| Therapy/Counseling Services | |
| AllCare Behavioral Health Services | 888-425-5227 |
| Child Adolescent Adults and Geriatrics | |
| Child/Youth | |
| Casa De Amparo | 760-754-5500 |
| Child Abuse Hotline | 800-344-6000 |
| A program of the Children’s Services Bureau (formerly CPS) and San Diego County Health and Human Services. | |
| Domestic Violence | |
| Women’s Resource Center (North County Coastal) | 760-757-3500 |
| Counseling and guidance, emergency shelter, and family violence intervention. | |
| Seniors/Dependent Adults | |
| Adult Protective Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| A program of the Health and Human Services Agency. | |
| Addictions | |
| Narcotics Anonymous | 800-479-0062 |
| Volunteers of America Detox | 619-232-9343 |
| Episcopal Community Services | 619-260-8100 |
| Fellowship Center | 760-745-8478 |
| Alcoholics Anonymous | 619-265-8762 |
| McAlister Institute | 619-440-4801 |
| Pathfinders of San Diego | 619-239-7370 |
| Child Care | |
| Head Start (North County) | 760-471-4210 |
| A service of MAAC | |
| Head Start (South Bay) | 619-422-1642 |
| A service of Episcopal Community Services. | |
| Referrals | |
| YMCA Childcare Resource Center | 800-481-2151(San Diego County only) |
| Child Development Associates | 619-427-4411 |
| Clothing | |
| Assistance League | 619-291-9464 |
| Auntie Helen’s Fluff ’n Fold Laundry Project | 619-584-8438 |
| Provides free laundry services, including pickup and delivery, free medical equipment check out (wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc). Offers emergency clothing for anyone with AIDS and their families. Operates a thrift shop and provide clothing to people with AIDS in Mexico. | |
| Central | |
| Vietnam Veterans of San Diego/Stand Down | 619-497-0142 |
| Central – Distribution | |
| College Avenue Baptist Church | 619-287-4747 ext 294 |
| God’s Extended Hand Ministries | 619-234-3251 |
| Provides congregate meals with worship services, clothing, and spiritual counseling. | |
| Presbyterian Crisis Center | 619-232-2753 |
| Home Start | 619-692-0727 |
| Provides a 3-day supply of emergency food (formula when available, limited food vouchers, no diapers) and clothing. | |
| Community Christian Service Agency | 858-274-2271 |
| Metro Good Neighbor | 619-264-0368 |
| Western Service Workers Association, California Homeless Association | 619-238-9763 |
| Distribution | |
| Salvation Army | |
| Central 619-422-9295 Chula Vista 619-440-3579 El Cajon 760-745-8685 Escondido 760-631-4712 Oceanside | |
| Catholic Charities | 619-231-2828 Central |
| East – Distribution | |
| Lutheran Social Services (Lemon Grove) | 619-698-1716 |
| Crisis House | 619-444-1194 |
| This agency provides transitional and emergency services for people in crisis | |
| La Mesa Community Welfare Association | 619-466-6678 |
| Offers emergency help with food vouchers and clothing for La Mesa Residents | |
| Lakeside Christian Help Center | 619-561-3488 |
| Provides a 3-day supply of emergency food to needy persons per month. Provides diapers and formula when available. No food delivery. No food vouchers. Provides two outfits of clothing to each family member per month. Blankets, sheets, and pillowcases are also available. | |
| North - Distribution | |
| North County Lifeline | 760-757-0118 Oceanside |
| Fallbrook Community Project | 760-728-7608 |
| Provides administrative assistance for Fallbrook community projects. | |
| Brother Benno Foundation | 760-439-1244 |
| South - Distribution | |
| Lutheran Social Services (Chula Vista) | 619-425-4061 |
| Metro Good Neighbor | 619-429-0802 |
| Counseling | |
| Children | |
| Heartbeat Family Partnership | 619-477-0242 |
| Information and Referral | |
| Albright (NAMI) | 619-543-1434 |
| Provides information and referral, advocacy, and support for people affected by serious mental illness. | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County. Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas only 800-227-0997 | |
| Mental Health | |
| Access and Crisis Line | 800-479-3339 |
| A toll-free 24-hour/7-day mental health crisis and suicide prevention hotline that provides access to County Mental Health Services and information and referral to mental health services in San Diego County. This is a service of United Behavioral Health | |
| Support Groups | |
| Mental Health Association of San Diego County | 619-543-0412 |
| Disabled | |
| Deaf Community Services | 619-398-2441 |
| Disabled American Veterans | 619-232-0141 |
| Cool Zones | |
| Access Center (Oceanside) | 760-435-9205 |
| San Diego Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired | 619-583-1542 |
| San Diego Regional Center for the Developmentally Disabled | 858-576-2996 |
| Access Center (San Diego) | 619-293-3500 |
| Seniors | |
| Aging and Independence Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| A division of the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) providing services to older adults and adults with disabilities. | |
| Specialized Transportation | |
| ADA Certification | 877-232-7433 |
| Disaster Preparedness | |
| San Diego / Imperial Counties VOAD | 619-542-7608 |
| Agricultural Aid | |
| US Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency | 760-347-3675 ext 2 |
| Air Quality | |
| Air Pollution Control District, County of San Diego | 858-650-4777 |
| Responsible for measuring and identifying air pollution in San Diego County. Responds to public inquiries about levels of air pollution. Website provides information about current air quality, air pollution data, and daily air pollution forecasts. | |
| Animal Safety | |
| Animal Services Department, County of San Diego | 619-236-4250 Central North County: 760-438-2312 South County: 619-263-7741 |
| Lead animal agency for disasters in San Diego County. Coordinates other animal agencies to assist in evacuation, housing, care, and treatment for animals in need. Handles all species of animals, however wildlife are only handled if they are injured or sick. | |
| Assistance | |
| Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) | 800-621-FEMA (3362) |
| Provides disaster assistance in the form of grants and loans to states, communities, businesses, and individuals. Also provides a wide range of disaster services including the coordination of the federal response to disaster, providing disaster education, advising on building codes and flood plain management, etc. | |
| American Red Cross | 800-951-5600 |
| Assists disaster victims by providing the means to pay for temporary lodging, food, clothing, medications, tools, supplies and equipment, etc. Also provides crisis counseling. National Red Cross: 866-GET-INFO (438-4636) www.redcross.org | |
| Debris Removal, Flood and Erosion Control | |
| Dept. of Public Works, County of San Diego | 888-846-0800 |
| Provides information about flood and soil erosion control in San Diego County. On a temporary basis, provides information about wildfire debris removal. | |
| Environmental Health | |
| Environmental Health Department, County of San Diego | 800-253-9933 |
| Inspects and regulates activities in San Diego County that impact environmental health including food handling, subsurface sewage disposal, solid waste disposal, hazardous materials handling, hazardous waste disposal, public health nuisances, radiation producing equipoment and radioactive materials. Provides vector control. | |
| Financial Advice | |
| HOPE Coalition America | 888-388-4673 |
| Provides free economic counseling to workers and families affected by disaster. Services include: Advice on budgeting, home ownership, personal financial organization and working with creditors; referrals to emergency relief, job training and job placement programs; placement in long-term economic empowerment programs | |
| Information and Referral | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas only 800-227-0997 |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County | |
| Insurance Information | |
| Dept. of Insurance, State of California | 800-927-HELP (4357) |
| Responsible for investigating, evaluating, and resolving consumer rate and underwriting complaints. Provides insurance information and consumer education and outreach | |
| Law Enforcement | |
| Police Department, City of San Diego | 619-531-2000 |
| Sheriff’s Department, County of San Diego | 858-565-5200 Commnications Center |
| Lawyer (Hiring a) | |
| San Diego County Bar Association | 800-464-1529 |
| Provides a Lawyer Referral and Information Service that refers persons needing legal assistance to a qualified private attorney practicing in the appropriate field. | |
| Mental Health | |
| Access and Line | 800-479-3339 |
| Property Reassessment | |
| Assessor’s Office, County of San Diego | 858-505-6262 |
| Provides reassessment of property damaged by misfortune or calamity. For property tax relief, reassessment of the property is necessary to reflect its damaged condition. The reduced value of the property will remain in effect until such time as the property is rebuilt or repaired. | |
| Respiratory Problems | |
| American Lung Association | 800 LUNG-USA (586-4872) |
| Provides information about air/smoke pollution as it relates to respiratory health. | |
| Road Closures | |
| California Dept. of Transportation | 800-427-ROAD (7623) |
| Provides information about road/lane closures, construction maintenance projects, and emergencies on California State Highways. | |
| Unemployment Insurance | |
| Employment Development Department (EDD), State of California | 800-300-5616 Toll Free |
| The California Employment Development Department (EDD) can help your job search. Unemployment insurance benefits are not required for agency assistance. EDD services may include but are not limited to the following services: unemployment insurance claims and job search workshops (short sessions to develop job-finding skills). When a Presidential disaster declaration occurs, Special Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits become available to individuals who do not qualify for Regular Unemployment Insurance benefits. | |
| Utilities/SDG&E Programs | |
| San Diego Gas & Electric (SDGE) | 800-411-7343 Customer Service |
| SDGE offers several programs for eligible customers. The California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) program provides a 20% discount on energy bills to eligible low-income customers. SDG&E also offers a level pay plan that spreads energy costs evenly over the year. Customers with certain documeted medical conditions may be eligible for the Medical Baseline Assistance program. This program allows for an increased usage of energy at a lower cost. SDG&E also provides information about energy conservation as a means of reducing your energy bill. A customer service representative can give you information about appliance usage and costs and send you informational brochures. You may want to request an "energy audit", which can be done through the mail, online, or at your home. An energy services advisor can meet with you and discuss your particular bill and ways in which you can control your energy costs. These services are free. | |
| Volunteer Opportunities | |
| Volunteer San Diego | 858-636-4131 |
| Volunteer San Diego develops creative solutions to community problems by connecting individuals and business to social service agencies. With a database of over 5,000 volunteer opportunities, they can help you and your family, or your organization, find a project, whether it’s tutoring elementary school students, serving meals to the hungry, or planting trees. | |
| Domestic Violence / Sexual Assault | |
| Domestic Violence | |
| Women’s Resource Center (North County Coastal) | 760-757-3500 |
| Libre Domestic Violence Shelter (North County) | 760-633-1111 |
| YWCA - Casa de Paz Shelter (Central) | 619-234-3164 |
| South Bay Community Services | 800-640-2933 |
| Rape Crisis | |
| Center for Community Solutions | 888-272-1767 Toll Free |
| Education | |
| Literacy Hotline | |
| Child/Youth | |
| Student Helpline | 800-499-1116 |
| The Student Helpline was established in response to concerns about school violence. Students and others can anonymously report a threat to school safety. San Diego County police dispatchers answer calls at Student Helpline as emergency calls. | |
| Training - Disabled | |
| Chula Vista | (619) 426-8720 TTY (619) 426-8781 El Cajon (619) 441-0611 TTY (619) 441-5044 Escondido (760) 480-9692 TTY (760) 480-0471 San Diego (619) 525-4184 TTY (619) 525-4903 |
| The California Department of Rehabilitation offers employment services, including job-related preparation, counseling, employability evaluation, job search assistance and development, and coordinate training and retraining programs. Participants must have physical or mental disabilities that constitute or result in a substantial handicap to employment. | |
| Emergency / Crisis / 24 Hour Hotlines | |
| Child/Youth | |
| Child Abuse Hotline | 800-344-6000 |
| A program of the Childrens Services Bureau (formerly CPS) and San Diego County Health and Human Services. | |
| National Youth Crisis Line | 800-448-4663 |
| A service of Youth Development International. | |
| YMCA Juvenile Crisis Program | 619-543-9850 |
| The Gatehouse | 619-579-8761 |
| Gatehouse, a residential crisis facility, is operated by San Diego Youth and Community Services. | |
| California Youth Crisis Line | 800-843-5200 |
| National Runaway Switchboard | 800-621-4000 |
| Student Helpline | 800-499-1116 |
| The Student Helpline was established in response to concerns about school violence. Students and others can anonymously report a threat to school safety. San Diego County police dispatchers answer calls at Student Helpline as emergency calls. | |
| Mental Health | |
| Access and Crisis Line | 800-479-3339 |
| A toll-free 24-hour/7-day mental health crisis and suicide prevention hotline that provides access to County Mental Health Services and information and referral to mental health services in San Diego County. This is a service of United Behavioral Health. | |
| Seniors/Dependent Adults | |
| Adult Protective Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| A program of the Health and Human Services Agency. | |
| Employment | |
| Career Centers | |
| San Diego Workforce Partnership | 888-884-7397 |
| The San Diego Workforce Partnership offers a network of six, One-Stop Career Centers throughout the county. The Career Centers are independently operated and partnered with community colleges, the Employment Development Department, and other private and public organizations. One-Stop Career Centers provide an integrated service approach for individuals seeking employment and/or training. One-Stop Career Centers include but are not limited to the following services: One-to-one assessment of skills, education, and interests Resume development Job search assistance Retraining for new skills | |
| East County Career Center | 619-590-3900 |
| 924 East Main Street El Cajon | |
| North County Inland Career Center | 760-738-0274 |
| 1935 East Valley Parkway Escondido | |
| South Metro Career Center | 619-266-3600 |
| 6145 Imperial Avenue San Diego | |
| Metro Career Center | 858-974-7620 |
| 8401 Aero Drive San Diego | |
| North County Coastal Career Center | 760-631-6150 |
| 1949 Avienda Del Oro, Suite 106 Oceanside | |
| South County Career Center | 619-424-1112 |
| 1111 Bay Boulevard, Suite E Chula Vista | |
| Job Lines | |
| San Diego County Jobs | 619-531-5764 |
| City of San Diego Jobs | 619-682-1011 |
| State of California Jobs | 619-237-6163 |
| Federal Jobs | 478-757-3000 |
| Labor Union | |
| Labor Council, San Diego-Imperial Counties | 619-283-5411 |
| Union members should contact their union representative or the AFL-CIO state and local councils. Various job training, job search, or job placement programs may be available under federal, state, or local grants, through the local union, the AFL-CIO state or local council, or the AFL-CIO Working for America. | |
| Training | |
| Regional Occupational Program (ROP) | 858-292-3529 |
| The Regional Occupational Program (ROP) provides free training courses to gain entry-level skills, basic skills training, and advanced technical training. ROP also provides job search and job retention techniques. ROP centers are located throughout San Diego County. | |
| Training - Disabled | |
| California Department of Rehabilitation | Chula Vista (619) 426-8720 TTY (619) 426-8781 El Cajon (619) 441-0611 TTY (619) 441-5044 Escondido (760) 480-9692 TTY (760) 480-0471 San Diego (619) 525-4184 TTY (619) 525-4903 |
| The California Department of Rehabilitation offers employment services, including job-related preparation, counseling, employability evaluation, job search assistance and development, and coordinate training and retraining programs. Participants must have physical or mental disabilities that constitute or result in a substantial handicap to employment. | |
| Training - Seniors | |
| Senior Community Service Employment Program | |
| For seniors ages 55 and older, several organizations in San Diego County offer the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). Programs provide and promote part-time opportunities in subsidized community service employment, and assist the transition to private or other unsubsidized job placement. SCSEP participants must be ages 55 and older, be a resident in California, and meet specific income guidelines (earn less than 125% of the federal poverty level). | |
| Foundation for Educational Achievement | 858-571-1003 |
| Training - Youth | |
| California Conservation Corps | 619-409-4382 |
| The California Conservation Corps provides a year-long program for individuals ages 18 to 23, who want to help protect and enhance California’s natural resources and communities. Members work for minimum wage and health, vacation, and sick leave benefits. Training is provided for project work and evening GED classes and/or college credit classes are offered. Participants must be a resident in California and not on parole. | |
| Urban Corps of San Diego | 619-235-6884 |
| The Urban Corps of San Diego provides job training and education programs, and focus on conservation and recycling. Participants must be ages 18 to 23 and be a resident in San Diego. | |
| San Diego Job Corps Center | 800-246-2285 |
| The San Diego Job Corps Center, a long-term residential facility, provides employment services to young people ages 16 to 24 in economically disadvantaged homes. Services include job-related preparation, employment counseling, job development and placement, and vocational training. | |
| Unemployment Insurance | |
| Employment Development Department (EDD), State of California | 800-300-5616 Toll Free |
| The California Employment Development Department (EDD) can help your job search. Unemployment insurance benefits are not required for agency assistance. EDD services may include but are not limited to the following services: unemployment insurance claims and job search workshops (short sessions to develop job-finding skills). When a Presidential disaster declaration occurs, Special Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits become available to individuals who do not qualify for Regular Unemployment Insurance benefits. | |
| Ethnic Organizations | |
| Chicano Federation | 619-236-1228 |
| International Mutual Assistance | 619-584-4018 |
| Operation Samahan | 858-578-4220 Mira Mesa 619-474-2284 National City |
| Urban League | 619-263-3115 |
| Alliance for African Assistance | 619-286-9052 |
| Indian Human Resource Center | 619-281-5964 |
| MAAC | 619-426-3595 |
| Neighborhood House | 858-715-2642 |
| UPAC | 619-232-6454 |
| Financial Benefits | |
| This section includes information on programs for low-income, retired, unemployed and disabled individuals/families that are administered by public (government) organizations. | |
| Disabled | |
| State Disability Insurance | 800-480-3287 Toll free |
| State Disability Insurance is temporary income payable when you cannot work due to illness or injury not caused by your job. Forms are available at EDD offices, hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, or by mail. | |
| Workers’ Compensation Insurance | 619-767-2083 |
| Workers’ Compensation Insurance is a program for persons injured on the job. Benefits may include medical care and partial payment of lost wages (generally designed to replace two-thirds of the lost wages, up to a maximum capped amount). The California Department of Industrial Relations’ role in benefit delivery of workers compensation is to oversee the provision of benefits; to provide information and assistance to employees, employers, and others involved in the system; and to resolve disputes that may arise between employee and the employer or the workers compensation insurance company. | |
| Information | |
| HHSA - Public Assistance Information Line | 858-514-6885 866-262-9881 Toll Free |
| Public Assistance | |
| Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) | 866-262-9881 (PAI) |
| Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or CalWORKs provides financial aid to families with children up to 18 years old who meet the eligibility requirements. Families may be eligible if at least one parent is unemployed or underemployed, works part-time, is incapacitated, or is absent from the home. Both income and family size are considered when determining your eligibility for CalWORKs. | |
| Food Stamps | 866-262-9881 (PAI) |
| Food Stamps in San Diego are awarded through electronic benefits transfer (EBT). Entire household must apply, be within income guidelines, and found eligible to receive this help. | |
| General Relief | 866-262-9881 (PAI) |
| General Relief provides temporary financial aid to county residents who cannot support themselves and who cannot get support from any other source, public or private. Most recipients are employable adults ages 18 to 64, without children, who have exhausted all their resources. Aid received must be repaid so employable clients may be required to participate in a work-for-benefits program. | |
| Retired | |
| Unemployed | |
| Unemployment Insurance | 800-300-5616 (EDD) |
| If you’ve lost your job or are working only part-time, you may apply for Unemployment Insurance. In order to receive this benefit, you must have earned enough money while you were working and be actively looking for a new job. Unemployment Insurance is paid without regard to your financial status and is based upon your previous earnings. Your previous employer pays the benefit. Eligibility is determined on an individual basis. Do not assume that you are not eligible without filing a claim. Apply immediately when you lose your job, either permanently or temporarily. As with all benefits, it will be several weeks after applying before you receive your first check. Additional telephone numbers for the Employment Development Department (EDD): Spanish 800-326-8937 Cantonese 800-547-3506 Vietnamese 800-547-2058 From Outside California 800-250-3913 | |
| Food | |
| Agencies are sorted by location, NOT by the area that they serve. If an agency has a restriction on the area served, that restriction would be noted below the agency name. They are also sorted by method of food dissemination, such as, commodity distribution or meal provision. Commodity distribution agencies are defined as those organizations authorized to acquire targeted surplus commodities stockpiled by the federal government (the U.S.D.A) and distributed to people who qualify for services, based on income. | |
| View Commodities List | |
| Central - Distribution | |
| Home Start | 619-692-0727 |
| This is a free lunch program for ANY children ages 18 and under. | |
| Metro Good Neighbor | 619-264-0368 |
| Presbyterian Crisis Center | 619-232-2753 or 800-280-7300 Toll Free |
| Mid-City Christian Service Agency | 619-286-1100 |
| Neighborhood House/Family Services Center | 619-263-7761 |
| Community Christian Service Agency | 858-274-2271 |
| College Avenue Baptist Church | 619-287-4747 ext 294 |
| Western Service Workers Association, California Homeless Association | 619-238-9763 |
| Central - Meal | |
| God’s Extended Hand Ministries | 619-234-3251 |
| Provides congregate meals with worship services, clothing, and spiritual counseling. | |
| San Diego Catholic Workers | 619-298-3755 |
| St. Vincent De Paul Village/Paul Mirabile Center | 619-233-8500 ext 1382 |
| San Diego Rescue Mission/Life Ministries | 619-234-2100 |
| Southeast Church of the Nazarene | 619-262-1301 |
| Distribution | |
| Salvation Army | |
| 619-231-6000 Central 619-422-9295 Chula Vista 619-440-3579 El Cajon 760-745-8685 Escondido 760-631-4712 Oceanside | |
| Catholic Charities | |
| 619-231-2828 Central 760-631-4792 North County | |
| Southern California Tribal Chairman’s Association | 760-749-5608 |
| East - Distribution | |
| Lakeside Christian Help Center | 619-561-3488 |
| Provides a 3-day supply of emergency food to needy persons per month. Provides diapers and formula when available. No food delivery. No food vouchers. Provides two outfits of clothing to each family member per month. Blankets, sheets, and pillowcases are also available. | |
| Lutheran Social Services (Lemon Grove) | 619-698-1716 |
| La Mesa Community Welfare Association | 619-466-6678 |
| Crisis House | 619-444-1194 |
| Santee Food Bank | 619-956-2826 |
| North - Distribution | |
| Community Resource Center | 760-753-8300 |
| Office of Social Concerns | 760-757-3250 ext 314 |
| Brother Benno Foundation | 760-439-1244 |
| Fallbrook Community Project | 760-728-7608 |
| North Park Christian Service Agency | 619-299-0878 |
| South – Distribution | |
| Lutheran Social Services (Chula Vista) | 619-425-4061 |
| MAAC (Chula Vista) | 619-422-9236 |
| Metro Good Neighbor | 619-429-0802 |
| MAAC | 619-474-7576 National City 619-428-1139 San Ysidro |
| WIC – Distribution | |
| San Ysidro Health Center | 619-426-7966 Chula Vista, National City, and Imperial Beach 619-662-4179 San Ysidro |
| Operation Samahan Medical Clinics | 619-474-2284 National City 858-578-4220 Mira Mesa |
| Scripps Health Mercy Hospital | 619-260-7054 |
| Red Cross WIC Program | 800-500-6411 |
| North County Health Services | 888-477-6333 |
| Health / Medical | |
| This section includes information about various health and medical benefits, services and prescriptions for adults, children, uninsured, homeless and veterans. | |
| Advocacy | |
| Consumer Center for Health Education and Advocacy | 877-734-3258 |
| Provides consumers with information on their health plan, consumer rights, and how to get services. Advocates for those who are denied, reduced, terminated, or unhappy with services. | |
| Children | |
| California Children’s Services | 619-528-4000 |
| Provides medical and moving expenses assistance for physically disabled children whose disabilities may be corrected. | |
| Children Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) | 619-692-8808 |
| CHDP provides periodic health exams for low income (under 200% of Federal Poverty Level) children ages 19 and under. Focuses on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of disease and disabilities. | |
| Healthy Families | 800-880-5305 |
| Provides low cost health insurance to children ages 19 and under. Family income must exceed Medi-Cal guidelines and fall at or below 250% of the Federal Income Guidelines. Coverage offers a wide array of services, including health, dental, and vision care. Call for information, application, and listing of program clinics and doctors. Assistance with filling out application is also available. | |
| Health Benefits | |
| COBRA | |
| Medi-Cal | |
| County Medical Services (CMS) | 800-581-8118 Toll Free |
| CMS, a County administered program, provides free medical services for urgent or serious health problems to low-income county residents ages 21 to 64, who are not eligible for medical coverage elsewhere. Services are provided through a network of participating community clinics (for general outpatient needs) and local hospitals (for emergency needs). | |
| Health Services | |
| San Diego County Medical Society | web access only |
| Physician, SDCMS Member, Referral Service | |
| Community Clinics | 800-640-1662 |
| A network of nonprofit community-based clinics located throughout San Diego County, provides medical services to individuals with no medical coverage on a sliding scale basis according to income. Some clinics also provide sliding scale dental services. To locate a clinic near you, please call INFO LINE. | |
| Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) | Call INFO LINE (see Information & Referral) |
| The Public Health Services provides several free and low-cost clinics addressing specific health care needs (for example, AIDS testing, immunizations, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, child well-being, etc). Please call INFO LINE for the Public Health Clinic closest to you. | |
| San Diego County Dental Society | 800-201-2811 |
| Dentist, ADA Member, Referral Service | |
| Homeless | |
| Healthcare for the Homeless | 619-515-2424 |
| Provides health services to the homeless, including primary care, emergency dental care, and mental health services. There is limited case management, also. Call the Family Health Centers of San Diego for more information. | |
| Information | |
| San Diego Prenatal Care Network | 800-675-2229 |
| Physician referrals are offered for prenatal care. | |
| San Diego Kids Health Assurance Network | 800-675-2229 |
| Specialized information and referral services helpline, connecting uninsured children with no cost or low-cost health insurance. | |
| HHSA - Public Assistance Information Line | 858-514-6885 or 866-262-9881 Toll Free |
| Provides information on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or CalWORKS, General Relief, Food Stamps and Medi-Cal. | |
| Retired | |
| Social Security Administration | 800-772-1213 |
| Social Security retirement benefits can be collected (with penalty) as young as age 62. For more information about these benefits, look in the telephone directory under Social Security Administration to find your local Social Security office. | |
| Uninsured | |
| Reach Out Project | 619-299-3122 or 858-467-1893 |
| Provides information and referral to low-income uninsured people seeking healthcare referral to physicians, specialists, and ancillary services (vision, dental, counseling, etc). | |
| Access for Infants and Mothers (AIM) | 800-433-2611 |
| Provides low-cost health insurance for pregnant women and their infants. Prenatal care, delivery, two months postpartum care, and well-baby care for children ages 2 and under. | |
| Veterans | |
| Department of Veterans’ Affairs | 800-827-1000 |
| Housing | |
| Foreclosure Prevention | |
| San Diego Home Loan and Education Center | 619-624-2330 |
| Foreclosure Resource and Information Center | 619-281-9466 |
| Housing Information | |
| Low Cost Housing Information | See phone numbers below |
| Finding low cost housing is difficult in San Diego. If you have no success with newspaper listings, you may want to try a rental referral service (consult the Yellow Pages) that charge a fee for providing a list of available housing within specific price ranges. Shared housing is another option for you to consider. Following are agencies that may help you find shared or affordable housing or other creative alternatives to your housing needs for free: Central ElderHelp (shared housing) (619) 284-9281 Second Chance (619) 233-8500 ext 1677 North Heartland Human Relations (760) 839-4341 Elderhelp (shared Housing) (858) 748-9675 South Lutheran Social Services (shared housing) (619) 422-6876 South Bay Community Services (619) 420-3620 East East County Council on Aging (shared housing) (619) 442-3281 Heartland Human Relations (619) 444-5700 | |
| Landlord/Tenant | |
| North County Lifeline | 760-726-4900 |
| Fair Housing Council | 619-699-5888 |
| The Fair Housing Council of San Diego provides anti-housing discrimination services if you feel you have lost your housing or are being prevented from getting housing due to discrimination. | |
| Heartland Human Relations and Fair Housing Association | 619-444-5700 (East County) 760-839-4341 (North County) |
| Provides landlord/tenant counseling, mediation and fair housing services. | |
| Legal Aid Society | 619-262-0896 (Central San Diego) North County 760-722-1935 |
| The Legal Aid Society provides free legal services, including counseling, advice, and court representation for low-income people with landlord/tenant and housing discrimination issues. | |
| Legal Clinic, USD | 619-260-7470 |
| The Civil Clinic Department of the USD Legal Clinic provides legal services relating to landlord/tenant cases to low-income residents of San Diego County. Clients must provide court costs and fees. | |
| San Diego Mediation Center | 619-266-7223 (Central San Diego) 619-593-4530 (East County) 619-424-2333 (South Bay ) |
| The San Diego Mediation Center may be able to arrange a meeting with you and your landlord to negotiate a mutual understanding and possible agreement regarding your situation. | |
| Renters Law Line | 858-571-1166 |
| Relocation | |
| Security Deposit Guarantee Program | Call INFO LINE (see Information & Referral) |
| The Security Deposit Guarantee Program is available for rentals within the City of San Diego and other selected areas of San Diego County. This program guarantees the landlord that you will pay the security deposit through an installation plan. The program will meet the payment (which you must later repay) if an unexpected crisis prevents you from doing so. | |
| Labor Participation, United Way of San Diego | 619-641-0074 |
| Rent/Mortgage | |
| Rent and Mortgage Assistance Program | Call INFO LINE (see Information & Referral) |
| Only one cash program exists to provide relief from overdue rent or mortgage payments. Early each year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocates money to our community, some of which is used to fund the Rent & Mortgage Assistance Program. This money generally runs out within a few months. To be eligible for the Rent & Mortgage Assistance Program, you must be: Overdue on your payment for rent (3-day notice) or mortgage (foreclosure notice). Able to make a co-payment (ideally 50%). Able to demonstrate your ability to make full payments after receiving help. | |
| Subsidized Housing | |
| San Diego Housing Commission, City of San Diego | 619-231-9400 |
| Write to the San Diego Housing Commission, PO Box 129017, San Diego, CA, 92112-9017. Include your name, social security number and address where you can be reached. | |
| National City Community Development Commission | 619-336-4250 |
| Subsidized Housing Resources | See Housing Commissions/Authorities |
| Subsidized Housing Resources. Section 8 rental assistance is a government-housing program that provides rent subsidies to eligible low-income families, seniors, or disabled individuals. The housing costs for participants in the program are no more that 30% of their monthly income. Participants must find housing that meets the program guidelines with a landlord willing to accept their Section 8 voucher. Please note that the programs may have waiting lists from 5 to 7 years. If you move after you apply, make sure you update the appropriate agency or you will lose your place on the waiting list. | |
| Housing Authority, County of San Diego | 858-694-4890 |
| The Housing Authority is available to the East County. South and North Counties have their own Housing Authority and are not under the County Authority. For more information, call the Housing Authority at (858) 694-4890 and toll free at (877) 478-5478. | |
| Carlsbad Housing Authority | 760-434-2810 |
| Information and Referral | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County. Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas Only 800-227-0997 | |
| Health Services | |
| Community Clinics | 800-640-1662 |
| A network of nonprofit community-based clinics located throughout San Diego County, provides medical services to individuals with no medical coverage on a sliding scale basis according to income. Some clinics also provide sliding scale dental services. To locate a clinic near you, please call INFO LINE. | |
| Information and Referral | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County. Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas only 800-227-099 | |
| Seniors | |
| Aging and Independence Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| A division of the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) providing services to older adults and adults with disabilities | |
| Legal | |
| Family Law | |
| Child Support | 619-236-7600 866-230-2273 Toll Free |
| The Department of Child Support Services enforces laws relating to child support matters. | |
| Landlord/Tenant | |
| Heartland Human Relations and Fair Housing Association | 619-444-5700 (East County) North County 760-839-4341 |
| Provides landlord/tenant counseling, mediation and fair housing services. | |
| Legal Aid Society | 619-262-0896 (Central San Diego) North County 760-722-1935 |
| The Legal Aid Society provides free legal services, including counseling, advice, and court representation for low-income people with landlord/tenant and housing discrimination issues. | |
| Legal Clinic, USD | 619-260-7470 |
| The Civil Clinic Department of the USD Legal Clinic provides legal services relating to landlord/tenant cases to low-income residents of San Diego County. Clients must provide court costs and fees. | |
| San Diego Mediation Center | |
| The San Diego Mediation Center may be able to arrange a meeting with you and your landlord to negotiate a mutual understanding and possible agreement regarding your situation. 619-266-7223 (Central San Diego) East County 619-593-4530 South Bay 619-424-2333 | |
| Renters Law Line | 858-571-1166 |
| North County Lifeline | 760-726-4900 |
| Fair Housing Council | 619-699-5888 |
| The Fair Housing Council of San Diego provides anti-housing discrimination services if you feel you have lost your housing or are being prevented from getting housing due to discrimination. | |
| Seniors | |
| Senior Citizens’ Legal Services | 858-565-1392 (San Diego) |
| The Senior Citizens’ Legal Services provides routine legal services to seniors who are residents in San Diego and Imperial Counties. East County 619-447-7921 South Bay 619-425-2460 North County 760-439-2535 | |
| Work Related | |
| Department of Fair Employment and Housing | 800-884-1684 Toll Free |
| Protection and Advocacy | 800-776-5746 |
| To help protect the rights of people with disabilities. | |
| California Department of Industrial Relations | 619-220-5451 |
| Equal Employment Opportunity Commission | 619-557-7235 or 800-669-4000 Toll Free |
| Making a Donation | |
| Information and Referral | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County. Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas only 800-227-0997 | |
| Military | |
| Navy Fleet and Family Support Center | |
| Naval Base San Diego 619-556-7404 Naval Base Point Loma 619-553-7505 NAS North Island 619-545-6071 | |
| Parenting | |
| Marine Corps Community Support Services | |
| Camp Pendleton 760-725-5361 Marine Corps Air station Miramar 858-577-6585 Marine Corps Recruit Depot 619-524-5728 | |
| KPBS - Ready to Learn | |
| First 5 Commission of San Diego | 866-726-8831Toll Free |
| The First 5 Commission of San Diego provides leadership for a network of support for all children, including prenatal through age five and their families, developed and operated in partnership with communities and families, and accountable to them for improving the outcome in children?s health, safety and learning. | |
| California Parent Center | 877-972-7368 Toll Free |
| The CPC believes that parents are the primary educators of their children and that their involvement is the best predictor of their child’s success in school. CPC supports parents in this role by providing assistance, resources, training, education, and networking opportunities to parents in seven languages! Call 1-877-9PARENT between 12-2pm for assistance. | |
| Children’s Hospital and Health Center | |
| The How Kids Develop website includes general child development information for parents and professionals. Links are included for Children’s Care Connection (C3), which provides developmental screenings and parent/child interaction classes, and the Developmental Screening and Enhancement Project (DSEP), which supports the development and behavior of children in San Diego County’s foster care system. | |
| Kids on the Block of San Diego | 760-744-3602 |
| Kids on the Block, a group of nearly life-size puppets, representing children with a variety of physical and learning disabilities, medical conditions and social problems. In elementary schools and special programs, the puppets speak out about what it’s like to have a disability, be abused, or have other cultural and social challenges. | |
| Exceptional Family Resource Center | 619-594-7416 |
| The mission of the Exceptional Family Resource Center is to provide support, information and education for families of children with disabilities and the professionals who assist these families. | |
| Education | |
| San Diego County Office of Education | 858-292-3500 |
| SDCOE is a service agency that assists local school districts in providing educational services, staff development, and leadership. | |
| SDCOE - Family Involvement | 858-569-5410 |
| In collaboration with schools and districts, the Parent and Family Liaison implements and coordinate parent education, training and leadership programs designed to provide support and advocacy for parents in order to take an active role in their students’ education. | |
| Referrals | |
| YMCA Childcare Resource Center | 800-481-2151(San Diego County only) |
| Established in 1980, the YMCA Child Care Resource Services (CRS), a department of YMCA of San Diego County, are committed to promote the well being of children and families in San Diego county. CRS assists families who may need quality childcare, the education of parents and consumers of childcare services, advocacy, and assist families with children with developmental disabilities on respite care. | |
| Volunteer Opportunities | |
| Volunteer San Diego | 858-636-4131 |
| Volunteer San Diego develops creative solutions to community problems by connecting individuals and business to social service agencies. With a database of over 5,000 volunteer opportunities, they can help you and your family, or your organization, find a project, whether it’s tutoring elementary school students, serving meals to the hungry, or planting trees. | |
| Seniors | |
| Senior Citizens Services | 619-236-6905 |
| Cool Zones | |
| East County Council on Aging | 619-442-3281 |
| Aging and Independence Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| A division of the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) providing services to older adults and adults with disabilities. | |
| Seniors/Dependent Adults | |
| Adult Protective Services | 800-510-2020 Toll Free |
| Volunteer | |
| Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), HHSA-AIS | 858-505-6399 |
| Shelters | |
| Staying at an emergency shelter may be an option as a temporary and transitional solution to a crisis-housing situation. Shelters for families and individuals are located throughout the county, primarily in the central San Diego area and space is very limited. Shelter may not be accessible on an immediate basis, therefore it is recommended that you contact a case management agency as soon as you know you will lose your housing. A case manager can help you find shelter and connect you with other services. The process of getting into an emergency shelter may be lengthy. Note:The shelters listed below are grouped by geographic location (regions). Please read each description to determine which population(s) each shelter serves. | |
| San Diego Rescue Mission/Nueva Vida | 619-687-3720 |
| Single women and women with children (no boys ages 12 and older). | |
| St. Vincent De Paul Family Program | |
| Must obtain a referral from a case management agency. | |
| St. Vincent De Paul Village/Paul Mirabile Center | |
| A referral by a case management agency is required, unless the person is picked up at Balboa Park by a Salvation Army van going to 12th and Presidents Way (Mon-Fri 9am). | |
| Crisis House | 619-444-1194 (call for appointment) |
| 1034 Magnolia Ave | |
| Catholic Charities/St. Francis Center | 760-631-4792 (call for appointment) |
| 328 Vista Village Dr | |
| Volunteers of America/Carlton Luhman Center | 888-862-8440 |
| Accepts families, couples, single females, single males, and their children. | |
| Alpha Project for the Homeless/Casa Raphael | 760-630-9922 |
| Call Mon-Fri (single men only) | |
| Salvation Army | 619-231-6030 |
| 726 F St Families can be referred by agency or walk-in on Mon-Fri from 8am to 4pm. | |
| Catholic Charities | 619-231-2828 |
| 349 Ceder St Walk-in, 8 am or 1 pm on Mon, Wed, and Fri, individuals may call to schedule appointment with a case manager. | |
| Presbyterian Crisis Center | 800-280-7300 |
| 2459 Market St First appointment must be in person to see a case manager, 8:00 am Mon-Fri. | |
| Catholic Charities/Rachel’s Women’s Center | 619-696-0873 |
| 759 Eighth Avenue Single women must be at shelter at 7:00 am for application and interview. | |
| Brother Benno Foundation/House of Martha Ann Mary | 760-439-1244 |
| Single women and women with children ages 8 and under can call the shelter Mon-Fri from 8:30 am to 2:20 pm. | |
| Homeless Assistance Program | 866-262-9881 |
| If you are currently receiving or are eligible to receive TANF/CalWORKs, you may be able to obtain emergency financial aid for housing. | |
| Information and Referral | |
| INFO LINE of San Diego County | |
| Free, comprehensive information about and referrals to a wide range of health and social services in San Diego County. Greater San Diego County 619-230-0997 North County Coastal 760-943-0997 North County Inland 760-740-0997 Outlying Areas only 800-227-0997 | |
| Transportation | |
| Mass Transit | |
| 619-233-3004 or 1-800-266-6883 (from North County) TTY 619-234-5005 or 1-888-722-4889 (from North County) | |
| County Transit | 800-921-9664 |
| Specialized Transportation | |
| ADA Certification | 877-232-7433 Toll Free |
| MTS Access provides certification to disabled individuals who require Paratransit. | |
| Utilities | |
| Utility Consumers’ Action Network | 619-881-8226 |
| The Utility Consumers’ Action Network (UCAN) provides consumer information, education, and advice about utility issues. | |
| Cool Zones | |
| Listing of Cool Zone locations and hours of operation. | |
| Utilities/SDG&E Programs | |
| San Diego Gas & Electric (SDGE) | 800-411-7343 Customer Service |
| SDGE offers several programs for eligible customers. The California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) program provides a 20% discount on energy bills to eligible low-income customers. SDG&E also offers a level pay plan that spreads energy costs evenly over the year. Customers with certain documented medical conditions may be eligible for the Medical Baseline Assistance program. This program allows for an increased usage of energy at a lower cost. SDG&E also provides information about energy conservation as a means of reducing your energy bill. A customer service representative can give you information about appliance usage and costs and send you informational brochures. You may want to request an "energy audit", which can be done through the mail, online, or at your home. An energy services advisor can meet with you and discuss your particular bill and ways in which you can control your energy costs. These services are free. | |
| Utility Assistance | |
| Neighbor to Neighbor Program | 866-565-5323 Energy Helpline |
| The Neighbor-to-Neighbor program is designed to help customers of SDGE who are not eligible for other utility assistance programs and who have had a temporary financial hardship. There are no income requirements, but a need must be demonstrated, such as temporary unemployment or a serious family illness. The utility bill must be past due and a co-payment is required. Call the Energy Assistance Helpline for more information. | |
| Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) | 866-565-5323 Energy Helpline |
| The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is an annual State utility subsidy and is administered by the MAAC Project and Campesinos Unidos, according to the geographic area of the county you are in and your ZIP code. The HEAP program is NOT an emergency assistance service, as the process can take 10-12 weeks to complete and there are income and other eligibility restrictions. Priority is given to older frail individuals, disabled individuals, and households with children ages 3 and under. Funding is limited and not all eligible households will be able to access funds. To find out which agency covers your area, please call the Energy Assistance Helpline or one of the following agencies . MAAC South County 619-472-2907 East County 619-588-4323 CUI San Diego 619-239-1380 North County 760-744-2155 | |
| Fast Track | 866-565-5323 Energy Helpline |
| FAST TRACK is an emergency assistance program, using HEAP funds. It is for people who have received a hand-delivered, 3-day shut-off notice. Callers will be screened on the phone and if eligible, given an appointment. To find out which agency covers your area, please call the Energy Assistance Helpline or one of the following agencies . MAAC South County 619-472-2907 East County 619-588-4323 CUI San Diego 619-239-1380 North County 760-744-2155 | |
| Visitor Information | |
| Balboa Park Visitors Center | 619-239-0512 |
| Provides information on park events and activities. Volunteers are available to answer questions about the park and its museums and facilities. Passports to Balboa Park (discount ticket booklet for museum admission), scenic postcards, film, park souvenirs, and sundries are available. | |
| International Visitor Information Center | 619-236-1212 |
| Mexican Consulate General | 619-231-8414 |
| Visitor Information Center | 619-276-8200 |
| Provides free maps, restaurant guides, hotel/motel reservations, and the Pathfinder accommodations newsletter. Operates a souvenir gift shop and a snack bar that also provide discount tickets to many local attractions. | |
| Accessible San Diego | 858-279-0704 |
| Provides information for travelers with disabilities on accessible businesses, services, attractions, and accommodations in San Diego. Offers an Access Guide to San Diego’s tourist industry. Maintains a reference library and Web page for travelers with disabilities about destinations around the world and within San Diego. Also provides ADA evaluations for business and services in the tourism industry and assist meeting/convention planners with making accommodations accessible. | |
| Chamber of Commerce, San Diego Regional | 619-544-1300 |
| La Jolla Town Council | 858-454-1444 |
| Travelers Aid | 619-295-8393 |
| Makes arrangements for travelers with special needs (disabled, seniors, children, and foreign visitors). Provides special assistance for tourists and visitors, contacts friends and relatives, and offer crisis intervention and financial aid on a limited basis. Also provides assistance with locating community service agencies in distant cities for clients planning to relocate. | |
| Hostelling International American Youth Hostels | 619-338-9981 |
| Hostels provide overnight accommodation to travelers. Each hostel provides shower and kitchen. Also offers educational, recreational, and cultural travel programs. Each hostel has travel services for international travelers, bicyclist, and community members. | |
| Volunteer Opportunities | |
| Volunteer | |
| Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), HHSA-AIS | 858-505-6399 |
| Volunteer Opportunities | |
| Volunteer San Diego | 858-636-4131 |
| Volunteer San Diego develops creative solutions to community problems by connecting individuals and business to social service agencies. With a database of over 5,000 volunteer opportunities, they can help you and your family, or your organization, find a project, whether it’s tutoring elementary school students, serving meals to the hungry, or planting trees. | |
| Youth in Trouble / Runaways | |
| YMCA Oz | 760-721-8930 North County Coastal 858-270-8213 San Diego |
| South Bay Community Services | 619-420-3620 |
| Child/Youth | |
| National Youth Crisis Line | 800-448-4663 |
| A service of Youth Development International. | |
| California Youth Crisis Line | 800-843-5200 |
| National Runaway Switchboard | 800-621-4000 |
| Child Abuse Hotline | 800-344-6000 |
| A program of the Children’s Services Bureau (formerly CPS) and San Diego County Health and Human Services. | |
| Student Helpline | 800-499-1116 |
| The Student Helpline was established in response to concerns about school violence. Students and others can anonymously report a threat to school safety. San Diego County police dispatchers answer calls at Student Helpline as emergency calls. | |
| YMCA Juvenile Crisis Program | 619-543-9850 |