Here's what we found for you
- Transportation ServicesChanges are underway. Please go to the JFS website for the most up-to-date information.
For many Stark County residents, public transportation services are essential for their basic needs, including trips to work and medical appointments. Fortunately, local transportation resources are available to support low-income individuals as well as those with permanent disabilities. Find routes and more information for SARTA here.
- Transportation: young adults
Early adulthood marks an exciting and challenging time as young people move toward independent living and financial freedom. But without dependable transportation, young adults face obstacles in finding and sustaining meaningful employment. Reliable transportation is important for accessing opportunity and staying connected to the community. Discover what local programs and services are available to address your transportation needs.
- Public TransportationBefore you ride, you can view bus schedules and area maps to shopping centers, medical facilities, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, places of employment and other areas of interest. Find a transportation route that can get you to your desired destination.
- Transportation: youth & teens
Reliable transportation to school, work and other activities is critical for youth and teens. Without access to consistent transportation, the ability to maintain regular school attendance and employment is limited. Fortunately, there are affordable transportation services that offer easy, convenient access to school and other locations throughout Stark County. For those who qualify, free transportation to medical appointments may also be available.
- Holiday Food and Meal Assistance in Stark CountyHoliday Food and Meal Assistance in Stark County
The holidays can put extra pressure on an already tight grocery budget, but help is available across Stark County. Whether you need groceries to make your holiday meal, a free prepared meal or more regular support, browse this holiday food and meal guide to find the help you are seeking.
I Need Help Getting Groceries for the HolidaysThere are many programs across the county that can help you get the ingredients you need to make your holiday meals.
- 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.
- Developmental disabilities: youth & teens
Beginning around age 14, is it important that families of children with developmental disabilities start the process of transitioning to adulthood. This includes activities such as age-appropriate transition assessments, setting measurable postsecondary goals and planning an eventual career path. Through support from the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, learn ways to set your child up for success and independence in adulthood.
- Foster Children: Aging Out ResourcesChanges are underway. Please go to the JFS website for the most up-to-date information.
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.
- Early Childhood (Ages 0 - 3)
- Childhood (Ages 4 - 10)
- Youth & Teens (Ages 11 - 17)
- Foster & adoption: youth & teens
Young children are not the only ones in need of safe and welcoming homes. Many teens in the Stark County foster system are seeking the love and support of adoptive families. Find Stark County resources to support these teens in their pursuit of family placements, or as they transition to living on their own.
- Responsibilities: young adults
As young people transition to adulthood, they may be unprepared for the financial and personal demands of independence. For emerging adults with limited income, the burden of these new responsibilities can be scary and overwhelming. Discover community resources and public assistance programs to help individuals and families in Stark County achieve financial stability and success.
- Hard times: young adults
The transition to adulthood presents many new and often daunting challenges – from finding affordable housing to navigating the job search. If you find yourself struggling with the demands of bills, groceries, budgets and money management, don’t be discouraged. Community resources are available to support you toward a better financial future.
- Mental health: young adults
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.
- Aging out of foster care
For young people from 16 to 21 in Stark County, independent living services are available during the transition out of foster care. Specialists can help with the coordination of services to help facilitate a happy and healthy journey toward adulthood. Learn more about the social and support services available to teens and young adults in the Stark County foster system.
- Young parents
The transition to parenthood is difficult at any age, and especially for teens and young adults. Find local parenting resources, programs and organizations available to support young parents in Stark County, both financially and emotionally. Benefits of social support services for first-time parents include improved parenting knowledge, enhanced parent-child relationships and increased economic self-sufficiency.
- Homeless & housing: youth & teens
Youth and teens are considered the highest at-risk group for homelessness in the United States. Each year, in communities like ours, it is estimated that up to two million young people are living on the streets, vulnerable to harm. Every child needs a healthy, safe environment in which to live. Learn what support services can help you or someone you know transition to a more stable living environment.
- 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.
- Legal assistance: young adults
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.
- Military and Veteran ResourcesChanges are underway. Please go to the JFS website for the most up-to-date information.
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 military and veteran resources that provide support and assistance for current and former members of the armed services.
- 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),
United Way Auto Repair Assistance in Stark County
Auto Repair Program
A partnership between United Way of Greater Stark County and Department of Job & Family Services to help employed parents pay for car repairs to get back on the road. The program offers up to $2000 in assistance to pay for services performed by ASE-certified mechanics. Some of the program requirements include:
- Must be currently employed or enrolled in college full time
- Must be age 18 or older
- Must have minor child in the home or pay child support for minor child
- Have a vehicle that requires repairs defined as major work.
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Canton, OH 44702
ABCD, Inc.
Non-profit community development agency committed to improving the quality of life of people through Community Economic Development, Energy Conservation, Housing Development, and Transportation.
Canton, OH 44705
Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)
Public transportation through 34 fixed routes and four transit centers. Special programs are available for students, Medicaid recipients and individuals with developmental disabilities.
Canton, OH 44707
American Cancer Society
Transportation to and from cancer treatment for individuals who do not have a ride or are unable to drive themselves.
Re-Entry Court
Providing transitional support for felony offenders as they return to society, including:
- Help with housing
- Employment services
- Anger management programs
- Sex offender treatment
Offer a yearlong program with four phases that begins during sentencing and continues throughout the transfer to a correctional facility, during incarceration and as the individual transitions back into the community.
Suite 105
Canton, OH 44702
YWCA Alliance
Provides transitional housing for women, a clothing boutique, employment and transportation assistance, youth programs, and Meals on Wheels for the senior community.
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.
Alliance, OH 44601
Barbara Fordyce, PhD. & Associates
Comprehensive psychological services for children, transitional youth and adults.
Canton, OH 44708
Koala Kruizers
Provides students with safe, reliable transportation to school, extracurricular activities and medical/dental appointments.
North Canton, OH 44720
Ohio Department of Disabilities
Start a search for waiver-funded service providers offering transportation, housing, day services and more.
Veteran’s Service Commission of Stark County
Provides VA benefits assistance, financial assistance, medical transportation, and employment resources to Stark County Veterans and their families.
Canton, OH 44708
CareSource
CareSource offers a team approach to managing care, as well as transportation, 24-hour medical advice line and no copays or premiums.
Green Parks & Recreation Summer Day Camps
Weeklong camps for children ages 7 to 12 covering a variety of fun topics including transportation, superheroes, cooking, games and secret agents.
Uniontown, OH 44685
Buckeye Community Health Plan
Buckeye Community Health Plan offers a 24-hour nurse advice line, care managers for doctor’s visits and transportation to medical appointments and pharmacies.
Bridges
Bridges is a voluntary program for young adults in the foster care system who are ages 18, 19 or 20. It provides guidance and support during the transition to adulthood for individuals who are in school, working or have a qualifying medical condition.
Coleman Health Services – Canton
Offers comprehensive, whole person treatment to children, adults and families in the communities we serve – regardless of their ability to pay.
Delivers mental health, substance use, residential, and rehabilitation services
Walk-in Clinic: Mon- Fri 8am – 2pm
Suite 200
Canton, OH 44702
Alliance Area Domestic Violence Shelter
AADVS provides emergency and support services to men, women, and children impacted by domestic violence.
Services include case management, advocacy, human trafficking advocacy, counseling, community education, outreach services, and transitional support.
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 330-823-7223
Community Outreach Dinner (Faith Bible Church)
Dinners are held on the last Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. (No dinner in July or December.)
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
Stark County Job & Family Services
Stark County Job & Family Services supports the community by protecting, stabilizing, and strengthening individuals and families.
Report child abuse: 330-455-KIDS / 1-800-233-5437
Canton, OH 44702
Community Action Pathways HUB
The HUB is a free program that can help you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. The Community Action Pathways HUB provides support, education and uses life experience to help connect you to other community resources.
Suite B
Canton, OH 44714
Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities
A Major Unusual Incident (MUI) is an event that negatively impacts the health, safety or wellbeing of an individual with developmental disabilities. If you or someone you know is experiencing a major unusual incident, call the 24-hour hotline to report the event.
Canton, OH 44708 Learn more
Direction Home Akron Canton Senior & Disability Services
Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities (Direction Home Akron Canton) is a private, non-profit organization that connects older adults and people with disabilities with programs and resources that can help them thrive in the places they call home.
Uniontown, OH 44685
Access Health Stark County
Free, trusted support for your health and well-being.
Our Community Health Workers are from the community and connect you to healthcare and local resources at no cost to you.
We proudly serve (must live in Stark County):
- Pregnant and maternal women (until baby reaches age one)
- Adults with chronic health conditions
- Children ages 0–8
We can help you access:
- Food assistance
- Clothing
- Housing or rent support
- Diapers
Canton, OH 44707
Ohio Center for Hope
The Ohio Center for Hope (OCH) is a non-profit dedicated to mental health wellness and positive aging. We provide confidential mental health screenings, comprehensive memory assessments through our Memory Clinic, and community-based referrals when additional support is needed.
Our mission is to break the stigma surrounding mental health, raise awareness about the impact of early detection in slowing memory loss, and empower individuals to live vibrant, healthy lives.
We also offer seasonal assistance with food,
Pathway Caring for Children
Help children and families realize the possibilities of their lives through foster care, adoption, and mental health.
Suite A
Canton, OH 44718
Clothed in Righteousness
We are a Homeless Outreach Ministry dedicated to building relationships and meeting the needs of the homeless community and anyone who is struggling.
Services available to anyone experiencing homelessness:
*The FREE Clothing Closet Boutique:
-If you are housed and struggling, you can shop in the clothing closet every 1st Monday of the month
-Anyone experiencing homelessness can shop every Thursday.
Alliance, OH 44601
Coleman Health Services – Alliance
Coleman Health Services offers comprehensive, whole-person treatment to children, adults and families in the communities we serve – regardless of their ability to pay.
Delivers mental health, substance use, residential, and rehabilitation services
Walk-in Clinic: Mon- Fri 11am – 12pm
Alliance, OH 44601
YWCA Canton
YWCA Canton is an organization that works to support programs that aim to build communities where children can be healthy and successful, and where families are supported on their journey to financial independence.
Check out some of the services YWCA Canton provides:
- Provides emergency shelter to the homeless and tools to help them get back on their feet and become self-sufficient.
- Offers early care and education services to children that enhance their development and prepare them to be successful as they transition to kindergarten.
Canton, OH 44702
AHEAD, Inc.
AHEAD Inc. is a local non-profit that has supported Massillon children and their families for more than 30 years. Our purpose is to help remove the barriers that can make learning difficult, so every child has the chance to grow, succeed, and feel supported. We work side-by-side with Massillon City Schools and community partners to connect families with meaningful services and resources.
AHEAD offers a variety of supports designed to strengthen students both in school and at home.
Massillon, OH 44646
Canton City Health Department
Helping to prevent the spread of disease, promote healthy practices and protect the health of Canton City residents.
North Canton, OH 44702
Future Promise
Future Promise, Inc. is a Canton-based 501(c)(3) youth development and family support organization dedicated to empowering at-risk and justice-involved youth, young adults, and families through stabilizing services, skill-building, and community connection. Our mission is to close educational and opportunity gaps by providing safe spaces, structured programming, and access to resources that promote self-sufficiency, confidence, and long-term success.
Autism Society of Greater Akron
ASGA is the premier resource for adapted community events, advocacy, education, information and referral, and support for our local Autism community in Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, and Wayne counties.
- Safeguards the progress our society has made in awareness of the Autism community.
- Promotes greater acceptance of and higher quality of life for every member of our community.
Akron, OH 44311
