Here's what we found for you
- BullyingBullying is a serious problem and should be addressed immediately. Remember, if a crime has been committed or if someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, here are some important next steps, resources and options to consider.
- Are you in crisis?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text one of the hotlines below. Counselors and intake specialists are available to offer free, confidential support whenever you need it.
In emergency situations, dial 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained officer. - Immediate assistance
If you or someone you know is in crisis, it is important to seek help immediately. No matter if you’re struggling with depression, substance use, relationship problems or family turmoil, free and confidential support is available. You are not alone and talking to someone could help save a life.
- Suicide prevention: youth & teens
Learn what you can do to support your friends, family and classmates who are hurting. Suicide is a leading cause of death for adolescents ages 10 to 24 and an unfortunate reality in our community. Together, we can help prevent teen suicide. Call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 if you need immediate assistance.
- Domestic violence: youth & teens
Unfortunately, more than two-thirds of children have been exposed to domestic violence by the age of 17. Witnessing violence can have long-term impacts on these adolescents, putting them at higher risk for substance use, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior and even further domestic violence. Find resources to help prevent violence in the home and support young people experiencing domestic violence in Stark County.
- Sexual abuse & rape crisis services
According to RAINN, every 98 seconds, someone experiences sexual assault. This could include actions such as harassment, rape or sexual violence. For a young person who has suffered sexual abuse, the effects can be long lasting, leading to physical, emotional and psychological harm. Find rape crisis services and sexual abuse support groups available in Stark County.
- RunawaysA young person may want to leave home for many reasons. They might be rebelling against their parents or fleeing a dangerous family setting. But unfortunately, couch surfing or living on the streets could increase the likelihood of exploitation and other dangerous situations.
- Child labor
While Stark County has made significant progress in addressing and preventing child exploitation, there are still children working in hazardous conditions, illegally and for low or no wages. Find resources to report child labor and support services for affected children.
- Migrant workingPeople who work outside of their home country are especially susceptible to human rights violations. They are often forced to work in unsafe, unsanitary environments and face abuses that go largely unseen and unreported. Find local resources to support these underrepresented employees.
- Bullying: youth & teens
Bullying among adolescents can take many forms. As children get older, how they bully becomes more sophisticated and harder to identify. In addition to taunting, threats or physical attacks, the rise of social media has introduced another category of bullying – cyberbullying. As teens have more and more access to social media, gaming and the internet, bullies use these platforms to harass and humiliate others. Find programs and resources in Stark County to help support young people who are affected by bullying.
- Homeless & housing: young adults
Young people between the ages of 18 and 25 can face significant obstacles as they move toward independent living. Whether you are aging out of foster care or struggling to achieve self-sufficiency with limited resources, you are not alone and help is available. Get started with local resources for basic needs and emotional support.
- How School Districts Throughout Stark County Are Addressing Safety ConcernsThe goal in Stark County is to keep every student safe. If students don’t feel safe, they’re not able to perform at their best academically.
- Disaster Recovery
If you recently experienced a disaster and need immediate assistance
- Call 911 for immediate medical attention
- Find a shelter if you have evacuated because of a disaster, and need to shelter outside of the hazard area. Search online using the American Red Cross Shelter Finder for help with locating open shelters near you.
- Text loved ones or use a Wi-Fi connection to update your status on social media to let others know you are safe.
- Introducing StarkHelpCentral.comStarkHelpCentral.com provides information and support to youth, young adults and engaged members of our community.
- Opiate Resources
In recent years, heroin use has been on the rise across the nation, throughout Ohio and in Stark County. According to Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR), 1,444 members of our community were treated for opiate use in 2016 – nearly six times the number treated 10 years earlier. Find resources and programs to help raise awareness, educate the community and combat this growing epidemic.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, - Facing Homelessness
Emergency shelter space is limited in Stark County and reserved for people with nowhere else safe and appropriate to stay. Seeking any available safe housing, even if temporary, while connecting to other desired housing assistance may need to be considered. Questions to explore:
- Where did you stay last night? Is it safe for you? If so, is there something that would allow you to stay there again tonight? (food, utility support,
- 2-1-1 Helpline Transitions Resources to StarkHelpCentral.com
In 2023, 2-1-1, Stark County’s helpline, transitioned to StarkHelpCentral.com.
Closing the Stark County information system and online database—that was run by United Way of Greater Stark County—and moving resources to StarkHelpCentral.com helps streamline the process for community members looking for resources and information.
StarkHelpCentral.com can help you find community resources available to you and your family. The searchable community resource website is supported by Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR),
- How To Be an Advocate for Youth in Your Stark County CommunityLearn how you can find and share resources to be an advocate for youth in your Stark County community.
Crisis Lifeline
24/7 Phone #’s
Call or text: 988
Chat on website: www.988lifeline.org
Or call: 330-452-6000
The new three-digit dialing code, 988 Lifeline, connects callers to the 988 Crisis Lifeline. When you call, text or chat using the 988 Lifeline, you’re connected to trained counselors that are part of the 988 Lifeline network, made up of more than 200 local crisis centers. Counselors are trained to provide emotional support and crisis counseling to people in suicidal crisis,
Coleman Crisis Services
If you need immediate help, or are experiencing a mental health crisis, professional and confidential consultation is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 if you are experiencing thoughts of suicide.
Walk-in Clinic: 24/7 Crisis Services
Call-in Clinic: 24/7 Crisis Services
TEMPORARY LOCATION:
624 Market Ave. N
Canton, Ohio
COMPASS Rape Crisis
24/7 Confidential Hotline: 330-452-1111
Mental health, counseling, and case management services for all survivors of rape and sexual assault
Confidential Hotline
Hospital Advocacy
Justice System Advocacy
Military & Veterans Crisis Line
The Military Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource for all service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, and Veterans, even if they’re not enrolled in VA benefits or health care.
Alliance Area Domestic Violence Shelter
Emergency shelter for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 330-823-7223
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
Stark County Homeless Hotline – Homeless Navigation
The Stark County Homeless Navigation Hotline (330-452-4363) refers eligible callers to appropriate shelters and other programs for households that meet the HUD definition of literally homeless after conducting an eligibility interview Monday – Friday 7am to 5:30 pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm (except holidays). Homeless Navigation maintains a current listing of available shelter beds throughout Stark County, and works with mental health agencies, hospitals, law enforcement, alcohol and drug treatment centers, and the courts to prevent discharge into homelessness.
Domestic Violence Project, Inc. (DVPI)
24-hour Crisis Hotline: 330-453-SAFE (7233)
Provides emergency shelter and support services to victims of domestic violence in Stark County and surrounding communities
- Emergency Protective Shelter
- Outreach and Aftercare
- Legal Advocacy
- Transitional Housing
- Medical Advocacy
- Peer Support
National Runaway Safeline
Counselors are available 24 hours a day to support runaways, homeless youth and teens in crisis.
Visit their website to see chat, text, email and call options to get help today.
Alliance for Children & Families
We, Alliance for Children & Families, Inc. —through direct services, advocacy, education, prevention, intervention, supportive services, and the development and implementation of innovative and productive programming—are committed to empowering children, individuals and families to restore them to lives of stability, self-sufficiency and enhancement. We do this by treating all persons with dignity and respect.
Services include:
- Permanent Supportive Housing
- Emergency Shelter
- Rapid-Rehousing
- Parenting program
- Pregnancy &
Alliance, OH 44601
Aultman/Alliance Community Hospital
Health care facility dedicated to improving the health of Alliance residents and surrounding communities.
Emergency care with no appointment necessary.
Alliance, OH 44601
Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities
A Major Unusual Incident (MUI) is an event that negatively impacts the health, safety or wellbeing of an individual with developmental disabilities. If you or someone you know is experiencing a major unusual incident, call the 24-hour hotline to report the event.
MUI Hotline: 330-477-4477
The Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities exists to connect individuals and families with the services they need for health, safety, education and a high quality of life.
Canton, OH 44708 Learn more
Child Protective Services
If you suspect a minor child is living in a dangerous situation, call the 24/7 child abuse hotline immediately.
American Red Cross: Stark and Muskingum Lakes Chapter
We help communities in Northern Ohio prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. We are able to make a difference in our local communities because of the generosity of our donors and support of our volunteers. Together, we provide the following programs and services:
- Disaster Services
- Volunteer Services
- Blood Donation Services
- Lifesaving Skills Training
- Military or Veterans Assistance (mental health counseling, emergency assistance and job services)
- Home Fire Campaign
Canton, OH 44707
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Report emergencies and cases of unsafe working conditions, health or safety violations.
Suite 203
Independence, OH 44131
Safe Place for Newborns: Mercy Medical Center ER
Confidential emergency shelter and medical care within three days of birth.
Canton, OH 44708
Aultman Hospital
The largest hospital in Stark County.
Emergency Room provides services for individuals with urgent health care concerns. Also a place for parents to safely and legally give their babies up.
Aultman Serenity Program provides medical forensic nursing care to individuals impacted by violence. Including individuals that have experienced: abuse and neglect, domestic violence, human trafficking, or sexual assault.
Offer grief support groups, more details online here.
Canton, OH 44710
Charlotte & Main
Furnishings and household goods can be the missing piece that turns housing into homes.
Our Mission is to provide these items for: Young Adults aging out of foster care and entering into independent living Domestic Violence survivors exiting emergency shelters Veterans escaping homelessnessCanton, OH 44708
Cleveland Clinic at Mercy Hospital
Emergency health care services available 24/7.
Child delivery and support services in Stark County:
- Maternity and mother/baby care
- Breastfeeding support
- Neonatal special care nursery
- High-risk pregnancy support
Cancer Support Group: Group of current or former cancer patients and their caregivers, family members and friends. Meets Thursdays at 6 pm.
Seeds of Hope: Supporting individuals who have experienced the death of a loved one.
Canton, OH 44708
Catholic Charities
Emergency rental assistance for Stark County residents (under 65): visit ccdoy.org to fill out a pre-screening application
Through tangible assistance and other essential services, Catholic Charities affirms human dignity, meets basic human needs, strengthens families, builds communities, and empowers others to transform their lives.
Suite C
Canton, OH 44703
Clothed in Righteousness
Services include a hot meal, a free clothing closet boutique, hygiene, a bag of food for homeless individuals, an emergency box of food for housed individuals or families, and supplies for anyone homeless staying outdoors or in their vehicle.
No identification is required or appointment. Expect a small wait due to how busy we might be.
Alliance, OH 44601
Stark County Hunger Task Force
Network of more than 30 food pantries throughout Stark County
Emergency food pantry at the Goodwill Community Campus
408 9th St SW Canton, OH 44707
Monday: 9:15am – 2:35pm
Tuesday: 9:15am – 3:35pm
Wednesday: 9:15am – 3:35pm
Thursday: 9:15am – 2:35pm
Friday: 9:15am – 1:35pm
Suite 1637
Canton, OH 44707
Stark County Job & Family Services
Report child abuse: 330-455-KIDS / 1-800-233-5437
Partner with our customers, community and other service providers to protect children and vulnerable adults, stabilize and strengthen families, and encourage self-sufficiency and personal responsibility.
- Cash assistance
- Food assistance
- Medicaid & Medical
- Non-emergency transportation – Transportation to and from Medicaid-qualified appointments, including doctor visits, dental visits, vision appointments and more.
- Child care services
- Work experience program –
Canton, OH 44702
Stark County Health Department
Serves the public health needs of more than 250,000 people in Stark County:
- Emergency preparedness
- Environmental health
- Health education
- Kids safety
- Reproductive Health department
- WIC – special supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children
- Naloxone kits at the Stark County Health Department are available by appointment. If interested, please call (330) 493-9928.
- Adult &
North Canton, OH 44720
Salvation Army of Canton
Serving the Canton community with:
- Emergency Food Pantry
- Diaper/Feminine Hygiene Bank Distribution
- To Go Meals (soup kitchen/bagged)
- Rental/Utility Assistance (subject to availability of funding)
- Showers
- Seasonal Assistance (back to school supplies/Christmas help)
- Summer camp opportunities
- Adult recreational programs (walking club, pickleball, etc.)
- Children’s recreational programs (tumbling, basketball, etc.)
- Educational programs (cooking for adults and children,
Canton, OH 44702
Phoenix Rising Behavioral Health & Recovery of Alliance
Provides outpatient psychiatric, counseling, and case management services to children, adolescents, and adults
Mental health & illness, addictions, dual disorders, behavioral issues, trauma
Closed Friday, clients directed to Canton if an emergency or direct care needed
Alliance, OH 44601
YWCA Canton
Provides emergency shelter to the homeless and tools to help them get back on their feet and become self-sufficient
Also provides early care and education services to children that enhance their development and prepare them to be successful as they transition to kindergarten
To be placed in housing you must first register with the homeless hotline by calling 330-452-4363
Canton, OH 44702
LGBT National Help Center
All of our support volunteers identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ family, and are here to serve the entire community, by providing free & confidential peer-support, information, and local resources through national hotlines and online programs.
Coleman Health Services – Alliance
Offers comprehensive, whole person treatment to children, adults and families in the communities we serve – regardless of their ability to pay
Delivers mental health, substance use, residential, and rehabilitation services
Walk-in Clinic:
Mon- Fri 11am – 12pm
Alliance, OH 44601
Coleman Health Services – Canton
Offers comprehensive, whole person treatment to children, adults and families in the communities we serve – regardless of their ability to pay
Delivers mental health, substance use, residential, and rehabilitation services
Walk-in Clinic: Mon- Fri 8am – 2pm
Suite 200
Canton, OH 44702
Stark County Community Action Agency
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
- Emergency HEAP Appointment Line: 330-617-1055
- Short term help for heating and cooling costs
- Income payment plan program
- Fans/air conditioners
Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP)
- Repairs/replacement – furnace and hot water tank
- Insulation
- Energy Audits
Head Start & Early Head Start
- Fully and half-day classes
- Home-based Early Head Start services for children birth to three (3) years of age
- Social and Health Services
- Parental Involvement/Family Engagement
Community Action Pathways Hub
- Reducing barriers that can prevent health pregnancies and babies
- Community connections leading to self sufficiency
Community Services and Outreach
- Goals Assets Investment Network (GAIN)
- Asset building/financial literacy program)
- Senior Programs (i.e.