A nationwide network of volunteer pilot organizations providing free air transportation. Their main offering is non-emergency medical transportation for patients and families needing to access distant medical care. Specialized flights are also available for youth fun & education, access to gender-affirming care, and animal rescue. Browse the Directory to contact a specific organization, or fill out the online referral form to get started.
aircarealliance.org
Regional public transit provider for greater Columbus and Central Ohio. Riders can use the Transit app, pay exact change, or purchase a physical pass at a COTA office or vending machine to ride. Rides are free on days the National Weather Service has issued a heat or cold advisory or warning. Visit the website for routes, fares and program details. They offer several programs to help make transportation accessible:
COTA Customer Experience Center: 33 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 228-1776
Mobility Services Office: 1330 Fields Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 275-5833
cota.com
Provides services to help youth experiencing homelessness access public education and remove barriers to attendance. Services include help with school enrollment, transportation coordination, school supplies, and more. Go online for full program and eligibility details.
(614) 365-5140
ccsoh.us/Page/10778
Provides car seats and booster seats at a reduced cost to income-eligible families in Franklin County. Visit the website to schedule an appointment. Families outside of Franklin County can visit the Safe Kids website to find car seat assistance and inspection programs.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-7748
Columbus Public Health Website: cphsystems.org/car-seats
Find Other Safe Kids Programs: safekids.org/find-your-safe-kids
This church provides several important community programs in the Merion Village neighborhood of Columbus, along with worship services. Programs include daily Fresh Markets with free produce for income-eligible individuals, nutrition education, free health and wellness classes, community events, an after-school program at Lincoln Park Elementary, Free Store, and ID 4 All People.
Fresh Market Website: heal4allpeople.org/all-people-s-fresh-market
Main Website: 4allpeople.org
Offers financial assistance for families who need financial help due to their child’s medical needs. Includes help with utility/rent bills, meal expenses while at the hospital, gas expenses for travel to and from hospital or doctor visits, non-covered medical expenses, non-covered supplies that would aid the child in their treatment and funeral expenses related to the death of a child. Go online for additional contact information and to apply for assistance.
PO Box 1981, Pompano Beach, Florida 33061
(954) 857-9059
thedomorefoundation.org
Healthcare provider specializing in good health for those at risk or affected by HIV, the LGBTQ+ community, and those seeking a welcoming healthcare home. Services include free, anonymous testing for HIV/AIDS and other STIs (syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia), primary and specialized medical care, behavioral health, dentistry, pharmacy, HIV/STI prevention programs, Ryan White/HIV case management, gender affirming care, and care navigation/linkage to other services such as housing and legal help. They accept most insurances, including Medicaid, and offer a sliding fee discount for income-eligible patients. Qualifying patients may also request assistance with transportation to appointments.
(833) 378-4827
equitashealth.com
Offers faith-based community outreach programs. All are welcome for a free community breakfast on Sunday mornings and for Thursday night dinner and fellowship. They also host a free monthly bike shop for all ages to learn how to repair and rebuilt bikes.
1015 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 252-3191
felccolumbus.com/community
Provides financial, medical, and social service programs in Franklin County. Programs include cash assistance (Ohio Works First, LEAP), help paying for child care, food assistance (Ohio Direction Card/SNAP/EBT, WIC), medical assistance (Medicaid, Healthy Start), and Ohio Means Jobs assistance for job seekers. Emergency Assistance (PRC) funds may be requested for a maximum of $2,000 to use towards overdue rent and utility bills, car repairs; or damages as a result of a natural disaster, housefire, or flood. Visit the website to view specific eligibility requirements for each program, and to start your application. People outside of Franklin County should visit their local county Department of Job and Family Services.
(614) 233-2000
Customer Access Center: (844) 640-6446
Medicaid Transportation: (614) 233-2381
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
Workforce Development: (614) 212-1800
Ohio Direction EBT Card Assistance: (866) 386-3071
Find Your Local ODJFS Office: jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory
Self-Service Ohio Benefits Portal (Apply Here): ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Franklin County One Door Services: cap4kids.org/columbus/franklin-county-one-door
Main Website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov
Transportation services are provided to non-emergency medical appointments for disabled children and adults on Medicaid. Families may use the transportation services multiple times once they are approved. Call the number below to get started.
314 North Wilson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 233-2381
jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/medical-support-services
A community bike shop specializing in bicycle repair and refurbishment. The Open Shop provides access to work stations and tools for ages 16+ to come and repair their bike for free, with help from volunteer mechanics. They sell new, used, and electric bikes at a variety of price points, and new and used bike parts at an affordable rate. They also offer free bike maintenance courses and programs for youth. Visit the website for shop hours or to shop online.
897 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43222
(614) 228-1852
franklintoncycleworks.org
Non-profit providing free, donated vehicles to families at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Recipients must cover tag/title/registration fees, insurance, and are responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the vehicle. The charity does not have inventory and distributes cars as they are donated, so there may be considerable wait time. Go online and fill out the Vehicle Request Form to request help. You can also use the website to donate your vehicle or contact the organization.
freecharitycars.org
In Ohio, most individuals who have Medicaid must join a Managed Care Plan (MCP) to receive their health care. These plans provide a toll-free Member Services phoneline for help coordinating care for individuals with special health care needs, medical advice, transportation, and other plan benefits. Ohio has a general hotline for advice about all managed care plans.
Ohio Medicaid 24/7 Hotline: (800) 324-8680
medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/srvcs/transportation
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
Serves those struggling with homelessness and/or substance use on the west side of Columbus. Services include daily meals and Narcan distribution, clothing, documentation/ID assistance, laundry and shower services, cooling and heating stations, bicycle program, and additional wraparound services.
342 North Hague Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(380) 219-8950
jordanscrossingcolumbus.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 for programs in Fairfield County. The LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to food pantries and other social services across Franklin County and Ohio.
Provides non-emergency, long-distance ground transportation for patients traveling for treatment. Patients must be ambulatory and meet income guidelines. Patients may receive gas cards, bus, train, or airline tickets. Trips within a local area or community is typically not handled, but exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis. Visit the website for contact information.
101 West Main Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510
mercymedical.org
Provides free commercial airline tickets for children and their families traveling for specialized medical care within the United States. Families must meet financial guidelines, have a child under the age of 17 seeking medical care, and have a confirmed medical appointment scheduled at least 14 days in advance to qualify. All flyers must be able to safely board and travel on a commercial airline. Approved families may receive up to 2 round-trip flights per month during the course of treatment. They also offer flights for service dog training and retrieval. Visit the website for details and to complete an online application.
5740 South Eastern Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
(800) 359-1711 or (702) 261-0494
miracleflights.org
MORPC is responsible for the Central Ohio region’s transportation planning process. Visit the website to find information on current policy updates, find a community forum, and information for bicycle commuters. The commission offers consulting services for local communities to navigate zoning codes and long-term development activities. They also offer free home weatherization services for income-eligible households to make efficiency improvements such as replacing a furnace, insulation, home energy inspection, and appliance safety checks. Use the link below to sign up for Air Quality alerts by email or text to stay informed when pollution levels are high.
111 Liberty Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Main Office: (614) 228-2663
Home Repair & Energy Efficiency Services: (614) 621-1171
Main Website: morpc.org
Sign Up for Air Quality Alerts: mailchi.mp/1d5b539be321/air_alerts
Columbus Metro Bike User Map: public-morpc.hub.arcgis.com/apps/38c3354989eb436184e41803fcabda7d/explore
Ohio Medicaid waivers help eligible customers with disabilities or chronic health conditions pay for healthcare costs and access care at home or in the community rather than a long-term care facility. Covered services may include personal care, transportation, respite services, supported employment, nutrition services, assistive devices, home modifications and interpreter services. Each state has its own waiver program has its own programs with different eligibility requirements, and there is typically a waiting list. Contact your local Board of Developmental Disabilities or Department of Job and Family Services to start the waiver application process.
Job & Family Services Offices: cap4kids.org/columbus/franklin-county-jfs
County Boards of Developmental Disabilities Offices: cap4kids.org/columbus/department-of-developmental-disabilities
Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities Service Coordination Department: (614) 464-2743
Franklin County Job and Family Services: (844) 640-6446
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website has information on parks, trails, state park lodges, and historic places to explore throughout Ohio. Find upcoming events, hunting licenses and regulations, safety tips, or make a camping reservation. Use the Ohio Trails Partnership Map to find out where to go hiking, biking, birding, paddling, and horseback riding in Ohio.
ohiodnr.gov/home
Located inside Indian Run United Methodist Church, One Dublin offers programs to families temporarily in need. Families must live in the Dublin City School district to receive services. Programs include Adopt-A-Family/Adopt-A-Senior, a community free shop for clothing and hygiene items, mattresses and household items as available, and school supplies. Emergency household assistance is available for utilities, medical expenses, or transportation assistance. Transportation assistance can be used for car payments, uber cards, or bus passes but not car repairs. Referral is required, and assistance is not provided for car repairs or rent/housing.
Mailing Address: 7032 Hospital Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43016
Call or text: (614) 726-6958
one-dublin.org
Provides grants to help cover clinical, equipment, displacement, and vehicle modification costs related to children’s healthcare needs. They also provide Care Kits with age-appropriate personal care and comfort items for children going through life challenges such as foster care. Requests can be made through their website.
(816) 201-1569
oraclehealthfoundation.org/pediatric-grants
Provides free, private air transportation for patients seeking care from a medical center 2+ hours away from home. Volunteer pilots provide flights for the duration of treatment, and can fly to states east of the Mississippi River. Patients must be ambulatory and be able to get in and out of a small aircraft with limited assistance. Families arrange and pay for local ground transportation to the departure location. Non-medical, “compassion flights” may be accepted on a case by case basis. PALS for Patriots provides free air transportation for military personnel and veterans to support their well-being and healing process. Visit the website to request a flight.
7110 Republic Airport, Farmingdale, New York 11735
(888) 818-1231
skyhope.org
1st Advanced EMS
Provides 24/7 emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. Services include wheelchair, stretcher, and long distance transport.
723 North James Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 348-9991
1stadvems.com
AmeriKare Ambulance
Provides emergency and non-emergency transportation 24/7 in Central Ohio. Services include long-distance, wheelchair, and stretcher transport.
3877 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43227
(614) 626-0466
myamerikare.com
Courtesy Ambulance
Provides 24/7 emergency and non-emergency medical transportation in Licking County, Ohio. Services include wheelchair and stretcher transport.
1890 West Main Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 522-8588
courtesyambulance.com
Critical Care Transport
Provides EMS services to any patient regardless of acuity.
2936 East Fourteenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 775-0564
criticalcaretransport.net
ValueCare Ambulance Service
Provides 24/7 emergency and non-emergency ambulance/medical transportation. Services include wheelchair and stretcher transportation. Their service area includes almost all of Ohio, and they have several locations across the state.
2572 Setter Court, Lancaster, Ohio, 43130
valuecareambulance.com
Note: CAP4Kids cannot recommend or endorse any specific company. We encourage families to carefully review and evaluate all services.
Charitable organization helping Central Ohio refugees with vehicle ownership. They accept donations and will repair or sell donated vehicles. Services for refugee clients include matching up to $4,000 towards a vehicle, assistance with inspections and the vehicle-buying process, driver training, insurance support, limited warranty on vehicles, and roadside assistance. Clients must be referred to the organization through a Central Ohio resettlement agency and meet restricted-income guidelines. Call or go online for details.
PO Box 34105, Columbus, Ohio 43234
(614) 706-6123
rides4refugees.us
Provides low-interest loans for one-time expenses to individuals living in Coshocton, Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Hardin, Knox, Licking, Ross, or Union County. Loans are for expenses such as a car repair, home repair, education, and medical expenses not covered by insurance. They do not provide loans for expenses such as rent, food, or utilities. All applicants will be contacted by Microloan leaders who will help determine eligibility for a loan, coordinate with recipients and a local credit union, and connect applicants to local financial education workshops.
197 East Gay Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 285-4473 or (614) 221-3554
svdpcolumbus.org/microloan_mission
Contact for Delaware, Fairfield, Knox, Licking and Ross County: svdpcolumbus.org/contact_info
Note: CAP4Kids does not recommend or endorse any specific company. We encourage families to carefully review and evaluate all services.
Provides supportive services for veterans, families, and individuals. Shop their thrift stores to support their programs and find low-cost clothing and home goods. Services vary based on location and include employment, housing, and wrap-around services for veterans; clinical treatment programs for ex-offenders, emergency housing for men in Columbus, and mental health treatment. They host Operation Backpack to help provide school supplies for families each fall. The monthly Auto Auction is an opportunity to purchase a donated vehicle to benefit their social service programs. They have thrift stores and program offices across Ohio; the Columbus program office is listed below.
624 Harmon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
Veterans Resource Center: (614) 849-0145
Family Services: (614) 251-7610
Auto Auction Website: voaohioautoauction.org
Main Website: voaohin.org/central-ohio
A transportation and bicycle advocacy organization in Columbus. They offer a variety of free community bike rides to teach bicycle safety, tour the city, raise awareness, and have fun. They also offer bike parking consults for businesses. Visit their website to find upcoming community rides.
921 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 470-4220
yaybikes.com