Where to Find Support for Food, Rent, or Utilities This Summer

Summer often comes with shifting schedules, rising expenses, and moments where a little extra support can make a big difference. If you’re balancing school and life this season, you’re not alone — and there are resources available to help cover essential costs like food, housing, and utilities.

This guide includes national tools you can use to find local help, along with examples of how to reach out.

1. Start With Your School — Emergency Funds May Still Be Available

Many colleges offer emergency assistance funds or crisis grants to enrolled students who are facing short-term financial hardship. These may help with:

• Rent or utilities
• Groceries or transportation
• Medical or childcare expenses

Search “[your school name] emergency student grant” or ask the financial aid or student services team directly. These resources are often first-come, first-served so it’s worth asking — they may be available even if you’re enrolled in summer classes.

Sample message you can send:

Subject: Request for Emergency Assistance Information

Hi [Office Name],
I’m currently enrolled at [Your School] and exploring emergency support options for [brief explanation — like rent, groceries, or bills]. Could you share what resources are available or who I should speak with next?

Thank you,
[Your Name]

2. Use FindHelp.org to Discover Local Resources

FindHelp.org is a searchable national directory of local support services where you can search by ZIP code to find what’s available in your area. You can look for: 

• Food assistance
• Rent and utility programs
• Mental health and crisis support
• Transportation, employment help, and more

Most listings include contact info and application details.

3. Call 211 for Personalized, Local Help

Dial 211 or visit 211.org to connect with a trained specialist. Whether you need one-time help or ongoing support, they’ll help you find local programs in your area. 

This can be especially helpful if you’re juggling multiple needs, like housing, food, and childcare at once.

4. Stretch Your Grocery Budget with Food Support

Feeding a family or even just yourself can add up quickly. Many food programs are easier to access than you think, including: 

• Campus food pantries — Ask your school if one is available.
  
  
• Feeding America Food Bank Locator — Find food banks near you by ZIP code.
  
  

Most food programs do not require income verification or paperwork — just show up or sign up online.

5. Get Help with High Summer Energy or Utility Bills 

Need help keeping your home cool without breaking the budget? Check out LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) which offers support for cooling/heating bills.

Program availability depends on your state and season, but if LIHEAP isn’t currently available in your area, your utility company may offer flexible payment plans or hardship assistance. You can also search FindHelp.org or call 211 to look for local energy support programs.

You Deserve Support That Matches Your Effort

Whether this is a short-term or long-term need, one small step — a phone call, a quick search, a message to your school — can lead to real help.