Community Aid and Resources in Montana

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We know that life can present unexpected challenges, and sometimes, making ends meet feels overwhelming. If you're reading this, please know that you are not alone, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength and resilience. Our goal is to make that step a little easier by connecting you with the help available in your community.

In a different state? Check out my other article SNAP Benefits Suspended: Where to Find Emergency Food & Community Support - which lists assistance for all states. Find your state and the resource you need.

Montana's economy presents a unique set of challenges for its residents. While the state offers unemployment benefits for the longest duration in the nation at 28 weeks, navigating the job market and affording basic necessities remains difficult for many. Specific work requirements for public assistance programs add another layer of complexity; for instance, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) must meet a 20-hour-per-week work requirement for SNAP benefits, and families receiving child care subsidies must meet minimum work or training hours. In the face of these challenges, a strong network of legal and community support works to provide stability. Organizations like the Montana Justice Foundation are providing record-level funding to nonprofits across the state to help survivors of domestic violence, support low-income families with housing issues, and offer free civil legal aid. Furthermore, specialized programs, particularly for veterans, work to fill gaps by providing no-cost legal representation and counseling directly to those who served .

This guide is designed to help you navigate the vast landscape of support available, from established government programs to grassroots community efforts. We've compiled resources to help you find the specific help you need within our unique state.

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How to Use This Guide

This post organizes vital resources by category, making it easier to find exactly what you need right now. We've compiled information on:

Immediate & Crisis Help: Essential hotlines for safety, shelter, and mental health.
Food Assistance: Connecting with SNAP (food stamps), food banks, and free meal programs.
Financial & Housing Aid: Support with housing costs, utilities, and unemployment.
Health & Mental Healthcare: Access to medical and behavioral health services.
Additional State-Specific Resources: Help for seniors, veterans, legal aid, and more.

Immediate & Crisis Help

Here are the essential immediate and crisis help resources for Montana, including national hotlines, state-specific contacts, and specialized support for domestic violence. This table lists free, confidential hotlines available 24/7 for urgent support.

Resource	Contact Information	Description
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline	Call or Text: 988 Chat: 988lifeline.org	Nationwide network for anyone in suicidal, mental health, or substance use crisis. In Montana, calls are routed to in-state crisis centers like the Help Center in Bozeman.
Montana 211	Phone: 211 or 406-443-2533 (Helena area) Website: montana211.org	Free, confidential information and referral service for local health and human services, including housing, food, utility assistance, and health care.
Montana Warm Line	Phone: 1-877-688-3377	A peer-supported warm line for non-crisis emotional support.
Montana DPHHS	Phone: 406-444-5622	State department providing information on public mental health services, grants, and waivers.

Domestic Violence & Homelessness Resources

For ongoing support related to domestic violence and homelessness, these organizations are central to aid efforts in Montana.

Domestic Violence: The Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCADSV) is the leading statewide organization. While they do not provide direct services, they connect you to local programs in your region. You can find these programs through their Victim Service Programs by Region directory or contact them at 1-888-404-7794.
Homelessness: For immediate shelter and housing crisis assistance, the best first step is to contact Montana 211. Their trained specialists can connect you with local homeless service providers, shelters, and housing assistance programs in your specific community.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: For immediate, 24/7 crisis support, you can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788

Food Assistance Programs in Montana

Here are the key food assistance programs available to Montana residents. You can apply for SNAP benefits online and find information about other nutrition programs through the resources below.

Program	Official Name & Details	How to Apply & Find Help
SNAP (Food Stamps)	Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) • Provides monthly benefits for food via an EBT "Montana Access Card" • State-run by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)	Apply via State Agency Online Application: apply.mt.gov Phone: 1-888-706-1535 (SNAP Hotline)
WIC	Women, Infants, and Children • Nutrition program for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under 5 • Provides specific nutritious foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support	Contact State Agency Administered by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). Contact them for local WIC clinic information.
School Meals	National School Lunch Program & School Breakfast Program • Provides free or reduced-price meals to eligible students	Contact State Department or Local School Administered by: Montana Office of Public Instruction For applications/eligibility letters, contact your child's school district directly
Local Food Banks	Montana Food Bank Network • Works with a statewide network of partner agencies, food pantries, and meal programs	Find Your Local Food Bank Contact the Montana Food Bank Network for a referral to a local food pantry

More Ways to Get Help

Expedited SNAP Benefits: If you have very low income (less than $150/month) and limited resources, you may qualify for emergency benefits within 7 days.
EBT Card Help: For a lost or stolen Montana Access Card, call the EBT customer service line at 1-866-850-1556.
Other Benefits: Your local food bank can often provide assistance with your SNAP application or inform you about other available resources.

I've compiled a list of food banks and pantries across Montana for you. This list is drawn from various sources, but since operating details can change, I recommend contacting locations directly before visiting.

Here are the food assistance resources available in Montana:

Organization	Location	Hours of Operation	Contact Information
HRDC Gallatin County Food Bank	Bozeman: 206 E Griffin Dr, MT 59715	Mon-Thu: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM; Tue: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM; Fri: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM	(406) 587-4486
Butte Emergency Food Bank	Butte: 1019 E 2nd St, MT 59701	Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM	(406) 782-3814
Great Falls Community Food Bank	Great Falls: 1620 12th Ave N, MT 59401	Information Varies	(406) 452-9029
Helena Food Share	Helena: 1280 Boulder Ave, MT 59701	Mon & Thu: 12:30 PM - 6:30 PM; Tue, Wed & Fri: 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM	(406) 443-3663
Missoula Food Bank & Community Center	Missoula: Information Varies	Information Varies	Check their website
Billings Food Bank	Billings: 2122 4th Ave N, MT 59101	Information Varies	(406) 248-8712
Flathead Food Bank	Kalispell: 1203 US Hwy 2 W Ste 2, MT 59901	Information Varies	(406) 752-3663
Beaverhead Food Pantry	Dillon: 131 E Helena St, MT 59725	Tue: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM; Wed: 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM	(406) 683-2199
Livingston Food Resource Center	Livingston: 202 S 2nd St, MT 59047	Tue & Thu: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM	(406) 222-5335
Big Timber Community Food Bank	Big Timber: 10 Bridge Street, MT 59011	Mon & Fri: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM	(406) 932-4070
North Valley Food Bank	Whitefish: 251 Flathead Ave, MT 59937	Information Varies	(406) 862-5863
Polson Loaves & Fish Food Pantry	Polson: Information Varies	Tue & Fri: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM	(406) 883-6864
City Foods Ministries	Missoula: Information Varies	Sat: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM	(406) 532-7711

Tips for Getting Food Assistance in Montana

Call Ahead: Always call a food bank or pantry to confirm their current hours and any eligibility requirements.
Check for Updates: For the most reliable and comprehensive list, use the Feeding America food bank locator by entering your ZIP code on their website. You can also dial 2-1-1 for personalized referrals to local food assistance and other essential services.
SNAP Benefits: If you need help applying for SNAP (food stamps), you can contact the Montana Food Bank Network's SNAP hotline at (406) 239-6475 for assistance.

Financial & Housing Assistance in Montana

I have gathered some information on financial and housing assistance programs in Montana. Here is a summary of the available information and how to find the missing details.

Program	Official Name & Details	How to Apply & Contact
LIHEAP	Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) • Helps pay heating costs during cold months	Apply via State Agency Administrative Office: PO Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604-4210
TANF	Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) • Provides temporary financial assistance • Lifetime limit: 60 months for an adult	Apply via State/Local Office • Local Office: 206 N. Broadway, Red Lodge, MT 59068 • How to find state office: Contact the federal administration
Unemployment Benefits
Rental & Housing Assistance	Montana Housing • Creates affordable housing opportunities	Contact State Agency Address: 301 S Park Ave Room 240, Helena, MT 59601
Weatherization Assistance Program	Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) • Improves home energy efficiency • Eligibility: Households ≤200% poverty line or receiving SSI; renters need landlord permission	Apply via Local Provider • First step: Contact your state weatherization administrator • Local providers manage applications and waitlists

Health and Mental Health Care in Montana

Here is the health and mental health care information for Montana, including the official Medicaid program name and resources for finding affordable community health centers.

Resource Type	Official Name & Details	How to Apply & Find Help
Medicaid Program	Montana HELP Plan • Montana's Medicaid expansion program • Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, emergency services, dental, vision, and chronic disease management	Apply via Official Portal • Apply online at HealthCare.gov or get assistance from a health center enrollment specialist
Community Health Centers	Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) • Provide comprehensive primary care, behavioral health, and dental services • Serve all patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay	Finder Tools • Montana Primary Care Association: Find a Health Center locator • HRSA Health Center Locator Tool: Search by address, state, or county
Sliding-Scale Clinics	Sliding Fee Scale Discount Program • Offered by FQHCs; adjusts cost based on income and household size • Available even if you have health insurance	Finder Tool & Direct Contact • Use the Montana Primary Care Association "Find a Health Center" tool • Contact health centers like Partnership Health Center or Greater Valley Health Center directly

Tips for Getting Healthcare in Montana

Gather Documents for Sliding Fee: To apply for a sliding fee scale, you'll typically need proof of income for everyone in your household. This can include recent pay stubs, a tax return, or a Social Security benefit letter.
Ask for Help: Most Montana health centers have enrollment specialists on staff who can help you apply for health insurance, including the Montana HELP Plan (Medicaid).
Services Are Comprehensive: Community Health Centers in Montana offer integrated services, meaning you can often access medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services in one location.

Diaper Banks in Montana

Here are some of the diaper banks I found in Montana.

Organization	Location	Distribution Details	Contact Information
Family Promise of Yellowstone Valley	10 S 26th St, Billings, MT	Drive-up service: Mondays 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM or Tuesdays 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Clients can receive assistance twice a month	Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Catholic Social Services Baby Boutique	530 N Ewing St, Helena, MT	No appointment necessary Offers diapers, wipes, clothing, and other baby supplies for children up to age 5	Phone: 406-442-5825

Tips for Getting Diapers and Other Resources

Contact Before You Go: It is always a good idea to call or email the organization to confirm their current operating hours and any eligibility requirements before your visit.
Diaper Need is Common: You are not alone in this challenge. As noted by the United Way of Yellowstone County, half of U.S. families report struggling to afford enough diapers, and their cost has risen significantly.
Explore Other Avenues: If you are not near these specific diaper banks, try contacting other local organizations like United Way (by dialing 211), community action agencies, or food pantries, as they may also have diaper distributions or can refer you to other resources.

Clothing Banks in Montana

Several clothing banks across Montana provide free clothing to those in need. The services are often community-supported and vary by location, with some requiring appointments or having residency requirements.

Here is a list of clothing banks in Montana with their service details to help you find support.

Organization	Location	Services & Requirements	Contact Information
Love INC Clothes Closet	Belgrade, MT	• Services: Free gently used clothing and accessories • Requirements: Appointment required; 10-item limit per adult	• Address: 19599 Frontage Road Unit F, Belgrade • Scheduling: Online via their website
My Neighbor in Need	Great Falls, MT	• Services: Anonymous requests for various needs, including clothing • Requirements: Submit a request online or by phone	• Phone: (406) 750-2542 • Address: 513 2nd Ave South, Great Falls • Website: myneighborinneed.org
Family Service Thrift Store	Billings, MT	• Services: Free items available on "Free day Wednesday" • Requirements: Everyone welcome during free day hours	• Free Day: Wednesdays, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM • Address: Check website for details

How to Find More Local Clothing Assistance

Since clothing resources can be very local, here are effective ways to find more options near you:

Check with Local Thrift Stores: Some thrift stores, like those run by Goodwill or the YWCA in Missoula, may have voucher programs with local social service agencies for free clothing. It's worth calling thrift stores in your area to ask.
Use Montana 211: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the Montana 211 website. This free service can connect you to a comprehensive list of local resources, including clothing banks, based on your specific location.
Contact Other Community Organizations: Organizations like Mountain Home Montana in Missoula focus on helping families with basic needs. While they may not always accept public donations, they can often refer you to their partner organizations that do provide clothing assistance.

Additional Resources in Montana

Here are additional state-specific resources for Montana, with direct links and contact information for legal aid, veteran services, aging and disability support, and child care assistance.

Legal Aid

Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA): The primary provider of free civil legal help to low-income Montanans.

Online Application: Submit through MLSA's application form.
Helpline: Call 1-800-666-6899, open Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Legal Information: Find free forms and information at MontanaLawHelp.org.

Veteran Services

Montana Department of Military Affairs: Oversees state veteran benefits.

Contact: Call 406-324-3740 to speak with a Veterans Service Officer.
Financial Assistance: Montana Military Family Relief Fund provides grants for qualifying service members.
Veterans Homes: Skilled nursing care facilities located in Butte, Columbia Falls, and Glendive.

Aging and Disability Services

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): A network of 10 local agencies helping seniors and people with disabilities live independently.

Services Include: Information/referrals, Medicare/Medicaid counseling, and long-term care advocacy.
Find Your Local Agency: Contact the Aging Services Bureau of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Utility Assistance

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Assists with heating bills from October 1 to April 30.

Apply Online: Applications accepted via apply.mt.gov.
Eligibility: Based on household size and income (e.g., $32,102 annual for 1 person).

Child Care Subsidies

Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship: Helps low-income families cover child care costs.

Administered by: Child Care Resources.
Apply: Call 406-728-6446 or visit their office in Missoula.
Eligibility: Based on income and household size (e.g., $4,810 monthly for a family of 4)

How to Get Involved with Mutual Aid in Montana

I found several well-established food banks across Montana where you can volunteer your time. Here are some volunteer opportunities with food banks in Montana:

Organization	Location	Volunteer Activities	How to Get Involved
Montana Food Bank Network	Missoula	Food repacking, "Mail-a-Meal" box builds	Visit their website for opportunities at their Missoula warehouse.
North Valley Food Bank	Whitefish	Multiple distribution channels	Fill out a volunteer application on their website.
Flathead Food Bank	Flathead Valley	Stocking shelves, sorting food, customer interviews, data entry, deliveries	Contact Eric via email or phone.
HRDC	Southwest Montana	Food bank sorting, grocery rescue driving, emergency shelter support	Visit their volunteer page to find a role that fits.
Billings Food Bank	Billings	Variety of tasks based on organizational needs	Call them or fill out a form on their website.

Finding Mutual Aid Networks in Montana

While the search results indicate that mutual aid networks were active in Montana, much of the specific information comes from reports in 2020 . These groups are often organized locally and can change over time.

Past Networks: Articles mention that groups formed in several cities, including the MT BIPOC Mutual Aid Fund (statewide), Butte Mutual Aid Network, and Franklin to the Fort Neighbors in Missoula. The Butte network was reported to have a dedicated website and hotline, but I could not confirm the current status of these resources.
How to Search for Current Groups: Since these groups often rely on social media, your best approach is to:
- Search on platforms like Facebook and Instagram for terms such as "[Your City/County] Mutual Aid" or "Montana Mutual Aid".
- Use general web searches for "mutual aid Montana" or "community aid [Your City]".
- Check with local community centers or libraries, as they may be aware of active groups in your area.

Important Notes & Disclaimer

Before using the resources listed in this guide, please read the following important information:

Information is Subject to Change: The details provided on this page (including phone numbers, addresses, hours of operation, and eligibility requirements) are gathered from public sources and are subject to change without notice. We strive to keep this information current, but we cannot guarantee its absolute accuracy at all times.
Always Verify Directly: You should always confirm details by contacting the organization directly before visiting or applying. We highly recommend calling ahead to check for current hours, availability of services, documentation requirements, and appointment procedures.
Not an Official Source: This blog is not a government agency, social service provider, or legal entity. We are a private resource compiling publicly available information to help our community. We cannot determine your eligibility for any program, provide direct financial assistance, or guarantee that you will receive services.
No Eligibility Determinations: The inclusion of a program or organization on this list does not imply endorsement or a guarantee that you will qualify for assistance. Eligibility for all programs is determined solely by the administering organizations based on their specific guidelines.
Use at Your Own Discretion: While we aim to list reputable organizations, we encourage you to use your best judgment when contacting and working with any service provider.

This guide is intended as a starting point to help you find the help you need. The most reliable information will always come directly from the official organizations themselves.