I’ve set up a tool here that can comb through the list of resources I have fed it and answer questions. Please try it out, even if you need to make up a need in order to help me test it. Click the link and ask a question in the chat about resources in Union County. The more specific, the better, and please send the results to charityawareness@commonheart.org so I can keep improving the tool.

Here’s what it suggested as a 30-day plan for a single mom with children who just lost her job:

Days 1–7: Immediate Survival and Basic Needs

• File for Unemployment Benefits: Contact the NC Division of Employment Security immediately. Filing online is the fastest method, or you can call 888-737-0259.
• Apply for Healthcare and Food Assistance: Use the ePASS portal (ePASS.nc.gov) to apply for NC Medicaid to restore health coverage for you and your children. Simultaneously apply for Food and Nutrition Services (FNS/SNAP).
• Enroll in WIC: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under five, contact the Union County WIC Service at 704-296-4893 for nutritional and breastfeeding support.
• Access Immediate Food: For prepared meals, the Community Shelter of Union County dining hall provides three meals a day to anyone in need without certification. For groceries, contact Common Heart to inquire about mobile pantries or grocery delivery for families in financial need.

Days 8–14: Financial and Housing Stability

• Seek Crisis Assistance: Contact the Union County Crisis Assistance Ministry at 704-225-0440. They provide emergency financial aid for mortgage, rent, utilities, and personal care items.
• Manage Utility Bills: If you are facing a family crisis related to heating or cooling bills, apply for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) through the Union County Department of Social Services.
• Initiate Child Support Services: Visit the Child Support Services office at 1501 Charlotte Ave., Monroe, to open a case. This program helps custodial parents collect financial support to prevent children from entering foster care.
• Establish a Support Network: Reach out to the Family Support Network of NC for peer mentoring and resource navigation to help manage the emotional stress of your situation.

Days 15–21: Childcare and Employment Preparation

• Secure Quality Childcare: Contact Christ Our Shepherd (COS Kids) in Matthews. They specifically strive to empower and advocate for the unique needs of single parents and provide quality Christian-based children’s programs. For broader referrals, contact Child Care Resources, Inc..
• Register with NCWorks: Start your job search by using NCWorks.gov for assistance with resume building, career exploration, and finding training.
• Utilize Library Resources: Visit a Union County Library branch to use their computers and internet for job searching. They also offer computer classes and specific assistance for job seekers.
• Obtain Legal Advice: If you have concerns about your housing rights or government benefits, contact Legal Aid of North Carolina for free legal help in civil cases involving basic human needs.

Days 22–30: Long-term Strategy and Maintenance

• Apply for Work First: Inquire about the Work First Family Assistance program. It provides short-term training and cash assistance based on the premise that parents have a responsibility to support themselves and their children.
• Secure Maintenance Medications: If you have a chronic condition and no insurance, apply to HealthQuest for free prescription assistance or NC MedAssist, which serves uninsured residents at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.
• Advocate for Your Child’s Education: If your children are school-aged, ensure they are enrolled in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program to receive free nutritious meals every school day.
• Manage Long-term Health: If you remain uninsured, look into the Matthews Free Medical Clinic or Community Health Services of Union County, which provide free primary care for low-income, uninsured residents.