School referrals for basic needs

In order for a child to learn and thrive, it is important that their basic needs are met. When children are hungry or homeless, they are not prepared for success in school. Fortunately, many Stark County school districts have resources in place to provide access to food, clothing, shelter and more. Learn about the school-based programs helping to remove nonacademic barriers and support local families.

School resources

Alliance City Schools: Aviator Food Bags

Weekend food bags for students who may not have access to consistent meals throughout the school year.
200 Glamorgan St.
Alliance, OH 44601
Phone: (330) 821-2100

Canton Local Schools: Backpack Program

Weekend backpack meals every Friday for qualifying students.
600 Faircrest St. SE
Canton, OH 44707
Phone: (330) 484-8019

North Canton City Schools: Spirit Closet

For those who are new to the community or current members who cannot afford the expense of school-branded apparel.
525 7th St. NE
North Canton, OH 44720
Phone: (330) 497-5600

Perry Helping Perry

A community-based organization that exists to provide needed support for Perry residents Food pantry, clothing, school supplies and more
  • Food Pantry Non-perishable food and toiletries 3rd Saturday of each month 9am – 12pm Trinity United Methodist Church 3757 Lincoln Way E Massillon, OH 44646
  • Clothes Closet Clothing for infants, children, and adults 5038 W Tuscarawas St Canton, OH 44708 Tuesday, Wednesday, & Saturday 10am – 4pm Thursday 10am – 7pm
  • Backpacks Provide backpacks and school supplies for families in need In partnership with Whipple Heights Alliance Church Click here for application
  • Sack Snacks Weekend snacks for school age children Prepared throughout the school year by Perry Helping Perry volunteers. They are distributed to all the schools in the Perry Local School District and discreetly given to qualifying children
  • Bikes Provides donated bikes to children and adults Give us a call at 330-737-1281 or send us an email
  • Christmas Giveaway Help families provide gifts and stocking stuffers for their children In partnership with Perry Christian Church Click here for application
Phone: (330) 737-1281

Helping Hands Network

Clothes and shoes for Sandy Valley Local School District students.  
126 South Main St.
Waynesburg, OH 44688
Phone: (330) 866-2005
Hide HoursShow Hours
Tue.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Wed.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Thu.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Community resources

Access Health Stark County

Guiding individuals and families to quality, affordable medical care in Stark County. 
408 9th St. SW
Canton, OH 44707
Phone: (330) 437-3715

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
221 3rd St. SE
Canton, OH 44702
Toll free: 1 (888) 698-6893
Toll free: 1 (888) 698-6893
Local: (330) 452-4661
TDD: (330) 451-8879
Hide HoursShow Hours
Mon.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tue.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thu.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Fri.
8:00 am - 4:00 pm