Here's what we found for you
- What to Expect at Stark County Family CourtIf you’re involved with a hearing at Stark County Family Court, it’s helpful to know what to expect so you can be prepared. Learn more.
- Most Common Misconceptions About Mental HealthMental Health Assumptions: Fact or Fiction?
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?
Fact: Mental Health Issues Are Actually Quite CommonMental health issues are uncommon,
- MentorStark Amplifies Mentoring in Stark County
It’s National Mentoring Month and there’s no better time to tell you how being a mentor changed my life! I have learned from the perspectives of young people. I have witnessed firsthand systemic racism and inequity. I have experienced the roadblocks that get in the way of accessing community resources. I have become a better listener and less judgmental. And I have seen how young people can lead the way, if given a voice and an opportunity.
- 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.
- Introducing the Stark County Mindfulness WalkStarkMHAR & Stark Parks partnered to create a 1-mile Mindfulness Walk with activities to promote mental health & self-care while enjoying nature.
- 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,
- CHANCE Program Helps People with Substance Use in Stark CountyThe CHANCE Program gives individuals in Stark County a chance to address substance use through intensive treatment. Learn more about this program.
- Find resources in Stark County for young people facing real life issuesWith StarkHelpCentral.com, the search for community resources is confidential, convenient and consistent with target age groups.
- 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.
- Stark County CARE Teams cover basic needs so students can focus on academicsTogether, these professionals brainstorm ideas for ways to support children so they can do their best while they’re at school.
- If you witness peer pressureIf you know someone who is being swayed to engage in destructive behavior, don’t hesitate to intervene. Contact your school counselor office for help.
- Peer pressure: youth & teens
From the time social connections are formed, children experience peer pressure. Wanting to fit in is a normal part of growing up, but sometimes these pressures can lead to harmful behaviors. Some youth may experiment with drugs, alcohol and tobacco. Others may act out through violence or risky behaviors. If you know someone on a destructive path, learn where to get help and support.
- Effects of traumatic childhood stressA child who experiences a traumatic event may regress in their development (bed-wetting, for example), have strained relationships or struggle to regulate their emotions. These outcomes might present themselves right away or surface over time, but fortunately, Stark County resources are available to help manage the effects of traumatic childhood stress.
- Being Kind to Others & Yourself Can Improve Your Mental HealthKindness is linked to mental health. And we sure could use more of it during the pandemic. Here are simple ways to add more kindness into your life.
- Education opportunities: young adults
After school, it is important for students to look forward to what’s next. Whether they pursue a career, enroll in college or enlist in the armed services, young people have options in choosing their path toward adulthood. Some of these opportunities will require a high school diploma, others may demand a background of skills or training. Either way, emerging adults should have a plan for the future, so they are set up for long-term success.
- Mental health recovery & support groups
In Stark County, mental health support groups provide a safe, supportive and confidential environment to talk and listen. These sessions help attendees find understanding and reassurance from peers in similar situations, while offering different perspectives, ideas and viewpoints. Find schedules and contact information for support groups near you.
- 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.
- 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,
- Drug drop box informationMany of the drugs that are used or sold by teens in Stark County are found in the homes of their friends and families. If prescription medications are not stored and disposed of properly, it is possible for young people to get their hands on the substances. Thankfully, you can safely drop off unwanted prescriptions at 17 permanent collection boxes throughout Stark County.
- Mental health services for teens & young adultsWith the support of local service providers and community advocates, many teens and young adults can learn to support their mental health and go on to live full, enriching lives. Therapy, group counseling and prescription medications are just some of the ways young people in Stark County can learn to cope with a mental health condition.
- Trauma: childhood
When children are exposed to violence, abuse or even natural disasters, their confidence is shaken, and their view of the world can be altered. A child’s psychological and physical response to these events can have long-lasting implications for their success in school, their personal relationships and their behavior. Find local resources and childhood counseling to support children who have experienced trauma in Stark County.
- Paying for mental health & addiction services
Your ability to pay for services should never be a barrier to seeking the help you need. Even if you do not have access to insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or another medical care payment method, you are still encouraged to seek support. Financial help may be available based on your income and other factors.
- 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.
- Stark County Educational Service Center Provides Schools with Helpful ResourcesThe Stark County Educational Service Center provides schools with helpful resources that support student educational, health and emotional needs.
- Money ManagementMany young adults who are just starting out are not experienced in setting a budget or navigating major financial decisions. They may not know who to ask or where to turn to learn effective ways to manage their money. No matter the situation, help is available. Find community resources that offer workshops and counseling programs to put you on the path toward greater financial stability.
- Mental health screeningIf you think you or someone you know might benefit from mental health services, an interactive online screening is a good place to start. This quick and easy quiz can help determine if professional mental health support is the right fit for your needs. All responses are confidential and anonymous, and can help connect you with helpful community programs, organizations and resources.
- LGBTQ+: young adults
Just like anyone else, LGBTQ+ teens undergo a variety of lifestyle changes on their path to adulthood. They face new challenges, from living independently and finding a job to evolving relationships. However, emerging LGBTQ+ adults often find that coming out and coming into their own is an additional source of stress. Learn about the local programs and services available to support these local young people as they develop new coping resources and strategies.
- Mental health medication
Often the cost of therapy or prescription drugs has been known to deter young people from getting the help they need. Find information about common mental health medications as well as resources to help pay for mental health treatment. Local service providers and family physicians may also have information about low-cost recovery resources.
- Stress managementStress impacts us all at one point or another, and everyone handles stress differently. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or experiencing severe stress over an extended period of time, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for guidance. Find tips and suggestions for coping with stress as well as local organizations that can help.
- Trauma: youth & teens
Most people will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lives. Whether it is a natural disaster, exposure to violence or abuse, or the death of a loved one, a person’s ability to cope with these experiences can have a lasting effect. When a teen experiences trauma, they may respond differently than a younger child or an adult. Find local resources to help support young people who have gone through trauma and their traumatic stress in Stark County.
- What to expect as an adult in the criminal justice systemYoung adults who were involved in the criminal justice system as minors will experience a different system as adults. While they retain the right to an attorney and privilege against self-incrimination (among others), the juvenile court system focuses more on rehabilitation and usually offers reduced sentencing options.
- Breaking free of a gangWhile being part of a gang is dangerous, escaping from a gang family may be even more so. Gangs typically don’t want members to leave because there’s a fear of betrayal – that they’ll expose what they know to law enforcement or even a rival gang. While getting out of gang life isn’t easy, it is possible with persistence, support and the right resources.
- Suicide Risk and PreventionGrowing up can be a challenging and isolating experience, but the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. No matter the adversity you might be facing, find the encouragement you need to move forward in a positive direction. Stark Help Central is a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for young people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Seeking treatmentAre 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 seeking treatment is one of the best decisions you can make for your hope, health and recovery. Find mental health resources and support services available here in Stark County.
- ResiliencyWhen it feels like life has more downs than ups, Stark County organizations are available to help build resiliency. This important life skill can help young people bounce back from life’s challenges without the same risk for anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions later in life. Get started with local mental health and resiliency resources today.
- Childhood resiliency
Childhood is often considered a happy, carefree time, but children are not always shielded from trauma and turmoil. From bullying and divorce to abuse and grief, kids can be exposed to many of life’s challenges. For these children, resiliency skills can help them discover ways to cope with difficult situations and move forward.
- Developmental markers to look forHow a child responds to and interacts with the world around them gives clues to their developmental progress. When a child doesn’t meet development milestones in a range typical of their peers, it may indicate a difference in their growth. Find resources to contact if you think your child is showing signs of a cognitive or physical disability.
- Effects of traumatic stressThere is no single way to respond to trauma, and each person who is affected will cope and heal in their own ways. Learn how to identify the effects of trauma and find resources in Stark County to help you move forward in a positive direction.
- 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.
- LGBTQ+ bullyingBullying can have lasting negative effects on LGBTQ+ youth. It can cause anxiety and depression, relationship problems, low self-esteem, substance use and even thoughts of suicide. Young people who are being bullied should seek out adult allies who are safe and confident. Adults who display rainbows in their offices, wear pins to show their support, or have Safe Zone stickers are likely good places to turn.
- Gambling addiction recoveryWhether for entertainment, quick cash or to impress their friends, teens in Stark County gamble for many different reasons. Sometimes they’ve had an early experience with a frequent gambler. Other times, financial necessity causes them to look for money anywhere they can. No matter how the gambling behaviors start, they often stem from a deeper issue that can be addressed through counseling and support.
- LGBTQ+: youth & teens
During adolescence, many young people are exploring their sexual identity, gender identity and gender expression. While this can be an exciting time, the process of self-discovery can also be extremely stressful. Fear of being different, along with cultural and peer pressures, may cause teens to question their gender identity, gender expression and/or sexual orientation. Find local resources to help support these young people in their pursuit of acceptance and understanding.
- Signs of peer pressure
No young person is completely immune from peer influence. While we hope most are able to resist the temptation to make harmful choices, that is not always the case. Seek help from school counselors or mental health professionals if you notice the following behaviors. They could be signs of peer pressure in teens.
- Depression & anxiety
Are you feeling down, withdrawn and disconnected? Everyone feels stressed and sad at times, but when these emotions are persistent and extreme, it may be time to seek help. Learn about the most common signs of depression and anxiety, and where to turn for professional support in Stark County.
- Criminal & juvenile justice: youth & teens
Teens accused of delinquent acts are typically processed through the Stark County Family Court. Rehabilitation is the primary goal for the juvenile justice system, with a focus on establishing positive behaviors and effective life strategies. Discover juvenile justice resources right here in Stark County that can help youth achieve positive goals, navigate the justice system and avoid future crimes.
- High school equivalenceNontraditional students who have not received a high school diploma can pursue similar credit through a High School Equivalence Test (HiSET), Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) or General Equivalency Development (GED) program. These courses allow students to apply for jobs or pursue a college degree that would otherwise require a high school diploma.
- Bullying
Unfortunately, many young people are victims of bullying. This can be a written, verbal or physical act that is threatening, intimidating or abusive. Often bullying is repeatedly carried out by one student toward another and causes emotional or physical harm. This behavior can also occur online through videos, blogs and social media. If you or someone you know is being bullied, contact your school counselor or a trusted adult right away or seek help from another local resource.
- Mental health signs to look for: teens & young adults
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.
- 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)
- 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.
- 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.
- Trauma: young adults
When a young person’s safety and well-being is threatened, it can have negative effects for a lifetime. It’s often more challenging for a young adult to cope with such events because they’re also dealing with other significant challenges, including personal relationships and living independently for the first time. Whether sudden or long-lasting, these experiences can leave a young person confused, angry or anxious. Find local resources to support these emerging adults through traumatic events.
- Substance use treatment centersThere are many quality, supportive treatment centers in Stark County for people who are struggling or have struggled with substance use. Whether you are in need of detox services, clinical care or community-based treatment, help is available. Find local treatment and recovery centers near you, as well as helpful resources to support you through the process.
- If you witness bullying
While it may be easier to wait for someone else to take action, stepping up to report bullying could be an important way to prevent future harm. If someone you care about is being bullied or is bullying others, there are steps you can take to intervene. Together, we can help put an end to bullying in Stark County.
- 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.
- Foster Children: Aging Out Resources
Children who are part of the foster care system in Stark County will eventually reach the age of 18 and age out of the program. Just like anyone else, these young adults may have medical and mental health care needs. But unlike other young people, once they age out of foster care, they no longer have the same financial and emotional backing at home.
Unfortunately, these young people rarely receive the emotional and behavioral health services they need because of a lack of insurance and family support.
- Early Childhood (Ages 0 - 3)
- Childhood (Ages 4 - 10)
- Youth & Teens (Ages 11 - 17)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Alcohol & other drug services
Substance use is one of the contributing risk factors that may increase the risk of suicide. Fortunately, substance use is treatable, and recovery is possible. The road to a healthy and hopeful future often starts with professional prevention and intervention services, and resources are available here in Stark County.
- 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.
- 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.
Hope Outreach Ministry of Stark County
Coffee and light breakfast snacks are offered Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8:30 to 11 a.m. On those same days of the week, a hot lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Canton, OH 44705
The Gentle Shepherd Counseling Center
Licensed counselors treating and diagnosing mental health conditions.
North Canton, OH 44720
Psychological & Family Consultants, Inc.
Counseling services for depression, anxiety, stress, family difficulties and more.
Canton, OH 44718
AT&T: Discounted Internet Services
AT&T will assign the participant to the fastest of these speed tiers available where the participant lives.
ELIGIBILITY – Must have one household member participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Also known as food stamps.
– Available for households in the National School Lunch Program,
Stark County Family Court: Juvenile Intake
Intake specialists who work with juvenile offenders and their families to prepare for court cases and provide mediation when possible.
Suite 601
Canton, OH 44702
Stark County Educational Service Center
Coordinating education, leadership and professional services throughout Stark County. Visit the Stark County ESC website for more information.
North Canton, OH 44720
Massillon Knights of Columbus Hot Lunch
988 Cherry Rd. NWMassillon, OH 44646
Community One Credit Union – Jackson Office
6583 Frank Avenue NWNorth Canton, OH 44720
First Ohio Community Federal Credit Union
8200 Cleveland Avenue NWNorth Canton, OH 44720
Community One Credit Union – Downtown Office
530 McKinley Avenue NWCanton, OH 44702
Vista Psychological & Counseling Centre, LLC
Affordable health care for adults, children and families.
Suite 100
North Canton, OH 44720
Father Matthew Herttna Counseling Center
Mental health counseling and referrals available at the Walsh University campus.
North Canton, OH 44720
Canton Community KidSummit Against Drugs
Prevention services promoting abstinence from alcohol, tobacco and other drugs (AToD).
Canton, OH 44705
CommQuest Medication-Assisted Treatment
Counseling and medication-assisted treatment options such as Methadone, Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Antabuse, and Acamprosate. Mobile programs are also available for Stark County inmates.
Canton , OH 44714
ASPIRE (Adult College & Career Readiness Center)
In affiliation with Canton City Schools, ASPIRE is an HSE (high school equivalency) test preparation center that provides access to free GED classes for Stark County youth and adults.
521 Tuscarawas St W
Canton, OH 44702
Equal Employment Opportunities Commission
Protecting individuals from discrimination at work based on age, gender, disability, race, religion, and/or sexual orientation.
Canton, OH 44702
MCTV: Broadband Assistance
A household is eligible if one member of the household meets any of the following:
- Participates in the FCC’s Lifeline program.
- Has a household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty limit.
- Participates in Lifeline-qualifying programs including SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, and Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit.
- Participates in free and reduced-price school lunch program or school breakfast program,
Spectrum Discounted Internet Service
– Resides where Spectrum offers Internet service.
– A member of the household must be a recipient of The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) free or reduced cost lunch program OR age 65 or older and receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
– Has not subscribed to Charter Communications’ Internet services within the last 30 days and is not a current Spectrum Internet customer.
The Stark County Veteran’s Service Commission
Provides transportation, financial assistance and job placement services to Stark County veterans and their families.
Canton, OH 44708
Down Syndrome Support Network of Stark County
Support, advocacy, education and resources for families of children with Down syndrome.
North Canton, OH 44720
Community Outreach Dinner (Faith Bible Church)
Need a ride? A church van will pick you up at approximately 5:15 PM at the Main Library in downtown Canton on the day of the dinner and will return you to the library afterwards. Please contact the church office with any questions.
Canton, OH 44721
Hattie Larlham Constant Companions – North Canton
This day program for adults with disabilities offers social, educational, volunteer, and recreational activities.
Suite E
North Canton, OH 44720
Stark Regional Community Correction Center (SRCCC)
Opportunities for individuals in the criminal justice system to become more productive and self-sufficient members of the community.
Louisville, OH 44641
Abide Ministries-New Baltimore Community Church
Community resources to help strengthen families in Stark County.
Alliance, OH 44601
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
Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery
Funding for mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery support services. Visit their website for more information about StarkMHAR.
Canton, OH 44702
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health: Plain Community
Mental and behavioral health services for children and families.
Door 6
Canton, OH 44721
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Summit, Medina & Stark Counties, Inc.
Mentoring network serving more than 350 at-risk children ages 6 to 18. Children are matched with adult volunteers who provide ongoing encouragement and support for life-long success.
408 9th St. SW
Canton, OH 44707
Aultman/Alliance Community Hospital Emergency Room
Emergency care with no appointment necessary.
Alliance, OH 44601
Partners Against Trafficking of Humans Stark County
Volunteers working together to raise awareness, education and advocacy to protect and serve local victims of human trafficking. Learn more on Facebook.
Suite 1150
Canton, OH 44702 Learn more
Stark County District Library: Jackson Township Branch
7487 Fulton Rd. N.W.Massillon, OH 44646-9393 Learn more
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)/ Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)
Representing the rights and interests of abused, neglected and dependent children in Stark County.
Suite 436
Canton, OH 44702
Aultman Alliance Community Hospital Family Care Urgent Care Center
506 W. Main StreetLouisville, OH 44641 Learn more
Victim/Witness Division of the Stark County Prosecutor’s Office
Supporting victims of crimes in Stark County with information about all aspects of the prosecution as well as community referrals to health and social services.
Suite 510
Canton, OH 44702
NAMI Stark County Sunday Night Support Group (Peers and Family Members)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/798097665
Meeting ID: 798 097 665
NAMI Stark County Friday Peer Support Group (Adults with Mental Illness)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/386459766
Meeting ID: 386 459 766
NAMI Stark County Tuesday Peer Support Group (Adults with Mental Illness)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/97629915727
Meeting ID: 976 2991 5727
Direction Home Akron Canton: Aging and Disability Resource Center
Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities (Direction Home Akron Canton) is a private, non-profit organization that helps older adults and people with disabilities thrive in the places they want to call home.
- Aging and Disability Resource Center – Provides professional, one-on-one consultations to access to information on in-home care and community resources.
- Meal Sites/Senior Centers
- Assisted Living Waiver
- Care Coordination
- Ohio Home Care Waiver
- PASSPORT
- Acute Care Transitions
- And More
Call 1-877-770-5558 or click here to learn more.
Uniontown, OH 44685