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Can’t afford an attorney? The justice system in Stark County is structured so that legal support is available, regardless of financial barriers. Find local financial legal assistance resources for low-income individuals who need help protecting their rights without the pricey legal fees.

While youth ages 18 to 25 are still developing into mature and self-sufficient adults, many laws and policies begin treating them as adults at age 18. Poor decisions made during this time can have life-long consequences and may make it more difficult to access employment, housing and other basic needs later on. Seek out local legal assistance for the complex challenges these transition-age youth face, including record expungement eligibility.

If this is your first experience in the Stark County court system, it may be helpful to understand what typically happens in a child custody case. It is important to know the etiquette, expectations and processes so you can advocate for your parental rights.

One of the most difficult aspects of divorce, separation or the absence of a parent is finding the right balance of care for the children involved. Find local Stark County court resources available to help you file your child custody case.

As you consider the best care for a child following a divorce, separation or another difficult family situation, it is important to have appropriate legal representation to guide you through the process. We’re here to help you get started.

As with all custody cases, the family court carefully considers what is in the best interest of the child when deciding the custody arrangements for very young children (ages 0 to 3). Whenever possible, separation between each parent and the child is minimized to promote bonding and reduce anxiety. Find legal assistance and resources to help families navigate custody cases for infants and toddlers in Stark County.

Child custody decisions differ depending on many factors, one of which is the child’s age. Children ages 4 to 10 thrive best when their experience in school remains consistent and parental involvement is frequent and structured. Determining the best child arrangements can be confusing, especially during difficult situations such as divorce or separation. Find resources to help Stark County parents and caregivers navigate child custody cases.

The family court considers many factors when considering the best custody arrangements for youth and teens. As children get older, their school schedules become more complex and they likely have stronger opinions about their living arrangements. Most judges encourage flexibility when it comes to caring for older children, so they are best set up for success. Find help navigating teen custody cases in Stark County.

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),

Children and families in Stark County, Ohio, need fresh, healthy food. However, they can’t always afford it or don’t have easy access to it. According to Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, Stark County’s food insecurity rate is 14.2%, which equals about 53,000 people. For children in the area, the rate is 20.5% – about 16,770 kids.

Thankfully, there are food pantries throughout the county that provide items to take home.

Please note: Dates and times are subject to change,

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.

While there’s no single reason for teen suicide, the emotional pain associated with a breakup can be so severe that young people turn to self-harm. And these issues aren’t exclusive to romantic relationships. Problems with parents and friends can cause just as much stress and pain for a young person.

If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with a difficult relationship, find local counseling and support resources. You are not alone.

If you are having a hard time paying for utilities, such as electricity and water, there may be assistance available in Stark County. These organizations offer a safety net to help you through, while keeping your much-needed utilities services turned on.

If you’re currently having trouble paying your rent or mortgage, have fallen behind on payments or if a change in your income means you’ll soon be unable to meet your payments, there is help. We’ve gathered a list of local organizations that provide rent and mortgage assistance.

Do you feel that you or someone you know is eligible for disability services? If you are no longer able to work due to an illness, accident or injury, you may qualify for social security disability insurance in Stark County. Learn how to apply for disability assistance and get started today.

Despite all the information available about anxiety, depression, addiction and other mental health issues, many misconceptions persist.

Mental health misconceptions can be dangerous when they keep people from getting the treatment they need. Let’s talk about mental health issues and learn to separate fact from fiction. What are some common misconceptions about mental health?

Mental health issues are uncommon,

From education and income to physical and emotional health, learn about programs and organizations dedicated to supporting parents in Stark County as they navigate parenthood. Because a strong family foundation can help children succeed at home, in the classroom and in their relationships with others.

It is critical that people with developmental disabilities have access to and take advantage of quality health care services. When Stark County residents with disabilities are healthy, they are better able to participate in everything this community has to offer.

The bond between a child and their father sets an important family foundation. Community agencies all over Stark County work every day to remove barriers and promote more positive father/child relationships. Even if a father is not the custodial parent, they still have rights when it comes to caring for their children. Find information, programs and organizations dedicated to supporting fathers legally, financially and emotionally. Because stronger relationships lead to stronger families.

If you think your child may need mental health treatment, discussing your concerns can help you determine next steps. Talk with local pediatricians, counselors or behavioral health specialists for insight, solutions and information about your options. Affordable resources for medical and mental health services are available near you.

For adults who are homeless or facing the possibility of homelessness, Stark County has people who want to help. Start here and contact the organizations below to find assistance with basic resources and temporary housing locations.

If you or a loved one needs help managing Social Security funds, pension checks or veteran’s benefits, support is available. Find local organizations providing assistance to Stark County residents as they allocate money for clothing, food, housing, medical expenses, personal care items, rehabilitation and utilities.

Are you interested in learning more about adoption services in Stark County? All children have hopes of being welcomed into permanent, loving and committed families. Whether you are pregnant and exploring your options or an aspiring adoptive parent, find local resources to offer support, knowledge and assistance throughout the process.

Teens and young adults who have diagnosable mental illnesses may have difficulty managing daily life functions, including securing housing, employment and education without assistance. Fortunately, Stark County has many mental health and independent living programs available to help support young people as they transition to adulthood.

Enlisting in the military offers young adults the opportunity to serve their country while enjoying rewarding careers. They acquire skills and characteristics that will serve them well throughout adulthood, such as discipline, structure and independence. Military life can be rigorous and difficult, but sometimes transitioning back to civilian life can be just as challenging. Learn about local resources that provide support and assistance for current and former members of the armed services.

Securing meaningful employment is key to achieving independence and financial freedom. For young adults starting out in Stark County, it can be helpful to get assistance from community employment programs. Taking advantage of job-seeking classes, skills training and job placement services will help increase the likelihood of getting a good, stable job. Find local resources that help prepare young people for employment success.

While the holidays are celebrated as “the happiest time of the year,” it doesn’t always feel that way. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, the holidays can be hard. If you’re feeling alone, know that there are places in Stark County where you can turn for support and help.

Struggles with mental health and the holidays can equal extra stress. Navigating the two at the same time can be difficult.

Addiction leaves countless individuals and their loved ones reeling from its devastating impact. As a disease, addiction is frequently misunderstood and stigmatized. Beyond the stereotypical images of substance use, addiction can have behavioral and psychological effects.   

If you’re helping someone with addiction issues, the first thing is to know there is always hope and a way forward.   

To provide meaningful help to a loved one struggling with addiction,

Whether you are a young person looking for help or someone who is concerned about a young person, there are local organizations that can provide assistance for mental health and substance use. Taking support beyond a traditional office setting can be beneficial for some people.

Community-based treatment allows families to access high-quality services for mental health and substance use with few barriers. Family-based treatment allows those seeking help to get treatment safely in their community alongside their families.

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.

Ongoing assistance can be found via food pantries,

For people with mental illnesses or addictions, it is important to speak up and spread awareness. Not only does this build a healthier sense of self, it could help eliminate the stigma, bring important issues to light and put an end to discrimination. Find tips and strategies for self-advocating in Stark County.

Healthy minds are the building blocks for strong family foundations. For children whose parents are affected with mental health issues, or for children with their own mental health challenges, help is available here in Stark County. Find local resources, organizations and support groups dedicated to lifting up families touched by mental illness.

School can present many challenges for students. Whether they are struggling in class, experiencing issues in the home or having a hard time socially, CARE Teams are available to help. Each CARE team is different, but they are typically made up of school guidance counselors, administrators, teachers, clinical staff, family support specialists and mental health professionals. With different skills and backgrounds at the table, each member of the CARE Team contributes a unique perspective to address student issues with wraparound resources.

It’s not always easy to tell the difference between normal feelings of sadness and stress and the warning signs of mental health issues in teens. Learn what to look for if you think you or someone you know might benefit from mental health support services. Programs, organizations and support resources are available here in Stark County.

If you are unsure of where to go for medical issues or don’t have a primary care physician, there are hospitals, medical centers, and urgent care facilities throughout Stark County. They can help you stay in good health, address any concerns or illnesses, or tend to more immediate needs and minor injuries. Affordable resources for medical and mental health services are available near you.