Missouri and local resources

It has been my experience that most folks to do not use the resources they have. I am unsure if this is just being uneducated about this or fear the stigma that is attached. I personally have used some of the services I will talk about, although, it has been a while.

The first place I would look for help is your local state site. For Missouri residents this would be dss.mo.gov. This is a great place to start. Here you will find help for receiving food stamp benefits, WIC and child support help. You will also be able to find the chart with income guidelines.

Healthcare for your minor children is also offered through the state. There are income restrictions but basically you could earn up to $6,625 for a family of four and you would still be eligible for something. My family used Medicare for our kids for years and it was blessing. Of course you could always apply as well for what used to be known as Obamacare. The premium payment could be free if your family qualifies.

There are other programs resources for help with child care, temporary cash assistance and temporary assistance. Of course not all will qualify for these programs. Sometimes though it's better to just apply to see what sticks.

Another resource to use is your local schools. I know we are lucky where I live in the south KC area that the schools have a lot of freebies for the kids. They have a backpack program where kids can sign up to take a backpack home for the weekends that has nonperishable foods. Our schools also have a pantry that will have toiletries and such. If families qualify for food assistance through the state, your children will qualify to eat free or close to free at school for breakfast and lunch. Where I live anyone under 18 could eat at a designated school for 2 meals even in the summer. Let's just say between the state and the schools your children should not go hungry.

The churches are another good resource to use when in a bind financially. It seems that sense the pandemic, churches have really stepped up to help their community with food distribution. You can always call your local churches to see if they have food pantries or any assistance with clothing, shelter or energy assistance. There are several churches in my area that have a box outside that people donate food and it is meant for anyone to pick up something to eat.

Another resource to use is the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency. They serve 9 counties around the KC area. They help with housing, employment and training and food resources. Another healthcare site to use is compasshealthnetwork.org. There is information on receiving free healthcare including behavioral health and dental.

Cass County Dental Clinic serves minor children around the area I live. They have a sliding scale fee do all types of dental work. My children have personally used this service and I thought it was excellent.

This is just a small list and will get you a start with some help. I will continue to add and make adjustments to this list as we go. Please feel free to add to this list or give me any corrections I might need to make.