988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free & ConfidentialFree, confidential support for anyone in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis. Call or text 988, or chat online.
24/7Federal — SAMHSA
Free to use · Independent · Not a government agency
Free help findingassistance programs
Helping Hands Alliance is a free, independent information service — we are not a government agency. We help you find food, rent, utility, health, financial, and veterans programs, then point you to the official source so you can apply directly, yourself, at no cost.
Always free. We never apply on your behalf and never sell your information.
Browse by need
What kind of help do you need?
Food Assistance
SNAP, WIC, school meals, food banks, and senior nutrition programs.
Explore programsRental Assistance
Rent help, HUD housing counseling, Section 8 info, and eviction prevention.
Explore programsUtility & Internet
LIHEAP energy help, Lifeline phone/internet discounts, and weatherization.
Explore programsHealth & Insurance
Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, ACA marketplace, and community health centers.
Explore programsFinancial Help
TANF, SSI, the EITC, free tax prep (VITA), and nonprofit credit counseling.
Explore programsVeterans
VA benefits, VSO referrals, housing for homeless vets, and mental health lines.
Explore programsHow it works
Three steps. No cost. No catch.
- Step 1
Choose your state
Tell us where you live so we can show the programs available in your area, plus the federal ones available everywhere.
- Step 2
Browse programs
See clear, plain-language listings with official phone numbers, websites, and who each program is for.
- Step 3
Apply directly — for free
Contact the program yourself using the official details we provide. You never pay us, and we never apply for you.
Real numbers. Real help.
Verified hotlines you can call right now
Free, confidential, and answered by real people. No application needed.
988
USDA National Hunger Hotline
Free & ConfidentialFinds food banks, pantries, meal sites, and benefit programs near you. Spanish: 1-877-842-6273.
Mon–Fri, 7 AM–10 PM ETFederal / 501(c)(3) — Hunger Free America
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Free & ConfidentialConfidential support, safety planning, and local referrals for anyone affected by domestic violence. TTY: 1-800-787-3224.
24/7501(c)(3) — The Hotline
National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR)
Free & ConfidentialTells you how to apply for LIHEAP energy-bill help in your state, county, or tribe. Email: energyassistance@ncat.org.
Mon–Fri, 7 AM–5 PM ETFederal program — operated by NCAT
Health Insurance Marketplace
Free & ConfidentialHelp enrolling in an ACA Marketplace plan and finding income-based subsidies. TTY: 1-855-889-4325.
24/7Federal — CMS
Veterans Crisis Line
Free & ConfidentialConfidential crisis support for veterans and their families. Dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255.
24/7Federal — VA