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Single Mom Raising Two Teen Daughters Kent Oh: local programs and next steps

Call Portage County JFS first to ask about SNAP, Medicaid, cash assistance, child care help, and PRC emergency aid.

Free No sign-in Provider verification required enLocal Government ProgramPortage Metropolitan Housing Authority - Housing OptionsPortage Metropolitan Housing Authority - Housing ProgramsNonprofit

Before you apply

BenefitsGPS gives referral suggestions and contact leads. It is not an official eligibility decision, legal advice, medical advice, or a guarantee that a program has funding or openings.

  • Confirm eligibility, service area, documents, hours, waitlists, and current availability.
  • Avoid sharing Social Security numbers, case numbers, medical records, immigration identifiers, or other sensitive identifiers unless you are on a verified provider page.
  • For emergencies, contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately.

Programs to contact

1

Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority - Housing Options

Local Government Program

Search Portage County rental listings, Section 8 waitlist and emergency housing options to secure stable housing for your family; Apply online.

Open provider page +1-571-819-2020
2

Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority - Housing Programs

Local Government Program

Explore PMHA low-income housing, DV shelter referrals and after-school youth supports to help teens; See programs & eligibility.

Open provider page +1-571-819-2020
3

Axess Family Services - Supportive Services

Nonprofit

Axess Family Services supportive services offering housing help, DV shelter navigation and free legal aid for families; Call for intake.

Open provider page +1-330-297-7027
4

Townhall II - Outreach Services

Nonprofit

Townhall II outreach for SNAP/EBT enrollment, benefits help and addiction recovery referrals to stabilize your household; Apply for benefits.

Open provider page +1-666-666-6667
5

United Way of Portage County - Emergency Food and Shelter Program

Nonprofit

EFSP emergency food, housing and utility assistance referrals in Portage County to prevent eviction or service shutoff; Apply for assistance.

Open provider page +1-330-297-1424
6

United Way of Portage County - Community Funded Partners

Nonprofit

Find local partners providing DV shelter, immunization clinics, WIC and food pantry access for families with teens; See partner services.

Open provider page
7

Community Action Council Youth & Family Center

Nonprofit

Community Action Council youth center offering after-school programs, child care aid and teen mental health counseling; See programs & enroll.

Open provider page +1-330-297-1456

Recommended next steps

  • Call Portage County JFS first to ask about SNAP, Medicaid, cash assistance, child care help, and PRC emergency aid.
  • If rent or utilities are behind, ask JFS and United Way EFSP about emergency assistance before shutoff or eviction dates.
  • Apply or get on waitlists with Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority for Section 8 and public housing options.
  • Contact Axess Family Services for Kent Social Services food pantry, hot meals, clothing, and transportation referrals.
  • Call Townhall II if you or either teen needs counseling, crisis support, or help navigating housing, utilities, food, or child care.
  • Ask Community Action Council about youth programs, afterschool support, education help, and financial assistance.
  • If housing is unstable or you may need transitional housing, contact HESS/PATH and explain you are a parent with minor children.
  • Gather IDs, Social Security cards, proof of Kent address, income, lease, utility bills, and school information before applying.
  • Ask each agency whether teen-specific mentoring, tutoring, summer, or school-year programs are available for both daughters.
  • If you are in immediate crisis, call 988 or Townhall II's helpline at 330-678-HELP.

Need categories

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Information and Referral

  • Community Resources