Here's what we found for you
- Domestic servitudeDomestic workers may live with their employers to cook, clean and care for children, often for little pay. It can be difficult to identify because employees live with their enslavers and appear to be a nanny or another form of acceptable domestic help. Find information and resources to support these local victims of modern slavery.
- Emergency shelters
If you are going through a housing crisis or find yourself homeless, emergency shelter is available throughout Stark County. Various organizations offer overnight sleeping accommodations and temporary shelter.
Contact a location below or call the Stark County Homeless Hotline at (330) 452-4363.
- 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.
- Bullying: childhood
Bullying is the act of persistent, unwanted, repeated intimidation and harassment. It can take place in school, in social situations and even online. No matter the setting, bullying is detrimental to everyone involved. Beyond the physical harm, bullying causes emotional scars that are deep, painful and difficult to overcome. Find resources for bullying and learn who to reach out to if you or someone you know is being bullied in Stark County.
- 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.
- Domestic violence: young adults
Seeing or experiencing domestic violence can negatively affect youth well into adulthood. In fact, young adults who have been exposed to abuse in the home are more likely to repeat the cycle of violence. By accessing support and services that teach healthy relationship skills, Stark Help Central believes that we can empower young people in our community to stand up for integrity, nonviolence and respect.
- Mental health resources
Are you ready to seek treatment for a mental health condition? We know there are many reasons why reaching out for support might not be the easiest choice. But we also know it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your emotional wellness. And now there are alternatives to meeting with a counselor in person! Telehealth is now available for virtual mental health support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of sadness or hopelessness,
- 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.
- Domestic abuse survivors
If you or someone you know has suffered from or witnessed violence in the home, it is important to remember that you are not in this alone. There are numerous resources throughout Stark County that are committed to providing survivors of domestic violence with confidential support, treatment, education and empowerment.
- 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.
- Early childhood emotional abuseAlthough emotional abuse hurts just as much as physical abuse, it can be harder to identify. The marks are left on the inside, and small infants are too young to report the abuse themselves. Find programs and services dedicated to supporting children in Stark County who are struggling with emotional abuse.
- Clothing Assistance
If you or someone you know is in need of clothing assistance in Stark County, there is a network of community resources you can turn to for support. Whether you need baby, back-to-school, professional or everyday clothing, clothing resources are available here at home.
- Basic Needs Information & Referrals
Looking for help, but not sure where to turn? At Stark Help Central, we have a vision for the future of Stark County where every child, parent, friend and neighbor has the resources to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Find local organizations dedicated to lifting up local families in times of need.
- Abuse & neglect: early childhood
Although they may not understand or be able to express what’s happened, infants can still be deeply affected by abuse and neglect. This early trauma can hinder a child’s physical, mental and emotional development, compromising their sense of safety and security. To help combat the negative impacts of early childhood abuse, it is important that babies and small children get the early intervention and support they need. Find local child protective services dedicated to survivors of abuse and neglect.
- Domestic violence warning signsDomestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone anywhere. And while it’s impossible to know for sure what goes on behind closed doors, there are some revealing signs and symptoms. Acknowledging and reporting them is the first step to ending the violence, so don’t hesitate.
- Signs of human traffickingHuman trafficking can affect anyone of any age, race, gender or income, and it can be difficult to identify unless you know what to look for. Learn about the signs and signals of human trafficking.
- Important phone numbers & textlineWhether you are struggling with substance use, domestic or gang violence or negative peer influence, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day. It’s important to know you’re not alone and the right treatment could be just a conversation away.
- Child neglectWhen a parent or caregiver fails to provide the basic needs for a child to grow up happy and healthy, it can cause serious long-term effects. For healthy development, children need food, clothing, safety, shelter and emotional support, especially during the early years of their lives.
- 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.
- Suicide warning signs
To raise awareness and help save the lives of those thinking about suicide, it is important to understand and recognize the warning signs. Suicide is preventable, and we all play an important role. Learn how to identify the signs, start a dialogue and take action.
- Children & sexual abuseA child can never, in any situation, consent to any form of sexual activity. When someone engages in sexual behavior with a child, it is a crime that can have lasting emotional and physical effects. If you are concerned that a child may be suffering from sexual abuse, reach out immediately for help, advice and support.
- Signs of child abuse & neglectAbuse and neglect can have emotional, mental and physical effects long into a child’s future. Signs like bruises, scrapes, cuts and broken bones are common with physical abuse, while emotional abuse typically results in a change of the child’s actions and behaviors. Learn more about ways to identify and report child abuse and neglect.
- Homeless shelters and homeless support services near youFor young people in Stark County, homelessness can impact their lives at any age. Whether they are leaving foster care, juvenile detention facilities or difficult family situations, every child deserves a safe and stable place to call home. Reach out today for help finding affordable housing.
- Sexual exploitationThe growing rates of sexual exploitation in Stark County are due in part to our prominent interstate system, sports facilities, strip clubs and hotel developments – common environments for this hidden crime. Find resources to help combat sex trafficking in Northeast Ohio.
- Human trafficking: early childhood
Human trafficking is not just an adult problem. It can happen to anyone, and young people are often the most vulnerable. If you are concerned a child you know may be at risk, it is important to report your concerns right away. Children are affected all over the world and right here in Stark County. Learn what you can do to help put an end to human trafficking in our community.
- Human trafficking survivorsA survivor of human trafficking will face a long and complex journey to recovery. They often need specialized clinical treatment, as well as trauma-informed mental and emotional care. Some may also need prenatal care or childcare support. Find local resources to support these survivors, keep them safe and reaffirm their worth.
- Mental & emotional support: childhood abuse & neglectIf you know a child that has experienced or is currently experiencing abuse or neglect, it is essential that they find a path to safety right away. Help young survivors of abuse find the counseling services they need to start the journey toward recovery.
- Early childhood physical abuseWhen a baby is abused, it can have severe consequences including developmental issues, brain damage or even death. If you are concerned that an infant, toddler or young child may be suffering from physical abuse, reach out for help, advice and support.
- Human trafficking: young adults
Young people with limited support structures, education and opportunities for advancement can fall victim to traffickers that promise a way out, only to end up in far worse situations. Victims could be your family, friends or neighbors, so it is important to understand the problem. Learn how to spot the signs of human trafficking, report your suspicions and help victims find a path to safety.
- Cash Assistance
Is your family in need of financial support? Everyone faces difficult times at one point or another. Fortunately, there are many local organizations in Stark County committed to lifting up community members in times of hardship. If you need cash, food or medical assistance, reach out for help today.
- 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.
- Abuse & neglect: childhood
Any intentional action that causes significant harm to a child is considered abuse. It can come in the form of physical, sexual or emotional damage, and is very rarely an isolated incident. Because child abuse is frequently carried out by a close loved one, it is essential that advocates in a child’s life pay attention and report suspicions. Find local resources dedicated to preventing and treating childhood abuse and neglect.
- 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.
- Reporting human trafficking
Human trafficking is a growing concern throughout Stark County, with Ohio ranking as one of the top states for the hidden crime. If you notice the signs and suspect a human rights violation, report it right away.
- Abuse & neglect: youth & teens
Today, teens have rates of abuse and neglect that are as high as or higher than those of young children. To make matters worse, this abuse often comes from the hands of family members – the very people responsible for keeping them safe. Teenagers are often more vulnerable than they let on, masking the internal turmoil they’re experiencing. Find local programs helping to support these young people on their path toward understanding and recovery.
- Hotline to report abuse or neglectIf you suspect childhood abuse or neglect, don’t wait to reach out. When it comes to children in crisis, every minute can be crucial in preventing an episode of abuse. Whether you have a concern about mental, emotional or physical cruelty, call the hotline today.
- 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.
- Human trafficking: childhood
Children are susceptible to human trafficking because they are young, vulnerable and easily manipulated. Often, they are victimized by the very people who are responsible for their care. Runaways and children from marginalized populations are especially at risk for child labor, sexual exploitation and other forms of human trafficking. Learn how to report suspicions and support young victims in Stark County.
- Childhood rape crisis services
Unfortunately, childhood rape is not a rare occurrence and is often carried out by a trusted loved one. This can cause deep shame and emotional turmoil, preventing a child from speaking out against the abuse. Find local resources where you can report suspicions of childhood rape and find support resources for kids in crisis.
- Human trafficking: youth & teens
Teens are vulnerable to trafficking regardless of socio-economic status, gender, race, education or citizenship. There is a generally a feeling that human trafficking is a crime affecting far-off places, but unfortunately, human trafficking incidents happen right here in Stark County. Because of their emotional immaturity and sense of invincibility, young teens are especially at risk. Learn how to prevent, report and support teenagers affected by human trafficking.
- Mental & emotional support: domestic violenceThe emotional damage associated with domestic violence and abuse often outlasts the physical impact. So, for those transitioning from victim to survivor, the aftermath often includes ongoing mental trauma and emotional stress. Remember, recovery looks different for everyone, so you have to take the time to discover what works best for you.
- Hard times: youth & teens
When your family faces a job loss, medical issue or another significant financial setback, you might be shocked, confused and unsure where to turn. Fortunately, there are resources for young people and families who need emergency financial assistance in Stark County.
- 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. - Mental health service providers
For Stark County families to grow stronger and healthier, it is important that everyone has the support they need to maintain their emotional well-being. There are hundreds of mental health, substance use and trauma recovery resources available here in Stark County, including individual, family and faith-based services.
- Safety plansFor individuals in Stark County who are planning to leave or have recently left a violent relationship, a safety plan is a helpful tool.
- Transportation for people on MedicaidFor Medicaid recipients without reliable transportation to and from appointments, help is available. The Non-Emergency Transportation (NET) program, administered by Stark County Job & Family Services, provides free transportation services to any Medicaid-covered appointment.
- 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),
- Where to Find Food and Meals for Thanksgiving
For some families struggling with poverty and hunger, Thanksgiving can be a difficult holiday. If you are dealing with food insecurity, need help with the expense of purchasing the needed ingredients for a special meal or are struggling with high medical bills, low wages, housing needs or other issues, we have gathered some valuable resources below.
Stark Help Central.com wants to help ensure everyone can enjoy the holiday, especially children.
Food pantries/resourcesOngoing assistance can be found via food pantries,
- School Safety
Stark County’s goal is always to keep all students safe – physically, socially and emotionally. Inside and outside of the classroom, many resources are in place to support our local students. From guidance counselors and mental health specialists to school resource officers and ongoing building improvements, Stark County has taken many steps to improve the safety at our local schools.
If you or someone you know has a concern about your safety while in school,
- Holiday Gifts for Families in Need 2022Families looking for help with 2021 holiday gifts can turn to several groups in the Stark County area.
- March 1st is Self Injury Awareness Day
The UK organization LifeSIGNS started dedicating March 1st as Self Injury Awareness Day in 2002. Now, 20 years later, it is a national awareness day for many countries, including the U.S. Self-injury goes by other names, including self-harm and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), and encompasses a large range of actions that one takes to cope with extreme emotion, release tension from these emotions, or take back a perceived loss of control. While teens tend to be the most likely to self-injure,
- The Importance of Getting an Opioid Overdose Kit
As the opioid crisis in Northeast Ohio continued to grow, the Stark County Opiate & Addiction Task Force was created in 2011 to help educate the community and provide necessary resources on opioids. In 2014, Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided With Naloxone) was created by the Ohio Health Department to bring together educational and naloxone distribution programs during the opioid epidemic. In order to prevent opioid overdose and to further harm reduction strategies, these organizations provide free overdose kits for anyone in Ohio who wants one.
- The Legacy Project of Stark Makes an imPACT
Who We Are
In 2015, The Legacy Project of Stark was founded by Eugene Lingenhoel. As he was delivering backpacks & school supplies at Lehman Middle School in Canton City, the principal, Jeanne McNeal, who is now the principal at Oakwood Middle School in Plain Local, asked Eugene if he would be willing to meet with some of her students. Jeanne saw a need for her students to have a positive role model in their life and saw an opportunity to provide that for them.
- Mental Health Resources During the Coronavirus Pandemic
This year, we’ve faced a pandemic unlike anything in our lifetimes. As we get closer to a vaccine for coronavirus, many people in Stark County are still feeling the stressful effects. Fortunately, the stress response is normal during a crisis.
Are you looking for ways to manage feelings of stress and anxiety? Here are some common questions we have received related to mental health, coping with COVID-19 in the community,
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
Canton, OH 44707
Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities
MUI Hotline: 330-477-4477 – If you believe a person with disabilities is at reasonable risk for harm
Funds and services to support the health, safety and education of people with developmental disabilities including:
Transportation
Self Advocacy
Respite Care
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.
Coleman Crisis Services
If you need immediate help, or are experiencing a mental health crisis, professional and confidential consultation is available
Walk-in Clinic: 24/7 Crisis Services
Call-in Clinic: 24/7 Crisis Services
Canton, OH 44708
Crisis Hotline
24/7 Phone #’s
National: 988 or 800-273-TALK(8255)
Hotline: 330-452-6000
Textline: 741741
Stark County Mobile Response Team offers free assistance from professionals trained in crisis intervention, information and referral to provide behavioral health services wherever you are, anytime of day or night.
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
Aultman Emergency Department
For parents who want to safely and legally give their babies up.
Canton, OH 44710
Aultman Hospital Emergency Room
Emergency services for individuals with urgent health care concerns.
Canton, OH 44710
Non-Emergency Transportation Program
Transportation to and from Medicaid-qualified appointments, including doctor visits, dental visits, vision appointments and more. Transportation must be scheduled at least five business days in advance, and you must be on a full Medicaid program to qualify.
Canton, OH 44702 Learn more
Alliance Community Hospital Emergency Room
Emergency care with no appointment necessary.
Alliance, OH 44601
Cleveland Clinic at Mercy Hospital
Emergency health care services available 24/7.
Canton, OH 44708
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Report emergencies and cases of unsafe working conditions, health or safety violations.
Suite 203
Independence, OH 44131
Secret Safe Place for Newborns: Mercy Medical Center ER
Confidential emergency shelter and medical care within three days of birth.
Canton, OH 44708
Alliance Area Domestic Violence Shelter
Emergency shelter for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.
American Red Cross: Veterans
Connects veterans to community resources for mental health counseling, emergency assistance and job services.
Canton, OH 44707
Alliance for Children & Families
Emergency shelter and permanent supportive housing (referrals through Homeless Hotline) for individuals and families.
Alliance, OH 44601
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
North Canton, OH 44720
Stark County Community Action Agency
Emergency HEAP Appointment Line: 330-617-1055
Summer & Winter Crisis
PIPP
Offers employment services, financial support and career counseling to the Stark County community.
Head Start
HEAP
HWAP (Home Weatherization)
Community Action Pathways HUB
Work Force Development
Canton, OH 44714
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 – 2:25pm
Wednesday: 9:15am – 3:35pm
Friday: 9:15am – 1:35pm
Suite 1637
Canton, OH 44707
GlenOak High School
Career programs offered through the Stark Career Compact:
- Advancement to nursing
- Animation and graphic design
- Automotive technology
- Commercial photography
- Construction trades
- Cosmetology
- Emergency fire services
- Engineering technologies
- Entertainment technologies
- Health technologies
- High school of business
- Horticulture
- Job training and coordination
- Music production
- Teacher pathways
- Video production
Canton, OH 44721
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
Child care services
Work experience program
Foster care & adoption
Kinship care
Child support services
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
Catholic Charities
Emergency rent and utility assistance for Stark County residents: call Monday – Friday between 9 and 10 a.m.
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 1150
Canton, OH 44702