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Military Families

Adaptive Sports Connection

Serves children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education across Ohio. They offer sporting events and camps for all skill levels with adaptive equipment. Programs include kayaking, cycling, soccer, skiing, and more. The Bikes to Go program helps children and adults obtain an adaptive bike. Individuals and families can register for a yearly membership or separate programs at low-cost. Scholarships are available for registration fees.
6000 Harriott Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-3921
adaptivesportsconnection.org

America Saves

Provides information on money management, debt reduction, how to build wealth, and life after retirement from the Consumer Federation of America. They have additional websites with resources specifically for young workers and military families.
(202) 387-6121
Military Saves: militarysaves.org
America Saves for Young Workers: americasavesforyoungworkers.org
America Saves: americasaves.org

American Legion

Advocates and offers support programs for veterans and their families. Paid memberships offer an opportunity for veterans to connect and access resources like member discounts. The website has information on current events, advocacy, and resources. Assistance programs include temporary financial assistance, a cash grant to support minor children of veterans who are eligible for American Legion membership. They also award college scholarships and list counseling and mental health support resources for veterans.
Contact Information: legion.org/contact
Main Website: legion.org

American Red Cross Central & Southern Ohio Region

Provides shelter, food, healthcare, and mental health services for victims of disaster; disaster preparedness and lifesaving skills training; blood drives, and specialized services for members of the military and veterans. The Central & Southern Ohio Region includes Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton.

  • Home Fire Safety/Smoke Alarms: Provides home fire safety education, tests existing smoke alarms, and installs up to 3 free smoke alarms for those that need them.
    (844) 207-4509
  • Red Cross Training: Provides first aid, CPR, AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Babysitting training, Lifeguarding training, and swimming/water safety classes. Many classes are free. Visit the website to find a class near you.
    redcross.org/local/ohio/take-a-class
  • Service to the Armed Forces: Provides financial assistance to military members, veterans, and their families to help cover emergency travel, rent, food, or utility expenses.
    (877) 272-7337
  • Mobile Apps: Offers several free apps users can download for donating blood, first aid for parents and kids, transfusion guidelines for hospitals and medical professionals, and fire safety for kids. The Emergency App provides extreme weather alerts, step-by-step preparation guidelines, and an interactive map to find Red Cross shelters.
    redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html

24/7 Disaster Services: (800) 733-2767
Columbus Office: 995 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-2740
redcross.org/local/ohio/central-and-southern-ohio.html

Camp Corral

A free week-long summer camp for military children ages 8 – 15. Priority enrollment is given to children of wounded, injured, ill and/or fallen military members. The camp is held at various locations across the US, and helps kids learn new skills, build character, and make friends while enjoying the outdoors. Applications typically open in January and spots are available on a first come, first served basis. They also offer weekend family camps throughout the year at various locations. Visit the website to apply.
Mailing Address: 801 North West Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
(855) 605-1267
campcorral.org

Dealhack Military Discount Guide

A free guide of product brands that offer active-duty military and veteran discounts. They independently verify each and every item on this list. Categories include retail, travel, education, auto, entertainment, and more.
dealhack.com/blog/military-discounts-guide

Discovery Riders

Serves: Individuals with disabilities ages 4 and up. Find specific physical requirements on their website. 
Equine therapeutic riding center providing individual riding, summer camp, and life skills group for children with a disability. Horses provide a special format for individuals to connect and socialize with the animal and each other. They also offer riding programs for able-bodied individuals, veterans and soldiers, and senior citizens. Lesson fees are low-cost, and financial assistance may be available.
(937) 935-6545
1797 State Route 47, East Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311
discoveryriders.org

Do It For the Love – Music Wish Grants

Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences. They provide Wish Grants for people with life-threatening illnesses, children with severe challenges, or wounded veterans to experience live concerts for free. Family members, close friends/colleagues, or medical professionals can nominate someone for a Wish Grant. Visit the website to apply for a Wish Grant or contact the organization.
doitforthelove.org

Dreams on Horseback

Center offering equine-therapy and horse-assisted learning experiences to enrich lives. Programs include therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, Military Connections for military personnel and veterans, youth social-emotional learning, vocational training for young adults with special needs, and more.
1416 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Blacklick, Ohio 43004
(614) 864-9500
dreamsonhorseback.org

Economic & Community Development Institute (ECDI)

Provides services for entrepreneurs regardless of where they came from, their gender, or their lineage. ECDI Business Resource Centers provide free mentoring, training, and other wraparound services for small business owners. They offer small business loans for entrepreneurs to access business capital and financial resources. Food Business Services include consulting, liaising with regulatory agencies, industry certification courses, and access to kitchen storage and prep spaces. They also have specialized programs for women-owned and veteran-owned businesses. ECDI is based in Columbus but services are also available in Akron, Canton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Portsmouth, Toledo, Kentucky, and Indiana.
1655 Old Leonard Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 559-0115 or (888) 210-3039
ecdi.org

Gratitude Initiative

Provides educational support and college scholarships for children with a parent in military service or law enforcement. Scholarships exist for children whose parent was wounded or killed, active duty, honorably discharged or a law/corrections officer that was injured, killed, or died by suicide. The College Success Academy program offers free, online college and career counseling, test prep, and financial aid counseling. Check the website for program requirements and application details.
101 Vintage Drive, Red Oak, Texas 75154
(817) 200-7465
gratitudeinitiative.org

Healing Waters – Fly Fishing for Veterans

Supports the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing outings. The programs provides classes for beginners and those more experienced. All equipment trip costs are covered, so experiences are free for participants. They offer programs across the country, host locations in Ohio are listed below. Visit the website to contact the organization directly.

  • Columbus VA Medical Center: 420 North James Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
  • Akron VA Clinic: 55 West Waterloo Road, Akron, Ohio 44319
  • Louis Stoke Cleveland VA Medical Center: 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
  • Parma VA Clinic: 8787 Brookpark Road, Parma, Ohio 44129

projecthealingwaters.org/location/columbus-central-ohio-2

Imagine America Foundation

Sponsors scholarships for students to attend career colleges or technical schools. Scholarships are available for high school graduates, military students, and adult learners with financial need. Their website has useful information on career exploration, and how to apply for scholarships and grants. Visit the website for contact information and to apply.
imagine-america.org

Legal Aid Society of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO: Formerly LASC)

Provides free civil legal assistance and guidance to low income residents and senior citizens of Columbus and Central Ohio. Legal Aid attorneys may be able to help you with the following types of cases or legal problems: consumer law, immigration, family law, housing, public benefits, reentry, seniors, tax law, veterans, and education. Their website also has a page of Resources with easy to read information on these topics.

  • Columbus Office: Serves Franklin and Madison county
    1108 City Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
    Intake: (888) 246-4420
    General Inquiries: (614) 224-8374 or (877) 224-8374
  • Marion Office: Serves Delaware, Marion, Morrow and Union county
    150 Oak Street, Marion, Ohio 43302
    (740) 383-2161 or (888) 301-2411

lasco.org

Licking County Coalition for Housing (LCCH)

A one-stop shop for housing resources in Licking County. Programs include transitional housing, rapid rehousing, help finding affordable housing, supportive services for veterans, and housing assistance for those recently released from a State of Ohio prison. Project Homeline is a homeless prevention program for families and individuals to receive one-on-one with a homeless prevention specialist, access case management services, and financial assistance. Their website has many resources for basic needs, healthcare, housing issues, and legal issues in Licking County. Call to schedule an appointment and confirm what paperwork you need to bring to the appointment.
23 South Park Place, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 345-1970
lcchousing.org

Lutheran Social Services (LSS) 211 Central Ohio

Faith-based organization providing a wide range of services across Ohio. Services include Faith Mission homeless shelter, food, health care, affordable senior living and domestic violence help. Visit the website for detailed program information and for programs in Fairfield County. The LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to food pantries and other social services across Franklin County and Ohio.

  • LSS 211 Referral Line & Online Database
    Call 211 or (614) 221-2255
    lssnetworkofhope.org/211centralohio
  • Central Ohio Main Office
    1105 Schrock Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
    (614) 228-5200
    lssnetworkofhope.org
  • Champion Avenue Food Pantry
    1460 South Champion Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
    (877) 577-6325
    All Pantry & Produce Locations: lssnetworkofhope.org/foodpantries/locations
  • LSS Health Center
    Offers primary care, dental, vision, HIV/STD testing, pharmacy, behavioral healthcare, and substance use disorder (SUD/MAT) treatment.
    245 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (614) 224-0747
    lssnetworkofhope.org/lsshealthcenter
  • New to the US Resources
    Anyone can call 211 for help in English or 180 other languages.
    211.org/get-help/new-us
  • Faith Mission Franklin County Homeless Shelter
    Must call Homeless Hotline in advance to be assigned a bed: (614) 274-7000
    217 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    Men’s Shelter: 599 East Eighth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
    lssnetworkofhope.org/faithmission
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
    Offers emergency shelter beds for veterans, and help with housing stability for veteran families.
    (614) 224-6617
  • CHOICES Domestic Violence Services
    Offers temporary housing, counseling, legal services, and peer support for survivors of domestic violence.
    24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Line: (614) 224-4663
    General: (614) 224-7200
    lssnetworkofhope.org/choices/services

MASH (Military and Service Heroes) Pantry & Resource Center

Serves veterans, military families, dependents, national guard members, and gold star families. The pantry provides food and toiletries/hygiene items. They provide socks and caps in the winter. Visit the website for documentation requirements. Eligible individuals may visit the pantry once per month. Programs include support groups, honor gardens, chaplain hours, social gatherings, and connection to other community resources.

  • MASH Pantry of Grove City: 2996 Columbus Street, Grove City, Ohio 43123
  • MASH Pantry of Delaware: 562 Pennsylvania Avenue, Delaware, Ohio 43015
  • Headquarters: 648 Clymer Road, Suite 113, Marysville, Ohio 43040

(614) 522-1555
mashpantry.org

Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs

A faith-based veteran service organization that provides intensive peer-based programs for veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress. Their program in Columbus is held at The Wilds, and application is required. They also offer events, workshops and share information on other resources for veterans. Visit the website for additional contact and application information.
PO Box 1405 Montgomery, Texas 77356
(832) 205-8550
mightyoaksprograms.org

Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)

Supports military-connected children and addresses education challenges associated with military lifestyle. They offer educational webinars for parents, Student 2 Student peer-support program, and youth leadership programs. The website offers helpful parenting articles, digital resources for families transitioning schools, mental health resources, and more.
(254) 953-1923
militarychild.org

Military OneSource

Provides access to service-specific news and resources that support military families. They offer confidential counseling over the phone, in person and online money management, parenting services, relocation, deployment and more. All members of the National Guard and Reserve Component and all active-duty members of the Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force are eligible for services. Some services are free. Their website has information for families on moving, adoption, legal help, retirement planning, spouse education, and more.
(800) 342-9647
militaryonesource.mil

My Future

This website helps young adults plan their next steps in life by bringing together information about colleges, careers, and military service opportunities. Access helpful articles on writing a resume, job searching, planning for and paying for college, what to take to college, interview tips, military service, preparing for military life, and more. The website has helpful search tools to find high-demand jobs, colleges, and military job postings.
myfuture.com

National Military Family Association (NMFA)

Supports military families through research, advocacy, and programming. Their website has information and resources for military families on topics including education and career, deployment, marriage and divorce, and adoption. They offer Military Spouse Scholarships for degrees from GED to PhD, continuing education, and more. They host Operation Purple family summer camps and retreats. The Bloom Military Teens website offers an opportunity for military teens to share experiences, artwork, and access resources.
(703) 931-6632
NMFA website: militaryfamily.org
Bloom Military Teens: bloommilitaryteens.org

National Park Service America the Beautiful Interagency Passes

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. Passes cover entrance fees at lands managed by the National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. They are also used for day use fees at lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Free Interagency Passes are available for 4th graders, senior citizens, U.S. military families, and individuals with permanent disabilities. Find program details and park locations online.
nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm

National Veterans Memorial & Museum

The only museum in the United States dedicated to preserving the stories of veterans from all branches of service. Visitors can experience a narrative journey of veterans’ stories through history, explore curated exhibitions, and enjoy community events. The NVMM Cares Program offers fitness classes, wellness retreats, creative workshops and more for service members and the Columbus community. They offer a graduate-level, 12-week Military to Civilian Leadership Certificate course in partnership with The Ohio State University. The website has resources for veterans and Gold Star families for mental health, educational opportunities, and more.
300 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 362-2800
nationalvmm.org

Ohio Cares for Military Families

Connects military personnel, veterans, and their families to behavioral health services and services available through the Department of Veterans Affairs and Vet Centers. They can link military families to substance abuse treatment, counseling, suicide prevention services and support specifically geared toward veterans and service men and women and their families. Their website also has resources for job assistance, legal help, and a resource map to find help near you.
Ohio Department of Veterans Services: (614) 644-0898
24/7 Veteran Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 or Text 838255
ohiocares.ohio.gov

Ohio Inter-Service Family Assistance Committee (ISFAC)

State committee of organizations supporting Ohio troops and military families. Use their website to find links to employment assistance, family resources, financial assistance and veterans services. The website has information on financial assistance programs, employment assistance, and resources for families.
2825 West Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
Contact Information: homefront.ohio.gov/about-us/contact-us
homefront.ohio.gov/home

Ohio Military Kids (OMK)

Offers programs for military youth and families through Ohio State University 4-H Youth Development. Hosts events, family summer camps, teen leadership camps, and military family meet-ups. They can also connect military families to resources for reintegration, education, and emergency assistance.
(614) 247-8160
ohio4h.org/statewide-programs/ohio-military-kids

Ohio National Guard Family Readiness and Warrior Support Youth Programs

Provides a space for service members, their families, and kids to meet and support one another. They also provide educational and social resources to help military connected youth and families. Call the number below to get started.
2825 West Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 336-7274

Ohio Network for Military Families & Veterans

Educational resources for military families from the Ohio Department of Education. Find information on supporting military youth in school, transition resources, and education license assistance for educators with military connections.
(877) 644-6338
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Ohio-Network-for-Military-Families-and-Veterans

Our Military Kids

Provides activity grants for families to pay for children’s sports, fine and performing arts, camps, and tutoring programs. Children must be ages 1-18 and participating during a parent’s National Guard/Reserve deployment or combat-injury recovery. Visit the website for program details and to apply.
(703) 734-6654
ourmilitarykids.org

Postpartum Support International (PSI)

Supports parents experiencing postpartum depression, loss of a child, or other perinatal mood challenges. They offer free, virtual parent support groups for moms, dads, family members, queer and trans parents, military parents, adoptive and birth mothers, postpartum psychosis, and those experiencing lost pregnancy of death of a child. Call the PSI Helpline for information, support, and resources. They do not offer crisis services, medical advice, or treatment. Visit the website for information on perinatal mental health and warning signs of postpartum depression.
PSI Helpline: Call or Text (800) 944-4773
Text en Español: 971-203-7773
postpartum.net

Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International

Professional organization credentialing equine-assisted services. Their website is a great source of information about equine therapy and standards. Families can use the website to find programs across the country based on location or medical condition. They also offer scholarships to cover the cost of equine programs. Their programs serve at risk youth, military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more.
PO Box 33150 Denver, Colorado 80233
(800) 369-7433
pathintl.org

Sesame Street for Military Families

A comprehensive learning site for families and military children on topics like deployments, family health, relocation, grief, and more. There are educational materials written for kids, adults, and professionals. Find apps, games, videos, and printable activities and curriculums.
sesamestreetformilitaryfamilies.org

Sesame Street in the Communities

Provides fun and educational resources for families from the child educators behind the Sesame Street show. Topics range from ABCs & 123s to tough topics that affect children’s lives; including health and wellness, social-emotional skills, trauma, race, grief, and more. They offer free videos, games, and worksheets for children to explore; and resources for parents and educators.

Sesame Workshop Resources for Families Website: sesameworkshop.org/resources
Kids’ Website: sesamestreet.org/home

Shane Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship

Serves individuals ages 5+ with cognitive and physical disabilities such as autism, PTSD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and others, through therapeutic horse riding. Programs include adaptive/therapeutic riding, independent riding, and Shane’s Calvary for veterans and their families.
7908 Myers Road, Centerburg, Ohio 43011
(740) 625-9324
shanecenter.org

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)

National organization providing comprehensive resources for those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. They have programs for youth, families, adults, parents, siblings, and partners. Programs include family camps, retreats, mentorship, support groups, online workshops, and more. They can also connect individuals and families to resources like casework, education support, and counseling. Their phoneline offers 24/7 peer support.
3033 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22201
24/7 Helpline: (800) 959-8277
taps.org

United States of America Service Academy Forums

An online community forum for prospective service academy members to ask questions about service academies (including Air Force Academy – USAFA, Coast Guard Academy – USCGA, Military Academy – USMA, Merchant Marine Academy – USMMA, Naval Academy – USNA, ROTC’s, and other publicly and privately funded military colleges).
serviceacademyforums.com

USA.gov

An official guide to federal information and services. Use the website to find helpful, easy-to-read information on topics like how the government works, government benefits, disability services, immigration and citizenship, taxes, legal issues and more. The website can also be used to register to vote, print tax forms or check on a tax refund, file a complaint, and other government-related tasks.
(844) 872-4681
usa.gov

Veterans Affairs (VA) Central Ohio

Programs: Medical and mental health services for those who have served in the military. Specialized services for those who are pregnant, postpartum, and/or parenting, including case management and support groups. Interdisciplinary staff to provide wrap-around care, including but not limited to: mental health therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, primary care physicians, and peer support specialists.
Eligibility: Ages 18+ who have served in the military.
Cost: Cost varies depending on service and income level. Some veterans receive no-cost services and other do have a copay. Enrollment and Eligibility staff can help you determine if there is a cost.
Referral: Individuals may be referred by a professional or refer themselves. Individuals can register for VA care in person or online.
420 North James Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 257-5200
Maternal Health Services Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2024/11/VA-Maternal-Health.pdf
Main Website: va.gov/central-ohio-health-care

Veterans Care Network (Formerly MVRC)

Helps veterans access resources to successfully manage life transitions, build independence, and regain confidence. Services financial coaching, peer-to-peer mental health support, help accessing food and shelter, transportation, and referrals for other services. Call or complete the online form to request assistance.
470 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 328-9314 or (614) 636-4634
milvetsrc.org

Volunteers of America (VOA)

Provides supportive services for veterans, families, and individuals. Shop their thrift stores to support their programs and find low-cost clothing and home goods. Services vary based on location and include employment, housing, and wrap-around services for veterans; clinical treatment programs for ex-offenders, emergency housing for men in Columbus, and mental health treatment. They host Operation Backpack to help provide school supplies for families each fall. The monthly Auto Auction is an opportunity to purchase a donated vehicle to benefit their social service programs. They have thrift stores and program offices across Ohio; the Columbus program office is listed below.
624 Harmon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
Veterans Resource Center: (614) 849-0145
Family Services: (614) 251-7610
Auto Auction Website: voaohioautoauction.org
Main Website: voaohin.org/central-ohio

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