You Deserve
Every Resource.
Free government programs, legal help, education tools, and community support — all in one place, just for you.
Food & Nutrition
Illinois SNAP
Apply for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Benefits loaded to your Illinois Link Card monthly.
Apply NowWIC Program
Free nutrition support, healthy food benefits, and breastfeeding help for pregnant women, new moms, infants, and children under 5.
Learn MoreGreater Chicago Food Depository
Find a food pantry near you in the Chicagoland area. Free food distribution sites open to anyone in need — no documentation required at many locations.
Find Food Near YouChildcare Assistance
CCAP — Illinois Childcare Assistance
The Child Care Assistance Program helps income-eligible working and student parents pay for quality childcare for children under 13.
Apply NowIllinois Action for Children
Step-by-step guidance and support for families navigating the CCAP application process. Online applications available anytime.
Get HelpIllinois Cares for Kids
Find licensed childcare providers in your area that accept CCAP assistance. Search by zip code, age, and care type.
Find a ProviderFree Legal Help
Illinois Legal Aid Online
Free legal information, forms, and referrals for low-income Illinois residents. Get answers to civil legal questions without a lawyer.
Get Legal HelpLegal Aid Chicago
Free civil legal services for low-income Cook County residents. Call 312-341-1070 or apply online for help with housing, family law, and more.
Apply for HelpPrairie State Legal Services
Free legal services for low-income individuals across 36 counties in northern Illinois. Help with housing, family law, benefits, and more.
Apply OnlineEducation & Workforce
WIOA — Workforce Innovation
Federal program offering free job training, career services, and education for adults and dislocated workers. Find your local American Job Center.
Find a LocationAlison — Free Online Courses
Thousands of free, accredited online courses covering business, health, technology, and personal development. Learn at your own pace, no cost.
Start LearningCoursera — Free Courses
Access free courses from top universities and companies. Audit courses for free or apply for financial aid on certificates.
Browse CoursesMental Health Support
NAMI Illinois
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Illinois chapter offers free support groups, education programs, and a helpline for individuals and families.
Get SupportCrisis Text Line
Free, 24/7 mental health support via text. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor anytime, anywhere.
Learn MoreOpen Path Collective
Affordable therapy sessions ($30–$80) for individuals, couples, and families. Find licensed therapists offering reduced-rate sessions near you.
Find a TherapistHousing Assistance
Illinois Rental Payment Program
Emergency rental assistance for Illinois residents struggling to pay rent. Apply through the Illinois Housing Development Authority.
Apply NowChicago Housing Authority
Public housing and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs for low-income families in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Learn MoreSouthland Regional Housing
Housing resources and rental assistance programs specifically serving the south suburban Chicagoland area including Lansing and surrounding communities.
Find ResourcesDon't Know Where to Start?
Call 2-1-1.
Dial 211 or visit 211.org to connect with a local specialist who can point you to the right resources for food, housing, childcare, mental health, and more — free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Visit 211.org