How do I apply for multiple benefits at once in Arkansas?

Arkansas operates a combined online application portal at access.arkansas.gov where you can apply for SNAP, Medicaid, ARKids First, and certain childcare assistance programs in a single submission. You can also visit your local DHS county office in person. If you need help completing an application, call 2-1-1 Arkansas (dial 2-1-1) for free guidance.

Is there emergency rental or housing assistance available for Arkansas families?

Yes, though availability varies by county and funding cycles. Arkansas participates in HUD's Continuum of Care system, which supports local organizations providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rental assistance. Some counties also have community action agencies that offer one-time emergency rent or utility help. Call 2-1-1 Arkansas to find what is currently available near you, as these programs open and close based on funding.

What resources are available if I or my child is experiencing a domestic violence situation?

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) and can connect you with local Arkansas shelters and advocacy organizations. Arkansas has a network of licensed domestic violence shelters across the state — call 2-1-1 or the hotline to find the closest confidential location. Safety planning assistance is available even if you are not ready to leave.

Are there childcare assistance programs for working families in Arkansas?

Arkansas administers a childcare subsidy program through the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education, which helps eligible low-income working families pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is income-based and tied to work, school, or job-training participation. Apply through the Arkansas DHS at access.arkansas.gov or call your local DHS county office. Availability can be limited by waiting lists, so applying as early as possible is recommended.

Child & Family Assistance Resources in Arkansas

Last updated September 6, 2026

Arkansas families facing hardship have access to a range of state and federally funded programs covering food, healthcare, housing, childcare, and crisis support. The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) is the primary gateway for many of these benefits, and most applications can be started online at access.arkansas.gov or by visiting a local DHS county office.

If you're not sure where to begin, calling 2-1-1 Arkansas (dial 2-1-1) is one of the fastest ways to get connected. Trained specialists are available around the clock to assess your needs and point you toward local programs for food, rent, utilities, mental health, and more — many of which are too small or regional to appear in a statewide guide like this one.

The resources below cover some of the most widely used programs available to Arkansas children and families. Eligibility rules, income limits, and local availability can change, so always confirm details directly with the administering agency before making decisions based on them.

Key programs in Arkansas

Arkansas SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Monthly electronic benefits (EBT card) to help low-income individuals and families purchase groceries. Administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

How to access: Apply online at access.arkansas.gov, call your local DHS county office, or dial 2-1-1 for application assistance. You will need proof of identity, income, and household expenses.

Arkansas Medicaid & ARKids First

ARKids First provides free or low-cost health coverage for uninsured children in Arkansas whose families earn too much for traditional Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Standard Medicaid covers eligible low-income adults, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

How to access: Apply online at access.arkansas.gov or call the Arkansas DHS at 1-855-372-1084. You can also apply in person at any DHS county office or through a certified application assister.

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children)

Provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health and social services for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5 who meet income and nutritional-risk criteria.

How to access: Contact the Arkansas Department of Health WIC program at 1-800-235-0002 or visit healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/wic to find your nearest WIC clinic and schedule an appointment.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) — Arkansas

Helps eligible low-income households pay heating and cooling utility bills and, in some cases, covers emergency energy costs or weatherization needs. Administered in Arkansas through the Department of Human Services Division of County Operations.

How to access: Apply through your local DHS county office or call 2-1-1 Arkansas to find the nearest intake point and learn when enrollment periods open in your county, as funding is limited and periods vary.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline / AR Crisis Center Network

WIC Program teaches her how to breastfeed. Once she’s had her baby, WIC provides peer counseling and support as well as breast pumps and other breastfeeding supplies. Breastfeeding moms on WIC also receive more food and for a longer time period.

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Child & Family Assistance Resources in Arkansas

Key programs in Arkansas

Arkansas SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Arkansas Medicaid & ARKids First

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children)

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) — Arkansas

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline / AR Crisis Center Network

Child & Family Assistance resources for Arkansas

Alliance for Period Supplies

American Pregnancy Association

Babylist

Breast Pumps Through Insurance

Cribs for Kids At Home

I Support The Girls

Mothers' Milk Bank at Austin

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Share The Love

She Supply

Tiny Treasures Milk Bank

WIC Breastfeeding Support

Other resources in Arkansas

Child & Family Assistance in other states