Author Archives: Jervo
Grief support organization supporting families impacted by the loss of a pregnancy or infant. Visit their website for educational information about grief, finding resources in your area, comfort kits for families and siblings, and a range of in-person and virtual support groups for grieving parents and grandparents.
(800) 821-6819
nationalshare.org/our-programs
Español: nationalshare.org/share-espanolesperanza
Non-profit providing bereavement support to families who have lost a child to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), miscarriage, or stillbirth. Visit their website for information on safe sleep, an online bereavement resource library, and peer-to-peer online support groups.
24-hour Grief Line: (800) 221-7437
firstcandle.org
facebook.com/cjsids
A national organization that provides support for moms and dads experiencing postpartum depression or emotional problems. They do not offer medical advice or treatment. They have free, virtual parent support groups for moms, dads, family members, queer and trans parents, military parents, adoptive and birth mothers, postpartum psychosis, and those experiencing lost pregnancy of death of a child.
Helpline: Call or text HELP to (800) 944-4773
Text en Español: 971-203-7773
Mental Health Emergency Line: (800) 273-8255
postpartum.net
Provides free peer support groups remotely and in-person around Columbus, education on pregnancy and postpartum depression (PPD) and related mood/anxiety disorders, referrals to appropriate mental health resources and providers. The POEM Rise program provides services exclusively by and for Black mothers. The website also has helpful links to other Mental Health America services, such as pro bono counseling. Use the Event Calendar to find the next support group.
(614) 315-8989
mhafc.org/get-help/maternal-mental-health
Provide a wide range of healthcare services for children, adults, and families at many locations in Central Ohio. Services include women’s health and reproductive care, adult services, pediatrics, behavioral health, pharmacy, dental, vision, STI/HIV services, behavioral health, and more. Uninsured patients may pay for services based on a sliding scale based on income and family size. They accept most health insurances, including Medicaid, and offer insurance help from Certified Application Counselors.
Main Phone Line: (614) 645-5500
Scheduling Assistance: (614) 586- 4310
Certified Application Counselor: (614) 620-8088
primaryonehealth.org
Additional Contact Information: primaryonehealth.org/locations
Serves: Single Adults & Families
Provides free, confidential, and supportive services for community members in Licking County who are victims of domestic violence. Services include emergency food and shelter, case management, assistance with Civil Protection Orders, peer support and therapeutic groups, and a confidential 24-hour crisis line for questions or those in immediate danger.
195 Union Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 349-8719
24-hour Crisis Line: (800) 686-2760
thewoodland.org/center-for-new-beginnings
The Childbirth Connection website provides evidence-based information on every stage of pregnancy and childbirth. Topics include trying to get pregnant, prenatal and maternal health, labor options, and choosing where to give birth. Their website also has resources for healthcare professionals on addressing Black maternal health outcomes, being a person-first provider, and more.
1875 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington DC 20009
(202) 986-2600
childbirthconnection.org
Program: Prenatal support, parenting education, developmental screenings, and linkage to community resources through home visiting services.
Eligibility: Women who are expecting and new parents whose first child is under six months old and meet income guidelines.
Cost: No cost to families.
Referral: A parent, guardian, home visiting provider or professional.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Referral Line: (614) 656-3322 or (800) 755-4769
Central Intake and Referral Form: odhgateway.odh.ohio.gov/ochids/public/refer
Their website also has information about child health, children with special needs, school readiness, safety, resources by county and parent rights.
helpmegrow.ohio.gov
Provides birth parents the option to leave an infant (up to 30 days old) with a medical worker in a hospital, a medical worker at a fire department or other emergency service organization, or a peace officer at a law enforcement agency. If the infant is left with a person at one of these places and has not been abused, the parent will face no legal consequences for making this choice.
(866) 886-3537
jfs.ohio.gov/safe-havens
Faith-based organization providing free maternity clothes and infant and toddler clothing. Diapers, bottles, and baby equipment are also provided, subject to availability.
Baptists for Life
3417 Palmetto Street, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 272-7038
bflco.org/maternity-resource-center
Serves: Single Adults & Families
Offers various faith-based services for Central Ohio families. Housing Services include finding housing, financial assistance, and case management. They also offer programs for youth after-school programming and tutoring, food assistance, emergency utility assistance, support for human trafficking survivors, and addiction recovery. Their thrift stores offer items at bargain prices to fund programs. You can find thrift store, church locations, and program details on their website.
easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southwest-ohio/central-ohio/home
A faith-based agency serving families and seniors in central and southern Ohio. Provides case management, food, and emergency assistance. They offer supportive services and community-impact opportunities for low-income seniors. The Our Lady of Guadalupe Center serves the Latino/Hispanic community on the West side of Columbus with a food pantry, ESL classes, legal and immigration consultations and referrals, and comprehensive case management.
Provides pregnancy care, pregnancy testing, gynecological exams, birth control, STD treatment and well-women’s health care. They offer a sliding scale fee for those without insurance, and many insurances are accepted. Services are appointment or walk-in, and interpreters are available.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-1850 or Spanish (614) 645-5907
new.columbus.gov/services/public-health/find-healthcare-resources/womens-health-family-planning
Provides a community center and offers various social and peer support services and programs to the central Ohio LGBTQ community.
1160 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 299-7764
stonewallcolumbus.org
The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ young people. They operate a 24/7 nationwide, confidential helpline for teens and youth. Their website offers great resources and information.
24-hour Hotline (866) 488-7386 or text ‘START’ to 678678
thetrevorproject.org
Serves: LGTBQIA+ youth and young adults ages 12-24.
KYC is the largest and longest serving organization in Ohio supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. They host free, daily programming at their Drop-In Center, including access to kitchen and food, Wifi and cyber center, peer support groups, and virtual programming on Discord. They offer Rapid Re-housing, Supportive Co-Housing, Emergency Housing programs, behavioral health services, and free binders and gaffs. KYC also offers educational and advocacy opportunities for professionals.
603 East Town Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215
(614) 294-5437
kycohio.org
Provides free, confidential telephone and email counseling, information and local resources. Telephone volunteers are in their teens and early twenties and speak with teens about coming-out issues, relationship concerns, parent issues, school problems, STDs and other issues.
National Youth Talkline: (800) 246-7743
glnh.org
Offers a 24/7 confidential hotline for teens in crisis. Some teens call from the streets urgently seeking immediate help, and others call for advice about issues such as bullying, abuse, drugs, suicide, relationships and human trafficking.
Hotline: (800) 786-2929
1800runaway.org
Serves: At-Risk Youth, Teens, and Young Adults
Helps Central Ohio youth ages 12-24 who are dealing with issues like family conflict, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Programs include:
Main Campus: 1421 Hamlet Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-8097
24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (614) 294-5553
huckhouse.org
Provides free, confidential support 24/7 to anyone in crisis or emotional distress. If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call the lifeline for help. A skilled, trained crisis worker will answer. This person will listen to you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful. Deaf/Hard of Hearing/ASL users can call 988 videophone.
Always call 911 first for emergencies.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis: (888) 628-9454
Main Website: 988lifeline.org
Suicide Prevention Resource Center (for Professionals): sprc.org
Offers medical, psychiatry and counseling services and year-round programming for children and teens, including help with substance abuse, anger issues, behavior problems, ADHD, exposure to violence, depression, anxiety and self-harm behaviors for children up to age 21, at several locations throughout Columbus. Visit their online Community Behavioral Health Resource Directory to find behavioral health services throughout the state of Ohio.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-8080
nationwidechildrens.org/behavioral-health
Provides advocacy and emotional support services in conjunction with medical and social services at OhioHealth Emergency Departments and other local facilities in central Ohio. The 24-hour free, confidential local rape helpline offers emotional support, counseling referrals and education for victims of sexual assault, rape, abuse and incest. The Aftercare Advocacy program helps survivors access additional community resources, with legal reporting, and safety planning.
1299 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
24-Hour Local Hotline: (614) 267-7020
Aftercare Advocacy : (614) 788-4739
ohiohealth.com/community-health/sarnco
The website has information on a wide range of health topics, including safety, fitness, school issues, dating, substance abuse; emotional wellness, including helping children handle stress, psychiatric medications, grief. It also provides information about healthy living, family life, immunizations, developmental stages and more.
healthychildren.org
Provides health care for teens ages 11 to 21, including primary care and consultative services for gynecologic/reproductive health, chronic unexplained symptoms, eating disorders, drug testing, a medical opiate addiction program, STD & HIV screening, ADHD, behavior and general teen health issues at several locations throughout Columbus.
380 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Suite 3A, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 722-2450
nationwidechildrens.org/adolescent-medicine
Find information on various health topics and about the disease, condition, medical procedure or test your child needs.
healthlibrary.nationwidechildrens.org
In Spanish: healthlibrary.nationwidechildrens.org/Spanish
This website has a lot of information for teens that covers various health topics such as depression, relationships, staying safe, sexual health, smoking, coping with cliques, binge drinking, dealing with an alcoholic parent, marijuana use, body image and much more. There is also information for parents and educators.
teenshealth.org/en/teens
Provides a list of HIV, STD and Hepatitis testing sites, as well as places to receive vaccines nationwide. People can search online for the closest testing sites by entering their zip code.
gettested.cdc.gov
Offers free anonymous HIV/AIDS testing. They also test and treat other STDs for a small fee, accepting some insurances (including government insurances) and never turning anyone away who cannot pay.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7774
new.columbus.gov/services/public-health/find-healthcare-resources/sexual-health-programs-testing
Provides free confidential walk-in HIV and syphilis testing for teens ages 13 to 24 and adults. No appointment is necessary, and counselors are available on-site to answer questions and help teens.
380 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 722-6060, option 5
nationwidechildrens.org/hiv-clinic
Provides a home-away-from-home for families who have hospitalized children at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. A small donation is requested, but no family is ever turned away because of their inability to pay.
711 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 227-3700
rmhc-centralohio.org
Northeast Ohio
Northwest Ohio
Central Ohio
Southwest Ohio
Provides information and resources to help families learn more about rare disorders diagnosed through newborn screening. Families can find support and learn more about these rare conditions.
midwestgenetics.org/resources/for-families
Represents people with rare disorders. They have programs to help uninsured individuals in getting needed medications, provide a list of support groups for people with rare disorders and information about rare diseases.
National Headquarters: 55 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, Connecticut 06810
NORD’s Patient Services: (800) 999-6673
Español: (844) 259-7178
rarediseases.org
Search through their online directory to find information and condition-specific resources, arranged in alphabetical order by condition/diagnosis.
cincinnatichildrens.org/patients/child/special-needs/medical-health/conditions
Level-4 Epilepsy Program providing comprehensive pediatric epilepsy care. Provides neurodiagnostic evaluations and monitoring, and extensive medical, neuropsychological and psychosocial treatment for children and adolescents with epilepsy.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4625 or (614) 722-6200
nationwidechildrens.org/epilepsy-center
Nonprofit started by parents caring for children with Spina Bifida, COSBA offers support to new families, organized social gatherings, and helps with related financial needs. Visit the website for contact information.
centralohiospinabifidaalliance.blogspot.com
Provides in-depth information and resources for people living with epilepsy. The Epilepsy & Seizure Hotline is also offered 24-hours for information and referrals to support. They have free, online courses for individuals and professionals on topics like Seizure Safety and Navigating the Workplace with Epilepsy. You can also find information on help paying for prescriptions, clinical trials and research, camps and family programming, support groups, and more.
3540 Crain Highway, Bowie, Maryland 20716
Technical Support: (800) 332-1000
24/7 Epilepsy & Seizures Helpline: (800) 332-1000 or (866) 748-8008 for Español
epilepsy.com
Serve those living with epilepsy and seizures, as well as their families and caregivers. They offer counseling services, art therapy, scholarships, summer camps, residential group homes, virtual and in-person support groups, referrals to community resources, community education, and more. Their website also has helpful information about understanding epilepsy and joining clinical trials.
Serves: Children with dyslexia in grades 1-12.
Their accredited learning centers use evidence-based, therapeutic teaching techniques to help students with dyslexia improve reading skills and build confidence. Children participate in the program after school and receive one-on-one instruction. They have locations across Ohio and in neighboring states.
290 Cramer Creek Court, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 799-1261
Main Website: childrensdyslexiacenters.org
Locations: childrensdyslexiacenters.org/our-centers
Advocacy organization supporting individuals and families with dyslexia. They have a Dyslexia Digital Library with tons of educational information, a directory to find providers near you, resources for providers, and more.
PO Box 1601, Westerville, Ohio 43086
(614) 899-5711
Central Ohio: coh.dyslexiaida.org
International: dyslexiaida.org
Provides diagnostic and treatment services to children and adolescents with Down syndrome and their families. Families are linked with medical, educational, social and financial supports in their communities to help meet the unique needs of their child.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4050
nationwidechildrens.org/down-syndrome
Their website provides lots of great resources and information about Down syndrome throughout the lifespan. They offer regular webinars and family programs, multiple scholarships, and more.
1155 Fifteenth Street Northwest, Washington D.C. 20005
(800) 221-4602
ndss.org
Offers information for new parents and professionals, speech and language resources, health care information, education, behavior tips and more.
30 Mansell Court, Roswell, Georgia 30076
(800) 232-6372
ndsccenter.org
Offers resources, information, programs and services for families with Down Syndrome in Central Ohio. They have several support groups for parents, counseling services, and a financial assistance program. They have regular events for all ages, such as play groups, arts and recreation, and virtual cooking classes for people with Down Syndrome. You can also request a hospital care package or new parent package for a family through their website.
510 East North Broadway, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 263-6020
dsaco.net
Focuses on research and funding, political advocacy and education to reduce health complications for people living with Down Syndrome. They also offer resources for parents who have a child with Down Syndrome. Visit the website or their Facebook page to receive DSA updates and news.
PO Box 1596, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 362-3441
dsachieves.org
facebook.com/DSachieves
Find information about Down Syndrome and other prenatally-diagnosed conditions for expectant parents and new parents:
Specializes in the diagnosis and management of children with physically disabling conditions. They provide a wide variety of services, including wheelchair and seating evaluations, prosthetic evaluations, rehabilitation services, electrodiagnosis and more.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-6200
nationwidechildrens.org/physical-medicine-rehabilitation
Family resource group bringing people and families living with CP together to share information, resources, personal experience, advice, and support.
(614) 868-0146
facebook.com/cpparentcolumbus
Devoted to children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Families can see a variety of specialists in one clinic visit. Testing, such as x-rays or lab work, is available as needed. Families are linked with medical, educational, social and financial resources in the community as needed. The website also provides resource listings.
479 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Referral: (614) 722-5136
nationwidechildrens.org/cerebral-palsy-program
Serves: children and adults with developmental disabilities
Provides comprehensive health services for children and adults living with disabilities. Services include early childhood education, adult day services, in-home care, referral services, and outpatient therapies. They also offer afterschool programs and summer day camps for children.
The nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization provides evidence-based information and resources about autism diagnosis, treatment, and awareness. Their website has helpful information for parents, teen and adult toolkits, resource guides, and more. The Autism Response Team can help connect individuals and families to resources in their community. Professionals can also find helpful information, research opportunities, and ways to engage.
(888) 288-4762
Autism Response Team:autismspeaks.org/autism-response-team-art
autismspeaks.org
Español: (888) 772-9050
autismspeaks.org/que-es-el-autismo-espanol
Designed for those who support, instruct, work with, or live with someone with autism, the Autism Internet Modules (AIM) guide users through case studies, instructional videos, pre- and post-assessments, discussion questions, activities, and more. Professionals can receive graduate credit for completing modules. Modules include recognizing autism, medications, augmentative and alternative communication, cognitive behavioral intervention, and more. To get started, create a free account on their website.
(614) 410-0321
autisminternetmodules.org
A network of projects for children and youth under 21 with Deafblindness. Find tons of information for families and professionals on assessment, education and learning, life skills, transition planning, and more. They also host Family to Family support groups, webinars, and nationwide events.
(516) 366-0047
nationaldb.org
Español: nationaldb.org/for-families/learning-resources/recursos-para-familias
Provides comprehensive services for children with hearing loss, including diagnostic assessment, early intervention, audiology, and specialized speech services. A multidisciplinary team of pediatric professionals works with families to assess the child’s needs and determine appropriate treatment. Additional Support Services are available for children under 3 years old with sensorineural hearing loss. They also offer regular Hearing Team Education, a series of educational presentations, and Hearing Loss Support Groups for parents, caregivers, and teens.
555 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Main Office and Referral: (614) 722-6200
Support Services: (614) 722-2441
Support Groups: (614) 722-3049
nationwidechildrens.org/hearing
Provides support and education to Ohio’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing students PreK-12. Students with an IEP are eligible at no cost. Students are educated at OSD as the district of service, but remain a student of their home district. The home district must request placement for a student to attend. OSD offers year-round after school programs, summer programs, 4Plus transition/career readiness program, family events, and more.
500 Morse Road, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 728-4030
osd.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/osd
Provides free services that enable people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or those with a Speech Disability to place and receive phone calls. Calls can be made to anyone, anywhere in the world, 24/7. Communication assistants are specially trained to facilitate the calls, and all calls are completely confidential. Find Voice/telephone numbers below, and specific numbers depending on the assistive device at the link.
Voice Call: 711 or (800) 750-0750
Customer Service: 800-676-3777 (TTY/Voice)
Español: (888) 269-0678
ohiorelay.com/contact-us
Serves: Preschoolers and Students ages 18-22 with special needs who have deferred their high school diploma.
The ESC offers multiple programs on the campuses at Columbus State Community College and The Ohio State University to create individualized transition plans for students and help them meet their career and lifestyle goals. Each program includes help with activities of daily living, hands-on experience at multiple work sites, on-campus, and in the community. They also host an Early Learning Peer Model Program with small group instruction for preschool-aged children. Find program details and application instructions online.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
www.escco.org/Default.aspx
Serves: Children birth to age 21, parents, and families.
Nonprofit education center serving children with autism and developmental disabilities. Bridgeway Academy utilizes Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to provide private school-day education from preschool through high school, life skills training, vocational training, and transition to adulthood support. Bridgeway Therapy Center serves Bridgeway Academy students and outpatient clients for music therapy, speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, mental health, and family partnership services. Clinical staff work with families and professionals to assess, diagnose and develop individualized treatment plans in client-centered therapy sessions. They are a provider of Ohio’s Autism Scholarship Program, Jon Peterson Scholarship, Title XX (20), Medicaid, Level One, I. O. and Self Waiver and some insurances.
1350 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, OH 43209
(614) 262-7520
bridgewayohio.org
Coordinates state efforts to help kids with autism. Their website has education and development resources for babies and toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children and adults with autism spectrum disorders.
Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD)
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
iwg-autism.org
Serves: Families, Students 3-21 years old with autism, Individuals 8-20 years old with autism for residential care.
Provides a comprehensive living and learning environment for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They offer Preschool for ages 3-6, Day School, High School, and Transitional Education for students ages 6-21, and Virtual Education for ages 5-21. The Monarch Boarding Academy is a residential treatment program providing 24-hour structured care and treatment to enhance social, behavioral and academic growth for residents ages 8-20.
22001 Fairmount Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44118
Schools & Virtual Program: (216) 320-8945
Boarding Academy: (800) 879-2522 or (216) 320-8502
monarchcenterforautism.org
Serves: Children 16-30 months for diagnostic screening, Children ages 2-22, Parents, and Families.
Provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care focusing on evidence-based treatment, education, research and advocacy for children with the diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Services include diagnostic assessment, behavioral intervention, outpatient psychotherapy, complex behavior program, and community support services. Find details about services and eligibility online. They also host the following programs:
187 West Schrock Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
For an Autism Diagnostic Screening: (614) 355-8080
For all other Autism resources: (614) 355-7570
nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/center-for-autism-spectrum-disorders
Serves: Students preschool to grade 12, with or without an autism diagnosis
Oakstone is a private school offering a full inclusion environment for children on the autism spectrum and a fully-integrated learning environment for peers with and without disabilities. Educational programs include the Toddler Enrichment program, preschool, elementary, middle, high school, and postsecondary/college credit options. Classrooms are small and usually consist of 14 to 20 students with two teachers in all elementary classrooms. The school emphasizes inclusion, leadership, arts, athletics, and character-building for each student to reach their unique potential.
900 Club Drive Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 899-2838
ccde.org
Connects individuals with disabilities to community resources, advocates for inclusive public policy, and provides training opportunities for professionals. They publish an Autism parent guide that includes topics such as screening and diagnosis, accessing educational services, and future planning. Their website has many helpful resources, including the Autism Center, Outreach Center for Deafness and Blindness, Lifespan Transitions, Assistive Technology, Teaching Diverse Learners, Family and Community Outreach, and Young Child Center.
470 Glenmont Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 410-0321
OCALI Contact Directory: ocali.org/project/learn_about_OCALI/page/contact_OCALI
ocali.org
Serves: teens, adults, families, and individuals.
Provides advocacy, education, information and referrals, and support groups in central Ohio for those in the autism community. The Central Ohio chapter hosts support groups for teens, adults, caregivers, Spanish-speaking community members, and regular community events. Find details online.
Serves: Adolescents and adults 13-30 years with autism spectrum disorder and their families
A group-based social skills and support program for teens and young adults with autism. The facilitated group engages in discussion and activities focused on building social and vocational skills. They provide additional support groups including Men’s and Women’s Aspirations, financial empowerment, DBT therapy skills, EmployAbility, and self-advocacy. Find program schedules and registration details online.
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 366-3276
nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/aspirations-ohio-2
Non-profit and advocacy organization serving families of individuals who are DeafBlind. Find information on legislation, resources for families, family Facebook group, and events online.
(800) 255-0411
nfadb.org
Provides outreach and education designed to connect those in need to critical sight-saving resources. They partner with care providers to offer free vision screenings, and glasses for children or adults that meet income eligibility requirements. Call for help finding a free vision screening near you. Their website also has great educational information on many eye conditions, how to properly wear and care for glasses and contacts, developing babies’ eyesight, and more.
Ohio Affiliate of Prevent Blindness
1500 West Third Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 464-2020 or (800) 301-2020
ohio.preventblindness.org
Allows library members to go online and download a wide variety of popular book titles in eBook and audio format. They have curated collections such as Deaf Culture and ASL, New Adult Readers, Teens, and more. Visit the website to see if your library participates, and sign in using your library card or Student ID.
State Library of Ohio
274 East First Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 644-7061
ohdbks.overdrive.com
Provides free recorded books, magazines and playback equipment to eligible blind, visually impaired, print or reading disabled Ohio residents. Find program details and apply for TalkingBook services online.
(800) 686-1531 or (614) 644-6895
library.ohio.gov/residents/special-services/talking-books
Service for people who have a medical condition that prevents them from reading print. Volunteers read aloud from current local and national newspapers, magazines, various periodicals/journals, grocery/retail ads, and more. They use broadcasting and internet streaming to deliver readings in a 24-hour schedule. Listen live any time using the internet, or contact Voicecorps for help accessing their services on a digital TV, Amazon smart speaker, or free SCA radio loan.
2955 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 274-7650
voicecorps.org
Promotes the use of listening and spoken language for infants, young children and adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (rather than signed or visual languages). Their website provides a lot of resources for parents, including financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
3417 Volta Place Northwest, Washington, DC 20007
(202) 337-5220 or (202) 337-5221 TTY
agbell.org
Non-profit providing support and information to families raising children who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing. Their mission is to ensure every Deaf child can learn sign language because deafness is not a disability, but language deprivation is. They offer online ASL classes, resources for IEP and mental health support, community events, educational resources for professionals, and more.
(800) 942-2732
Deaf Crisis Line: Video Phone (321) 800-3323
deafchildren.org
ASL en Español: deafchildren.org/knowledge-center/asl-resources/online-asl-classes-spanish
Free program through Columbus City Schools to support Deaf or Hard of Hearing students PreK-12. Works with central Ohio school districts to provide services such as access to extracurriculars and transportation to suit individual needs. Find enrollment details online.
(614) 365-5977
ccsoh.us
Program: Nonprofit providing occupational individual and group therapy, audiology and hearing aid services, speech-language therapy sessions and evaluations, community outreach programs, American Sign Language classes for adults and youth ages 16 and older, and a Support Service Provider program.
Eligibility: Varies by program, serves young children (under the age of 6 years old) up to seniors (65 years old and older)
Cost: Varies by program; self pay and accept many insurances, including Caresource, Molina and Medicaid
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
(614) 263-5151
columbusspeech.org
Nonprofit providing counseling and community based social services in Southwestern Ohio. Their community services for the Deaf include ASL classes, interpreting, case management, and youth programs. They offer specialized counseling services for sexual abuse, domestic violence, eating disorders, and trauma recovery. They also host groups for justice-involved individuals, perpetrators of domestic violence, alcohol and drug recovery.
2211 Arbor Boulevard, Moraine, Ohio 45439
(937) 222-9481
Video Phone: (937) 641-8187
fsadayton.org
Non-profit serving the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind community. Services include ASL classes, C-Print, interpreting, case management, early intervention for ages 0-3, employment services, adaptive equipment programs, youth mentoring programs and summer camps.
This resource through OCALI works to increase access and equity for students, families, and communities impacted by deafness or blindness. Families can find helpful information on medical conditions, adaptive sports and recreation, parent mentoring programs, and more. Professionals can find educational resources, learn from those with lived experience, and find CEU trainings.
470 Glenmont Avenue, Columbus Ohio 43214
(614) 410-0380
deafandblindoutreach.org
Federally-funded program through Gallaudet University advocating for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Their website has lots of helpful guides and training videos for parents and professionals on topics like language development, reading to Deaf children, and early intervention. Call the Gallaudet University East Regional Center for help finding professional development and educational opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.
clerccenter.gallaudet.edu/national-resources/info/
East Regional Center: (978) 556-3701 or Video Phone (978) 241-7417
necc.mass.edu/workforce/gallaudet
Civil rights organization by and for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. Their website has great resources including a national ASL directory, advocacy letter tips and templates, filing a complaint, employment and fair housing information, and regular webinars.
8630 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
(301) 587-1788 Voice/VP or (301) 587-1789 TTY
nad.org
The first public school for the blind in the U.S., dedicated to the education of students with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities. They offer K-12 education, extracurriculars and athletics, residential programs, and a transitional postsecondary program for young adults to receive social and vocational training after high school (EDGE). Contact them for enrollment information.
5220 North High Street, Columbus Ohio, 43214
(800) 310-3317
ossb.ohio.gov
Produced by and for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, Newsreel Magazine is a two-way audio publication that contains news, supportive articles, information, and entertainment. Magazine subscribers submit various articles and self recorded audio clips that are featured in the monthly three hour audio magazine. Membership is $20 per year and provides access to the publication as mp3 files.
5 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 469-0700 or (888) 723-8737
newsreelmag.org
Membership and advocacy organization of blind people, with chapters in each state. Their website has many resources for blind people, parents, and educators. Programs include the following, find specific application forms and requirements on their website:
PO Box 20544, Dayton, OH 45420
Ohio: (937) 829-3368
National: (410) 659-9314
nfb.org
A free library program for people with low vision, blindness, or are otherwise print disabled. NLS circulates free books and magazines in Braille or audio formats, delivered by postage-free mail or the Braille Audio Reading Download (BARD) app. Their Kids Catalog has fun books and magazines for kids. Fill out the Information Request form to get started.
(888) 657-7323
loc.gov/nls
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs provide assistance to people who meet requirements for disability. Children can qualify if they have a physical or mental condition that seriously limits their activities, and if their family has a limited income. A child may receive benefits if they are the child of a SSI beneficiary who is disabled or deceased. The benefits pay for many services, including doctor and hospital visits.
(800) 772-1213 or (800) 325-0778 TTY
ssa.gov/benefits/disability
Non-profit healthcare organization for visually impaired persons. Provides free tele-support groups, including groups for high school students with vision loss and for parents of those with vision loss. Groups meet weekly by phone to share experiences and discuss related topics. Lighthouse also has a Vision & Health Blog and podcast with helpful information, scholarships, and more.
(212) 769-6318
lighthouseguild.org
Waivers are programs that help Ohio Medicaid customers with special needs remain at home instead of being in a nursing home, hospital or facility. They provide financial assistance to families, and there is typically a waiting list. Services may include personal care, transportation, respite services, supported employment, nutrition services, assistive devices, home modifications and interpreter services. See further information about Ohio waiver programs below.
50 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
medicaid.ohio.gov
Find requirements, application details, and forms for disability placards and license plates in Ohio. Disability license plates and placards permit vehicles to park in parking spaces marked with the international symbol of access for persons with disabilities. The Communication Disability Law allows drivers with disabilities to voluntarily enroll in a database to alert law enforcement of communication barriers to reduce misunderstandings with police.
(614) 438-1200 or (800) 282-4536
Disability Plates and Placards: ohio.gov/residents/resources/disability-placards
Communication Disability Law: ood.ohio.gov/laws-rules-and-policies/forms/verification-form
Note: CAP4Kids does not recommend or endorse any specific company. We encourage families to carefully review and evaluate all services.
Provides training and places task-trained service dogs with veterans, children with disabilities, or public facilities. Task-trained dogs include hearing ear dogs, medical alert dogs, and more. Veterans are exempt from program costs, but other clients should ask about fundraising options.
253 Dayton Avenue, Xenia, Ohio 45385
(937) 374-0385
4pawsforability.org
Provides service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Service dogs and all follow-up services are provided free of charge to the recipient. Go online to start the application process.
Columbus: (614) 699-5900
National Headquarters: (866) 224-3647
cci.org/locations/north-central
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) provides personalized services to assist people who are Blind or have low vision in gaining and maintaining meaningful work and personal independence. Services are available for individuals over the age of 14. Services include individualized case planning, job training, job search and placement assistance, and work retraining for those in the process of losing their vision.
Columbus Vocational Rehabilitation Office: 4300 East Broad Street, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 466-4575 or (800) 282-4536
ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/blind-low-vision-services/blind-low-vision-program
Find an OOD Office Near You: ood.ohio.gov/about-us/find+us/find-us
CML is an award-winning library and amazing resource in the community. With 23 locations throughout Franklin County, they provide a lot more than just books, including lots of free online resources, specialized programs, and community events.
(614) 645-2275
Locations: columbuslibrary.org/library-locations
columbuslibrary.org
Free literacy program for blind and low-vision children 0-8 years old. Families receive free Braille books, activities, birthday cards, and more. Fill out an application and learn about other resources from National Federation of the Blind online.
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21230
(410) 659-9314
nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives
Customizable ebook library for people with dyslexia, learning disabilities, visual impairments, physical disabilities, and other reading barriers. They operate under exception to US copyright law, allowing a huge collection of copyrighted titles to be made available for readers using a tablet, computer, assistive device, or smartphone. Schools and students can access for free, individuals/adults pay a yearly fee. Individuals must register as members and provide proof of qualifying disability. Find program details and register on their website.
(650) 352-0198
bookshare.org
Their assistive technology fund provides funds to cover a percentage of the retail price of adaptive devices or software to help blind and legally blind individuals. Applicants must be legally blind, a resident of the United States, and meet income requirements to qualify for this program. Find application details online.
PO Box 246, Holbrook, Massachusetts 02343
(781) 961-1023
blindcitizens.org/assistive-technology-fund
Non-profit membership organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired through education and advocacy. They host monthly meetings and fun community events and retreats. The Matching Grants program provides funds to any blind or visually impaired resident of Ohio to pay half the cost of a purchase up to $1000 for new adaptive equipment. Find program details and contact information for other chapters on their website.
3805 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 470-2226 or (614) 261-3561
acbohio.org
Federal agency that promotes policies and coordinates with employers and all levels of government to increase workplace success for people with disabilities. The website offers information, legal standards, and resources on topics like accommodation requirements, accessing personal assistance services, colleges and apprenticeship programs, and more.
(866) 487-2365
dol.gov/agencies/odep/topics
Advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities through legislative action, information and education, local chapter support and family involvement. Families can call for a Family Advocate to help navigate the disability system and answer questions on everything from waivers, to guardianship, transition services, county boards, the appeal process, and much more. They can help families get assistive equipment, and their website has lots of helpful information for individuals and families.
1335 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 487-4720
thearcofohio.org
Provides free expertly-trained service dogs and handling training for Blind individuals ages 16 and up. They offer an Orientation & Mobility program for Blind individuals looking to improve white cane and traveling skills. They also have many opportunities for volunteers, including Co-Pilots who volunteer to raise puppies until they are ready for advanced training. Find program details and apply for a Pilot Dog online.
625 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-6367
pilotdogs.org
Their website has helpful basic information about what assistive technology is, who can qualify and how to obtain funding. Visit the website for contact information.
8401 Old Courthouse Road, Vienna, Virginia 22182
ucp.org
Helps parents and children evaluate assistive technology and equipment.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-5050
nationwidechildrens.org/physical-medicine-rehabilitation-clinics
Allows the special needs community to buy and sell gently used and new medical equipment, therapy devices, adaptive toys and more online. The foundation also awards some grants to people in need.
8584 East Washington #122, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023
(216) 904-5151
differentneedzfoundation.org
List assistive technology resources to families of children with disabilities. The website offers access to monthly newsletters, online discussions moderated by nationally recognized experts, a resource review database with hundreds of reviews of assistive technology resources and more.
air.org/project/center-technology-and-disability
Offers assistive communication devices to anyone in need, like wheelchairs, commodes, walkers, crutches and more free of charge.
660 South Main Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402
(937) 461-4800 or (937) 226-0356 TTY or (937) 641-8136 VRS
gesmv.org/community-programs/specialty-programs
This website lists school ratings and reviews, as well as provide practical advice and information on raising successful, college-ready kids. Their E-ssential Guide to Assistive Technology provides an overview of current technologies to help parents select the right tools for their children.
greatschools.org
Provides information about assistive technology and lists resources for youth with disabilities, focused on 4 categories (living, playing, learning and working).
infinitec.org
myinfinitec.org
Provides information, resources and tools focused on helping the government implement the requirements of Section 508. The website has legal requirements and resources for designing accessible content like documents and presentations, buying accessible products and services, and training tools.
(202) 272-0080
section508.gov
Offers a lot of information about selecting a wheelchair, finding funding and assistive technology devices and services.
wheelchairnet.org
Children and adults in central Ohio who have Medicaid or Medicare through CareSource or if the health appointment is over 30 miles away can call Member Services to schedule a free ride to health appointments (including WIC appointments), food banks, food pantries, food clinics, and grocery stores.
Offers a shared-ride service for people with disabilities, and rides must be scheduled in advance. This handicapped and wheelchair accessible van can provide door-to-door service for eligible customers. Customers must complete the online application and have it signed by a physician to get the COTA ADA card.
cota.com
Mobility Services: cota.com/services/cota-mainstream
Discount Fairs: cota.com/riding-cota/discount-fares
Transportation services are provided for non-emergency medical appointments for children and adults with Medicaid. Families may use the transportation services multiple times once they are approved.
314 North Wilson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43204
Transportation Unit: (614) 233-2381
jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/medical-support-services
For Molina members they can call the number below to schedule a free ride. Molina offers emergency medical transportation, non-emergency medical transport and non-emergency non-medical transportation; food banks, food pantries, food clinics, and grocery stores. Patients who are in wheelchairs may have unlimited transportation to and from medical appointments each year.
3000 Corporate Exchange Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43231
molinahealthcare.com/members/oh/en-US/mem/medicaid/overvw/coverd/services/Pages/transport.aspx
Find phone plan features and services through T-Mobile for accessible communication. Services include ASL Video Customer Service, large print and braille billing statements, and a Directory Assistance Program.
Voice Call: (800) 676-3777
Español: (800) 676-4290
Speech-to-Speech: (877) 787-1989
TTY: (800) 676-3777
tmobileaccess.com
In partnership with United Cerebral Palsy of Cincinnati, they meet the needs of children with physical disabilities and chronic physical conditions. They provide assistive technology evaluations for children and adults. They have a helpful program where kids can try out wheelchairs and other equipment for free before making a purchase.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
(513) 636-4601
3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229
cincinnatichildrens.org/service/a/aaron-perlman-center
Families and school personnel who have at least one student with a disability can sign up for free membership to access the media center, which has tons of great described and captioned videos with ASL pop-up tools for an accessible media experience. Topics include Deaf life, literature, art classes, science documentaries, and more. Their website also has great educational tools for parents and educators.
(864) 585-1778 or (800) 237-6213
dcmp.org
Provides an adaptive toy lending program that gives children access to adaptive toys. Parents can checkout toys at participating local libraries. They also provide a device lending library to search for and borrow equipment that is specifically designed to assist a particular special need (like speech communication devices, walkers, wheelchairs and computer access aids).
1314 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 292-2390 or (800) 784-3425
Computer Refurbishing Program: (614) 688-3222 or (866) 801-7306 Toll-free
atohio.engineering.osu.edu
Serves: Children, teens, individuals, and families with ID/DD and/or behavioral health challenges.
Provides person-centered care to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges. They offer primary care, dental, psychiatry, applied behavior analysis (ABA) and outpatient behavior health services, care coordination, long-term and temporary residential support, in-home and out-of-home respite services, day programs, and afterschool programs. Family Support Services are provided by the State of Ohio for families who need help keeping their loved one at home. Services vary by location, find details and request an appointment on their website.
(800) 409-2729
iamboundless.org
Provides faith-based respite care, on-site counseling and treatment for foster youth throughout Ohio, as well as family preservation programming. Referrals may be made to their foster care program by agencies, parents or legal guardians. They also assist families in the adoption process.
105 Commerce Park Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43082
(614) 761-0010 or call (614) 584-1520 for after-hours referrals
adriel.org
Program: Provides behavioral health, early childhood, traditional and therapeutic foster care, pre- and post-adoption support and community respite services for youth and families around the central Ohio region.
Eligibility: Ages (4 and older) vary by service and intervention
Cost: Contact organization
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
2323 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 258-9927
Provides therapeutic foster care, in-home and community-based behavioral health, adoption services, family preservation and reunification programs to preserve families and support youth. Anyone can make a referral. Their services help all ages from infant to 18+ throughout Ohio. They also offer free classes to support parents and guardians of youth participating in SAFY programs. Visit the website for other Ohio offices.
212 West Johnstown Road, Columbus, Ohio 43230
(614) 729-2024 or (888) 590-7239
safy.org/ohio
Serves: Children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities
Serves individuals with developmental disabilities by building on the foundation of physical activity and life skills (PALS). They offer adult day services, residential services, educational and vocational services, Art Outside the Lines art studio, and psychiatry and mental health services. Age and eligibility requirements vary depending on the service and location. Call for details.
Teenage and young-adult volunteers are paired with children with special needs and their families, and together they participate in one-on-one and group activities. Parents and families get much needed respite as well as the opportunity to socialize with other families. Learn more and sign up on their website.
6220 East Dublin-Granville Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 570-4014
friendscolumbus.com
Promotes the development of quality respite care programs in the United States and helps families locate respite and crisis care services in their communities. Their website has great information on types of respite care, planning for respite, how to get paid as a family caregiver, and more. Use the National Respite Locator to find a qualified provider near you.
archrespite.org/respitelocator
Offers free online discussion groups and blogs just for teens and young adults who want to feel stronger and more in control of their lives. Teens can learn about making friends, living independently, mental health conditions and more.
4301 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22203
Helpline: (800) 950-6264 or text ‘helpline’ to 62640
nami.org/Your-Journey/Teens-Young-Adults
Find tips, information and resources for job seekers with disabilities from Ohio Means Jobs. You can also use the website to find job training services near you, log on to the portal to access other State of Ohio services, and find job postings.
PO Box 1618, Columbus, Ohio 43216
(888) 296-7541
ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/omj/job-seekers/build-your-career/golden-buckeyes/for-people-with-disabilities
Helps veterans and people with disabilities find information, support, and referrals for disability-related services. They also provide adaptive equipment loans, peer support groups, living skills classes and transition services.
1829 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 443-5936
mobileonline.org
Started by an attorney who has a learning disability, Wrightslaw has become a widely used resource for families on special needs education and advocacy. Their website has an Advocacy and Law Library, bookstore, and helpful information for families on a variety of topics, such as IEPs, 504s, assistive equipment, and more.
wrightslaw.com
Hosts programs and projects for precollege and college students with disabilities, and advocates for universal design in the workplace. Families and professionals can find a wealth of information on their website on career readiness, mentorship programs, accessible classrooms, and technology. DO-IT Pals is a virtual community for high school students with disabilities that want to go to college. They also have a list of Scholarships for students with disabilities.
Voice/TTY: (206) 685-3648 or (888) 972-3648
washington.edu/doit
Provides vocational training and employment services for adults who have developmental disabilities. They offer one-on-one career planning services, vocational habilitation, group employment, and adult day services.
2780 Airport Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 479-2500
arcind.com
Serves: Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Provides care and support services in Central and Northeast Ohio. They offer several levels of care including recreation programs, day support programs, intermediate care homes, supported living, and residential care.
769 Brooksedge Boulevard, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 486-4361
hattielarlham.org
Supports individuals in overcoming emotional and other challenges by focusing on employment, economic stability and life skills. Project Work provides temporary employment to individuals with a history of severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders who may have history of finding or maintaining employment. They also offer job readiness training, resume writing, interview skills, vocational goal-planning, and more.
General: (614) 225-0990
southeasthc.org/services/vocational-services
A law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation, IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to eligible individuals 0-21 years old with disabilities. Their website has national resource directories, toolkits, and legal and advocacy updates.
osepideasthatwork.org
Ohio Department of Education SST Region 11 provides professional development, coaching, and technical assistance to school districts, educational service centers, community schools, early childhood programs and families in Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Pickaway, Union and Chillicothe City Schools located in Ross County. Find helpful information on early learning, resources for families and special education professionals, and educational events.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 753-4694
www.sst11.org/
Do you need sample letters to request school services such as an evaluation (IEP)? Click the links for sample special education evaluation letters.
Represents the largest provider of legally based advocacy services for people with disabilities. They work with organizations across the country to advocate for the enactment and enforcement of laws protecting people with disabilities. Their website has information on registering to vote and voter assistance, and other topics related to disability rights.
(202) 408-9514
ndrn.org
Delivers Head Start and Early Head Start educational services to infants and children aged 6 weeks-5 years of age. They operate full and part-day centers, partner with privately-owned child care centers and provide one-on-one home base services. They also offer mental health services, disabilities services, developmental screenings, nutrition services, onsite medical screenings, kindergarten readiness preparation, speech, vision, and hearing screenings, educational field trips, and various family engagement opportunities. Case management services are provide to parents and caretakers including economic mobility services, workforce development, adult education services, and advocacy and resource support. Visit the website for Head Start locations and Child Care partner agencies.
Enrollment Line: (614) 271-4056
cdcheadstart.org
Parent Mentors are parents of children with special needs staffed by the Ohio Department of Education. Parent Mentors can connect families to appropriate programs, explain the IEP process and attend meetings with families, and provide education and support to fellow parents. Use the website to find a Parent Mentor near you. The website also has great resources for parents on IEPs, legal rights, transition, and more.
1900 Kenny Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 247-9982
parentmentor.osu.edu
Advocates for people with disabilities in Ohio. Their website has helpful resources on abuse, neglect and exploitation, employment, benefits counseling, education, voting, and more. Rise Up is an interactive youth advocacy guide with resources for transitioning into adulthood. Most of their resources are available in multiple languages, including Spanish and Somali. Complete the online intake form for legal help.
200 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-7264 or (800) 282-9181
Rise Up guides: disabilityrightsohio.org/riseup
Intake Form: disabilityrightsohio.org/intake-form
disabilityrightsohio.org
Find state-sponsored information and programs for parents and professionals about supporting students with special needs or disabilities. Provides information on accessing accommodations and behavioral supports, filing a complaint or requesting mediation, scholarships, and more. Their website also has helpful print-outs available in many languages.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-2650 or (877) 644-6338
TTY: Call Ohio Relay Service at (800) 750-0750
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Special-Education
Provides technical assistance to prevent and resolve special education and early intervention disputes, and improve outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. Families can find helpful guides on state agencies, educational advocates, IEPs, and more.
576 Olive Street, Eugene, Oregon 97401
(541) 359-4210
cadreworks.org
Serves: Students Grades 1-12 with learning differences.
Independent day school for students who learn differently due to executive function difficulties, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, or dysgraphia. They also offer free educational seminars for parents and professionals, free early reading screenings for K-2 students, private tutoring and summer school. Scholarships, financial aid, and tuition payment plans are available.
9555 Johnstown Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 433-0822
marburnacademy.org
Head Start is the largest national school readiness program. The Ohio Head Start Association focuses on leadership and advocacy. Use their Directory to find Head Start providers and services in each county in Ohio. They also have information on becoming a Head Start ambassador and contacting your congressional representatives.
ohsai.org
Provides early intervention opportunities for children ages 3 to 5 who have special needs in one of the following developmental areas based on the state and federal guidelines: language, cognition, motor skills, adaptive behavior or social-emotional development. Find program and enrollment details online.
430 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 365-5204 or (614) 365-5205
ccsoh.us/Page/1224
Represents the 88 county boards of developmental disabilities throughout Ohio and monitors legislation at the state and national level. Their website lists helpful advocacy information for individuals, families, and professionals.
73 East Wilson Bridge Road, Worthington, Ohio 43085
(614) 431-0616
oacbdd.org/index.php
Council operating under the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Ohio DD Council members, staff and stakeholders work together to improve services for Ohioans with disabilities. Their website has information for potential members, grants and awards, and a resource library for families.
1810 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43222
(614) 466-5205 or (800) 766-7426
ddc.ohio.gov
Statewide association of service providers advocating for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. Their website has helpful resources for families and professionals such as a glossary of disability acronyms, trainings, a job bank, and public policy information.
1152 Goodale Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 224-6772
opra.org
Non-profit organization empowering people with disabilities and their families through teaching self-determination principals and legal advocacy. They provide training and self-advocates with disabilities, connect members to resources for vocational support, and organize advocacy opportunities in Ohio.
6155 Huntley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 563-0788
osdaohio.org
Statewide advocacy organization that works with state legislators and builds relationships with other advocacy groups and state agencies, to help people with developmental disabilities. They have chapters across Ohio, go online to find one nearest you.
1335 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215
peoplefirstohio.org
Online resource supporting the physical, emotional, intellectual and social development of children and young adults, prenatal to age 25. The website helps families find resources, organizations and events to meet their specific needs and challenges. Users can customize profiles by location (counties within Ohio), age ranges and topics of interest.
redtreehouse.org
The country’s largest cross-disability membership organization advocating for political and economic power for those with disabilities. They offer several scholarships, mentorship programs, paid internships, and a leadership program for young Black disabled individuals. Their website has helpful information on policies affecting people with disabilities, and current political news.
1030 15th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20005
(202) 521-4316 or (800) 840-8844
aapd.com
A coalition of national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the independence and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society. Their website has resources such as recorded trainings and a national listing of job and internship openings.
820 First Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20006
(202) 567-3516
c-c-d.org
Non-profit serving children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education across Ohio. They support participants at all skill levels with adaptive equipment and instructors for downhill skiing, kayaking, cycling, paddling, sailing, amputee soccer, water skiing, and more. Their Bikes to Go program helps children and adults obtain an adaptive bike. Veterans attend for free, program fees for others are minimal and no one is turned away for inability to pay. Scholarships are also available.
6000 Harriott Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-3921
adaptivesportsconnection.org
National civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities. They provide specialized legal services for cases that have the potential to affect large groups of people with disabilities and achieve law reform. Their website has helpful information on topics like healthcare access, special education, foster/kinship care, and transportation. They also post job and internship opportunities.
3075 Adeline Street, Berkeley, California 94703
(510) 644-2555 or (510) 841-8645 TTY
dredf.org
Legal Defense Fund through the Epilepsy Foundation, to help end epilepsy-related discrimination. Their Attorney Network is made of experience attorneys who have agreed to provide some level of free legal services. They can help with cases related to employment, education, public accommodations, police and first responder services, housing, healthcare, and criminal justice. Go online to complete an Application for Assistance.
(800) 332-1000
epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/legal-help
Application for Assistance: epilepsy.com/forms/application
The Disability Rights Section implements the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their website has a helpful guide to disability rights laws.
Talk to an ADA Specialist: (800) 514-0301 Voice or (800) 514-0383 TTY
justice.gov/crt/disability-rights-section
Situations may arise where parents or other family members believe a school has violated federal or state law. The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) Office for Exceptional Children (OEC) and Office of Early Learning & School Readiness (EL&SR) encourage parents, family members and schools to work together to resolve differences for free. The website provides information about mediation services and more.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Special-Education/Dispute-Resolution
Organization advancing inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, health education, and leadership programs throughout Ohio. They have a Young Athletes program for children 2-7 years old, year-round sports for children and adults with disabilities, free health screenings, and leadership training courses in addition to their Olympic-style sporting events. Contact the organization for program details and locations.
921 Eastwind Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Northwest Ohio: (567) 208-9119
Northeast, South Central, and Southwest Ohio: (614) 239-7050
sooh.org
Professional organization promoting equine-assisted services. Their website is a great source of information about equine therapy and standards, and they provide credentialing for professionals. Families can use the website to find programs across the country based on location or medical condition. They also offer scholarships to cover the cost of equine programs. Their programs serve at risk youth, military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more.
PO Box 33150 Denver, Colorado 80233
(800) 369-7433
pathintl.org/
The Miracle League Field is a fully accessible field for athletes who are disabled. The custom-designed venue eliminates barriers for children who are visually impaired, wheelchair- or walker-restricted, or who use any type of mobile device. The Saturday League allows children with disabilities ages 3-18 to play baseball alongside a volunteer Buddy. The Night League is for teenagers and young adults over the age of 16 to play adaptive baseball without a Buddy. Find directions and registration details online.
Miracle League Field: 6259 Cosgray Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
Mailing Address: PO Box 1303, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 526-6500
miracleleaguecentraloh.org
Athletic recreation center in Central Ohio offering a variety of classes, training opportunities, and competitions for youth, preschool and up. Classes include gymnastics, tumbling, martial arts, and HUGS gymnastics for special needs youth. They also host a preschool open gym, special events, and summer camp. They partner with Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine to provide specialized athletic training.
8185 Business Way, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 733-0818
integritygym.com
Non-profit providing recreational fishing opportunities for all regardless of their age, race, gender, or disability. Their annual fishing event is an opportunity for people with disabilities to connect in community and participate fully in the world of fishing.
PO Box 1499, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 383-8851
fhnbcentralohio.org
Serves individuals ages 5+ cognitive and physical disabilities such as autism, PTSD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and others, through therapeutic horse riding. Programs include adaptive/therapeutic riding, independent riding, and Shane’s Calvary for veterans and their families.
7908 Myers Road, Centerburg, Ohio 43011
(740) 625-9324
shanecenter.org
Inclusive art organization combatting ableism in the art world. They host accessible art shows, showcase and help sell works, provide professional development, and help artists with disabilities apply for grants.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(380) 799-6253
artpossibleohio.org
The Access Board is an independent federal agency that develops accessibility guidelines and standards. Their website has legal guidelines for building accessibility, prescription labels, transportation, filing an ABA complaint, and more. Call to speak to an Accessibility Specialist with questions about accessibility guidelines.
(202) 272-0080
access-board.gov
Each pass covers entrance fees at lands managed by the National Park Service and US Fish & Wildlife Service and standard amenity fees (day use fees) at lands managed by the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers. Free Interagency Passes are available for 4th graders, senior citizens, US military families, and individuals with permanent disabilities. Find program details and park locations on their website.
(202) 208-6843
nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Provides children and young adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to learn to skate and play ice hockey in an environment adapted to each athlete’s ability level. Anyone regardless of age, sex, developmental disability, or skill level, who is physically able to play, may join. Practices are held at the Ohio Health Chiller Ice Rinks including Dublin, North, and Easton.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3243 Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 284-6104
ccyha.org/program/special-hockey/1024
Community-based training and team placement for young athletes with special needs. Children ages 4-19 play soccer in a safe, fun, environment focused on development, training, and meaningful participation rather than on competition. Registration for the Fall season is in July, while the Spring season registration is in February, and there is a small registration fee.
1503 Galloway Road, Galloway, Ohio 43119
(614) 664-9250
hosa-soccer.org/programs/tops-soccer-for-special-needs-players
A resource for information on physical activity, health promotion, and disability, serving persons with physical, sensory and cognitive disability across the lifespan. Their website has helpful information on disability and aging, adaptive physical activity, and inclusive guidance for community health organizations. They also have a state-by-state directory of accessible parks, adaptive equipment suppliers, and physical activity programs for people with disabilities.
3810 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35209
(866) 866-8896
nchpad.org
Uses golf to improve quality of life for people with disabilities and neurological conditions. Their program is for people of all ages, disabilities and economic backgrounds. Participants meet with a recreational and physical therapist and are provided adaptive equipment if needed.
(614) 566-4242
ohiohealth.com/forehope
Sponsors recreational activities that are modified to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. Families can fill out an Inclusion Support Request online and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist will work with them on accommodations necessary to join classes at one of their many Community Centers. They also offer inclusive summer camps, adaptive sports club, and more.
1755 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 645-5648
columbus.gov/theraputicrecreation
Inclusion Support Request: columbusrecparks.com/wellness/therapeutic-recreation/inclusion-support
The NADC is a leading consultant in the arts and disability community, promoting inclusion and professional development for artists with disabilities. Their website has many resources for designing accessible performances, exhibits, and marketing materials. They also have a directory of resources searchable by state for artists with disabilities to find adaptive equipment, legal help, and more.
760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90095
semel.ucla.edu/nadc
Oversees a statewide system of supports and services for people with developmental disabilities and their families across the lifespan. Each county in Ohio has its own Board of Developmental Disabilities, which is the place to start for determining eligibility, assessing your needs, and coordinating which services can best support you. Use the website to find your county board, forms, and program information.
(800) 617-6733
Main Website: dodd.ohio.gov
Find your County Board: dodd.ohio.gov/your-family/all-family-resources/4-find-your-county-board
Provides a “Parent Center Hub” with information to help parents in caring for their child with a disability, which includes fact sheets, training materials, explanations of early intervention and special education; IFSP, IEP, and transition planning; webinars on priority topics (such as early learning, assessments; and self-advocacy skill building); and much more. They also have virtual parent support communities.
(973) 642-8100
parentcenterhub.org
Serves: Single Adults & Families
Provides emergency shelter and assistance for homeless and marginally housed persons in Central Ohio. They also offer coordinated, supportive services, and transitional and/or permanent housing.
61 East Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 222-2885 or (614) 461-0407
theopenshelter.org
Provides wrap-around programming to support families overcoming or at-risk for homelessness. Case managers help families access stable housing, emergency rent and utility assistance, household and hygiene items. Education programs include SPARK for 3-4 year old children not enrolled in Pre-K to prepare for Kindergarten, and STEAM afterschool and summer programs for grades K-8 at Dowd Education Center.
(614) 461-9247
Homeless Hotline (614) 274-7000
homeforfamilies.org
Serves: Youth & Teens
This 24/7 drop-in center provides free and confidential assistance to homeless youth ages 14 to 24. Offers help with food, clothing, laundry, hygiene items, rest, internet services, telephone calls, linkages to community resources and counseling; as well as healthcare, education support, housing help, job-seeking skills and more. They also help provide stable housing for youth ages 18-24 who have aged out of the foster care system or are homeless, through Carol Stewart Village located in Franklinton.
1220 Corrugate Way, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 826-5868
starhouse.us
Parents can apply for an Ohio ID card for their children at any Deputy Registrar BMV location. Parents of children who have an Ohio ID card can also add their contact information to their child’s record for use in the event the child becomes lost or is reported missing.
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(844) 644-6268
Ohio ID Card Info: bmv.ohio.gov/dl-id-card.aspx
Find a location near you: publicsafety.ohio.gov/local-office
Works to end gun violence and build safer communities through education and advocacy. The website provides information on ways to prevent gun violence, the “issues” surrounding gun violence and other resources. Visit the website for contact information.
everytown.org
Provides age-appropriate resources such as, videos, games, activity cards, and presentations to help teach children and teens about how to be safer and avoid the dangers that exist on the internet (online and offline).
missingkids.org/NetSmartz
Contains resources on internet safety and security for people of all ages. Offers advice and support on cyber-bullying, computer security issues and fraud prevention.
staysafeonline.org
Provides answers to questions about the safety of products that children use such as cribs and strollers. The USCPSC is committed to protecting the public from products that can injure children. The website lists product recalls and allows consumers to report safety issues.
4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland 20814
(800) 638-2772 or (800) 638-8270 TTY
cpsc.gov
Call to request a free smoke detector/alarm.
3639 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43207
(614) 724-0935 or (844) 207-4509
columbus.gov/public-safety/fire/programs-and-training/Smoke-Alarms-Save-Lives
Their website provides a lot of information about car safety ratings, choosing a car seat, how to find out about recalls, airbag information, reporting vehicle theft, car seat laws, finding a car seat inspection site and a lot more. With your child’s date of birth, height and weight, you can click on the link below to figure out what car seat to choose.
1200 New Jersey Avenue Southeast, Washington, DC 20590
(888) 327-4236 or (800) 424-9153 TTY
Car Seat Finder Tool: nhtsa.gov
Has information on topics ranging from car safety seats to school buses to teen driving and others related to travel safety.
healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go
Provides free car seats to low-income families throughout Ohio. Families must attend an educational class. The program is designed for families with babies and small children who have outgrown their infant seat. Visit the website for contact information.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/child-injury-prevention/child-passenger-safety
Provides services related to childhood injury prevention:
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7748
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/childhood-injury-prevention
Provides assistance and advice on creating a safe home environment. This program is for eligible residents in Columbus and Worthington. Services include:
111 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-3048
columbus.gov/development/housing-division/healthy-homes-program
Provides poison prevention, assessment and treatment. They are available 24 hours a day and offer free, confidential advice and information.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Poison Emergency Hotline: (800) 222-1222
nationwidechildrens.org/poison-center
Provides parent information about infant, child and teen shot schedules, how vaccines prevent diseases, why kids should get shots and possible side-effects from vaccines.
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30333
(800) 232-4636 Toll-free or (888) 232-6348 TTY
cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/index.html
Columbus Public Health and the Central Ohio Bed Bug Task Force have information online about bed bugs, including how to spot them and how to get help. They also have information for people living in apartments.
General Information: 2-1-1 or (614) 221-6766
For enforcement of housing code issues, including pest control:
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/Healthy-Homes/Bed-Bugs-Information
If you are bitten by a dog, report it to the appropriate health department listed below.
Go online to find information about rabies vaccination clinics as well. Call your doctor for information about treatment. Report stray animals to the Franklin County Department of Animal Control at (614) 525-3400.
Volunteers and patients can go onto this free website to enroll in research trials and studies going on at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and other hospitals nationwide.
researchmatch.org
Offers immunization information for health care professionals and the public, including parent handouts about thimerosal, common vaccine questions and more.
immunize.org (for Health Care Professionals)
vaccineinformation.org (for Parents & Families)
Provides up-to-date and reliable information about vaccines for parents and healthcare professionals.
chop.edu/centers-programs/vaccine-education-center
Specialists diagnose, treat and research a wide range of respiratory disorders and diseases in children, including asthma, cystic fibrosis and advanced lung disease. In addition, their Sleep Disorders Center helps primary care physicians and specialists with the diagnosis and treatment of infants, children and teens with sleep problems.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4766
nationwidechildrens.org/pulmonary-medicine
This national organization provides information and resources about diabetes, and advocates for children and adults with diabetes. Their information specialists can provide general information about diabetes and diabetes management. ADA Diabetes Imagine Camps are held once a year during the summer for kids with Type 1 diabetes and those at risk of developing Type 2, as well as for their families. Go online to find program info and application details about the Ohio Imagine Camp.
2451 Crystal Drive, Arlington, Virginia 22202
(800) 342-2383
Main Website: diabetes.org
ADA Imagine Camp: diabetes.org/get-involved/camp
Offers services for Central Ohio families managing diabetes including education and counseling, medical nutrition therapy, and wellness checks with registered nurses at their community center locations. They accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance with no direct cost to patients. They also offer free testing supplies for those needing assistance, and accept donations for supplies. Camp Hamwi offers fun, outdoor summer camp experiences for youth ages 7-17 with diabetes. Camp fees are low and scholarships are available for families who qualify based on income.
1699 West Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
Diabetes Services: 614-437-2912
Camp Hamwi: 614-437-2914
Locations: lifecarealliance.org/programs/wellness/wellness-centers
lifecarealliance.org/programs/coda
New to Type 1 diabetes? Learn about the basics, including insulin, blood sugar management, traveling with diabetes, FAQs, medical devices, long-term treatments and much more. This is a very helpful online resource for parents of children with diabetes. Parents can connect with other parents, people with diabetes, and medical professionals for answers to their questions.
childrenwithdiabetes.com
Provides resources, including child care and college guides. Go online to obtain free teen and adult care kits. They also have an online community of people of all ages all over the world diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
8035 Hosbrook Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236
(513) 793-3223
Resources for English Speakers: jdrf.org/t1d-resources
Resources for Spanish Speakers: jdrf.org/dt1recursos
Central Ohio Chapter Website: www.jdrf.org/socentralohio
Their website offers a lot of information about diabetes in English and Spanish, and lists steps to help control a person’s diabetes and live a long, active life.
(800) 860-8747 or (866) 569-1162 TTY
niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes
Our bodies’ endocrine system glands produce hormones. When hormones become imbalanced, they can impact your child’s health and well being. NCH offers care for children and teens with diabetes and other endocrine system conditions, from adrenal disorders and cystic fibrosis to growth disorders and diabetes. They also offer support services for patients and families as well.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4425
nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/endocrinology
With chapters throughout Ohio, A Kid Again provides free fun adventures, hospital visitations and parents’ nights out for families with children who have serious medical illnesses.
777-G Dearborn Park Lane, Columbus, Ohio 43085
(614) 797-9500
akidagain.org
Offers a range of programs and services free of charge for children, teens and young adults throughout Ohio. Many of these children are undergoing treatment for their cancer, but members also include children in remission from cancer who offer hope and encouragement to newly diagnosed children. They provide free family activities, tutoring, counseling and support opportunities.
3440 Olentangy River Road, Suite 103, Columbus, Ohio 43202
(614) 262-2220
giveccfc.org
Serves people who have been affected by one of the blood cancers: leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. People can participate in their local events, support groups and information programs. The chapter serves 38 counties in Ohio including Franklin, Clark, Licking, Allen and Muskingum.
250 East Broad Street, Suite 1750, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 476-7194
lls.org/central-ohio
National website: lls.org
Provides free, confidential, one-on-one support to anyone affected by cancer, including not only people with cancer but also loved ones, friends, health care professionals and caregivers of someone diagnosed.
Cancer Support: (855) 220-7777
General inquires: (877) 236-8820
livestrong.org
As a National Institute of Health (NIH) designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, they provide diagnosis, treatment and long-term management for pediatric and adolescent patients with any type of cancer. Visit the website for contact information.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
nationwidechildrens.org/hematology-oncology-bmt
Helps teens take control of their health. Smokefree TXT is a free texting service designed to provide 24/7 encouragement, advice, and tips to help teens ages 13-17 stop smoking for good. QuitSTART is a free smartphone app (Apple Store and Google Play) that helps with creating a personalized quit kit, track quitting progress, and provide healthy ways to manage smoking triggers. Visit their website for more information, which also includes live, online chat support, vaping information, tools to handle hard times and much more.
teen.smokefree.gov
Offers diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases for patients from birth through age 21. The clinic’s expansive range of services includes allergy consultations, allergy shots, comprehensive asthma management plans, skin testing and more. On their website they also provide informational allergy videos and asthma resources.
(614) 722-5500
nationwidechildrens.org/allergy-immunology
To view asthma resources: nationwidechildrens.org/asthma-resources
To view asthma and allergy resources: nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/resources-for-parents-and-kids/allergy-and-asthma-resources
Provides practical, easy-to-understand information on asthma and allergies and medically accurate ways to prevent and control symptoms. They also provide advocacy tools.
8229 Boone Boulevard, Vienna, Virginia 22182
(800) 878-4403
allergyasthmanetwork.org
A 12-step program offering support to those who want to quit cigarettes and other forms of tobacco. People can go online to search for local meetings in their community, in the form of group meetings and even meetings over the telephone or on the internet.
National: (877) 879-6422
Local: (740) 343-5438
nicotine-anonymous.org/find-a-meeting.html
Free telephone counseling available to all Ohio residents interested in quitting smoking or the use of other tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes. Participants can choose from phone and/or online programs; and may be eligible for 2 or more weeks of free nicotine gum, patches, or medication. Their website also has health information, resources for quitting, and how to be a supportive family member or friend to someone quitting.
Quit Line: (800) 784-8669
ohio.quitlogix.org
Provides support and resources for schools to engage school professionals, families and communities in actions that lead to healthy eating and physical activity.
actionforhealthykids.org
On this website, parents can search by a child’s symptoms and read information or receive advice about what steps to take.
healthychildren.org/english/tips-tools/symptom-checker
The websites below offer a lot of health information. Many of them provide brochures and information about health topics, diseases, prevention and treatment.
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Health Initiatives
GirlsHealth.gov
MyHealthfinder
Kids Health for Parents
Kids Health for Teens
Mayo Clinic
Medline Plus Health Information
Onco Link for Cancer Information
A free e-newsletter written by pediatric specialists and customized to meet the health and safety needs of your family. When you enter the ages of your child(ren), you will only get articles that are relevant to your family.
nationwidechildrens.org/e-newsletter-sign-up
Offers education materials for parents and caregivers covering topics such as flu, colic, when to stay home due to illness, ADHD and more.
nationwidechildrens.org/helping-hands
Offers several services for families at Nationwide Children’s Hospital during their visit, including informational sessions, lounge, kitchen, laundry room, shower, breastfeeding room with breast pump, infant massage, massage therapy for adults, haircuts and more.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-2252
nationwidechildrens.org/family-resource-center
Provides resources and information for parents and kids ages 8 to 13 on healthy eating, play and physical activity, and screen time.
nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/wecan
This free program is offered at several locations throughout Columbus to encourage healthy physical activity in people of all ages. Families and children can join a doctor and other people looking to improve their health at these free Walk With a Doc events each week.
(614) 714-0407
walkwithadoc.org
This toolkit contains helpful online handouts with nutritional and developmental information for parents and physicians of newborns to teens, to help prevent childhood obesity.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4824 or (614) 644-7035
nationwidechildrens.org/ounce-of-prevention
A ten-week program for girls in 3rd through 8th grade to develop physical fitness, managing emotions, communication, empathy, and friendship skills. Trained coaches lead small teams through activities, running games and lessons and ends in a 5K event. They also offer a summer camp for girls in 3rd-5th grade. Fee assistance is available. Go online for registration details and locations.
Main Office: 1145-L Chesapeake Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 681-4687
girlsontheruncentralohio.org
Offers three medical weight loss programs for children and adolescents who struggle with being overweight. Contact the Center for Healthy Weight & Nutrition for more information about the cost and insurance coverage.
(614) 722-4824
nationwidechildrens.org/medical-weight-management-program
Farmers’ markets increase access to fresh produce in city neighborhoods and offer healthy, locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables. Use the Ohio Proud website to find Ohio-made products, farmer’s markets, farm markets (usually sell produce on the farm where it was grown), roadside markets, and pick-your-own programs near you. Many of them accept cash, credit card, WIC benefits and the Ohio Direction EBT Card.
ohioproud.org/farm-markets-all/farmers-market-search
Stay educated about fitness and staying healthy with local events and stories of interest.
10tv.com/commit-be-fit
Visit their website to find information on local races, team sports and recreational activities and camps for kids.
activekids.com
The Columbus Public Health Healthy Places Program has provided walking maps for neighborhoods throughout the city to add more physical activity to everyday life.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-5318
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/Healthy-Places/Columbus-Walking-Maps
Offers family-friendly exhibits, classes, workshops, and summer camps in gardening, cooking, fine art and wellness. Check the website Calendar for upcoming events and classes, which are sometimes free. General admission is free on the first Sunday of the month for Community Day. Active or Retired service members get $1 off each ticket. SNAP, EBT, WIC and Medicaid recipients get tickets for $3 each with ID and proof of participation.
1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org
Offers information and local resources about local biking events and trails, bicycle safety, promotes bicycling in central Ohio. They also provide a Franklin County Home Repair program low- and moderate-income homeowners, home energy efficiency and safety services at no cost to income-eligible homeowners and renters, and information on air quality.
111 Liberty Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 228-2663 or (800) 750-0750 TTY
Home Repair: (614) 233-4171
Free Home Energy Efficiency & Safety Services: (614) 621-1171
morpc.org
The website provides free and low cost opportunities for families to live an active lifestyle.
columbus.gov/get-active
Handles all domestic relations matters, including protection for victims of domestic violence, for juvenile citizens. They offer a variety of mediation services to help settle matters without a full legal trial, Civil Protection Orders (CPO’s) / Juvenile Protection Orders (JPO’s), interpreters, Self Represented Resource Center (SRRC) for those who do not have the financial resources to retain private counsel, and more. Their Youth Education and Intervention Services Department works to divert youth from further involvement with the Juvenile Justice System through prevention, intervention and treatment services. Go online to find program details, FAQs, and legal forms.
373 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Administration: (614) 525-3628
drj.fccourts.org
Phone Directory: drj.fccourts.org/DRJ.aspx?PN=Quick_Phone_Directory.htm
A one-to-one mentoring program that matches children of incarcerated parents with volunteers from the community. Visit the website or call to find out how to enroll a child.
1855 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 837-2447
bbbs.org/amachi
Offers a variety of services including early childhood center, after-school and summer programs, sports and exercise programs, free health clinic, free legal clinic, food pantry, and immigration counseling services (DACA). Other programs include daytime and evening GED prep classes, English as a Second Language (ESL), programs for homeschoolers, men’s and women’s support and recovery groups, marriage and parenting programs, financial counseling, mental health counseling, career development services, dance, art, and music classes.
6000 Cooper Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 259-5238
vineyardcommunitycenter.org
Offers a range of free and low cost classes for children, teens, adults and parents of infants and kids of all ages and abilities. Find courses on everything from babysitting and parenting to CPR training, autism and diabetes. Classes include:
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0662
nationwidechildrens.org/education-classes
Statewide nonprofit organization serving educators, agencies, and families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities in Ohio. Programs include 1:1 reading mentoring, It’s My Turn free online self-advocacy course for middle and high schoolers, Family-to-Family meetings for parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, and parent mentoring. Families and professionals can find helpful trainings, videos, and tipsheets on their website.
125 Executive Drive, Marion, Ohio 43302
(844) 382-5452
ocecd.org
A nonprofit organization that supports individuals and families affected by eating disorders. Provided on their website is an Eating Disorders Screening Tool and other resources and information. Their Parent Toolkit is a resource to get answers to questions and concerns. Parents can learn how to be supportive and get advice from other parents.
3308 Preston Road, Suite 350-111, Plano, Texas 75093
Information and Referral Helpline: (800) 931-2237 or text ‘NEDA’ to 741741
nationaleatingdisorders.org
Free & Low-Cost Support: nationaleatingdisorders.org/free-low-cost-support
This booklet is a helpful resource on identifying signs of bipolar disorder in children, and how to support children with a diagnosis. The NIMH website has great educational resources for parents, an online treatment locator, and information on joining a research study.
NIMH Resource Center: (866) 615-6464
nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder-in-children-and-teens/index.shtml
Offers families a wide range of services before, during, and after adoption. Clinic physicians are experienced in addressing the physical, psychological and developmental challenges that can be unique to international adoption, and will help you craft a plan of care for your child. Most insurance plans are accepted.
433 North Cleveland Avenue, Westerville, Ohio 43082
(614) 355-6050
nationwidechildrens.org/international-adoption-clinic
US Department of State website with information about international adoption, including; current laws and legal aid, adoption agencies and accreditation information, passport & visa information, home-study information, post-adoption services, and more.
travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption.html
14 West Lakeview Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43202
(614) 268-8118
clintonvillecrc.org
Click to view their kinship care book, with general information about kinship care, and material resources for relatives and non-relatives taking over the full-time care of a child. More resources and information can be found at the website below.
(614) 466-1213
fosterandadopt.jfs.ohio.gov/kinship-care
Provides access to hundreds of handouts and resources, covering a wide array of subjects such as agriculture and natural resources, family and consumer sciences, community development, and youth development.
2120 Fyffe Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-6181
ohioline.osu.edu
A group of teachers and parents in Dublin City Schools who provide education designed to keep youth safe and healthy. Underage drinking, internet safety, bullying and eating disorders are some of the topics they focus on. Presentations are free and open to the general public. They also link families to summer youth programs focused on healthy communication, emotional development, and self-confidence.
5175 Emerald Parkway, Dublin, Ohio 43017
percdublin.org
Offers helpful information about behavior, development, care and education of infants in their first 3 years of life. Access free resources and articles to learn what to expect as your child grows, how to deal with challenging behaviors, and evidence-based parenting practices.
(202) 638-1144
zerotothree.org
Provides foster care and adoption education and resources. Get current information about new adoption laws, changes in policy, upcoming Ohio adoption community events and resources to help birth families. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Office of Families and Children provides a 40-page adoption guide with information about the adoption process in Ohio.
Provides information and resources online and over the phone to families interested in fostering and adopting, as well as publications and resources for child welfare workers and agencies. They offer the only federally funded national photolisting of children and youth in foster care in the U.S. who are available for adoption.
(888) 200-4005 or (877) 236-7831 in Spanish
adoptuskids.org
A licensed nonprofit adoption agency that specializes in private domestic adoptions. They provide adoption home studies and post-placement visits, services for adoptive parents and services for birth mothers. Their website has helpful information for those considering adoption and information about the six step process to adoption.
Central Ohio Office: 11 North High Street, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
(614) 349-1510
openarmsadopt.com
A licensed adoption agency that offers full adoption services for private domestic and foreign adoptions. They also provide supportive services for pregnant women considering adoption.
400 South Fifth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 237-7222 or (800) 927-7222 or text (614) 398-2367
adoptioncircle.org
Faith-based foster care agency offering foster care, foster parent training, adoption, and kinship care services. They also provide respite care and clinical behavioral health/mental health services. They have multiple locations in Ohio and across the U.S.
665 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 846-6265 or (888) 705-3577
bair.org
Provides a lot of information and resources regarding foster care and adoption and was developed by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services. Users can search the national foster care and adoption directory to find foster care and adoption resources in their area.
(800) 394-3366
childwelfare.gov
Provides free adoption resources and adoption facts. Their resource page contains information about domestic infant adoptions, international adoptions, financial help, special needs adoptions, foster care adoptions and more.
4900 Tuttle Crossing Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43016
(800) 275-3382 or (800)-ASK-DFTA
davethomasfoundation.org/library
Serves: Children, adolescents, and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Private service provider offering in-home services, foster care for youth or adults with complex needs, day services, shared living services, and residential care. They serve the following counties in Ohio: Butler, Cuyahoga, Fairfield, Franklin, Lucas, Miami, Montgomery, Pickaway, Portage, and Summit.
294 East Campus View Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 880-6000 or (800) 646-4612
dungarvin.com/locations/ohio
Finalizes all adoptions in Franklin County. Those wishing to adopt are required to have a personal and home investigation to insure their suitability as adoptive parents. Their website has helpful information about starting the adoption process in Ohio.
373 South High Street, 22nd Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 525-3840
probate.franklincountyohio.gov/departments/adoption
A licensed foster care agency serving children and adults up to age 21 with special needs and disabilities in Franklin County and its neighboring counties. Provides foster parent training, respite services, and on-call services for foster parents. Helps children with machine dependency, tube feeds, medically fragile conditions, autism and other special needs.
4889 Sinclair Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 478-5448
lifestartinc.com
Committed to meeting the needs of waiting children and the families who adopt them, they offer information and support to adoptive families and prospective adopters. Offers annual, virtual conference for parents, professionals, and adults with lived experience. Families can search their database of parent groups to find support groups in the area.
970 Raymond Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55114
(651) 644-3036
nacac.org
Their website contains helpful resources relating to juvenile justice, foster care, adoption, kinship care (relatives and non-relatives raising children) and information for youth transitioning from the foster system to adulthood, as well as advocacy information.
2600 Corporate Exchange Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43231
(614) 461-0014
ohiochildrensalliance.org
Behavioral health intervention and treatment services for youth with emotional and behavioral challenges.
Program: Outpatient and inpatient services (home-based and school-based), telehealth, therapeutic preschools and after school programs, residential care, support for foster families, and specialized services for Hispanic/Latino children. Children with an autism diagnosis are eligible for outpatient mental health and play therapies.
Eligibility: Youth ages 3-18 years old.
Cost: Therapies can be billed to Medicaid and a variety of insurances.
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization.
1490 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 252-0731 or (614) 824-5437
svfc.org
Provides community and school based services for pregnant and parenting youth 12-24 years old. Services include help with healthcare, preventing subsequent pregnancy, housing, parenting skills, support groups, education, and employment assistance. They also house the Black Girls and Young Women’s Collective to advocate for equity and community.
Healthy Families Home-Visiting Program
Healthy Families Connection Services
500 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 884-4200
centerforhealthyfamilies.org
Program: Offers youth and their families mental and behavioral health services. Licensed social workers and counselors provide counseling and clinical treatment programs addressing a range of issues including school concerns, sexual abuse, delinquency, domestic violence, family conflict, substance abuse and mental health issues. They also offer parenting classes, free kindergarten readiness programs, and after-school and summer programs at their two youth centers.
Eligibility: Varies per program, serves those from 6 weeks old up to 21 years old.
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income); most programs are free.
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else for counseling programs; psychiatric services require referral through a Directions for Youth counselor.
Central Intake: (614) 294-2661
dfyf.org
Provides free and low-cost health care coverage to families, children (birth through age 20) and pregnant women. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital care, pregnancy services, vision, dental and mental health services. Go online for exact income guidelines.
50 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
medicaid.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/medicaid/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-and-initiatives/children-families-and-women
Provides medical care to people with incomes at or below the poverty level or on disability medical assistance. Applicants must be residents of Ohio but do not need to be U.S. citizens, and applicants must not be eligible for Medicaid. Information about these programs can be obtained from Columbus area hospital’s financial assistance department. Visit the website to find more financial assistance programs for those served at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
For Nationwide Children’s Hospital HCAP: (614) 722-2055
nationwidechildrens.org/financial-assistance
Provides information about food assistance (Ohio Direction Card / EBT), cash assistance, medical assistance (like Medicaid), job training, emergency assistance (PRC), help with paying for child care and more. Each center serves certain zip codes. People outside of Franklin County should visit their local county Department of Job and Family Services. Refugees and immigrants should apply for services as well.
Call (844) 640-6446 to apply for SNAP/OWF cash assistance/Medicaid benefits
Medical Transportation: (614) 233-2381
Workforce Development: (614) 212-1800
jfs.franklincountyohio.gov
Find Your Local ODJFS Office: jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory
Self-Service Ohio Benefits Portal: benefits.ohio.gov
Provides health care advocacy and support. They assist Ohioans in finding affordable health care options, prescriptions and hospital care throughout Ohio. Their website provides information on free clinics and community health centers, Columbus hospital clinics offering financial assistance and other resources.
215 North Front Street, Suite 300, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 505-9460
uhcanohio.org/individuals
This website provides information on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which offer free or low-cost health insurance for kids and teens. Children can get regular check-ups, immunizations, doctor and dentist visits, hospital care, mental health services, prescriptions and more. Income eligible families and individuals can apply online, by phone, by mail or in person.
(877) 543-7669
insurekidsnow.gov
Links families of children with special health care needs to CMH-providers and helps families pay for the services the child’s needs up to age 21 years old. Visit the website to see what conditions are eligible for CMH and locate CMH providers by county.
(614) 466-1700 or (800) 755-4769 Toll-free (for parents only)
odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/children-with-medical-handicaps/welcome-to
CMH Providers & Locations: data.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/data/view/children-with-medical-handicaps-_cmh_-provider-directory
Provides information about prescription resources, including discount drug cards, government programs, low cost clinics, patient assistance programs, disease-based prescription help and programs for children.
Helpline: (800) 503-6897
needymeds.org
Click below for a list of local travel clinics, that provide international travel vaccines. Appointments should be scheduled at least 6 weeks prior to departure.
Parents and physicians may also find information on travel vaccine recommendations on the the CDC website.
cdc.gov/travel
Offers community-based health services for children (ages birth to 21) including regular physical exams, vision, hearing and general development checks, immunizations, and sick visits. No child will be denied care due to inability to pay for services. They accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid, Caresource, and Molina. They also offer financial assistance programs, including payment based on income (sliding scale), for those who qualify based on family size and income. No child is denied services due to race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, disability, religion, age or sexual orientation.
Central Scheduling: (614) 722-6200
nationwidechildrens.org/primary-care-centers
Provides routine and emergency walk-in dental care for babies, children and teens, including those with special health care needs. They offer sliding scale fees for those who cannot afford a private dentist. They accept many insurances as well, including Medicaid.
380 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 722-5650
nationwidechildrens.org/dentistry
Offers help in finding dental care and learning how to have good oral health. There is information on places and programs that offer dental care to people with lower incomes, no dental insurance or those living with HIV or AIDS. Also, the Oral Health Fact Sheets section lists fact sheets created by the Oral Health Program and others, and has links to websites that have information on many oral health topics.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/oral-health-program/Patients-Public
Offers a complete range of affordable dental services, including preventive teeth cleaning, emergency care and evening hours. Call for insurance and self-pay information. Services are provided for children above age 5 and adults throughout Ohio. Offers emergency walk-in hours for adults as well. All care is performed by OSU students under the supervision of skilled licensed faculty dentists.
305 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Call to schedule an appointment: (614) 688-3763
dentistry.osu.edu/patients/ohio-state-dental-clinics
Provides affordable dental services for children ages 12 months to 20 years old. Accepts most health insurances, including government insurances (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource) and has a sliding scale fee for uninsured patients.
4655 Morse Center Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 344-1459 or (614) 470-9840
smiles4life-columbus.com
The American Optometric Association provides free eye exams for infants between 6 and 12 months of age regardless of a family’s income or access to insurance coverage. Use the Find a Doctor tool on their website to find a participating provider near you.
(314) 983-4160
Find a Doctor: infantsee.org/find-a-doctor?sso=y
infantsee.org
Offers routine and advanced care for children with visual impairments. They accept all major insurances (including Medicaid, Caresource and Molina) and provide financial assistance for patients without insurance who qualify.
Nationwide Children’s Outpatient Care Center
555 S. 18th Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4075
nationwidechildrens.org/ophthalmology-eye-clinic
A free nationwide program that offers discounted brand name and generic medications. Apply online or by calling the toll-free hotline. There is no enrollment fee. Medications covered can be checked online.
500 State Road 436 Casselberry, Florida 32707
(407) 624-5088
xubex.com
A nationally recognized, web-based medication assistance resource center. Individuals can go online and search for specific medications to see what financial help is offered for that medication. They also have a comprehensive online directory of national patient assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions: rxassist.org/faqs
RxAssist Patient Center: rxassist.org/patients
Project L.O.V.E. (Love Our Kids…Vaccinate Early!) is a partnership between hospitals, area physicians, the City of Columbus, Franklin County health departments, local businesses and community organizations whose goal is to assure that Franklin County children are fully immunized by age 2. Go online to find out more information about why immunizations are so important, and what immunizations you should get.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7559
columbus.gov/projectlove
Offers vaccine clinics and information on vaccines for children and adults. Vaccines are available at a low cost (or sliding fee scale) for children, and no one will be turned away due to an inability to pay. Visit the website for their clinic schedule and list of clinics that offer travel vaccines. Appointments are required.
280 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 525-3719
myfcph.org/shots
Their website has a schedule of central Ohio clinics where adults can get free and low cost vaccines, including flu vaccines and travel vaccines.
vaccineforme.org
Provides immunizations for children and teens 18 years old and younger at a minimal cost. Many insurances are accepted as well. No child is denied if not able to pay. Go online for a complete schedule of hours and printable handouts.
Columbus Public Health: 240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Worthington United Methodist Church: 600 High Street, Worthington, Ohio 43085
(614) 645-7945 or (614) 645-8180
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/Immunization-Program
The website provides information describing services available at each Urgent Care location, when to go the Urgent Care, what you should bring and more. You can go online to find out estimated wait times at each location. All of the locations provide lab and x-rays as well.
These neighborhood resource lists are extremely helpful in finding resources near you. They provide detailed listings of free and low cost health care, vision care, dental care, prescription help, food pantries, transportation, job help, transportation, pregnancy resources and much more. They are updated frequently and reviewed by the Columbus Public Health social work team. Please note that CPH does not provide direct monetary assistance, but these lists are helpful in finding community agencies that do provide this assistance.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7417
Columbus Public Health Neighborhood Social Work Helpline: (614) 645-6807
https://new.columbus.gov/Services/Public-Health
Community-based book club program for adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. A small group meets with trained facilitators at bookstores, cafés, and public libraries throughout Franklin County. Anyone can participate, whatever their reading or ability level. Members experience an inclusive community focused on reading to learn together and build friendships, rather than learning to read.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 685-6718
Franklin County: nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/next-chapter-book-club
National Website: nextchapterbookclub.org
Partners with primary care nurse practitioners and doctors to prescribe books and encourage families to read together starting 6 months to 5 years vaccination or well child visits. Visit the website to find out how teens and adults can volunteer for ROR and how donate new or gently used picture books and board books.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
nationwidechildrens.org/reach-out-and-read
Works with victims of crime to support meaningful participation in post-conviction processes. Victims can go online to register for notifications, file a claim through the Victim Compensation Fund, and find additional resources and community organizations. Victim-Offender Dialogue (VOD) is a restorative justice process in which the victim of a violent crime and the offender meet with a dialogue facilitator.
4545 Fisher Road, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(888) 842-8464
Additional Contact Information: dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/drc.ohio.gov/Forms/VictServ_OVS%20Regional%20Map.pdf
drc.ohio.gov/victim-services/welcome
Although they do not provide direct services to victims, they offer a lot of information about local and state programs for victims of sexual assault, hate crimes, homicide, domestic violence, teen dating violence and sexual abuse.
ocjs.ohio.gov/family-violence-prevention
This service provides a three-way link between law enforcement, news media, and the general public by working together to solve crime. They serve Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Madison, Pickaway, and Union counties. Anyone can go online, text, or call to anonymously report a crime. If an arrest is made, you may be eligible for reward money.
Call or Text to Report a Crime: (614) 461-8477
Administrative Office: (614) 645-4749
Report a Crime Online:p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=125#
Main Website: stopcrime.org
Facilitates legal action related to cases of domestic violence or stalking, and provides education and support for victims. The unit provides specialized prosecutors to handle domestic violence cases and courtroom advocates to support victims. The website has important information about Protection Orders and FAQs about the court process. The website also lists contact information for prosecutors and victim advocates.
375 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Domestic Violence Director: (614) 645-6232
CHOICES 24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Line: (614) 224-4663
city-attorney.columbus.gov/dv.aspx
Provides information and support to victims and witnesses navigating the criminal justice system. Assistants help victims in sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, stalking, and homicide cases. The Juvenile Division helps victims in cases where the offender is a parent or caretaker. The Victim Witness Assistant located at The Center for Family Safety and Healing provides on-site assistance to victims of child abuse seen at the Center. The website has helpful information on the duties of Victim witness Assistants, Victim Rights, Offender Search tools, and more.
373 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Adult Division: (614) 525-3555
Juvenile Division: (614) 525-4440
prosecutor.franklincountyohio.gov/criminal-division/victim-witness-unit
Provides free legal representation to state and federal victims of crime throughout Ohio to ensure their constitutional and statutory rights are enforced and protected from the time a crime is first reported throughout the criminal justice process. They also offer Free Victims’ Rights Training to promote awareness of crime victims’ rights laws and to ensure consistent systemic implementation of crime victims’ rights laws.
PO Box 369, Powell, Ohio, 43065
(614) 848-8500
ocvjc.org
Crime Victims Rights Toolkit: victimsrightstoolkit.com
Provides important resources and information for victims of crime. Use the website to file a civil rights complaint, apply for victim compensation, or use the online directory to find victim assistance services across the country.
Hotlines & Contact Information: ovc.ojp.gov/help-for-victims/toll-free-text-and-online-hotlines
ovc.gov
Provides financial help to innocent victims of violent crimes (including domestic violence, sexual assault and homicide). Payments can cover medical expenses, counseling and lost wages. The application can be submitted online.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(800) 282-0515
ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Individuals-and-Families/Victims/Apply-for-Victims-Compensation.aspx
Offers an alternative to the court system by providing an impartial mediator who helps work out conflicts. They provide problem-solving services for domestic and family issues, divorce, neighborhood conflicts, tenant-landlord disputes to prevent eviction, workplace issues and consumer rights disputes. Services are offered on a sliding fee scale. They also offer opportunities for training and volunteering.
67 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 228-7191
communitymediation.com
Provides free legal help for low-income people throughout 30 counties in southeastern Ohio. They handle public benefits, housing, unemployment compensation, family issues, education, tax disputes, healthcare, record expungement, and other matters. Their website also has a fantastic library of resources for consumers to educate themselves on these topics. For new clients, call the Intake Line or complete the Online Intake Form.
Intake Line: (844) 302-1800
seols.org
Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio is the official Ohio State Long-Term Care Ombudsman sponsoring agency, for Region 6 and Region 8 Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs. The program advocates for excellence in long-term services and supports wherever consumers live. Ombudsmen do not regulate nursing homes and home health agencies, but do work with providers, residents, their families, and other representatives to resolve problems and concerns.
easterseals.com/centralohio/our-programs/senior-services/long-term-care-ombudsman.html
Professional association of lawyers and judges in Fairfield County, Ohio. The Pro Bono Legal Clinic is held virtually once a month and offers free legal advice for qualifying individuals who cannot afford an attorney. Services are provided on a first come/first served basis. Call to schedule an appointment.
(800) 686-3668 ext. 8409
fairfieldcountybar.org
Establishes, enforces, review and modifies child support orders so payments can be made. Helps with termination of support orders, paternity establishment, and health insurance coverage for children. They also offer a mobile app that gives users secure access to their child support case information.
80 East Fulton Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 525-3275
support.franklincountyohio.gov
Ohio Department of Job & Family Services Office of Child Support: jfs.ohio.gov/child-support
Nonprofit school offering low-cost Chinese language and culture programs for children and adults of any ethnic group, interested in learning Chinese language and culture. Find program and admission details online.
Physical Address: 27 South Grove Street, Otterbein University, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1035, Dublin, Ohio 43017
columbus-occs.org
Key resource connecting Hispanic businesses and professionals with the Central Ohio business community. They offer career fairs, Managing Your Business trainings, networking opportunities, and more.
150 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 225-6902
hccolumbus.com
Patients are seen at the Rardin Family Practice Center. Services are provided for those who have no health insurance and have a low to moderate income. Call for more details.
2231 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
medicine.osu.edu/departments/family-medicine/diversity-equity-and-inclusion
An alliance of communities and individuals focused on the health and well-being of Ohio’s Asian American population. They offer opportunities for advocacy, community events, and trainings for professionals. The website has health equity resources such as the Mental Health Resource Guide for Asian Communities.
3569 Refugee Road, Columbus, Ohio 43232
(614) 419-5751
oahcoalition.org
Provides coverage for the treatment of emergency medical conditions for refugees who have been in the country for less than 8 months, have a low income, and are not eligible for Medicaid. Applicants must provide proof of income, pregnancy, citizenship and other health insurance (if applicable). This program offers health coverage for a limited period of time to refugees upon their arrival in the United States. Emergency Medicaid programs are also available for Non-U.S. citizens and Non-citizens Victims of Trafficking. Go online to view program details and apply.
Medicaid Hotline: (800) 324-8680
medicaid.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/medicaid/families-and-individuals/srvcs/medicaid-programs#non-us-citizens
Community magazine published by Latinx students at Ohio State University, published semiannually. Showcases the important work happening in the Latinx community at Ohio State in the form of research essays, event reports, creative works of poetry and fiction, recognition of the professional achievements of alumni, faculty and student profiles, and food reviews. Go online to read current and past issues.
OSU Office of Diversity and Inclusion: (614) 292-0964
odi.osu.edu/que-pasa-ohio-state
Agency providing culturally and linguistically-appropriate services for the growing Latino/Hispanic communities throughout Ohio. Services include homework help and after school programs, summer camps, financial education, translation and interpretation services, ESL and citizenship classes, and more. The Soy Latina program serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and includes crisis intervention, safety planning, medical and legal advocacy, and a Community Empowerment Group.
Main Office: 1535 Bethel Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 459-6566
Interpreter Services: (614) 746-1032
Soy Latina: (614) 746-3534
ohiohispaniccoalition.org
Office connecting diverse Latino communities across the State of Ohio. Use the website to find a list of state-wide resources, including interpreters, attorneys, health and social service resources, church listings, scholarships, English as a Second Language (ESL) services and more.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-8333
ochla.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ochla/latino-community
Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), after school tutoring for children, youth summer camps, case management for victims of domestic violence and much more.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123.
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org
Works to improve the health and safety of new Americans and Somali families in Ohio. They provide translation services, a Civic Leadership Program, and promote social change.
4900 Reed Road, Suite 331, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 489-9226
somalican.org
Provides culturally-sensitive support, services, and advocacy for women and children facing domestic abuse, whose country of origin is Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka. Victims of domestic violence from all countries can call their 24/7 Help Line for support and referrals. Other services include crisis intervention, case management, court and legal advocacy, interpretation services, and a survivor support group.
4900 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
24/7 Helpline: (614) 565-2918
Office: (614) 326-2121
asharayofhope.org
Nonprofit providing social services in Central Ohio. Their focus is on East, Southeast, South Asian and Pacific Islander communities but they assist individuals regardless of ethnic or racial background. Programs include 24/7 interpreting services, Healthy Asian Youth after school program, free medical clinic, Family Support Program for victims of crime, and Senior outreach. They also offer adult classes for art, ESL, and computer literacy.
4700 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 220-4023
aacsohio.org
The New American Initiative was created by the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods to give all immigrants and refugees living in Columbus access to city services and programs. Efforts include the New American Leadership Academy, interpretation and translation services, and advocacy.
1410 Cleveland Ave, 2nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 645-1993
columbus.gov/neighborhoods/the-new-american-initiative
Church offering ESL classes, free medical services, and Sunday worship services in Cantonese, English and Mandarin.
4141 Maize Road, Columbus, Ohio 43224
(614) 715-2212
columbusccc.org/4c-community-outreach
Nonprofit, membership organization bringing Japanese and American communities together. Their programs focus on building cultural understanding, improving business success, and building relationships. They offer Japanese language classes, Japanese language competitions, and community events.
565 Metro Place South, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 300-3054
jas-co.org
Non-profit founded by Somali immigrants serving elders, working adults, teens, and children at no charge, with special support and attention for recent immigrants. Services include ESL classes, employment assistance, youth afterschool programs, legal assistance, financial assistance, housing referrals, case management, and more. Call their office for personal assistance and current program offerings.
3422 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43224
(614) 262-4068
somaliohio.org
Provides a wide range of recreation and cultural arts opportunities in an inclusive environment defined by Jewish values and culture. All are welcome to participate in their programs. Programs include teen recreation, summer and spring break camps, after school programs, preschool and daycare, fitness classes, theater, and more.
1125 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(614) 231-2731
columbusjcc.org
Free program at University Baptist Church for women to build community and improve conversational English. Refreshments and childcare for preschool-aged children are provided. Advanced ESL/ESOL groups are also available.
50 West Lane Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-6333
ubccolumbus.org/inch
Offers free adult education programs including literacy classes (including financial, workplace and technology literacy), citizenship classes, ESL, and GED test preparation. They also provide career coaching and entrepreneurship skill building, life and wellness coaching, supportive services for life transitions or re-entry to the community, and supportive services for immigrants and New Americans. Youth programs include tutoring and homework help, summer camps for children ages 7-13 years old, internships, and AMP career and mentorship program for youth and young adults ages 14-24 in Franklin County. Call for program details.
(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org
Oversees lawful immigration to the United States. Their website has information about immigration and citizenship laws and processes, registration forms, and fees. You can also use the website to find office locations near you and to keep track of your case. To speak to an immigration officer, you must schedule an appointment by calling or registering online.
Columbus Office: 395 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Appointment Contact Center: (800) 375-5283
Request an Appointment Online: my.uscis.gov/en/appointment/v2
www.uscis.gov/about-us/contact-us
Supports efforts to protect and assist refugees and vulnerable immigrants around the world. Their website has a lot of information about policies, office directories, and refugee assistance programs.
Bureau Main Page: state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-population-refugees-and-migration
Refugee Admissions: www.state.gov/refugee-admissions
Mutual assistance agency serving refugees and immigrants in Ohio. Services include ESL classes, interpreter services, intensive case management, comprehensive care for victims of crime or gender violence, citizenship tutoring, healthcare access, and more.
Program of services and benefits created to help those legally defined as refugees, asylees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, foreign-born victims of human trafficking, or secondary migrants. Services include health screenings, cash assistance, employability services, school integration services, and support services for refugees age 60+. Applications for benefits can be made through a local county department of job and family services, call or use the website to find a location near you.
(614) 466-4815
About Refugee Services: jfs.ohio.gov/cash-food-and-refugee-assistance/refugee-services/information-for-refugees/about-refugee-services
Application Portal: ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Nonprofit serving refugees and immigrants in Central Ohio. Services include free immigration-related legal services, parenting support for families with children 0-15 in Franklin County, job training classes and career counseling, help getting healthcare, Victims of Crime Assistance (VOCA), and comprehensive case management for newly-arriving refugee families and individuals. CRIS Community Connectors is a mentorship program providing academic, employment, and social support for New Americans.
4645 Executive Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 235-5747
crisohio.org
Helps the development, rehabilitation and financing of low- to moderate-income rental housing. Offers programs for first-time homebuyers, renters, and others find affordable housing that meets their needs. Offers low-interest loans and down payment assistance to qualified homebuyers. Other programs include assistance for recent college grads and low-interest loans for firefighters, teachers, police officers, military personnel and health care workers. Call (888) 404-4674, to be directed to a HUD approved counseling agency to help you work with your lender for a foreclosure resolution.
57 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-7970 or (888) 362-6432 Toll-free or (800) 750-0750 TDD
ohiohome.org
OSU College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences works with families, farmers, business owners, and community leaders to build better communities in Ohio. They offer soil testing kits, 4-H Youth Development Clubs, community courses on Urban Agriculture, Beginner’s Grant Writing, and Food Safety. Their Family & Consumer Sciences office offers nutrition and lifestyle resources including SNAP education, Dining with Diabetes, Food Preservation, and more.
2548 Carmack Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 866-6900
franklin.osu.edu/home
Offers a low-cost tool lending library that has over 4,800 hand and power tools for DIY projects. Yearly low-cost membership is offered on a sliding scale, based upon income. The only restrictions to become a member is to live in Franklin County and own your home or have permission from the property owner. They also offer free home repair and maintenance to income-eligible seniors, people with disabilities and veterans through their Safe at Home program.
3840 East Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 258-6392
modconliving.org
Provides free civil legal assistance and guidance to low income residents and senior citizens of Columbus and Central Ohio. Legal Aid attorneys may be able to help you with the following types of cases or legal problems: consumer law, family law, housing, public benefits, reentry, seniors, tax law, veterans, and education. Their website also has a page of Resources with easy to read information on these topics.
Provides assistance to residents on issues such as unsafe buildings, unsanitary conditions, carbon monoxide inspections, high weeds, owner refusal to make repairs and animal maintenance. Their homeowner assistance program include: down payment assistance, acquisition and relocation due to a federally funded projects, roof replacement, deaf modification, and other programs assisting individuals and families to remain in their homes and live independently in a safe and sound environment.
111 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7896
columbus.gov/development/Housing-Division
columbus.gov/development/housing-division/Homeowner-Assistance
Provides lead poisoning prevention programs throughout Ohio. Ohio residents have access to resources to test for lead and help families with the cost of lead repair work.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 532-3723
odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/Childhood-Lead-Poisoning
Find lots of educational resources and city services on their website. FCPH offers many services and resources, including:
280 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 525-3160
Weekend, Holiday and After Hours Emergency Hotline: (614) 525-3965
Telecommunications for the Deaf: 711 or (800) 750-0750
myfcph.org
Serves: Single Adults
Provides support to homeless men and women through emergency shelter, transitional and supportive/permanent housing. These services are available to persons living with certain medical conditions and chronically homeless people. To access emergency shelter services in Franklin County please call (614) 274-7000.
924 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 360-0251
fohcolumbus.com
southeasthc.org/services/homeless-services
Provides accessible and affordable housing for people with disabilities in the Columbus area. People served by the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities should contact their service coordinator regarding housing waiting list information. Also, they provide accessible renovation and construction services through their program Creative Renovations.
2233 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 418-7725
creativehousing.org
Provides housing assistance to people experiencing homelessness, mental illness, addiction, and other trauma related issues. CHN collaborates with a network of partners to offer residents access to services like service coordination with case management, crisis intervention, healthcare, counseling, food access, employment training, benefit assistance and more.
1680 Watermark Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 487-6700
chninc.org
Offers free anonymous HIV/AIDS testing and free testing for other STDs (syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia), behavior health, dentistry, legal services; medical, pharmacy, and HIV/STI prevention programs and services for LGBT community. They have various clinics around Ohio.
1105 Schrock Road, Suite 400, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(833) 378-4827
equitashealth.com
Locations: equitashealth.com/locations-and-staff
Serves: Women and families (referring to emergency shelter access)
Provides affordable housing and supportive services for families and women who may be recovering from addiction and mental illnesses. The YWCA Family Center provides emergency shelter, meals, childcare, and employment help for families without homes. The Women’s Residency program is a permanent housing program that provides long-term housing and supportive services for women. YWCA Kids Place offers after-school programming for families in Gahanna, Westerville, and United Schools Network districts. The organization also offers leadership training and advocacy opportunities for adolescents and adults.
Provides free furniture to central Ohio residents struggling to furnish their homes as a result of economic and other significant life challenges. Furniture With A Heart Thirft Store, a social enterprise of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio carries gently used furniture, household goods, clothing and sporting goods. Referral needed.
furniturebankcoh.org
Thrift Store: furniturebankcoh.org/thrift-stores
Non-profit financial agency offering a variety of financial well-being programs. Anyone can get a free, personalized Financial Review with a Financial Specialist. They offer financial coaching and counseling for housing, bankruptcy, student loans, and credit health. Their Debt Management program is a debt re-payment plan that does not exceed $45 per month. Some programs do have a fee, but fees may be reduced or eliminated due to financial hardship. Services will not be denied due to inability to pay.
(614) 552-2222 or (800) 355-2227
apprisen.com
Faith-based, non-profit soup kitchen offering free meals, personal care packages, and community events. Call for details.
640 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 252-6428
communitykitchencolumbus.org
facebook.com/communitykitchencolumbus
Provides low-income housing to help people access safe and affordable housing through the Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher program. They also offer care coordination services, homeownership and self-sufficiency programs for residents.
880 East Eleventh Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
(614) 421-6000
cmhanet.com
Additional Contact Information: cmhanet.com/Home/Contact
More information on Housing Choice Vouchers: hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8#hcv01
Offers a utility discount for water and sewer charges for people with a low income. Seniors age 60 and older with limited income may qualify for a discount on electricity and/or water bills. Go online to complete the application offered in both Spanish and English.
111 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-8276
columbus.gov/utilities/customers/Utility-Discount-Programs
Offers several programs for customers with a low income, including extended payment plans, discounted programs and services for those with medical needs. Visit the website for more information about each program.
Physical Address: 290 West Nationwide Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Payment Mailing Address: PO Box 742510, Cincinnati, Ohio 45274
(800) 344-4077
columbiagasohio.com/bills-and-payments/financial-support
Faith-based organization through Catholic Diocese of Columbus. Provides limited financial assistance for low-income families, assistance with prescriptions and birth certificates, non-perishable foods, hygiene items, and household products.
578 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 241-2530 or (614) 241-2531
columbuscatholic.org/join
Provides heating and cooling assistance and utility discounts, with eligibility based on household income. The HEAP program offers a one-time payment for utility customers during the winter and summer throughout Ohio. Call or download an application from the website. They also provide weatherization services.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43216
(800) 282-0880 or (800) 686-1557 TDD
development.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/development/individual/energy-assistance/energy-assistance
Assistance is available for both gas and electric bills. The assistance may be in the form of a reduction of heating bills and/or a set amount based on household income. The PUCO website gives information on how to sign up, who is eligible and what programs are available (including a program providing protections and benefits to military personnel and their families).
180 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(800) 686-7826 or (614) 466-3292 or 7-1-1 TDD
puco.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/puco/consumers
Faith-based charity providing food to income-eligible residents of the Westerville City School district. The HOPE program provides one-on-one supportive coaching for Senior adults (age 60+), people with disabilities, and others going through financial and life challenges. They have a free summer lunch program for children ages 1-18, Share Bac A Pac to feed children on weekends and school breaks, and the Way2Work free job training course. The Choice Market allows families to shop the food pantry online or by phone to customize their order. Find program and eligibility details online (if experiencing web issues, try using the mobile version or opening in Chrome).
150 Heatherdown Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Administration: (614) 889-0196
Help Center/Food Assistance Scheduling: (614) 568-8700
warmwesterville.org
Connects people in need in the Groveport Madison school district with community resources. Services include summer lunches, school supply distribution, cash assistance (rent, utilities, prescription, etc.), distribution of household items, adopt-a-family and more.
PO Box 542, Groveport, Ohio 43125
(614) 586-4017
facebook.com/CGMHN
gmhn.org
Settlement house located in Franklinton serving zip codes 43222, 43223, and 43215. Programs include parenting classes, senior outreach, a preschool, youth programming and sports, rent and utility assistance, medical appointments with The Breathing Association, and the Gladden Food Pantry. The food pantry provides home delivery for seniors and disabled residents, and diapers.
Sells affordable homes to people with a low income who are first-time homebuyers. Participants must go through a screening process and demonstrate their ability to repay a mortgage and help build their home. They also offer a low cost home repair program to current homeowners in Franklin, Licking, and Madison counties.
6665 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 422-4828
Home Repair Program: (614) 484-1966
habitatmidohio.org
Non-profit housing counseling agency and housing development organization serving the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. They offer HUD-approved Homeownership Education, foreclosure prevention, and individual financial counseling services. Services are free and available in English and Spanish. Go online and complete the Request Information form to request services.
3659 Soldano Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(614) 275-4663
hoth-cdc.org/contact
Lists HUD rentals and homes online throughout Ohio. The HUD office in Columbus services 40 Ohio counties in central and southeastern Ohio. The HUD website provides useful information on avoiding foreclosure, home improvements, buying homes, housing discrimination and more.
Columbus Field Office (Bricker Federal Building)
200 North High Street, 7th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 469-5737
resources.hud.gov
HUD in Ohio: hud.gov/states/ohio
A one-stop shop for housing resources in Licking County. Programs include transitional housing, rapid rehousing, help finding affordable housing, supportive services for veterans, and housing assistance for those recently released from a State of Ohio prison. Project Homeline is a homeless prevention program for families and individuals to receive one-on-one with a homeless prevention specialist, access case management services, and financial assistance. Their website has many resources for basic needs, healthcare, housing issues, and legal issues in Licking County. Call to schedule an appointment and confirm what paperwork you need to bring to the appointment.
Physical Address: 23 South Park Place, Suite 200, Newark, Ohio 43058
Mailing Address: PO Box 613, Newark, Ohio 43058
(740) 345-1970 or (877) 421-5224
lcchousing.org
Helps low-income families, single persons and seniors find quality affordable housing throughout Ohio. Also assists homeless and people with disabilities. Visit the website for additional contact and location information.
(800) 388-2151
nationalchurchresidences.org
nationalchurchresidences.org/business-services/supportive-housing-formerly-homeless
Offers housing counseling, foreclosure prevention, and financial wellness services. Anyone who has fallen behind on mortgage payments, or is facing foreclosure/eviction can call the Hope Hotline to speak to a HUD-certified financial counselor. HUD-certified counselors work with you individually to review your options, help navigate the homebuying process, and set up a plan of action. They also offer debt counseling and financial education. Go online to find program details and lots of financial education worksheets and guides.
Hope Hotline: (888) 995-4673
Debt Counseling Hotline: (866) 481-1720
995hope.org
Provides Section 8 and low-income affordable housing in Columbus and other cities throughout Ohio.
910 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Non-profit housing developer promoting affordable housing and financial wellness in Columbus. Use the Homeport Living website to browse their affordable housing properties and apply for a rental property or home. Use the Homeport Learning website to sign up for their free homebuyer education classes, home readiness program, or financial fitness classes. They also offer individual financial counseling, down payment assistance, and foreclosure prevention coaching.
3443 Agler Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 221-8889
Homeport Living: homeportliving.org
Homeport Learning: homeportlearning.org
General Website: homeportohio.org
Provides help for electric bills to people with a low income who have tried all other resources (HEAP and PIPP). To qualify, households must have disconnected electric service and must have made a sincere effort to pay their electric bill in the last 90 days. Go online to use their income calculator to find out whether you qualify. Click to find an agency in your area that will help you with the application process.
(800) 683-7036
dollarenergy.org
AEP Ohio: aepohio.com/info/community/paymentAssistancePrograms/NeighborToNeighbor.aspx
Provides discounted phone service for customers with a low income, including free line connection, monthly discounts and no deposits for local service. You must meet a current AT&T telephone customer. Call the toll-free number to get an application mailed to you.
(866) 394-1514
att.com/home-phone/lifeline
Offers asthma management for services children and adults, a free Lung Health Clinic and a mobile medical unit. Their free Lung Health Clinic is for those who do not have insurance or cannot afford medical care. They also help with winter heating and summer cooling programs through HEAP, water assistance program, electric bill assistance and window air conditioners to those without central air for households who are medically needy. They provide vacuum cleaners and mattress and pillow covers for those in need. Their Quit for Good program provides free weekly tobacco cessation classes, facilitated by a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist and ongoing support for 12 months.
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 457-2997
Mobile Medical Unit: (614) 273-2843
Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP): breathingassociation.org/heap/low-income-household-water-assistance-program-lihwap
Winter Crisis Program (November-March): breathingassociation.org/heap/winter-crisis-program
breathingassociation.org
Customers who have received a disconnect notice or are unable to pay their electric bill can call the toll-free number to set up a payment extension or a discount plan. Customers who have special needs or medical conditions can request a medical certification form.
(800) 672-2231
www.aepohio.com/account/bills/pay/assistance
Works with schools, community organizations, faith-based groups and child care providers throughout Ohio to increase participation in USDA child nutrition programs. Contact their office for help finding childcare centers, after school programs, weekend programs, and summer programs that offer free food for kids.
1105 Schrock Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 341-7700
childrenshungeralliance.org
CPH investigates cases of foodborne illness to discover and correct problems in the food production and distribution system and prevent future illness. Consumers and business owners can help by reporting illnesses they suspect might be foodborne. The website also as information on identifying food poisoning and foodborne illness.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/food-protection/foodborne-illness-reporting
This website offers a broad range of information on many topics for parents:
Offers families a comprehensive approach to prevention and treatment of overweight children ages 2 and older. Their website has helpful information and resources for families and providers on research studies, gastric bypass surgery, nutrition articles and more.
(614) 722-4824
nationwidechildrens.org/center-for-healthy-weight-nutrition
Our nutrition and lactation care experts can provide breastfeeding support, and help with general feeding and eating issues. You can visit their website, use MyChart, or call one of the numbers below to schedule an appointment.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Nutrition & Lactation Department: (614) 722-3060
Central Scheduling: (800) 881-7385
nationwidechildrens.org/clinical-nutrition-and-lactation
Their website has helpful information about food safety, dietary supplements, food ingredients, and nutrition; drugs, medical devices, radiation-emitting products, vaccines and more.
Their website offers important information for families and professionals about state food and nutrition programs. Find guidelines for child and adult care food programs, the national school lunch program, summer food programs, and more.
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Food-and-Nutrition
Free program for income-eligible pregnant and breastfeeding women, women who recently had a baby, infants, and children up to 5 years of age. Provides nutrition education, breastfeeding education and support, formula, and food vouchers. They provide a WIC Nutrition (EBT) Card to use at grocery stores. Call or visit the websites below for program details and to schedule an appointment at a WIC office near you.
Provide a full range of homecare services to central Ohio children of all ages, from newborns through young adults. Homecare offers the following areas of service:
255 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-1100 or (800) 466-2727 Toll-free
nationwidechildrens.org/homecare
Provides free nutrition education for low-income adults with children and for youth in schools where a majority of the students qualify for free/reduced lunch. OSU Extension, Franklin County also offers EFNEP programs for non-English speaking families (currently available in Spanish and Somali). To learn more about EFNEP or if you are interested in hosting a series, visit the website for contact information.
Franklin County Extension Office
530 West Spring Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
franklin.osu.edu/program-areas/efnep
Provides human milk to those in need, particularly premature infants and babies who are failing to thrive or have life-threatening conditions. Milk may also be provided for older children when indicated.
4850 East Main Street, Suite 140, Columbus, Ohio 43213
(614) 566-0630
Breastfeeding Helpline: (614) 566-3434
ohiohealth.com/locations/womens-health/mothers-milk-bank
Ffind more information about OhioHealth Breastfeeding Care here: ohiohealth.com/services/womens-health/our-programs/breastfeeding
Distributes food and personal items to individuals and families in the Worthington School District (zip codes 43016, 43035, 43065, 43081, 43085, 43229, 43235, and 43240) who meet income guidelines. The pantry uses an indoor express service model, where customers park outside and are greeted by a volunteer for check-in. The pantry stocks meat, dairy, dry goods, produce, personal care items, and more. No appointment needed. Find eligibility requirements and program details online.
6700 Huntley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 985-1766
worthingtonresourcepantry.org
Click below for a list of free meals and food pantries in Fairfield County.
108 West Main Street, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 687-0500
Crisis Line: (740) 687-8255
fairfieldcounty211.org
Non-profit network of food pantries across Licking County. Call or use the link below to find produce, hot meals, and pantries in Newark and Licking County.
1035 Brice Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 344-7401
www.foodpantrynetwork.net/get-food
Provides free, hot meals on Wednesday evenings. Call their office for more information.
501 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-4571
broadstreetumc.net
Non-profit mother-to-mother support group to help parents successfully breastfeed. Support groups meet across the country and Ohio. The local website and Facebook lists current meetings times and locations. The national website provides helpful and reliable blog posts and tips on breasfeeding.
Ohio: lllohio.org
National website: lllusa.org
These hospitals throughout Columbus offer lactation and breastfeeding services. All offer phone consults and advice, but some also provide breastfeeding classes, pump rentals and support groups. Visit each website for locations and additional contact information.
Call to get help with breastfeeding. Services include consults at WIC clinic locations or over the phone, and breast pump rentals for those who qualify.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Breastfeeding Helpline: (614) 645-7065 or (888) 588-3423 or Text BFHOTLINE to 839863
Help Finding a WIC Clinic: (614) 645-7280
View the Breastfeeding Help List (last updated 2021) for other resources and agencies in Franklin County.
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/women-infants-and-children-wic/wic-resources-and-links
The website provides food and nutrition information and resources for providers and families. FNS works to end hunger and obesity through the administration of 15 federal nutrition assistance programs.
fns.usda.gov
Provides free breakfast and lunch throughout Columbus from June to August. Youth ages 1 to 18 and youth with disabilities age 19 to 21 are eligible. Families in need can call 866-3-HUNGRY (Español: 877-8-HAMBRE) or text 914-342-7744 with a question that contains a keyword such as “food,” “summer,” “meals,” etc. and receive a text back that will show free meal sites closest to them. Some Community Recreation Centers serve free afterschool meals for children up through high school seniors, and provide free food boxes for seniors during the rest of the year. Go online or call to find center locations and program details.
Go Lunch: (614) 645-3642
columbus.gov/recreationandparks/programs/Free-Meal-Programs
Community Center Locations & Contact Information: columbusrecparks.com/facilities/communitycenters
Church serving the Franklinton community. Their Street Church program gathers in the parking lot of PNC Bank at the corner of Broad Street and Central Ave at 1PM for every Sunday for a prayer service and free meal. Jericho’s Light Club is a series of free meals inside the church each Friday and Saturday evening, and they host Sacred Table Dinners at various locations in the community twice a month. They also host weekly Recovery Café and AA meetings, where all who seek to achieve or maintain sobriety are welcome. Check the online Event Calendar or call for details.
1003 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43222
Main Office: (614) 221-9328
AA Meetings: (614) 571-2079
st-johns-columbus.org
Faith-based organization providing a wide range of services across Ohio. Services include Faith Mission homeless shelter, food, health care, affordable senior living and domestic violence help. Visit the website for detailed program information and to find an office near you. The United Way/LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to other social services across Franklin County.
Dedicated to meeting the nutritional needs of men, women, and children living with HIV/AIDS in central Ohio and their families. Provides daily hot, takeaway meals at Carrie’s Cafe, one-on-one nutrition counseling, home-delivered meals, and emergency meal assistance.
670 Harmon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 437-2854
lifecarealliance.org/programs/project-openhand
Serves residents of Dublin (zip codes 43016 and 43017) and all residents who live in the Dublin City School District. They are a walk-in pantry so no referral is required. Visit the website or call for eligibility guidelines.
6608 Dublin Center Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 665-8181
dublinfoodpantry.org
Delivers food to more than 500 food banks/pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and after school programs in central and eastern Ohio. Their website has information for individuals and families on finding food assistance in Central Ohio, and program eligibility requirements.
3960 Brookham Drive, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 274-3663
mofc.org
Find information on assistance programs offered by the state of Ohio. They have cash assistance, several food programs including the Ohio Direction Card/EBT/SNAP and the Ohio EBT Farmers’ Market Program, refugee services, and more.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-6282
jfs.ohio.gov/ofam/index.stm
Benefits Portal: benefits.ohio.gov
Provides income-based case management services, emergency assistance services, financial services, computer literacy and workforce development programs. Most of the programs are for Franklin County residents living at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Level. Visit the website or call for more information.
Southside: 711 Southwood Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43207
Westside: 4129 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43228
impactca.org
AMP website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/amp
Offers a combination of job search assistance, counseling, case management, and family stabilization designed to meet the complex needs of individuals and families. Wrap-around services help clients address challenges like stable housing, financial wellness, and mental and physical health challenges. Most services are free, and mental health counseling fees are based on insurance. JFS is open to the Jewish and non-Jewish communities. They also offer resettlement services for refugees and New Americans, and specialized services for Holocaust survivors and older adults.
1070 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(614) 231-1890
jfscolumbus.org
Works with adults and specializes in assisting women making career transitions and reduce barriers to satisfying, long-term employment. They offer a sliding fee scale and help people regardless of their ability to pay. Transportation and childcare assistance are also available for qualifying programs and individuals. Visit the website for a specific list programs and services offered.
2760 Airport Drive Suite 125, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 849-0028
newdirectionscc.org
Offers early education and care for children from 6-weeks to 5 years old. Families can enroll their children in early head start, head start, and preschool classrooms (both publicly funded Title XX child care and private pay provided). They also provide parenting classes and supportive services for caregivers. They have multiple locations (listed below).
(614) 444-1529
sproutfive.org
hireteen.com – Lists companies that hire teenage
coronavirus.ohio.gov/jobsearch
indeed.com
monster.com
linkup.com
franklincountyohio.gov/information/employment
governmentjobs.com
careers.ohio.gov
simplyhired.com
snagajob.com
usajobs.gov
jobseeker.ohiomeansjobs.monster.com
jobsforfelonshub.com/locations/jobs-for-felons-in-columbus-ohio
job-applications.com
columbusdiversity.com
To apply for unemployment compensation, call or go online. Have available your social security number, your driver’s license or state ID number, and information about all employers you have worked for in the past 18 months.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6562 Toll-free or (614) 387-8408 TTY
jfs.ohio.gov/ouc/index.stm
File online at unemployment.ohio.gov
Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their job training programs. Programs include Roads2Work commercial driver training, STNA and medical coding, technology classes, AMP for young adults 18-24 years old, and 1:1 career coaching. They also provide person-centered, employment-focused services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) including Adult Day and Residential services, mental health support, and a Columbus art studio.
671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Main Office: (614) 294-5181
Career Coaching: (614) 966-9283
goodwillcolumbus.org
The Ohio Wildlife Center is a non-profit offering educational and community programming, in addition to the animal services offered at the Ohio Wildlife Hospital. They offer wildlife-based, nature summer camps for ages 3-16 with programs that include outdoor adventuring, arts and crafts, helping with animal care, and more. Scholarships are available. They also offer summer internships in education, environmental & veterinary sciences. Anyone can visit the center in-person to learn about wildlife, enjoy free events, or rent the facility for birthday parties.
Ohio Wildlife Center: 6131 Cook Road, Powell, Ohio 43065
Ohio Wildlife Hospital: 2661 Billingsley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 734-9453
ohiowildlifecenter.org
Free employment services for all ages, working and unemployed. The website has articles with tips for job searching, free online training modules for math and reading, GED prep, and computer skills; and resources for veterans, senior citizens, and previously incarcerated people. Job Centers offer help finding a job, free access to computer lab, technology training, help for employers, and more. Services and availability vary by location, use the website to find a Job Center near you.
Columbus-Franklin County Job Center:
1111 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 559-5052
omjcfc.org
Ohio Means Jobs Main Website: ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/omj/home
A division of AmeriCorps that brings together youth ages 18 to 24 for a year of full-time community service and leadership development. Participants work in local schools and may receive education awards, scholarships and paid stipends.
350 East First Avenue, Suite 250, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 586-4520
cityyear.org/columbus
Offers tuition-free programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties with programs like automotive, cosmetology, graphic design, pre-nursing and more. Programs for adults include GED, ESOL, STNA, Welding, HVAC, and help finding a job. They offer a free summer camp for students grades 6-8 to explore career options. The Employability Prep program for students ages 16-21 with learning differences offers hands-on job experience and soft skills training.
Federal agency for service and volunteerism. They offer a variety of work programs for adults age 18+ to receive educational scholarships and other benefits in exchange for service. Service opportunities include NCCC climate change mitigation, VISTA alleviating poverty, Foster Grandparents, and much more. Initiatives in Ohio include Teach for America, Ohio State University Extension Public Health, and other programs aimed at improving education, economic prospects, and health in Ohio. Community-based organizations should apply for AmeriCorps grant opportunities.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 728-2916
National Service Hotline: (800) 942-2677
AmeriCorps: americorps.gov
ServeOhio: serveohio.org
Bexley City School District
Big Walnut Local School District
Buckeye Valley Local School District
Canal Winchester Local Schools District
Columbus City School District
Delaware City School District
Dublin City School District
Fairbanks Local School District
Gahanna-Jefferson Public School District
Grandview Heights City School District
Groveport Madison Local School District
Hamilton Local School District
Hilliard City School District
Jefferson Local School District
Johnstown-Monroe Local School District
Jonathan Alder Local School District
Licking Heights Local School District
Marysville Exempted Village School District
New Albany-Plain Local Schools
Northridge Local School District
Olentangy Local School District
Pickerington Local School District
Reynoldsburg City School District
South-Western City School District
Southwest Licking Local School District
Teays Valley Local School District
Upper Arlington City School District
Westerville City School District
Westfall Local School District
Whitehall City School District
Worthington City School District
Their website has information about two-year and four-year programs, credit transfer, ways to help finance college and more. They also offer Ohio callers information on preparation for college, admissions, student financial aid, scholarship information and general facts about enrollment at colleges and universities throughout Ohio; visit their Contact Us page for those contacts.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-6000
ohiohighered.org/students
ohiohighered.org/contact-us
Provides rankings of 1400 schools, search tools to help find schools that fit students’ needs and details on scholarships, loans and grants.
usnews.com/best-colleges
The website provides great information on credit and debt, loans and mortgages, shopping and donating, online security, and avoiding scams. Go online to get a free credit report, report fraud or identity left, and sign up for consumer alerts. The Money Matters page is a one-stop guide on understanding your rights and avoiding scams from understanding your credit score to buying a used care and more.
Main Website: consumer.ftc.gov
Money Matters: consumer.ftc.gov/features/money-matters-how-spot-avoid-and-report-scams#share
Protects the rights of homeless children and ensures that homeless youth have access to free and appropriate public education. The website provides resources and information regarding homeless children and the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 387-7725
education.ohio.gov/Topics/District-and-School-Continuous-Improvement/Federal-Programs/Elementary-and-Secondary-Education-Act/Programs-Administered-Under-ESEA/McKinney-Vento-Resources-for-Awareness
This site has resources for educators to identify and best serve PreK-12 students learning English. Find State guidelines for communicating with families, creating inclusive learning environments, supporting international/foreign exchange students, and more.
(614) 446-4109
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Student-Supports/English-Learners
finaid.org
bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search
careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx
unigo.com/scholarships
fastweb.com
aie.org
oedb.org/scholarships
collegescholarships.org/financial-aid
scholarships.com
cappex.com/scholarshipsscholarships.fatomei.com
scholarships.uncf.org
destinationhbcu.org/scholarships.html
Ohio provides scholarships to private schools for students attending low-performing public schools, scholarships for families considered low income, and students with learning disabilities to schools or programs to meet students’ needs. Go online for information about the EdChoice Program, Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship Program, Autism Scholarship Program, and additional educational resources.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 728-2743 or (877) 644-6338
Subscribe for Text Alerts for each scholarship program: education.ohio.gov/Media/Sign-up-for-Text-Alerts/Subscribe-to-Ohio-Education-Options-Text-Alerts
education.ohio.gov/Scholarships
National association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), colleges and universities committed to helping Hispanic students achieve success in higher education. Find information on internships, scholarships, college programs, pre-college support, career development programs, research opportunities, and more.
National Headquarters: (210) 692-3805
hacu.net/hacu/HACU_Student_Programs.asp
Their financial aid page has information about local, state and federal scholarship and grant opportunities.
550 East Spring Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
cscc.edu/services/financial-aid
Financial Aid Answers 24/7: cscc.financialaidtv.com
Offers over 200 scholarships for students from all walks of life. Visit their website to start your search.
columbusfoundation.org/students/scholarships
Provides free information on preparing for education beyond high school. Students can submit an online application for financial aid (FAFSA), get career information, search for schools, understand student loans, and search for scholarships. Click for a college preparation checklist, that explains how to prepare academically and financially for college with a ‘to do’ list for students and parents.
400 Maryland Avenue, Washington DC, 20202
(800) 433-3243
studentaid.gov
Additional Contact Information: studentaid.gov/help-center/contact
Works to assure that every Newark High School graduate has the opportunity to pursue higher education by providing one-on-one advisory services, high school course selection, SAT/ACT information, college selection & application help, college visits and more. They also offer programs for elementary and middle school students.
314 Granville Road, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 670-7424
acalltocollege.org
This site has information on getting a GED, including testing centers and preparation classes. Also, they offer information about Adult Diploma Programs which provides job training and for adults, ages 22 or older to earn industry credentials, and an alternative way to earn a high school diploma.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Testing/Ohio-Options-for-Adult-Diploma
Outlines information on courses students must take and tests they must pass to graduate with a diploma from an Ohio high school.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(740) 703-5844 or (216) 544-6564
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Graduation-Requirements
Columbus, faith-based non-profit offering free adult education, GED classes, job search support, homebuyer and small business workshops, and mental health awareness.
640 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 547-2171
stjohnlearning.wordpress.com
Lists requirements for home educating parents, resources for home education, rules and regulations, contact information and more.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/Home-Schooling
Ohio Home Education Law: codes.ohio.gov/oac/3301-34
Provides new clothing for school children of all ages in Franklin County free of charge. Families directly apply for clothing assistance in the summer. Each child will receive a brand new clothing package consisting of six pairs of socks, underwear for the week, a coat, hat, gloves and three shirts and three pants. Should the child attend a school with a dress code, dress code compliant clothing will be provided. Children attending schools with a uniform with a logo will receive a full clothing package along with a voucher to use at a local uniform store for the items requiring a specific logo.
4300 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 263-4300
charitynewsies.org
Food pantry open to all Franklin County zip codes. They also host programs for holiday meals, free tax preparation with American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), back to school backpacks, Christmas toys, and community events. Find program details online.
1950 North Fourth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 297-0592
neighborhoodservicesinc.org
Provides backpacks filled with school supplies for children in grades K-12 who otherwise might not be able to afford them.
PO Box 12234, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 488-4250
tomfennessy.org
Faith-based nonprofit providing a food pantry, clothing boutique, cooking classes, and Christmas food and gift help. They can also connect you to employment assistance with their community partners. Healthcare services include eye exams and no-cost glasses to those who qualify, breast and cervical cancer screens to women who are uninsured or underinsured, and mental health counseling with board-licensed counselors at the Hope Counseling Center. Appointments are required for most services, including food pantry and boutique.
3964 East Main Street, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 252-2500
victorycoh.org
Provides supportive services for veterans and their families. Family supportive services include healthcare referrals, childcare help, legal aid, and temporary financial assistance for those who qualify. Their Veterans Resource Centers provide a stable transitional living environment and individual case management for veterans. Find program details online.
Non-profit empowering marginalized and at-risk youth to pursue educational and artistic opportunities. They offer college tour programs and scholarships. Their website has helpful information for students and families about scholarships, HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges & Universities), college planning, and skilled trades programs.
PO Box 360832, Columbus, Ohio 43236
(614) 706-6909
gaddis4kids.org
Offers a range of services for students in Columbus City Schools to prepare them to enter and succeed in college, including providing help with financial aid and scholarships.
4200 East Regent Street, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 233-9510
iknowican.org
Provides information for middle and high school students about how to prepare for and enter into college.
knowhow2go.acenet.edu
Offers support programs for veterans and their family, such as temporary financial assistance, a cash grant to support minor children of veterans who are eligible for American Legion membership. They also offer youth programming, award college scholarships, and list veteran discounts and services and places to find counseling and mental health support.
Contact Information: legion.org/contact
legion.org
Pre-college program for high school students to build resiliency and gain the tools needed to successfully apply to and complete a college program. The program includes individualized tutoring and content instruction, cultural and social activities, college tours, and participants can earn money for completing all elements of the program. Participants must be income-eligible 9th and 10th graders at East, Linden-McKinley, Mifflin, Northland, or Independence High School.
550 East Spring Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 287-5353 or (614) 287-5340
cscc.edu/services/upwardbound
The Metro Schools including the Metro Early College High School (MECHS), the Metro Early College Middle School (MECMS), and the Metro Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and prepares Central Ohio students for college.
1929 Kenny Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 259-6639
themetroschool.org
Helps kids in Columbus and Whitehall City Schools stay in school and graduate through a variety of programs including peer mentoring, tutoring, health resources, college and career readiness. They are an in-school program, so contact your school administrator to see if Communities in Schools offers supportive services for your child.
6500 Busch Boulevard, Suite 105, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 268-2472
ciskids.org
Offers supportive services to adults and families involved in the criminal justice system. Referrals are required to receive services. Call for details.
2100 Stella Court, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 252-8402
alvis180.org
Professional and educational learning center for adults ages 18+. Students are not charged for tutorial services, but those who are financially able are asked to purchase basic texts and materials. Courses include English as a Second Language (ESL), GED high school equivalency in English or Spanish, Adult Basic Education for those looking to improve reading, writing, and math skills, and Citizenship Test Preparation.
672 South Third Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 444-7330
domlearningcenter.org
A non-public charter school, provides mixed mental health and educational programming for elementary school students with behavioral and psychological disorders. Individual, group and family therapy are also provided throughout the school day, as well as 24-hour crisis services to support families and youth in managing mental health symptoms and behaviors. The goal is to reintegrate the majority of youth back into a traditional school setting. Families can refer themselves or receive a referral from another agency.
2440 Dawnlight Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
(614) 471-2626 or for referrals (614) 384-7798
buckeyeranch.org/programs/educational-services/day-treatment.html
Helps teen parents or pregnant teens finish school by providing cash assistance and case management. Students must be under the age of 20 and working on earning either their GED or high school diploma.
1721 Northland Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(844) 640-6446
jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/cash-assistance
Ohio Law & Rules about LEAP: codes.ohio.gov/oac/5101:1-23-50
Columbus City Schools offers online courses through the Virtual Credit Advancement Program (VCAP). High school course offerings taught by certificated teachers are available to students, grades 9-12, who wish to earn credit toward graduation by an alternative means. Eligible students must live in the district and be 21 or younger but not earned enough credits to graduate.
Fort Hayes Campus, 546 Jack Gibbs Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 365-5485
ccsoh.us/Page/1252
A collaborative partnership between the Buckeye Ranch and the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO). Provides flexible and tailored schooling for middle and high school aged-students who have severe emotional and behavioral difficulties. The goal is to reintegrate the majority of youth back into a traditional school setting. Families can refer themselves or receive a referral from another agency.
2865 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 875-2371 or for referrals (614) 384-7798
Buckeye Ranch: buckeyeranch.org/programs/educational-services/day-treatment.html
Learn about Ohio kindergarten requirements, entrance dates, how to request early admission and view their readiness checklist.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 644-0628
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Early-Learning/Kindergarten
The Head Start and Early Childhood Education program is for income eligible 3 and 4 year old children living in the Grove City and Columbus (South-Western school district) area. Children attend half-day sessions at one of the locations below and receive school-readiness education and a nutritious meal.
Helps parents understand what children are expected to learn in school and how to help them succeed, so families can choose a school for their child, get involved in their child’s learning and get information about learners with special needs and talents.
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Student-Supports/Family-and-Community-Engagement/Getting-Involved-with-your-Child-s-Learning
Parents can look up a district or school in their area and see the performance rating of that school based on state standards.
reportcard.education.ohio.gov
Outlines the school options available in Ohio including, other than public or private schools, open enrollment, career-technical education, College Credit Plus (formerly known as PSEO and Dual Enrollment), community (charter) schools, home schooling, credit flexibility and scholarships.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options
Free online educational videos on topics K-12 including math by subject and by grade, science and engineering, computing, arts and humanities, economics and finance, test prep, college, careers and more. Khan Academy Kids offer free, fun, educational program for kids ages 2-7. Khan Academy has been translated into other languages. You can see the full list of languages and how much has been translated here.
Statewide system that provides coordinated services to parents of children under age 3 with disabilities or developmental delays in Ohio. Parents and caregivers with concerns regarding their child’s development can have their child evaluated for free. A service coordinator works with families to develop a coordinated Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) to support their child’s development. Contact them through the website.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
ohioearlyintervention.org
Serves: Infants, school-aged children, teens, and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
The Nisonger Center has a variety of programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. Services include clinical support services, specialized dental programs, inclusive childcare and early childhood education, social programs for teens, TOPS post-secondary education and transitional skills program for adult students at OSU, psychiatric services, and more. Contact the center for program details and eligibility.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Administration: (614) 685-3192 or (855) 983-9955
nisonger.osu.edu
Provides developmental occupational therapy (OT), speech and language therapy, and physical therapy (PT) services. Services are provided at the main hospital and at many clinic locations throughout the community, for children from birth to age 21.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-2200
Occupational Therapy: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/occupational-therapy
Speech Pathology: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/speech-pathology
Physical Therapy: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/physical-therapy
Baby sign language is a way for all parents to improve early infant communication and communicate with children before they can speak. This website has free resources including videos, downloadable flash cards, and tutorials.
babysignlanguage.com
Provides expert-based information about early childhood development from preemie/NICU to 6 years old. You can find lots of educational information on developmental milestones, parenting practices, early detection of developmental delays, and more. Resources include free online parenting courses, a free app, developmentally appropriate videos and games for children and families.
Toll-free Parent-Answered National Hotline: (800) 955-2445
pathways.org
Provides developmental evaluations, early intervention, and special education services for children living in Granville, Heath, Licking Valley, North Fork and Johnstown School Districts. They also offer a social-behavioral program for students, ages 2 ½ – 6, with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and/or significant communication and social emotional deficits.
119 Union Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 349-1629
lresc.org/FlyingColorsPreschool.aspx
Serves: Families with children under the age of 6, children with autism or developmental delays
Early childhood educational services for children including early childhood intervention, toddler classes, and home visits. Their preschool program serves a 50:50 ratio of children both with and without developmental delays, a research-based approach aimed at creating inclusive communities. The PLAY Project is an evidence-based, parent-implemented autism intervention for young children. The center also has educational resources for families, training opportunities for professionals, and community events. Find program and enrollment details online.
674 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 253-6933
childhoodleague.org
Agency providing information to reduce recidivism. Find information on visitation, reentry services, and victim services.
4545 Fisher Road, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(614) 387-0588
drc.ohio.gov/reentry
Seeks to improve the health status of Ohio women by identifying issues that affect women’s health and addressing issues such as sexual assault and domestic violence prevention.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/sexual-assault-and-domestic-violence-prevention-program
Support and strengthen Ohio’s response to domestic violence through training, public awareness, and technical assistance and to promote social change through the implementation of public policy. Their website provides a lot of information and community resources. Call their free information line for a referral or information about domestic violence.
1855 East Dublin-Granville, Suite 301, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 781-9651 or (800) 934-9840 Toll-free
odvn.org
This school-based program teaches children how to be advocates for peace through a variety of activities that are fun and engaging. Visit for contact information.
sandyhookpromise.org/our-programs/save-promise-club
Is the juvenile corrections system for the state of Ohio. DYS is statutorily mandated to confine felony offenders, ages 10 to 21. DYS is organized into several divisions that perform or support agency functions including legal services, community engagement and reentry, resources for families and more.
Central Office: 4545 Fisher Road, Suite D, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(614) 466-4314
dys.ohio.gov
Relink Resource Guide: relink.org
Individuals can submit an offense report or accident report immediately through the online reporting system and print a copy of the police report for free. Their website also has information on other police services, recruitment, public safety, and press releases. Citizens can also file a complaint regarding police misconduct or excessive use of force.
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency Police Services: (614) 645-4545
Columbus Police Service Desk: (614) 645-4760
Citizen Complaints: (614) 645-9600
Columbus Division of Police: columbus.gov/police
City of Columbus Inspector General: new.columbus.gov/Government/Inspector-General
Offers 24/7 information, support, and advocacy to young people between the ages of 13 and 26 who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships. They also provide support to concerned friends and family members, teachers, counselors, and other service providers through the same free and confidential services via phone, text, and live chat.
(866) 331-9474 or (866) 331-8453 TTY
Text “loveis” to 22522 to chat with a peer advocate 24/7
loveisrespect.org
Provides many resources for victims of dating violence and stalking.
victimsofcrime.org
This website was created by teens to help prevent relationship violence. This national public education campaign uses digital examples of controlling, pressuring and threatening behavior to raise awareness about and prevent teen dating abuse.
thatsnotcool.com
A primarily volunteer-based organization that serves domestic violence victims and their families through advocacy and referral services. Their website has information for teens and adults living in Ohio.
PO Box 423, Worthington, Ohio 43085
(614) 825-0551 or (888) 622-9315
actionohio.org
Click below to read their resource guide “Love Doesn’t Have to Hurt” for teens about dating abuse.
apa.org/pi/families/resources/love-teens
Provides free and confidential help, information, and referrals for those impacted by domestic violence. Their website provides information on how to identify abuse, safety plan, how to support someone you know experiencing abuse, and resources for perpetrators. They also have resources for finding providers near you, legal help, and specialized programs for the deaf or hard of hearing, teens and young adults, and Native Americans.
Their website provides information on a variety of safety topics, including bicycle safety, burns, poison, transportation, home safety, gun safety, sports and recreation, and more.
nationwidechildrens.org/injury-research-and-policy-injury-topics
Provides information on how to find high quality child care in the community, including steps toward choosing quality child care, ways to help pay and budget for child care, state-by-state resources and more. The website also provides information and resources on starting and operating a successful child care business. Visit the website for additional contact information.
Child Care Referrals, Resources & Information Where You Live: (800) 424-2246
childcareaware.org
Ohio: childcareaware.org/state/ohio
Provides professional development and technical assistance to local child care, early learning, and out of school time programs.
2760 Airport Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 396-5959 or (877) 547-6978 Toll-free
occrra.org
All child care centers in the state of Ohio are licensed by the ODJFS or the Ohio Department of Education (ODE). These websites also provide information on licensing rules, forms and training. Parents can search online for child care providers by location, type of facility and ages of children, its licensing status, its location and the number and ages of children served. Print out the two-page Parent’s Guide to Choosing Safe and Healthy Child Care checklist.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
ODJFS Child Care Help Desk: (877) 302-2347
jfs.ohio.gov/cdc
Licensing Information: jfs.ohio.gov/cdc/providers.stm or education.ohio.gov/Topics/Early-Learning/Preschool-Licensing
Has a national voluntary accreditation program for child care centers who wish to meet quality standards that go above and beyond basic licensing requirements. They also provide research-based resources, tips and ideas for families from child development to reading, writing, music, math and more.
1313 L Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20005
(800) 424-2460
naeyc.org
Provides information, resources and services related to early learning and school readiness. Also, licenses preschool programs and school-age child care operated by schools and educational centers.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Early-Learning
Offers disaster presentations, First Aid, CPR, AED, Basic Life Support (BLS) for health care professionals, babysitting and child care, swimming and water safety and lifeguarding classes/training to the public. Visit their website for a schedule of classes, pricing and registration information.
Central & Southern Ohio Regions:
redcross.org/local/ohio/central-and-southern-ohio.html
redcross.org/take-a-class
A nationally-recognized program developed by pediatricians that provides quality babysitting training programs for youth at many locations throughout Columbus and Ohio. Click to find program locations.
safesitter.org
Provides resources and information for parents and providers on early education, child care, and safe sleep.
aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/healthy-child-care
Provides free information on childcare and early development for parents and caregivers; and professional support for childcare providers. They offer year-round parenting classes for parents with kids of all ages throughout Central Ohio, information about choosing quality childcare, family-focused kindergarten-readiness program, and resources for co-parenting.
78 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-0222 in English & Spanish or (855) 302-4453
actionforchildren.org
afclearning.org
Child Help is a national organization dedicated to eradicating child abuse and neglect. They operate two national hotlines:
Organization Website: childhelp.org
The nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. They operate the National Sexual Assault Hotline, which provides free, confidential support 24/7 through their phone line, online chat, or RAINN mobile app. They also offer an online service provider search tool to find sexual assault mental health providers and organizations by zip code. RAINN also offers educational and professional trainings. Their website has important information on state laws, safety for parents, warning signs in children and teens, bystander intervention, consent, and much more.
24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-4673
24/7 National Sexual Assault Online Chat: hotline.rainn.org/online
Sexual Assault Service Provider Tool: centers.rainn.org
Main Website: rainn.org
IMPACT Safety is a personal safety and violence prevention program through LifeCare Alliance. The program includes safety awareness, emotional skills, boundary setting, and physical self-defense skills. They offer specialized programs for kids, teens, adults, seniors people with disabilities, women of color, businesses, and personalized options. Trainings require a fee, but need-based scholarships are available. Community programs are offered for free several times per year throughout Columbus.
1699 West Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 437-2884
impactsafety.org
Provides statewide advocacy, funding, and educational resources for parents and professionals to prevent child abuse and neglect. Programs include Parent Cafe support groups for parents and free online positive parenting class (Triple P). Browse their website for informational articles related to parenting.
(614) 387-5478 or (614) 722-5305
To report child abuse in Ohio: (855) 642-4453
Triple P: Positive Parenting Program
Central Ohio Website: Regional Prevention Councils/Central
Ohio Children’s Trust Fund Website: octf.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/octf
National organization committed to preventing child sexual abuse. Their website has information on internet safety, youth struggling with harmful sexual behaviors, healthy sexual development, reporting abuse, and more. Their Helpline provides free, confidential support and information to adults concerned about child sex abuse by phone or online Monday-Friday. Youth ages 14-21 can use the WhatsOK Helpline and website.
Stop It Now Helpline: (888) 773-8368
stopitnow.org/get-immediate-help
What’s OK Helpline (Ages 14-21): Call (888) 942-8765 or Text (888) 532-0550
whatsok.org/ask
This advocacy organization helps develop programs, public policy and provider information to prevent shaken baby syndrome. Their website is a good source of information on Shaken Baby Syndrome. They also have a list of resources for families such as support groups, disability resources, and services for victims of crime.
(801) 447-9360
dontshake.org
Their website contains information about Shaken Baby Syndrome, resources for preventing child and elder abuse, and training opportunities. They offer additional supportive services for families in Texas.
(817) 882-8686
shakenbaby.org/what-is-shaken-baby-syndrome
The Community Crime Map improves public safety by making crime tracking technology used by law enforcement available to the public. Anyone can use to tool to find crime data based on location, such as tracking known sex offenders, assault, theft, traffic incidents, and more. You can also use the website to sign up for crime alerts.
communitycrimemap.com/?rms=CrimeTracker10&address=Columbus,OH
The U.S Department of Justice provides the public with access to nationwide sex offender data. Use the NSOPW online search tool to find registered offenders using name or location. The website has information about sexual abuse/assault, recognizing potential warning signs, how to respond, and resources on violence prevention. If you have been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call your local police or contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-4673.
nsopw.gov
This 24/7 national, toll-free hotline provides confidential support for victims of human trafficking every day of the year. Call to get help, report a tip, or get connected to more resources and information. The hotline is available by phone call, text, TTY, or online chat. The website also has great information on recognizing human trafficking, safety planning, and a National Human Trafficking Referral Directory to find services near you.
Call the 24/7 Hotline: (888) 373-7888
Text “BEFREE” or “HELP” to 233733
TTY: 711
humantraffickinghotline.org
This program provides court-appointed volunteers to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, throughout legal proceedings. CASA Volunteers get to know the child and conduct an investigation to understand the child’s situation, in order to make fact-based recommendations to the Juvenile Court about custody, placement, visitation and services that could assist the child or family. Go online to find program specifics or to become a CASA Volunteer.
373 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 525-7450
casa.franklincountyohio.gov
Advocates for and supports child protection program and public policy for safe children, stable families, and supportive communities. They also provide leadership opportunities for young people (aged 14-24) who have experienced foster care. Go online to find resources and information, referrals, and follow-up services to grandparents and other relatives raising children through kinship care.
37 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-5802
pcsao.org
Individuals can report child abuse or neglect in Franklin County through their 24-hour child abuse hotline or visit the office in person. Emergency placement can be provided for at-risk children and teens. When appropriate, temporary placement with relatives, foster homes, or treatment centers are coupled with services to support family reunification and reduce the level of risk to the child. They also provide information about adoptable kids and the adoption process. View the 2024 FCCS Community Resource Guide.
24-hour Child Abuse Hotline: (614) 229-7000
General Questions: (614) 229-7100
childrenservices.franklincountyohio.gov
The nation’s largest child protection organization with many programs and resources for exploited and vulnerable children and families:
Main Website: missingkids.org/home
Helps Franklin County residents find the right places to turn for low cost, alcohol, drug addiction and mental health services by overseeing more than 35 community agencies. These community agencies have a sliding fee scale for services, meaning any Franklin County resident can get needed services and be charged on the basis of income and circumstance. They have a list of support groups on their website as well.
447 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-1057
adamhfranklin.org
Their website has definitions, answers to frequently asked questions, resources, and expert videos related to a wide range of mental health diagnoses (autism, ADHD, depression, and more).
aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Home
Provides tips and strategies for managing stress, communicating with kids, making step families work, controlling anger, information on how psychologist can help you and more.
apa.org/helpcenter
Provides free online information about importance differences in mental health treatments. Parents can search online for local psychologists and psychiatrists for free.
Online Database: findcbt.org
Offers advocacy, pregnancy and postpartum mental health services, support groups for people struggling with various mental health challenges, workplace and community educational programs, professional training and an online resource directory.
2323 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
Mental Health America: (614) 221-1441
Ombudsman Program: (800) 536-5891
mhaohio.org
They have a resource page for families, which has information on topics such as parenting, back to school, coping with stress, sleep disorders, being held back in school and more.
nasponline.org/about-school-psychology/families-and-educators
This national family-run organization provides advocacy at the national level for the rights of children and youth with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges.
ffcmh.org
Provides videos and articles about mental health topics in English and Spanish, including information about medications.
6001 Executive Boulevard, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
(866) 615-6464 or (866) 415-8051 TTY
nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml
Helps Ohioans have access to quality mental health services. Their website has helpful information about mental health problems, accreditation and licensure guidelines, and contact and service information for mental health providers by county.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 275-6364 or (888) 636-4889 TTY (for consumers and families seeking information and referral)
General Questions: (614) 466-2596 or (614) 752-9696 TTY
Ohio Careline: (800) 720-9616
mha.ohio.gov
A community‐based, non‐profit, advocacy organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services.
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org
COGF’s primary purpose is to assist AA groups in Central and Southeastern Ohio in carrying the Alcoholics Anonymous message to those who still suffer from alcoholism.
Program: support group to help alcoholics achieve sobriety and stop drinking
Eligibility: teens and adults, no age or education requirements
Cost: free for anyone
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by an organization
651 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 253-8501 or (800) 242-1729
aacentralohio.org
Provides support and education to improve the lives of people who have depression and bipolar disorder. Find local chapters and support groups on their website.
55 East Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60604
(800) 826-3632 Toll-free
dbsalliance.org
Crisis Information: dbsalliance.org/crisis
Check the website to search for free meetings in your area.
Program: free face-to-face, online and telephone support groups
Eligibility: anyone under the legal age should be accompanied by an adult
Cost: free
Referral: individuals may refer themselves
oa.org/find-a-meeting
Helps kids with behavior problems, ADD/ADHD, autism, bipolar, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, memory disorders and more. Services are available in Columbus, Delaware, Mt. Gilead, Kenton and Dayton. Visit the website for contact information.
Program: individual counseling, psychiatry, medication management and psychological evaluations
Eligibility: ages 6 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Caresource, Molina), no private insurance, no self-pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Corporate Office: 6400 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43213
(614) 367-7700
Main Website: accessoh.com
Locations: accessoh.com/locations
Program: Provides medical/psychiatric care, case management, office-based and school-based counseling programs for teens and adults in need of mental and/or behavioral health care; and substance abuse counseling for adults
Eligibility: age 12 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance on a case-by-case basis and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Intake: (614) 261-3196
northcommunity.com
Program: Provides foster care and adoption parent training, treatment foster care, outpatient mental health services, and intensive home-based treatment focused on anger management, independent living skills, and self-development. Post-adoption services provide clinical counseling and support for adopted children who may be struggling with day to day functioning.
Eligibility: Ages 3 to 18
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
431 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 855-5020
umchohio.org
Offers online help and information for parents raising children and teens affected by depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. Parents can search for psychologists, treatment centers, legal services, support groups and summer camps. They can also participate in online support groups and email questions to the “family response team.” It is a program from Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA).
55 East Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60604
(800) 826-3632
community.dbsalliance.org/
Program: Juvenile court programs, residential treatment, crisis stabilization/intervention and assessment services, treatment foster care, respite care, outpatient behavioral health and substance abuse services, intensive home based treatment, school-based mental health and prevention services
Eligibility: Ages 12 to 18
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance, self-pay with a sliding fee scale
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred through the court system or by an organization
(800) 638-3232
thevillagenetwork.org
Provides leadership, advocacy and programs to promote healthy lives through prevention of drug abuse and related problems.
6171 Huntley Road, Suite G, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 540-9985
preventionactionalliance.org
This national organizations is an advocacy organization committed to representing the millions of Americans in long-term recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs. Visit their website to find resources, information, and personal stories written by those in recovery.
facesandvoicesofrecovery.org
Helps families and injured victims of drunk driving crashes. People can call the free helpline for emotional support, as well as guidance through the criminal justice system. MADD also offers free literature to victims and their families.
5900 Roche Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 885-6233
24-Hour Victim Help Line: (877) 623-3435
madd.org/ohio
This online site helps adolescents ages 11 through 15 (as well as their parents and teachers) learn about drugs and the effects of drug use.
teens.drugabuse.gov
This website offers helpful advice, extensive information about drug and alcohol use, free online trainings, and support groups for parents. Text, call or email the free and confidential helpline. Visit the website for contact information. Support is available in both English and Spanish.
711 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10017
(212) 841-5200
Hotline: Text CONNECT to 55753
drugfree.org/get-support
Provides family-focused mental health treatment and services for behavioral, emotional and substance-abuse disorders to children and families.
Programs: in-home treatment, intensive and non-intensive residential treatment, family and outpatient counseling, foster care services, transitional living services, case management, alternative education day treatment, Permanent Family Solutions Network
Eligibility: ages vary per program
Cost: Fees range depending on the type of care needed, some service costs are offset by Medicaid, or the client’s local Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Board
Referral: For in-home and office-based services, individuals may refer themselves or be referred by their doctor. For residential services, referrals must come from the courts, the county or another referring agency.
(614) 875-2371
Intake/Referral: (614) 384-7798
buckeyeranch.org
Click to search for free meetings in your area.
Program: free face-to-face, online and telephone support groups
Eligibility: all ages
Cost: free
Referral: individuals may refer themselves
faacanhelp.org
Offers various levels of care to support children and teens diagnosed with an eating disorder or disordered eating. Patients are managed by adolescent pediatricians, psychologists, social workers, nurses and dietitians.
Program: medical management, psychopharmacology, office-based individual and parent counseling, nutritional counseling, inpatient medical stabilization
Eligibility: ages 12 to 21
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician
500 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-6300
nationwidechildrens.org/eating-disorders-program
If you think your child has a medical emergency or life-threatening condition, always call 911. If you think someone is poisoned, call the Central Ohio Poison Center at (800) 222-1222. Visit online for closest NCH urgent care locations.
Program: Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Emergency Department, Pediatric Poison Center
Eligibility: birth to age 21
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay
Referral: open and available for walk-ins 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0221
Central Ohio Poison Center: (800) 222-1222
Locations: nationwidechildrens.org/emergency-services
Supports individuals and families experiencing violence, including; child abuse and neglect, teen dating abuse, domestic violence and elder abuse. Services include:
655 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
General: (614) 722-8200
familysafetyandhealing.org
Program: intensive residential treatment facility for adolescents with severe drug and alcohol problems, individual and group counseling, family therapy, case management, on-campus school program, no psychiatry, no inpatient detox programs
Eligibility: age 13 to 18
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
224 Columbus Road, Athens, Ohio 45701
(740) 594-8108
hrs.org/bassett-house
Program: support groups throughout central Ohio for clean addicts and active users
Eligibility: no age or education requirements, some groups are specialized (meeting definitions are provided on the website)
Cost: free for anyone
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by an organization
1313 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 252-1700
nacentralohio.org
Program: education program (YES) for children ages 7 to 12 whose lives have been affected by alcohol or drugs
Eligibility: ages 7 to 12 in Columbus City Schools and other select community sites
Cost: free
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/alcohol-and-drug-abuse/y-e-s—-you’re-extra-special
Columbus Public Health Alcohol & Drug Prevention & Treatment Services: columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/alcohol-and-drug-abuse
Program: Offers office-based, online and phone-based counseling for general mental health problems (ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, behavior problems, depression and more), teen counseling, marriage and family counseling, divorce and separation, trauma/PTSD, anger management, play therapy, grief and loss, parenting, substance abuse counseling, no psychiatry
Eligibility: age 3 and older
Cost: self-pay only (sliding scale fees based on income), no government insurance, no private insurance (although patients may choose to bill their insurance company themselves)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else
1480 Manning Parkway Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 888-9200
directionscounseling.com
Specializes in the treatment of people who are dependent on/addicted to drugs and alcohol.
Program: inpatient, outpatient and group substance abuse counseling, gender-based stabilization center, family recovery housing and support for pregnant women; homeless services, gambling addiction treatment, family counseling; mental health treatment (including psychiatry), and medically assisted treatment for those struggling from opioid addiction
Eligibility: age 13 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
(614) 445-8131
maryhaven.com
Program: weekly support groups throughout central Ohio for family members and friends who know or have known a feeling of desperation due to the addiction problem of someone close to them
Eligibility: no age or education requirements
Cost: free for anyone
Referral: no referral needed
(800) 477-6291 Toll-free
nar-anon.org
Find a Meeting: nar-anon.org/find-a-meeting
Program: Provides mental health and substance abuse counseling (individual and group) and psychiatry.
Eligibility: children, teens and adults
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), occasionally self-pay, no private insurance
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Program: Offers outpatient mental health, trauma, grief and other behavioral health counseling; case management services, school-based therapeutic intervention and prevention services; intensive outpatient program for substance use disorder. They also offer mentoring, integrated primary care, Help Me Grow and more.
Eligibility: age 4 and older, but varies depending on the program
Cost: Medicaid, private insurance, self-pay, sliding fee scale for uninsured Franklin County residents
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization. Visit the website for intake forms.
New Clients: (614) 889-5722, ext. 133
syntero.org
Program: office-based substance abuse counseling, crisis management, inpatient and intensive services for adults, adult detox services
Eligibility: age 18 and older
Cost: private insurance, no self-pay, limited acceptance of government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician
(614) 257-3760
wexnermedical.osu.edu/mental-behavioral/addiction-drugs
Program: individual and group intensive office-based counseling for women dependent on alcohol or drugs, housing for adult women and their children who are homeless and dependent on alcohol or drugs.
Eligibility: females (no males), age 18 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by an organization
455 East Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 242-1284
alvis180.org/services/recovery-services/amethyst
Program: offers medically assisted treatment (MAT) programs (methadone, buprenorphine/suboxone, and naltrexone/vivitrol), outpatient treatment gender-specific programs, group counseling, residential alcohol and drug treatment programs, pregnancy and parenting support, and an HIV early intervention program
Eligibility: age 18 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), self-pay, no private insurance
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Main Building: 547 East Eleventh Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
Fields Building: 1420 Fields Avenue Columbus, Ohio 43211
Youth to Youth/Prevention Building: 118 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-4506
compdrug.org
Program: psychiatric and medical services, outpatient drug and alcohol treatment, permanent supportive housing, counseling; suicide prevention, free support groups and respite care; school-based prevention programs for students in the Westerville, New Albany, Groveport Madison and Gahanna-Jefferson school districts
Eligibility: ages 3-17, and ages 18 and older for substance abuse counseling
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else
700 Brooksedge Boulevard, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Program: Office-based individual and group abstinence-based alcohol and drug counseling, marijuana group counseling, domestic violence counseling (for offenders), mental health counseling for people with drug or alcohol abuse issues, drug testing, anger management program for adults; they also provide support to DUI offenders in fulfilling their court assigned responsibilities and DUI weekend programs
Eligibility: Age 18 and older
Cost: Self-pay only
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else
1364 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43207
(614) 445-0352
ohio-dip.com
Program: residential programs (sober living housing), outpatient counseling for adults who are dependent or abuse alcohol and drugs, assessments, individual counseling, group counseling, awareness groups, opiate recovery program and case management
Eligibility: age 18 and older (males only for the residential program)
Cost: sliding fee scale with proof of employment, government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by an organization
825 Dennison Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 291-4691
Program for Men on Vivitrol: (614) 443-2777
hofhope.org
Program: Provides medical detox services, residential services, and intensive office-based substance abuse counseling.
Eligibility: age 18 and older
Cost: private insurance, self-pay, no government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by an organization
349 Olde Ridenour Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 858-3197
thewoodsatparkside.com
Provides free counseling for people age 18 and older residing in Franklin County.
Program: office-based counseling, no psychiatry services, no substance abuse counseling
Eligibility: age 18 and older (under 18 with parent or guardian present)
Cost: free for those who are unable to pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else
2323 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 242-4357
mhafc.org/get-help/pro-bono-counseling
Program: Offers an array of therapeutic services for youth and families including; foster parent training, kinship care and adoption support, community-based and home-based behavioral/mental health services, group living care, independent and transitional living services, case management, substance abuse treatment, services for sexually reactive children, and services for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
Eligibility: Ages 5 to 21
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by someone else
Program: inpatient emergency stabilization and hospitalization for children and teens with problems such as severe mood disorders, suicide risk, psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorders and anxiety disorders; office-based individual and group counseling, family counseling, psychological evaluations, psychiatry; substance abuse and eating disorder counseling
Eligibility: age 3 and older
Cost: private insurance, self-pay, some government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource) depending on availability
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Ohio State University (OSU) Harding Hospital
1670 Upham Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 293-9600
wexnermedical.osu.edu/mental-behavioral
Program: Provides individual and group counseling and psychiatric care, early intervention services, suicide prevention, and limited substance abuse counseling.
Eligibility: age 6 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Program: Provides a wide-ranging provider of primary and dental care, group and individual counseling for youth with mental health and substance abuse problems, outpatient services, psychiatry and case management. They offer services in multiple counties in Ohio.
Eligibility: age 3 and older
Cost: government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), private insurance and self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income)
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician
16 West Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 225–0990 or 711 for Relay Service (TTY)southeasthc.org/Franklin County Locations: southeasthc.org/locations/franklin-county/Additional County Locations: southeasthc.org/locations/
This faith-based organization offers low-cost counseling at many locations throughout Columbus. They also have licensed counselors who see kids with anxiety issues, behavior problems, depression, ADHD, stress, anger issues and more. Their student interns see clients at very reduced rates as part of their training in their masters program, under the supervision of licensed counselors.
Program: clinical individual and family counseling and coaching, psychological assessments, help with referrals to community services, no psychiatry services or medication management
Eligibility: age 5 and older
Cost: many private insurances, self-pay at very reduced rates (sliding scale fees based on income), no government insurance
Referral: individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician or organization
Intake: (614) 538-0353
wellspringcolumbus.org
Offers several summer programs for kids and adults with any disability. The children’s overnight camp is geared towards children with disabilities aged 6-17. Several day camps are offered for campers ages 6-21. Adults can participate in Adult Summer Camp and weekend retreats throughout the year. They also offer respite care for days off school.
4460 Rex Lake Drive, Akron, Ohio 44319
(330) 644-4512
gotcamp.org/akron-rotary-camp
Hosts a variety of programs for individuals ages 6-29, with a focus on those living with ASD, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, and other neurodiversities. Programs include summer camps, weekend respite programs for ages 8-18, Life Skills camp for ages 18-29 to grow independent living skills, and outdoor experiential learning courses.
1077 Township Road 2916, Perrysville, Ohio 44864
(419) 938-7151
nuhop.org/camp-nuhop
Provides a free outdoor adventure camp experience for children with serious illnesses ages 7-21, and their families. They provide a medically safe environment with a staff of volunteer healthcare professionals, and camp activities like crafts, campfires, archery, swimming, and more. Family Camp is open to families of children with a wide variety of diagnoses such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, developmental differences, and more. They also have virtual camp experiences, camps for Mental Health diagnoses, and Siblings. Professionals can find volunteer and Child Life Practicum opportunities.
5260 State Route 95, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338
(419) 751-7077
flyinghorsefarms.org
Soccer academy that places value on children’s holistic development and enjoyment of the sport before competition. They offer classes starting from age 2 all the way up to adults. They also offer open gym events, specialized athletic training, and party hosting.
330 West Case Street, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 470-5522
lockersoccer.com
Health organization serving people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. The website has great information on various diseases and treatments, a searchable directory to find care providers across the country, resources on research and joining a clinical study, and community education materials. They host an annual summer camp for kids and young adults with neuromuscular disease at no cost to families, with in-person and virtual options. Families can call the Resource Center for one-to-one support and help finding resources.
1016 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60607
Corporate Office: (800) 572 1717
Resource Center: (833) 275-6321
mda.org
Volunteer organization serving kids in Northwest Columbus. They host several youth soccer programs, including Kiwanis Soccer Buddies for children K-6 with special needs. They also volunteer for habitat restoration at Upper Arlington parks, host Aktion Club for adults with disabilities, and award college scholarships to high school students with or without a documented disability. Find program details and contact information online.
northwestkiwanis.com
Serves: Children, Teens, Adults, and Families with developmental disabilities and health concerns, Ages 5-23 depending on the program.
Provides a camping experience for individuals with developmental disabilities and health concerns. They offer year-round weekend respite camps, summer and winter residential camps, and summer day camps for children and adults. They also offer specialized camps for individuals with autism, Prader-Willi syndrome, military families and more. Contact the organization directly for pricing information, scholarships are available.
7700 Piper Road, Ashley, Ohio 43003
(740) 548-7006
recreationunlimited.org
2024 Camp Dates: recreationunlimited.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-dates.pdf
Nonprofit working to raise awareness, advance research, and provide support to patients and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. Find health information for kids, families, and professionals, toolkits on topics like bullying and transition to adult care, online events, and information on research and clinical trials. They also have online support groups for parents, teens, LGBTQ+, and Spanish-speaking community members.
42-40 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, New York 11361
(888) 486-8738
tourette.org
A week-long summer program offered to young women entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply and show above average academic standing to be considered. Find program details online.
PO Box 2760, Zanesville, Ohio 43702
(740) 452-8245
buckeyegirlsstate.org
A week-long summer program offered to young men entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply and show above average academic standing to be considered. Find application details online.
(740) 362-7478
ohiolegion.com/programs/buckeye-boys-state
Provides programs for teens who are interested in leadership and international issues. The programs are offered through the students’ local high school. Contact for more information.
51 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 229-4599
columbusworldaffairs.org
Teen volunteers work in many areas, including the information desk, gift shop, sibling Clubhouse, clinic waiting rooms, Close to Home Centers and in office settings. Teens must be 15 and in high school to participate, and opportunities are available during the school year and summer.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-3635
nationwidechildrens.org/teen-volunteers
Volunteen College Scholarship: nationwidechildrens.org/giving/ways-to-give/volunteering/current-volunteers/teen-volunteer-scholarship
Volunteering for college students, adults, and groups: nationwidechildrens.org/giving/ways-to-give/volunteering
An intensive, multi-week, residential program for high school juniors from limited-income backgrounds with an interest in journalism. The cost is free, including housing, meals, and travel to and from Princeton. Go online for eligibility and application information.
36 University Place, Princeton, NJ 08544
609-258-0219
psjp.princeton.edu
Nature center providing vital education services in downtown Columbus, Ohio. The center is pet-friendly, public space and admission is always free. They host regular STEAM programming and events for all ages, including bird walks, preschool story time, and art shows. They offer day summer camps for grades PreK-6, with limited scholarships available.
505 West Whittier Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 545-5475
grange.audubon.org
The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium offers several educational opportunities for youth. They offer week-long day camps for Grades 1-7, with optional extended care for an additional fee. The 4-day and 4-week summer camps are for ages 3-entering Kindergarten. youth participate in a variety of activities designed to have fun and promote environmental awareness, including hands-on animal experiences. ZooKids is a preschool program for ages 3-5 multiples days per week during the school year. They also offer Dayventures and Summer Camps at The Wilds conservation center in Cumberland, Ohio. Scholarships are available.
This summer program offers college-level experiences in medicine and research to motivated and high-achieving high school students. Students explore career options, attend lectures, and complete projects investigating diseases. The top student from the program is given the opportunity to participate in an internship at Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Students must apply for the program and there is a program fee, find details online.
575 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0662
nationwidechildrens.org/mechanisms-of-human-health-and-disease
This free program exposes high school students to the scientific method and careers in medical research during the summer. Students can register to attend free in-person or virtual classes exploring careers in medical research.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0589
nationwidechildrens.org/young-scientist-series
Non-profit providing high-quality computer science and IT learning experience for students K-12 at multiple locations across the country. Students explore math, science, and technology through hands-on activities at their Techie Camps, Clubs, and Workshops. They also provide workshops and opportunities for professionals. Their website also has free activities and lesson plans for students or teachers to print and complete at home.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 583-9211
techcorps.org
Find camp programs nationally accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). Families can search for a camp according to age, location, activities, special needs, cost and more. Their website also has resources on preparing for camp, questions to ask a camp director, and more.
(800) 428-2267
find.acacamps.org
An online summer camp directory with camps in the U.S. and worldwide. Camps are organized by category, including sports, academic, adventure, religious, arts and special needs. You can also search for camps by state, age group, and overnight versus day camp.
kidscamps.com
OAN is part of a nationwide network serving families and professionals in afterschool and summer learning. Their website has tools like quality guidelines for professionals, and STEM education toolkits. Families can use the Find a Program interactive map to find afterschool and summer programs in Ohio based on location.
1003 Kinnear Road, Columbus, OH 43212
(833) 626-6446
oanohio.org/find-a-program
Professional ballet troupe offering year-round performances and dance education. They offer various summer camps and classes for toddlers, children, and adults of all skills levels to learn creative movement, ballet, jazz, modern/contemporary, tap, yoga, and more. They also offer intensive learning experiences for advanced dancers. Scholarships are available and some classes are free for the community. Find program details and register online.
Main Office: (614) 229-4860
Free Soar on Saturdays Classes with King Arts Complex: (614) 586-8635
balletmet.org
Offers Creative Summer Workshops for adults and Grades 1-12 to explore their creativity and receive professional art instruction. Classes include art and design, botanical art, printmaking, fashion design, animation, comics, and much more. They also offer Saturday Morning Art Classes for Grades 1-12, and a Pre-College Art residential program for students Grades 10-12 to earn college credit and receive mentorship. Scholarships are available. Register online.
60 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-9101
ccad.edu/take-class/youth-classes-workshops
Offers exhibitions, events, and classes for the community. Veterans and families who receive SNAP/food vouchers, WIC, or Medicaid receive free admission, including special exhibitions. Families can also access free tickets through Columbus Metropolitan Library Culture Passes, Free Admission Sundays, or $5 tickets on Thursday evenings. They offer Open Studio hours for youth every Saturday, Homeschool Workshops for Grades 1-8, Studio Thinking Workshops for Grades K-12, and Summer Art Workshops for Grades 1-5.
480 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-6801
columbusmuseum.org
Connecting community through the arts, they offer visual and performing arts summer camp and “school break” camps in the spring and winter for children ages 5 to 13. They also host community events, such as the Heritage Music Festival, MLK Day Open House and art exhibits at their Elijah Pierce Gallery.
835 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 645-5464
kingartscomplex.com
Nonprofit literary arts center in Columbus offering community events, creative writing workshops and classes, publishing opportunities, and more. Youth programs include Summer Writing Camp for grades 2-9, Young Docents for grades 5-6, Young Writers’ Studio for high schoolers, and Flip the Page Teen Literary Journal. Scholarships are available for students needing financial assistance.
Thurber Center Program Space: 91 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Thurber House Historic Museum: 77 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 464-1032
thurberhouse.org
An open studio for youth ages 12 to 21. They offer mentoring opportunities, opportunities to perform and exhibit artwork throughout Columbus, and free workshops in performing, visual, writing, or media arts. Visit the website for additional contact information.
Summer program for high school students interested in business, entrepreneurship, and career exploration. Students stay on a college campus for one week. Daily activities revolve around small group “companies” where students develop a unique service or product to solve a real-world business problem with peers. Students also hear from consultants and professionals throughout the week, and pitch their ideas to prospective investors. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
583 Franklin Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 488-6327
ohiobusinessweek.org
Offers a variety of faith-based summer camps for Grades 1-12, high school graduates, and families. L.I.F.E. guard is a service-based faith experience for recent high school graduates. Akita Backcountry is an outdoor education camp experience for grades 9-12. Financial assistance and payment plans are available. Go online for full program details and to register.
29746 Logan-Hornsmill Road, Logan, Ohio 43138
(614) 488-0681, ext. 101
campakita.org/summer
A faith-based, non-profit organization that provides various services including a food pantry, free hot lunches, dental clinic, and vision clinic. Their after school program includes academic, spiritual, and emotional support for K-6 students. Transportation is provided from five local schools, but kids from any school district are welcome. They also offer scholarships for graduating seniors at South High School to pursue college or vocational training. The Stowe Pregnancy Resource Center offers free ultrasounds, pregnancy tests, and consultation.
888 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 445-8400
stowemission.org
Stowe Pregnancy Resource Center:
(614) 620-7286
stoweprc.org
A four-day summer day camp for children and youth ages of 6-17 who have lost a loved one. The goal is to help kids survive the bereavement journey with skills, caring, and friendships to support them along the way. Camp Hope is open to the public. The camp is sponsored by Hospice of North Central Ohio (covering Ashland, Knox and Richland counties).
1021 Dauch Drive, Ashland, Ohio 44805
(800) 952-2207
hospiceofnorthcentralohio.org/types-of-care/bereavement-care
Independent school for Pre-K through 12th grade. They offer after school programs and their Summer Program is open to all families. The Summer Program offers half-day or full-day experiences, with after-care options. Camp offerings include creative and performing arts, athletics, STEM, and more. Participants do not have to be Wellington School students. Fees vary by camp and are due at time of registration.
3650 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 457-7883
wellington.org/summer
Facilities at Ohio State University for indoor and outdoor recreation. OSU students can find information on fitness classes, disability accommodations, and more. Offerings open to the community include Red Cross swim classes and Camp Recky, a sports and recreation summer camp for ages 6-13.
337 Annie & John Glenn Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-7671
recsports.osu.edu
Helps girls build strong self-esteem and learn skills such as financial literacy, teamwork, respect for the environment, and appreciation of the arts. Girl Scouts is open to girls ages 5-17 and includes after school programs, summer camps, and service project opportunities. Adults can volunteer as troop leaders or seasonally. Go online for full program and registration details.
Girls Scouts Ohio: gsoh.org
Girl Scouts National: girlscouts.org
Independent country day school providing education and programs for grades Pre-K -12. Their Summer Experience offers 8 weeks of programming, and participants do not have to be Columbus Academy students. Programs include nature exploration, sports clinics, academics, swimming, arts, cooking, and more. Go online for registration details and fees.
4300 Cherry Bottom Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
General Information: (614) 475-2311
Summer Experience: (614) 509-2267
columbusacademy.org/summer
Offers overnight camps and day camps in Hocking Hills and Galena, Ohio for youth entering grades 2-12. Camps include activities such as outdoor skills, hiking, crafts, swimming, archery, natural plants/animals/geology, and special themed programs. Go online for registration details and fees.
4400 North High Street Columbus, OH 43214
(614) 481-8227
campwyandot.org
The Simon Kenton Council is the Boy Scout chapter for 18 counties in central and southern Ohio. Their flagship scouting programs offer personal development, outdoor skills, and community service for boys and girls from grades K-12. They also offer specialized programs for ages 14-20, camps for adult scouts, and a summer STEM day camp. Scholarships are available for most programs. Go online for program and registration details.
807 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 436-7200
Simon Kenton Council: skcscouts.org
Boy Scouts of America National: scouting.org
Faith-based community center serving the Linden-area community. Programs include rental and utility assistance, childcare for children 6 weeks to 5 years at Christ Child Early Learning Center, afterschool and summer programs, Kinship Aftercare, Family to Family empowerment program for families with open cases with FCCS, senior food and transportation, and more. They are also a Mid-Ohio Market site, providing a food pantry with Mid-Ohio Food Bank. Find program details online.
1500 East Seventeenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 294-6347
saintstephensch.org
Offers free adult education classes (GED preparation, ESOL, job training, computer skills), community engagement programs, and youth programming (after school homework help, mentoring, summer programs, and TEEN career exploration program).
195 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org
Non-profit offering school-based mentoring to youth in grades K-3 at Stevenson Elementary in Grandview Heights and Greensview Elementary in Upper Arlington. The weekly program is run by their Mentoring Coordinator and volunteer teenage mentors. TVML awards two college scholarships each year to volunteer mentors who are graduating seniors from Grandview and Upper Arlington.
3600 Tremont Road, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 255-7942
tvml.org
A neighborhood-based community center that serves the near east and near south neighborhoods of Columbus, Ohio. Programs for families include soft skills training, employment assistance, financial education training, emergency housing/rent assistance, nutrition programs, utility services, health care, parenting workshops and more. They partner with Columbus Early Learning Centers to provide childcare. Programs for youth include after-school, summer day camp for kids ages 5-13, and the TRANSIT ARTS center which provides free music and art classes. Village Central Senior Program helps adults ages 60 and older maintain independence and combat isolation by providing transportation services, wellness programs, home repairs, organized social events, community engagement and more. They also have a business training program called ACE, Academy for Community Entrepreneurs.
1150 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Front Desk/Intake: (614) 252-3157
Village Central Senior Program: (614) 545-2703
TRANSIT ARTS: (614) 732-0198
cchouse.org
Free program for children K-8 to get homework help, tutoring, a nutritious snack, and recreation activities. The Capital Kids program is hosted at four Community Centers. Go online to register.
Beatty Community Center: (614) 645-3218
Feddersen Community Center: (614) 645-3083
Marion Franklin Community Center: (614) 645-3160
Sullivant Gardens Community Center: (614) 645-8171
columbusrecparks.com/community/capital-kids
Columbus community Recreation & Parks centers open for extended hours during Columbus Public Schools’ spring, fall and winter breaks. The program allows youth to take part in a variety of activities during the day, to help meet the needs of working parents. Go online for registration details.
columbus.gov/SchoolsOut
Offers one-to-one community-based and school-based mentoring programs, as well as week-long, overnight camps during the summer for youth. Visit the website or call for program details and to enroll a child.
Central Ohio: 1855 East Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 839-2447
Ohio Offices: bbbsohio.org/locations
bbbscentralohio.org
Provides free after school programs for elementary and middle-school aged youth in Columbus and Toledo, Ohio. Programs include academics, enrichment activities, and health and fitness. ASAS provides programs at specific Columbus City and Toledo Public Schools, go online for locations.
(614) 257-1678
ASAS Ohio: asasohio.org
Locations: asasohio.org/who-we-are/locations
Nationally-acclaimed club providing after-school and summer programming for youth 5-18. Programs are oriented around Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Character & Leadership, and Mental Health & Wellbeing. Club members have access to tutoring, gym space, teen-specific areas, field trips, career-readiness opportunities, and mentoring. Go online for a full list of locations, including Newark, 3 Marion Clubs, and 8 Columbus Clubs.
(614) 221-8830
bgccentralohio.org