Start here: help in Arkansas, step by step
The short answer
If you don't know where to start, dial 211. Then apply for SNAP, Medicaid or ARKids First at Access.Arkansas.gov, and use the pages below for shelter, ID, jobs and legal help.
Need help tonight?
Step 1: Dial 211
Arkansas 211 is a help line and online search for local help with housing, food, utilities, health care and more, anywhere in Arkansas.
"Hi. I'm in [your city or ZIP]. I need help with [shelter, food, a bill] today."
"Is there anything open now? What do I need to bring?"
Official page: arkansas211.org
Step 2: Food and health coverage
The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) says to apply for SNAP, TEA cash help, Medicaid and ARKids First at Access.Arkansas.gov. DHS has a county office in every county.
Official page: humanservices.arkansas.gov/apply-for-services
Step 3: Keep going, one thing at a time
- No safe place to sleep tonight? See Emergency shelter tonight.
- Lost your ID or birth certificate? See Getting ID and documents back.
- Eviction papers? Call legal aid right away: 1 800 952 9243 (Legal Aid of Arkansas) or 1 800 950 5817 (Center for Arkansas Legal Services).
- Someone hurting you at home? National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 800 799 7233.
Official pages: a.arlawhelp.org/landlord-tenant/unlawful-detainer-evictions, thehotline.org
More help in Arkansas
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.