccharitiesdov.org/)
Catholic Charities offers emergency financial assistance to people who are struggling with economic need which can be solved with short-term help, such as disruption or loss of income, illness or death in the family that causes an economic hardship, or simply a family encountering difficulties trying to make ends meet. Financial assistance can be given for past due rent or utilities, food, maternity and pregnancy needs, emergency transportation and prescription needs. Financial assistance is given only to people within the Diocese of Venice, Florida. Phone 941-496-8286 Fax 941-496-4837 E-Mail cathcharsosrq@netzero.com
Central Florida Community Action Agency (http://www.cfcaa.org)
The Family Self-Sufficiency program at CFCAA helps eligible persons find the resources to become less dependent upon social service agencies. Emergency Assistance is a CFCAA program designed to provide limited assistance to vulnerable low-income citizens including the elderly, handicapped, etc. Energy Assistance CFCAA's Energy Assistance program provides energy payments/deposits as well as disaster relief during inclement weather. CFCAA Housing programs make weatherization repairs on homes to improve their energy efficiency, and when funding is available also make other minor home repairs.
Crisis Assistance Program (http://www.orangecountyfl.net/cms/dept/hfs/yfs/cap.htm)
Community Services Council of Brevard (http://www.communityservicescouncil.org/)
The mission of Community Services Council is to develop solutions to community problems and to promote and maintain independence and maximize the quality of life for the citizens of Brevard County, particularly the elderly and disabled adults. Senior Helpline: 321-631-2747
Elder Care Services, Inc. (ECS) (http://www.ecsbigbend.org)
The Mission of Elder Care Services, Inc. (ECS) is to serve elders and their caregivers, enabling elders to live independent and productive lives. Elder Care Services provides care management, homemaker, personal care, adult day care, adult day health care, Alzheimer's and general respite care, emergency alert response, Meals on Wheels, congregate meals, transportation and volunteer services to over 12,000 seniors and their families. PHONE: (850) 921-5554
Emergency Financial Assistance for Housing Program (EFAHP)(http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/homelessness/efahp.shtml)
[Florida] This is a program in the state of Florida which helps people who are homeless or are facing eviction. Access them through your local Department of Children and Families or call the following number, 1-850-921-4739.
FLAIRS - Florida Alliance for Information & Referral Services (http://flairs.org)
The Florida Alliance of Information and Referral Services, Inc. (FLAIRS) is a statewide association of agencies and individuals committed to the provision of quality information, referral and hotline services. Our members include United Ways, crisis hotlines, libraries, military service centers, elder helplines, child care resource and referral providers, and others who provide hotline and information services.
Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) (http://www.faast.org/)
FAAST envisions a seamless supportive partnership between Florida business and government to provide assistive technology products and services which will enable persons with disabilities to participate in independent living, education, work and recreation from birth to death. 1-888-788-9216
Florida Association for Community Action (http://www.faca.org/)
The Community Action Resources search function includes links to Affordable Housing; Clothing; Community Assistance; Domestic Violence; Emergency Assistance; Homeless Assistance; low-income families; low-income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP); low-income emergency home repair (LIHRP); rental assistance; utilities assistance; weatherization assistance program (WAP). Search by district, county, or central, north, south, west regions.
Florida County Health Departments (http://www.doh.state.fl.us/chdsitelist.htm)
[Florida] List of FL County Health Departments (CHD). Each CHD offers different services; if they cannot help, often they can provide a referral to someone who can. Many provide primary care, tracking of ongoing illnesses (such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS), shots for school, etc.
Florida Health Finder (http://www.floridahealthfinder.gov)
Florida Department of Community Affairs-Energy Assistance Program(http://www.floridacommunitydevelopment.org/liheap/index.cfm)
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides grants to local governments and non-profit agencies to assist eligible low-income households in meeting the costs of home heating and cooling. Department of Community Affairs Division of Housing and Community Development Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program 2555 Shumard Oak Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2100 (850) 488-7541 (Suncom 278-7541) E-Mail: floridaliheap@dca.state.fl.us
Florida Kid Care en Espanol (http://www.doh.state.fl.us/AlternateSites/KidCare/spanish/index.html)
[Florida] Seguro Medico para los ninos.
Florida Public Service Commission - Where to Find Help (PDF File) (http://www.psc.state.fl.us/)
Lists area agencies on aging; charitable organizations; community care for disabled adults; food stamps; government-assisted mortgages; rent; low income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP); Medicaid, Medicare; temporary cash assistance; weatherization programs.
Food Assistance in the Tallahassee, Florida Area (http://www.florida-agriculture.com/foodprograms/emergency_food_program.htm)
Oak City Assembly of God assists with canned food, and also will provide fresh produce on two different days of the week. 850-575-4054 Echo Outreach assists with those in need. 850-878-1722. The Red Cross provides canned goods. Catholic Charities of Tallahasse will donates a one time offer on your rent and electric bill. 850-681-6943 United Church at 1834 Mahan Drive assists with food. 850-878-7385
For Florida's Health (http://www.forfloridashealth.com/)
[Florida] This is a list of resources for residents of Florida who do not have health insurance or need more.
FREE Car Seat - Florida Only (http://www.seminoletax.org/tags/carseat.shtml)
Child Safety Seats- presents a training class for Child Safety Seats. Attend the one hour class and receive A FREE CAR SEAT. Call 1-800-226-5350 Ext. 307 A car seat WILL save a child's Life!
Free Health Clinics in Florida (http://www.uniteforsight.org/freeclinics.php?state=FL&statename=Florida#state)
Check for one of the free clinics if there is no County Health Department nearby.
Gainesville Community Ministry (http://www.betterday.org/)
We provide practical assistance to the elderly, the disabled, and recipients of public assistance, as well as the "working poor" who are vulnerable to economic crises and have fallen between the cracks of other programs in Alachua County.
Goulds Community Enrichment Center (http://www.miamidade.gov/caa/community_enrichment.asp)
Serving the Miami, Florida area. Assists individuals and families in need of EMERGENCY assistance with issues regarding payment of utility bills, rent and mortgage payments and also provides temporary shelter and food. 21300 SW 122 Avenue, Miami, FL; (305) 233-2121.
Gufcoast Oncology Foundation (http://www.gulfcoastoncologyfoundation.com/index.html)
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or have a friend, family member or co-worker that is living with cancer and think they could use financial assistance with non-medical needs, please contact Jane Morse-Swett or Chris Mungin at 727-821-0017 to set up an appointment. Please send all applications to Attention: Jane Morse-Swett fax to 727-822-7473 or mail to: Gulfcoast Oncology Foundation 1201 5th Avenue North, Suite 505, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Hospitals that take patients regardless of ability to pay (http://www.doh.state.fl.us/dddindigentfacilities.html)
This list shows hospitals in Florida that MUST take patients, regardless of ability to pay, at least until the patient is stabilized.
Liberty City Community Enrichment Center (http://www.miamidade.gov/caa/community_enrichment.asp)
Serving the Liberty City/Miami Florida area. Assists individuals and families in need of EMERGENCY assistance with issues regarding payment of utility bills, rent and mortgage payments and also provides temporary shelter and food. 6100 NW 7th Avenue; (305) 756-2830.
Lutheran Social Services of North Florida (http://www.lssnf.org/)
[Florida] Lutheran Social Services of North Florida (LSSNF) seeks to help families get back on their feet and be productive members of the community. Voice: (850) 575-4309
Naples Free-Net (http://www.naples.net)
West Florida & Collier Co. self-help, social services, and non-profit job openings. Select Community, then select Social Services or Job Center.
Officer Kris Kringle, Inc. (http://officerkriskringle.org/Home_Page.html)
Officer Kris Kringle's goal is to provide underprivledged children with a Christmas that the might otherwise not enjoy. The children that benefit from Officer Kris Kringle are either very ill, homeless, or victims of violent crimes.
Pine Island After-School Program (http://www.davie-fl.gov/pages/DavieFL_ParksRcrtn/programs/pineisland/index)
Pine Island After School Program is located in the Miami-Dade County Housing Agency Pine Island Development, serving the Pine Island residents. The program provides tutoring sessions, computer classes, field trips and other activities to the children enrolled in the program. Services are also provided to parents and include family development, computer training, employability skills, money management, parenting classes and family counseling. Additional information regarding this program and the qualifications for participation is available by contacting CAA Pine Island After-School Program at (305) 257-0923.
Reaching Out Holiday Fund. (http://www.floridatoday.com/reachingout/fund.htm)
FLORIDA TODAY will purchase new toys and books for children, newborn to 15 years old. Those toys and books will be distributed countywide to the parents of underprivileged children who may not be able to provide a gift to their children this holiday. Phone: 321-242-3500
Seminole County Assistance (http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/commsrvs/commasst/index.asp)
Grants, Emergency Assistance, Substance Abuse, Self-Sufficiency, and other assistance programs. Grant applications located on the website.
SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) (http://www.floridashine.org)
[Florida] FREE help for those aged 60 or older. SHINE counselors can help find insurance, health care, and prescription payment assistance. You can also call 1-800-963-5337.
St. Petersburg Free Clinic (http://www.stpetersburgfreeclinic.org/)
Basic needs are food, shelter, medical care, limited financial assistance, and referral information. Those who are assisted are mainly the 'working poor' and those that 'fall through the cracks' of other existing services. Phone: (727) 821-1200
The HomeBuyers Club Foreclosure Prevention Program(http://www.tampabaycdc.org/homeownership/foreclosure.htm)
Offer guidance, education and assistance in an effort to help Pinellas County, Florida, residents avoid foreclosure and retain ownership of their homes. Individual counseling opportunities are provided to review the home owner's current situation and discuss options for resolving the problem(s). There is no cost to participate in the program. Call the HomeBuyers Club at (727) 446-6222 (leave a message on extension 21 after business hours).
The Kinship Care Warmline (http://www.flkin.org)
[Florida] The Kinship Care Warmline is a statewide, toll-free line that provides a listening ear, information and referral services for grandparents and other relatives raising children in Florida. Mailing address: The Florida Kinship Center, USF School of Social Work, 4202 East Fowler Avenue, MGY 132, Tampa, Florida 33620-6600; Phone: (Toll-free)1-800-640-6444 or (Free for Hillsborough County)813-974-1328; Fax: 813-974-4675; E-mail: kinfo@flkin.org
The Ricky King Children's Fund (http://www.therickykingfund.org/) The Ricky King Children's Fund today is dedicated to enhancing the quality of healthcare for children in Southwest Florida, by augmenting programs and providing financial assistance to children and their families in time of need. Phone: (239) 262-1808
Three Rivers Legal Services (http://www.trls.org/)
Provides quality, free legal servcies to the poor, abused, disabled and elderly of North Central Florida and to empower and educate them through preventative education. If you live in Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy,or Union counties, call our Gainesville office at (352) 372-0519. You can call toll-free to the Gainesville office at 1-800-372-0936. If you live in Columbia, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee or Taylor counties, call the Lake City office at (386) 752-5960. Call toll-free to the Lake City office at 1-800-495-0039.
NATIONAL
Air Care Alliance (http://www.aircareall.org/listings.htm)
The Air Care Alliance is a group of flying organizations whose volunteer pilots are dedicated to community service. This site's purpose is to connect volunteers that perform public benefit flying for health care, patient transport, disaster relief, environmental support, and other missions of public service with those who need help.
Benefits Checkup (http://www.benefitscheckup.org)
Benefits Checkup -is the nation's most comprehensive Web-based service to screen for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources. Benefits Checkup includes more than 1,550 public and private benefits programs, such as: Prescription drugs, Nutrition & Food Stamps, Energy assistance, Financial, Legal, Health Care, Social Security, Housing, In-home services, Tax relief, Transportation, Educational assistance, Employment, and Volunteer services.
Cancer Care (http://www.cancercare.org/get_help/assistance/cc_financial.php)
We provide limited grants for certain expenses related to cancer treatment.
Catholic Charities (http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org)
Catholic Charities provides a wide range of services, from affordable low-income housing, to food banks, financial assistance,to youth counseling and health services. This site includes links to local sites throughout the U.S.
Citizen's Energy (http://www.citizensenergy.com/main/Home.html)
Citizens Energy Corporation created a number of assistance programs that help people afford energy, reduce health care costs, and serve a variety of other social and educational needs.
Disabled Children's Relief Fund (http://www.dcrf.com)
This organization provides disabled children with assistance to obtain wheelchairs, orthopedic braces, walkers, lifts, hearing aids, eyeglasses, medical equipment, physical therapy, and surgery.
Family Relief Fund (http://www.familyrelieffund.org/)
Family Relief Fund provides financial assistance to families who have children with Cystic Fibrosis and other chronic health problems.
First Hand (http://www.firsthandfoundation.org/)
First Hand helps the families of children with health problems address the financial aspects of their child's healthcare. 816-201-1569
Go Ask Alice (http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/index.html)
This is a Health Question and Answer site.
Health Resources and Services Administration (http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/)
HRSA-supported health centers care for you, even if you have no health insurance. You pay what you can afford, based on your income.
Health.GOV (http://www.health.gov/)
'www.health.gov is a portal to the Web sites of a number of multi-agency health initiatives and activities of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other Federal departments and agencies.'
Hill-Burton Facilities - Low Cost Healthcare (http://www.hrsa.gov/hillburton/hillburtonfacilities.htm)
This is a list of about 300 health care facilities nationwide are obligated to provide free or reduced-cost care to low-income families and individuals. Search the list for your state.
Insure Kids Now (http://www.insurekidsnow.gov)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides free or low-cost health insurance in every state to children in working families. The insurance pays for doctor visits, prescription medicines, hospitalizations, and more. Children that do not currently have health insurance are likely to be eligible, even if their parents are working. Check this site for links to the program in your state, or call 1-877-543-7669.
Mental Health Services Locator (http://www.mentalhealth.org/databases/)
Almost every state has organizations that provide free or low cost counseling services.
Miracle Flights for Kids (http://www.miracleflights.org)
Provides free access to health care for people (especially children) who cannot afford transportation to treatment centers anywhere in America. They are not limited by distance and will use as many flights as necessary to get a sick patient to treatment. Request a flight online, or call 702-261-0494.
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (http://www.msfocus.org/programs_events/prog_grants_bwmg.html)
The Brighter Tomorrow Grant is an award of up to $1,000 to provide goods or services that will help improve the quality of life of someone with MS.
National Eye Institute (http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.asp)
Listing of organizations that provide financial aid for eye care.
National Eye Institute (http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.htm)
Federal government assistance programs for eye care.
National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped (http://www.nfdh.org/)
NFDH is a national charitable organization solely dedicated to meeting the dental needs of citizens with physical, medical, and mental disabilities.
National Hispanic Resource Helpline 1-800-473-3003 (http://www.selfreliancefoundation.org/hotline.htm)
The National Hispanic Resource Helpline is a national information and referral service that provides support for Hispanics throughout the nation who need information about educational, health and human service providers.
Remote Area Medical (http://www.ramusa.org/index.html)
One day free medical, veterniary, vision, and women's health. First come first served basis.
Salvation Army (http://www.usc.salvationarmy.org)
The Salvation Army offers utility bill assistance, emergency food pantry/vouchers, emergency financial assistance, general health screening and assessment, medical referrals and access to medical treatment. Check your local phone listings or this web site.
Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law (http://www.povertylaw.org/)
Legal resources for advocates pursuing social and economic justice for poor people.
Susan G. Komen Foundation (http://www.komen.org/intradoc-cgi/idc_cgi_isapi.dll?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&ssDocName=Katrina)
Susan G. Komen breast cancer and Katrina-related funding options. Grant information and applications are available at the website.
Women's Health (http://www.hersource.com/breast/03/3d/cdcall.cfm)
Extensive listing of healthcare providers across the US who offer free mammograms and pap tests.
NOTE- The inclusion of any name or link on this web site is not an endorsement of the organization or its services. This is simply a list providing access to potential resources that may be of use to you or your family.