TANF and Other Financial Assistance Programs
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). The purpose of TANF is to assist needy families so children can be cared for in their own homes, help needy parents prepare for work and marriage and encourage two-parent families. See State TANF Contact Numbers for a listing of local TANF agencies by state.
Housing Assistance
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers Local HUD Information by state, including information on affordable rentals, housing counseling agencies, homebuying programs, tips for homebuyers and rental help. Check the Resource Page for more help in buying single-family homes or renting in multi-family housing units.
Food and Nutrition Help
Federal, state and local governments offer several programs to help meet the nutritional needs of low-income families. You can apply for food stamps by completing an application at your local Social Security or food stamp office. See the Food Stamp Local Office Locater to find the food stamp office in your area.
Healthcare Programs
Most state health departments, social service agencies or state public health agencies offer health services for families. These are good places to search for resources in your area:
Employment Assistance and Training
The U.S. Department of Labor offers basic employment assistance and training. See Building Your Career for information on locating a career center in your area, understanding your rights as a worker, finding a job, occupation and labor information and dealing with job loss.