Clothing and Hygiene

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Hi friend. A hot shower, clean clothes and a few basics can make a hard day feel a lot better. There are places in Georgia that help with all of it.

Dial 211 and ask for showers, laundry or clothing near you. In Atlanta, Gateway Center is a good place to start.

A few things to know

• You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
• Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a bed, money or a spot in any program.
• Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.

Where can I get a shower or do laundry?

Dial 211 and ask for showers or laundry near you. Day centers, shelters and some churches offer them.

In downtown Atlanta, Gateway Center helps people who are homeless with services and a path to housing. Ask what they offer when you call.

Sources: https://unitedwayatlanta.org/about-211/ https://gatewayctr.org/

Where can I get clothes?

Clothing closets, churches and thrift stores often help. Some shelters keep clothes on hand.

If you need clothes for a job interview, ask WorkSource Georgia or a job program near you. Ask 211 which places are open this week.

How do I stay safe in the heat and the cold?

Georgia summers are hot and humid. Drink water often, rest in the shade, and look for a library or cooling center on the hottest days.

In winter, nights can get cold, especially in north Georgia. Layers, a hat and dry socks help a lot.

• Wear light, loose clothes in the heat.
• Know the signs of heat illness, like dizziness, cramps or a headache.
• On cold nights, ask 211 about warming centers.

BUNKLY TIP

Cool down early

If you start to feel dizzy or sick in the heat, get to a cool place and drink water. Call 911 if you feel very sick.

What about hygiene supplies?

Many pantries, shelters and day centers have hygiene items like soap, toothpaste and period products. Ask when you call.

SNAP can't be used for these items, but TANF cash help may help families who qualify with basic needs.

Where can I get mail and keep my things safe?

Having a place to get mail helps with benefits, jobs and ID. Ask a shelter, day center or church if they accept mail for you.

You may also be able to use General Delivery at a post office. Ask the post office near you.

• Keep your papers in a zip bag.
• Take photos of important papers.
• Ask day centers if they have lockers or storage.

BUNKLY TIP

Small comforts count

A shower and clean socks can change your whole day. You deserve that.

What about baby supplies and period products?

Some pantries and family programs have diapers, wipes and period products. WIC helps with food for moms and kids.

Dial 211 and ask about diaper banks near you.

How do I take care of my feet and skin?

Your feet carry you everywhere. Keep them dry, change socks often, and let your shoes air out.

Use sunscreen in the summer. If you have a sore that won't heal, see a clinic like Mercy Care in Atlanta.

Questions people ask a lot

How do I make the most of each call?

Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.

• Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
• Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
• Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
• Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
• Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
• Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.

BUNKLY TIP

Keep going, friend

If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.

What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?

A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.

• Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
• Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
• If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
• Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
• If a state agency turns you down, read the letter right away. It explains how to ask for a review. Call legal aid if you want help.
• Dial 211, or search unitedwayatlanta.org/about-211 any time, to look for other options near you.

BUNKLY TIP

You're doing great

Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.

Who can I call in my county?

Here is help that works across Georgia, then local help in Atlanta and Fulton County and in Gwinnett County, then help for other counties. Call ahead for hours.

Georgia

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Atlanta and Fulton County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Gwinnett County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Other counties (call your Community Action Agency)

Every Georgia county is served by a Community Action Agency that can help with energy bills and emergency needs when funds allow. If you don't live in Fulton or Gwinnett County, start here. Dial 211 for the phone number and hours, or check the Georgia Community Action Association page.

Other local groups may also help.

My plan for this week

Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!

Key numbers to keep

BUNKLY TIP

You're doing the right thing

Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.

About this guide

Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

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Last updated October 22, 2026