Support
Begins Here.
Community Resources
This is a list of many of the top community resources in the Denver area.
If you need additional help connecting with the support you need, contact your Program Advisor. Not sure who to contact? View this list to find the right department to contact at CWEE.
You can also call 2-1-1 and talk to someone who can connect you to community resources.
Child Care
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP)
Arapahoe County Early Childhood Navigator
Colorado Shines – find a licensed child care program that accepts CCCAP near you
Domestic Violence Support
General
Colorado Peak – the central point of access to public services in Colorado
2-1-1 Help Center (Mile High United Way) or call 2-1-1.
Housing & Shelters
Internet Services
InMyArea, Denver – internet resources for low-income families in Denver
InMyArea, Aurora – internet resources for low-income families in Aurora
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – federal program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet.
Mental Health
Mental Health Center of Denver
All Health Network – formerly Arapahoe Douglas Mental Health Network
Utilities
ACP: Affordable Conectivity Program – FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford broadband internet service and more
Food Support
Hunger Free Colorado – find a food pantry near you
Resources Previously Featured in the CWEE Community Connection (Weekly Participant Newsletter)
Resources for Parents
FREE Youth Sports Programs
Registration is now open for the Volo Kids Foundation’s Fall programming! Pick a location and time and register your child to play soccer, basketball, flag football, or volleyball. All children and all experience levels are welcome. LEARN MORE
Parent Resources
Reading, talking, and connecting with your child daily has been shown to dramatically improve language skills and set your child up for school success. Click below to learn tips for ages ranging from pregnancy to age 5. LEARN MORE
Arapahoe Motherhood Class
This class helps moms learn communication strategies, stress and time management skills, and how to develop a healthy self-concept. This is a 4-week session offered to any mom who receives services from Arapahoe County Human Services. Lunch is provided along with a $50 gift card and certificate upon completion. Call 303-752-8908 to register. Learn more here.
When: Classes are held 11:00AM – 2:30PM on Fridays
Where: Arapahoe CentrePoint Plaza – The Legacy Room located at 14980 E. Alameda Drive, Aurora.
Soon-To-Be or New Mother?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides 24/7, FREE, confidential support, trained counselors, resources, and referrals to any pregnant and postpartum mothers facing mental health challenges. The service is available via phone and text in English or Spanish.
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). Learn more about the hotline here.
Summer EBT – The New Grocery Benefits Program!
Beginning this summer, families in Colorado can get $120 in benefits, per eligible school-age child, to use for groceries during the summer months! Learn more about the program by clicking here. English/Spanish flyer attached. Remember to do the following:
Make sure your student’s school has a current address and parent/guardian information.
If you are receiving SNAP, Colorado Works, or Medicaid, make sure your case has a current address on file.
MySpark Program
The MySpark program through Denver Public Schools for Middle School students (including those who are transitioning into middle school) offers $1,000 debit cards directly to students and families so that they can choose the youth activities they’re most interested in. Find a MySpark program here. Email support@mysparkdenver.org or visit their office 1705 17th St #200 Denver, CO 80202 if you have questions.
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- Who is eligible?
- You and your child(ren) are eligible for My Spark Denver if you answer YES to all of the following questions.
- Do you have a middle school student?
- Does this student attend a Denver Public School (includes charter and innovation schools)?
- Is your child eligible for free or reduced-price lunch?
- Apply here: https://mysparkdenver.org/apply/
- You and your child(ren) are eligible for My Spark Denver if you answer YES to all of the following questions.
- Who is eligible?
Alma Project for Maternal Mental Health
The Alma Project offers community support for families with young children (up to 3 years old) in Southwest Denver and neighboring communities. Get one-on-one support (7-10 sessions), learn new skills, and get resources to help if you’ve been feeling sad, stressed, anxious, or lonely. Services available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Somali. Learn more by visiting Alma Project Website or email alma@lifespanlocal.org.
University of Denver – Parentline Colorado
Parentline Colorado is a FREE telebehavioral health service offering brief, strategic psychotherapy through video chat and telephone to pregnant and postpartum families with children up to age five. For more information, contact: GSPP.PARENTLINE@DU.EDU or call 303-871-7935.
SafeCare
Have a child 5 or under? SafeCare Colorado offers a free, voluntary parent support program for parents and caregivers with children ages 5 and under who need extra support to keep their families safe and healthy. Information session topics include identifying and removing safety hazards, increasing positive behaviors, and identifying common illnesses and injuries. Available in English and Spanish. Learn more about SafeCare here.
Youth Program Locator
The Youth Program Locator is a valuable tool to help families find out-of-school time program listings that keep Denver youth safe, engaged and active. The Youth Program Locator provides details for 500+ programs across Denver, such as location, dates, age, program type, cost, and more. The locator has a translation feature, so families can utilize the resource in multiple languages! For inquiries or questions, please contact the DAAconnect team at DAAconnect@denvergov.org
Text Message Program – MEAL
Every child deserves healthy food. Yet 1 in 3 families in Colorado has trouble getting healthy, affordable food. Bright by Text has launched a new program to help connect Denver families to food, support, and let them know: they’re not alone. Any parent in Denver can text the word MEAL to 274 448 to begin receiving free text messages, in English or Spanish, with local and federal connections to help feed their families. Parents can also sign up at this link: www.brightbytext.org/meal
Children’s Hospital Colorado ParentSmart Healthline
Wouldn’t it be great if you could talk to a nurse any time you had a question about your child’s health? The Children’s Hospital Colorado offers its ParentSmart Healthline 24 hours a day at 720-777-0123 or call toll free: 1-855-KID-INFO (543-4636). ParentSmart has been serving the Rocky Mountain region for nearly 20 years and receives over 30,000 calls per year. They can also provide information on community resources. Learn more here.
After School Programs
With a new school year upon us, the Office of Children’s Affairs’ Youth Program Locator can help you find afterschool programs to keep your kids safe, engaged, and active. There are hundreds of activities to fit any age or interest, many of which are free or low-cost. You can also locate additional resources that support the whole family. New programs and services are added often. Click here to search for programs.
Clothes to Kids of Denver
This organization provides new and quality used clothing to students in the Denver Metro Area, FREE of charge. Eligibility requirements. Click here to learn more and see if you qualify.
I Matter Program
For parents: If you’ve noticed your kids are struggling with their mental health, the I Matter program can connect your children with a therapist for up to 6 free, confidential virtual counseling sessions (some in-person appointments available). Sessions available in Spanish and English. Visit IMatterColorado.org or yoimportocolorado.org for more information.
Early Childhood Mental Health Support Link
The ECMH Support Line is a no-cost, confidential resource for any parent or professional in Colorado who cares for children under six. (833)-ECMH411 Monday – Friday 10:30am – 5:30pm MentalHealthStartsEarly.com
BrightByText: Because Kids Don’t Come with Instructions
A resource for tips, activities and events based on your child’s age and your location.
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- Available in English and Spanish
- Click here to learn more
- Click here to sign-up
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WeeCyle: Mobile Baby Essentials
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- WeeCycle provides direct distributions of diapers, wipes, baby food, formula and more through our Mobile Baby Essentials program several times each week! Distributions are held throughout the Denver Metro area and beyond.
- Most events are drive through (though there is always a walkup option)
- Please stay in your vehicle, getting out during the distribution slows down the process.
- All Items are given free of charge but not intended for resale
- At each event we partner with food banks such as We Don’t Waste or Food Bank of the Rockies and there are often other partner organizations providing items as well.
- Each event is First Come First Serve while supplies last.
- Click here for more details and dates!
- WeeCycle provides direct distributions of diapers, wipes, baby food, formula and more through our Mobile Baby Essentials program several times each week! Distributions are held throughout the Denver Metro area and beyond.
The Birth Squad: Perinatal Support Groups for mothers and birthing people in the Denver community
The Birth Squad offers two types of support groups in the Denver area and affinity support group spaces for Black and Latino/a moms and birthing people in English and Spanish.
Babies are welcome at both groups! Click here to visit The Birth Squad’s webpage
Education Resources
Excel Center – Tuition Free High School for Adults!
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- Colorado’s first tuition-free, public high school for adults will open in Aurora in 2024. Targeted to Coloradans age 22 and older, The Excel Center offers a no-cost path to attain a high school diploma with additional supports including:
- Free, on-site childcare/Adventure Center
- Transportation services
- Career counseling
- Courses providing both high school and college credit
- Access to free industry-recognized certificates
- Micro-credential programs available
- Learn more here!
- Colorado’s first tuition-free, public high school for adults will open in Aurora in 2024. Targeted to Coloradans age 22 and older, The Excel Center offers a no-cost path to attain a high school diploma with additional supports including:
Certificates for High Growth Careers
Interested in AI, Coding, or Cybersecurity? Verizon Skill Forward provides you with 1 year of FREE access to these programs and others that will help pave your path. Verizon’s goal is to make quality education accessible for all. Learn more here!
University of Colorado FREE Engineering Summer Bridge Program
This is a PAID 4-week program for high school graduates (or early-career community college students) who are interested in engineering but have not yet reached calculus readiness. The program offers math and hands-on engineering lessons, mentoring, transfer and career guidance, community college resources, and more! Click here to learn more and apply today.
Employment Resources
Workforce 50+ Explore Opportunities in Early Childhood Education Job Seekers over age 50: Learn how you can be a part of this new intergenerational program and work in education! Paid, part-time, and volunteer positions available. Register on ConnectingColorado. Contact Teresa Falagrady 720-337-9675 at the Denver Workforce for more information.
Certificates for High Growth Careers Interested in AI, Coding, or Cybersecurity? Verizon Skill Forward provides you with 1 year of FREE access to these programs and others that will help pave your path. Verizon’s goal is to make quality education accessible for all. LEARN MORE
Earn IT Certifications Goodwill of Colorado’s LIFT IT Training program offers information technology and cybersecurity training such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and CySA+ training free of charge to eligible participants. All classes offer a flexible schedule. LEARN MORE
Energy Resources
Do you know someone who needs help paying water bills?
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- Check out the Low-Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)! This information will be included in water bills in January in English and Spanish. More info is online related to LIHWAP in partnership with Mile High United Way.
- Denver Water understands times have been tough. The Low-Income Housing Water Assistance Program can help customers who qualify. Learn more at Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for qualifications and requirements to get help.
- To find out more information on these programs, talk with your Specialist at CWEE.
Food Resources
Commún Denver Food Share
In partnership with other local organizations, Commún Denver operates a free food share. Everyone is welcome whether or not you signed up prior to the event. Food delivery may also be available in your area. Ongoing, every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Church of South Denver. LEARN MORE
Break Bread in Littleton
Join in-person, weekly Community Meals each Saturday from 4-6pm. You’ll get a FREE meal and get to know your neighbors and build meaningful relationships. ALL are welcome!
Learn more
Metro Caring – Fresh Foods Market The Fresh Foods Market is a grocery store-style market with nutritious, culturally specific foods available to the community at no cost. Households are welcome to shop up to every 4 weeks, as appointments are available. Identification, proof of need, or documentation are not needed to make an appointment. Where: Metro Caring located at 1100 E. 18th Ave Denver, CO 80218 When: Monday through Thursday 9:00AM to 11:30AM and 12:30PM to 3:00PM; Tuesday and Wednesday 6:00PM-7:30PM Fill out one of the forms below to get started: New to Metro Caring -or- Returning to Metro Caring
We Don’t Waste – Mobile Food Market Serving healthy, nutritious food, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and dairy, We Don’t Waste markets are open to everyone. Please register in advance to help make the check-in/pick-up process faster by installing the Plentiful app found at https://plntfl.app/l/app, create a profile, and search for WDW on the map or list to register. Or text WDW to 726879. Find more dates and locations here
No Cost Grocery Re:Vision Co-Op offers free, nutritious, and culturally relevant foods to the community every Tuesday and Wednesday! Get fresh fruits, vegetables, and staples such as rice, beans, milk, and eggs. All are welcome, no appointment needed. When: Tuesdays from 11:30AM to 6:00PM and Wednesdays 10:30AM to 2:00PM Where: 3738 Morrison Rd Denver, CO 80219
Double Up Food Bucks The Double Up Food Bucks program doubles the value of federal nutrition (SNAP or food stamps) benefits spent at participating markets and food retail stores (up to $20 per visit), helping people bring home more healthy fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers. Text your zip code to 1-844-383-2399 for locations or call 720-573-3617. Visit doubleupcolorado.org
Health Resources
Low-Cost Dental Services
Smile! The Community College of Denver offers dental services to the public as their students train in CCD’s dental hygiene program. Free screenings, exams, x-rays, cleanings, bleaching, and sealants at significantly reduced rates. Appointments are limited and based on the academic semester calendar. LEARN MORE
Health and Social Services – It Takes A Village based in Aurora offers many free resources geared towards reducing health and social disparities among people of color. Services include a crime survivors program, relationship workshops, mobile unit testing, and support groups to name a few. LEARN MORE
Wellness Winnie – Wellness Winnie is Denver’s mobile unit staffed with mental health counselors and peer navigators offering support, assistance, and resources. Through shared experiences, peer navigators are skilled to support recovery and mental well-being. Services include: Informal classes and presentations, sharps disposal, behavioral health screening and assessment, distribution of items like socks and toiletries, and more. When: Find all dates here.
Colorado Crisis Services Provides free, confidential, and immediate support from trained professionals and peer specialists, available 24/7/365 by calling 844-493-TALK (8255), or texting TALK to 38255. Colorado residents can also seek services in-person at CCS walk-in centers, regardless of ability to pay. If you don’t know where to begin getting help with a mental health, substance use or emotional concern—for you, or for someone you know—start here. Visit coloradocrisisservices.org for more information
Tough as a Mother Connects pregnant and parenting people to treatment services and recovery support. The campaign is candid and compassionate about the pressures of parenthood and speaks to the strength of mothers to overcome challenges, including a substance use disorder. Learn more at toughasamother.org.
Counseling Support TherapyDirect is a new way to get the urgent counseling support you need with no insurance required. TherapyDirect offers same-day, online counseling to people in Colorado 18+. When you’re feeling down, anxious, or alone, or you just want to talk to someone who gets it, TherapyDirect lets you connect directly to a professional counselor in minutes. No appointments or scheduling – just hop on your phone, laptop, or tablet for a 100% secure and confidential video call. Insurance is not required, and there are no program fees. Individuals can receive up to three counseling sessions per year. Available from your mental health experts at WellPower, Monday–Friday, 9am–5:30pm, at wellpower.org/therapydirect Interpretation services on request.
Crisis Text Line to Support Youth Caring for Denver has launched a new crisis text line that aims to support our youth. Anyone can text the word ‘Denver’ to 741741 to access anonymous crisis counseling support 24/7. You can find out more here: https://www.crisistextline.org/text-us/
Colorado’s Vaccine Sign-Up Colorado’s vaccine clinics are up and running! There are many times and locations to choose from. Click here to make an appointment at a clinic near you! Click here to learn about the vaccines being offered
Keeping Denver Safe Substance misuse and overdose are an increasing community health concern across the city of Denver. To support the safety of our community, Denver residents can order Fentanyl testing strips and Naxolone (Narcan) using the form available at this link.
Back to School Mental Health
Get ready for success! These free downloadable resources from Crisis Text Line are designed to help students, parents, and educators manage new routines and school pressures. Get free, confidential support for Denver youth in English and Spanish. Text 741741 to connect with a counselor. LEARN MORE
Legal Resources
Project Safeguard Legal advocates at Project Safeguard provide FREE, confidential help with safety planning, civil protection orders, divorce or custody filings, and more. Services available in English, Spanish, and other languages. LEARN MORE
Denver County Outreach Court Do you have outstanding city cases (GS, GV) or warrants to resolve and experiencing housing instability? If so, Denver County Court Forensic Peer Navigators can help by connecting you to services. Services offered: Substance use treatment providers, peer support, mental health providers, Brain Injury Alliance of Colorado, and other resources. See flyer for more information! When: Click this flyer for dates, 8:30AM to 10:30AM Where: Haven of Hope, The AID Center, or Denver Public Library Central
Free Legal Resources at the Denver County Courthouse For support with rental payments, there are free attorneys, Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) navigation and resource assistance available at the Denver County Courthouse (1437 Bannock St.), Room 163 on weekday mornings from 8 a.m. – noon. Click here for more information
Denver Human Services offers a monthly, free legal clinic to help you navigate the why and how of going to court. An attorney will be available to answer questions and provide information on family law and court issues including: child support, modifications, visitation, parenting time, custody, contempt citations (family law only), and any other family law and court issues. Click here to register
Technology Resources
Denver Public Library: Low Cost Tech Support The Denver public library has free and low-cost technology resources! They include: Free in-person and virtual tech support Print, copy, scan, and fax (100 pages per day, per person) Click here for details and for a list of technology resources compiled by the Denver Public Library
Lifeline Benefit – FREE Smartphone as well as Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data For any person currently receiving Food Stamps, Medicaid or is considered Low Income Where/When: You can pick up a phone at their office at 3737 W Colfax Ave Monday – Friday from 10am-5pm There are also tent locations set up Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm at St Francis, The Stout Street Clinic, 14th and Federal and Colfax/Broadway where you can also receive this benefit. All you need to bring is your state ID
Other Resources
Downtown Overnight Shelter
The Samaritan House, located at 2301 Lawrence St in Denver, offers shelter 365 days per year to women 18 years and older. No need to call in advance and no referral required. Bathroom services and two nutritious meals offered. LEARN MORE
Save $ with RTD’s LiVE Program Sign up today! RTD’s LiVE program helps you get to all the places you need to go. By enrolling in LiVe, you will receive a 50% DISCOUNT on fares throughout the RTD service area. Apply on the Colorado Peak website or by phone 720-944-4347. Learn more about RTD LiVE You can also contact your CWEE program advisor if you have questions.
Denver Residents – Lime and Lyft Discounts Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) has partnered with Lyft and Lime to offer discounted passes for shared e-bikes and scooters. There are a limited number of discount passes available and it’s first come, first served. Request a pass by filling out this online form.
Are You Registered To Vote? Your Voice Matters! Your vote can help bring the changes needed to improve your community. Make sure your voice is counted. Register to vote here: Go Vote Colorado. Check your voter registration status here: Status For more voting information, search County Election Offices
Stop Fraud Colorado Stop Fraud Colorado helps educate Coloradans on how to protect themselves from scams and fraud, and to report consumer protection-related issues to the attorney general. Visit their site to learn about business and job scams, family emergency scams, subscription scams, and more. You can also gain an understanding of identity theft, mail fraud, digital fraud, and more.
Traveling Out of State with a Colorado EBT Card? Those planning to travel out of state with a Colorado EBT card may need to call to unlock their card for use. To use the EBT card in a location where transactions are blocked such as Nevada and California, call 800-536-5298 before traveling. Learn more here.
Denver Animal Shelter $20 Pet-Care Packages
Dog & Cat Owners – Discount for Denver County residents: Show your SNAP/EBT card and take advantage of a discounted pet-care package worth $60 – for the discounted price of $20. Learn more here.
Hands of the Carpenter Hands of the Carpenter serves working single moms by providing automotive service programs to help remove obstacles and barriers that would stand in the way of their ability to become economically successful. Single moms are invited to apply for automotive services by filling out an application located on the website. They are currently offering a FREE oil change and evaluation for working single moms. This is a great chance to learn more about your vehicle.
Entertainment
Denver Public Library Delivery
Do you enjoy books, music, and movies but need assistance in getting materials to you or someone you know? Denver Public Library offers Home Delivery service to anyone in the City and County of Denver who is unable to get to a library due to physical ability or age. Click below to see how this wonderful program works. LEARN MORE
MY Denver Card Youth, ages 5 – 18 who reside in Denver, can have a key to the city with a MY Denver Card in hand! Your Library and Recreation Card All In One. Youth will get free access to recreation centers, swimming pools, and various cultural facilities where they can participate in healthy, safe, and fun activities afterschool, during school breaks, and on the weekends. Two ways to sign up: Visit the Online Service Center In person at one of the Denver recreation centers
Do You Love Reading? Book Give Denver is a local nonprofit who believes every person throughout metro Denver should have access to free books—books you can keep and own. Books for all ages. Books in every genre. All free. Learn more here. When: Tue, Wed, Fri, & Sat – Hours 9:00am to 12:00pm Where: Book Give Service Station located at 4890 Lowell Blvd Denver, CO 80221
Upcoming Free Days Whether you want to learn more about science or see some animals, Denver is offering FREE days around the city. Find free events here!
Explore Museums, Gardens, and More! Colorado SNAP recipients receive discounted admission to many different museums and cultural centers by showing their EBT card at the time of purchase. Discounts vary from location to location. Unfortunately, your EBT card cannot be used to purchase the admission tickets. Learn more here!
Explorer Pass – SNAP recipients enjoy discounted admission to Denver area museums and cultural centers by showing their EBT card at the ticket counter.
Museums for All – Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP) can gain free or reduced admission to 800+ museums throughout the United States by presenting their EBT card. Most admissions are $3 or less.
Some locations offering discounts – Find additional locations at this link:
The discounted admission offer may not be valid on event days and reservations may also be required in advance. Make sure to call and/or check the museum or cultural center’s website before heading out
Center for Colorado Women’s History – $1 admission per person up to 10 people
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (Starting July 1, 2024, admission will be $3 per person up to 10 people)
Denver Art Museum – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (general admission only)
Denver Botanic Gardens – York Street and Chatfield Farms – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (general admission only)
Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys – $1 admission per person up to 5 people
Denver Museum of Nature and Science – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (general admission only)
Denver Zoo – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (advanced on-line reservations required – tickets are not available on site; they must be purchased through the Denver Zoo website)
Four Mile Historic Park – $2 admission for up to 4 people per group (general daytime admission only). Children under age 6 are free and unlimited.
History Colorado Center – $1 admission per person up to 10 people
Molly Brown House Museum – $2 admission per person
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum – $1 admission per person up to 10 people (general admission only)
Tax Resources
Denver Asset Building Coalition
Get help with preparing your taxes!
Click here for times and locations for tax preparation assistance
Check out DABC’s website here: https://denverabc.org
TaxHelp Colorado
File (with help) from home OR at an in-person tax site
Click here for more information and for times and locations for tax preparation assistance
ITS Taxpayer Assistance Centers
Contact your local IRS office to learn more. TACs won’t be able to file taxes during these times, but you can get help with creating and IRS account or Individual Protection Pin (IP PIN), getting transcripts, and more. Review the list of documents you need before you go!