The charities that help with Christmas in 2026 – Salvation Army Angel Tree, Toys for Tots, Operation Santa, military and foster-family programs, and holiday meals – with verified 2026 application windows, eligibility, and exactly how to apply before the deadlines hit.
There is no emergency Section 8 and no HUD hotline – here is what actually gets you a bed tonight in 2026: 211, coordinated entry, the Salvation Army’s 302 shelters, 300+ rescue missions, Covenant House for youth, Family Promise for families, and the verified hotlines for DV survivors, veterans, and teens.
Ohio’s Home Relief Grant and the big city ERAPs are closed – here is what still works in 2026: county PRC emergency assistance (up to $2,000 in Franklin County), the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, SVdP, Toledo’s new housing fund, and free eviction lawyers in four cities, with verified phone numbers.
The 15 best charities to donate to in 2026, verified against Charity Navigator, CharityWatch, and GiveWell this month – plus the new $1,000/$2,000 non-itemizer tax deduction, Giving Tuesday timing, and how to vet any charity in 30 seconds.
CBRAP and Chicago ERAP are closed – here is what still works in Illinois in 2026: the IDHS Homeless Prevention Program, Chicago 311 rent grants up to $900, township General Assistance, and the charities that pay rent arrears, with verified phone numbers.
PA ERAP is closed – here is what actually works in 2026: the $400 Emergency Shelter Allowance, Catholic Charities by diocese, Allegheny Link, Philadelphia’s Right to Counsel, and 6 more real sources of Pennsylvania rent help.
Glasses cost $200-$500 out of pocket – but 12 real programs cover the exam, the glasses, or both. New Eyes, Lions Clubs, ReSpectacle, Medicaid rules by state, and exactly how to apply.
No national hotline hands out free hotel vouchers – but 10 real programs pay for emergency motel stays. Who qualifies, how each works, and exactly who to call tonight.
ERAP is closed – here is what actually works in 2026: the One Shot Deal, Homebase, county DSS emergency assistance, Catholic Charities, and 6 more real sources of New York rent help.
Can’t cover the security deposit and first month? 10 real programs help with move-in costs – from Rapid Re-Housing and SSVF to Community Action Agencies. Who qualifies and how to apply in 2026.