Here's what we found for you
- HOPE Program Addresses Mental Health in Those on ProbationStark County’s HOPE Program is an alternative to prison for those who have a history of mental health issues and are involved in a probation offense.
- Suicide prevention for Stark County children, teens and young adultsIf someone you know is hurting, don’t stop encouraging them to seek support. There is a community rooting for them to keep going.
- Becoming resilient is a daily practiceResiliency daily practices and tips to help you build a strong foundation of character. Face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
- Suicide Prevention: A GlenOak High School ProductionWe partnered with GlenOak High School’s video production department for a video on suicide prevention for teens. Watch it now
- 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.
- 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,
- Introducing StarkHelpCentral.comStarkHelpCentral.com provides information and support to youth, young adults and engaged members of our community.
- 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.
- Health care supportAll residents should have access to safe and effective health care, regardless of age or income. If you are a teen, young adult or the parent of a young child, affordable, quality care is within your reach. Get the medical, dental, prescription or mental health coverage you need for a happy and healthy tomorrow.
- Medical health providers
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.
- LGBTQ+ mental healthBullying, fear of rejection and the chronic stress associated with having a seemingly stigmatized identity can put significant strain on an LGBTQ+ teen’s mental health. In fact, research shows that LGBTQ+ youth have much higher levels of suicidal ideation than their heterosexual peers.
- Youth & Teens (Ages 11 - 17)
- Health & insurance: young adults
For some young adults who do not receive benefits through their employers, purchasing medical insurance can be a hardship. Yet, it’s vital to secure health care coverage to stay healthy and offset large medical expenses. The Ohio Medicaid program offers those who qualify a way to obtain state-funded medical insurance, which provides coverage for many important health care services at little or no cost to the individual. Learn what Medicaid benefits could mean for you.
- Mental health service providers
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,
- 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.
- Sexual Health and Pregnancy/STI Prevention
If you are unsure about the family planning methods available to you and want to learn more about your options, you are not alone. Find local resources, programs and community organizations providing reproductive health services for individuals and couples in Stark County.
- Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Mental health is an important part of one’s overall wellbeing. Similar to physical health, early detection of mental health issues can be pivotal in ensuring more effective treatment, a speedy recovery and a better quality of life.
However, we must understand that while we can recognize signs of distress, the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues are a complex process best left to professionals.
Understanding the early warning signs of mental illness is not your chance to diagnose someone.
- Information on Stark County’s COVID-19 Vaccine RolloutAs the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues, it’s important to stay up to date on information for getting the vaccine in Stark County. Learn more.
- Parenting support
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.
- Abuse & neglect: young adults
No matter when it initially takes place, the effects of abuse often extend well into adulthood, significantly impacting a person’s physical and mental health. It is important for those who have struggled or are still dealing with the turmoil of abuse and neglect to get the help they need to move forward in a positive, healing direction. Find resources in Stark County dedicated to lifting up survivors of abuse and neglect.
- About usThe impact Guiding Stark County toward health and hope
With partner agencies serving thousands of individuals each year, StarkHelpCentral.com has ambitious plans for addressing some of our area’s greatest challenges. This website raises awareness for essential resources to achieve real, lasting results.
- Gangs & violence: youth & teens
Gang violence affects many communities – including Stark County – creating a climate of fear and increased criminal behavior. In fact, youth violence is one of the leading causes of death for young people between the ages of 10 and 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing it is a vital part of promoting the health and safety of our youth and overall community. Learn about the resources available to help keep gang violence out of our local schools and neighborhoods.
- Trauma: early childhood
When a child experiences trauma, it often impacts the entire family and the community around them. These experiences can affect a child’s whole body and emotional well-being, and every child’s response to trauma is unique. Find mental health and counseling resources to help children and families cope with the effects of trauma here in Stark County.
- Children with incarcerated parentsHaving a parent in prison can have a significant impact on a child’s mental and behavioral health. To help reduce the risk for negative outcomes, such as depression, substance use and criminal behavior, it is important for communities to wrap around children with incarcerated parents.
- Shawna’s Story of MotherhoodWhen Shawna and her husband found out she was pregnant, they didn’t know where to start. Yet everything changed when she met a THRIVE health worker.
- Mental & emotional support for traumaRecovering from a traumatic event isn’t easy. Discovering and developing resiliency and coping skills may be easier with the help of a mental health professional.
- Developmental disabilities: young adults
The journey to adulthood can be challenging for anyone, and especially for young people with developmental disabilities. From securing employment and managing health care responsibilities to finding accessible housing and transportation, there is a lot to learn to ensure a smooth transition. To plan for success in the adult world, community resources are available. Learn about the advocates and supporters helping to empower young adults with disabilities in Stark County, Ohio.
- First episode of psychosisThe first time you experience a break in your perceptions or sense of reality, it can be frightening and difficult to understand. This early stage of psychosis can happen to people of all ages, and is the most critical time to seek treatment from a trusted mental health provider. Learn ways to identify the first episode of psychosis and find service providers in Stark County you can turn to for 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),
- Childhood neglect and abuseWhen 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.
- Eating disordersWhether stemming from behavioral challenges, societal pressures or an underlying mental health issue, eating disorders can affect anyone of any age, race, gender or background. They are just as dangerous as other illnesses, so it is important that these disorders are identified and treated right away. Find community resources available in Stark County to support you or a loved one who is struggling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating or another eating disorder.
- Suicide prevention: young adults
The transition to adulthood is a time of significant changes and challenges. As you seek full-time employment, experience changes in your relationships and move toward independent living, life can feel overwhelming. No matter why you are hurting, it is important to remember you are not alone. Find mental health service providers and emotional support resources for young adults in Stark County. Call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 if you need immediate assistance.
- 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,
The Ken Weber Community Campus At Goodwill
Located in downtown Canton, the Campus is home to Goodwill offices and 20 other non-profit organizations that share collaborative outreach to the community and find efficiencies through shared space and services.
Canton, OH 44707
Christ Presbyterian Church
Hot breakfast is provided to anyone in the community through their Food, Clothing & Prayer program on the second Saturday of every month from 8:30 to 10 a.m.
Camp Wakonda is a Christian summer camp that encourages children to grow in their emotional and spiritual health in the Christian community. Since 1959, campers have learned about and experienced God through the wonder of nature.
Canton, OH 44702
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
Stark County Family Court
Legal services for child custody, behavioral health and domestic relations cases. Visit their website for more information.
Intake specialists who work with juvenile offenders and their families to prepare for court cases and provide mediation when possible are available at (330) 451-7317.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)/ Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) – Representing the rights and interests of abused, neglected and dependent children in Stark County.
Suite 670
Canton, OH 44702
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
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
Aultman North
Aultman North provides the array of services you need, health care professionals you can trust and close-to-home convenience to fit your busy lifestyle. Conveniently located near the Belden Village area, Aultman North offers:
- Aquatic therapy
- AultmanNow Urgent Care
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Imaging
- Occupational rehabilitation
- Orthopedics and sports medicine
- Outpatient lab
- Pelvic floor therapy
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Reiki
- Sleep center
- Speech therapy
North Canton, OH 44720
The Gentle Shepherd Counseling Center
Licensed counselors treating and diagnosing mental health conditions.
Support Groups: Contact for information about joining.
- Men’s Sexual Addiction Recovery Group
Ongoing every Tuesday 6:30-8:00pm
This therapy group is designed for men seeking to overcome a variety of unwanted sexualized behaviors. It is confidential, faith-based, and emphasizes healing from sexual brokenness, shame and guilt. The recovery process encourages personal integrity and healthy connections with other men. Membership is screened by the facilitating counselor,
North Canton, OH 44720
Legacy of Honor
Our goal is to serve those who serve us but standing beside them in the everyday. We aim to work alongside other partners to help fill in the gaps. We serve veterans, active duty military, first responders (police, fire, EMS, corrections, communications, ER/Trauma nurses/doctors), and their families. We offer 3 programs – Operation Bootstrap – help in the everyday, Operation RAK (Random Acts of Kindness), and Operation Access – Peer Support for Trauma and Mental Health for First Responders.
Louisville, OH 44641
ASCEND
Formerly Foundations
Promoting recovery through peer support, education, advocacy and networking.
Peer ran Respite Unit is based on short-term, in-house stay for those struggling with mental health and addiction recovery issues.
Free(no insurance necessary or accepted)
Also offers classes in person or via zoom with a possible $45.00 Walmart card stipend for attending 20 classes.
Additional locations:
227 Third St. SE,
Suite 200
Canton, OH 44702
Canton For All People
Canton for All People is a Community Development Corporation formed by Crossroads United Methodist Church in in partnership with the Lemmon and DeHoff family foundations to bring quality housing and opportunities for all people to downtown Canton. Canton for All People was formed to help the church address two of its primary focus areas (1) Overcoming Poverty Together (2) Seeking Health and Wholeness for All.
- Shorb Home Repair (assist homeowners with exterior repairs)
- Affordable Housing &
Canton, OH 44702
R & R Counseling Center
Our focus is on the American Counseling Association (ACA) Principles. We strive to treat every client individually with dignity and a focus to do no harm. We promote positive mental health and well-being. We value fairness and equality. We recognize trust as a big responsibility, and we aspire for openness and honesty to achieve that. We offer counseling services in the areas of couples and marriage, family, child and adolescents, adults, trauma, and addictions. We provide individual and group sessions.
Ste F
Massillon, OH 44646
Vantage Aging
For nearly 50 years, VANTAGE Aging has promoted successful aging by providing programs to support the needs of older adults wishing to age in place and live independently with dignity.
Meals on Wheels and Home Wellness- Health and wellness are important to the success of aging in place, and our Home Wellness Solutions and Meals on Wheels programs build on that concept by helping people remain at home by providing home-delivered meals, wellness checks,
Massillon, OH 44646
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
YWCA Alliance
We improve Alliance area women’s lives, stand up for justice, and strengthen communities with a focus on three impact areas: equipping youth, economic stability and advancement and senior nutrition and health
Provides transitional housing for women, a clothing boutique, employment and transportation assistance, youth programs, and Meals on Wheels for the senior community
Alliance, OH 44601
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Provides a monthly benefit up to $30 (up to $75/month on Tribal lands) for broadband internet. – Provides a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50.).
INTAKE PROCEDURE– Customers can sign up online at www.getinternet.gov/apply or sign up via mail.
– To learn more or to get a mail-in application, call the ACP Support Center at 1-877-384-2575 from 9:00am to 9:00pm daily.
Heartland Behavioral Healthcare
Patient and family outreach for those affected by mental illness.
The Shorb Market and Connection Center
We currently have two Fresh Markets in Canton, one at 603 Shorb Ave. NW and one at 3412 Harmont Ave. NE. These Fresh Markets provides free produce and grocery items to the community at no cost and is another way we live out our vision of healthy homes and holy hearts for all people. People are invited to shop once-a-day as our selection changes daily.
Canton, OH 44703