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 phone and internet help with almost everything, from job searches to staying in touch with family. If money is tight, there are ways to get connected in Georgia.
The federal Lifeline program lowers the cost of phone or internet service for people who qualify. Libraries have computers and Wi-Fi you can use.
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.
Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the cost of phone or internet service for people who qualify, like people who get SNAP or Medicaid. You can apply online or through a phone company that offers Lifeline.
Your first steps, in order
- Check if you qualify for Lifeline.
- Apply online or with a Lifeline phone company.
- Write down your new number and keep it safe.
- Tell your programs your new number.
Where can I use the internet?
Georgia's public libraries have computers and Wi-Fi you can use. Many offer help with email, job applications and printing.
Ask about a library card.
What to say at the library
"Hi. Can I use a computer today?"
"Can someone help me set up an email?"
"Do you have Wi-Fi I can use?"
What if I can't keep my phone charged?
Libraries, day centers and some shelters have outlets. A small battery pack can help too.
Write it down
Phones get lost and batteries die. Keep your most important numbers on paper too.
How do I keep my phone safe?
- Use a lock screen.
- Don't share your passwords.
- Watch out for texts asking for money or personal details.
Can I get lower cost home internet?
Some internet companies offer lower cost plans for people who qualify. Ask the companies in your area.
Lifeline can help with internet too.
Keep a list of your logins
Say your phone broke in Valdosta
You could visit the library to check your email. You could apply for Lifeline. Then you could tell your programs your new number.
What if I'm new to computers?
That's okay. Libraries often have classes and staff who can help.
Take it one step at a time.
Everyone starts somewhere
Every expert was once a beginner.
What if my number changes?
Tell your programs right away, so you don't miss a call.
Who to tell when your number changes
Use a backup number
Give programs a backup number, like a trusted friend's, in case yours stops working.
Questions people ask a lot
Who qualifies for Lifeline?
People who get certain benefits, like SNAP or Medicaid, or who meet income rules. Check the official page.
Can I get a phone with no address?
Some Lifeline companies help people with no address. Ask when you apply.
Is library internet a cost?
Library computers and Wi-Fi are offered at no cost.
What if I lose my phone?
Call your phone company right away.
How do I get an email?
Libraries can help you set one up.
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.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
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.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
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.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
Lifeline (FCC)
What it offers A discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone service, internet service or a bundle, for people with income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or who take part in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI or the Veterans and Survivors Pension. Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, and you must recertify every year.
How to reach Apply at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/ (the Apply Now button goes to https://getinternet.gov/apply). Lifeline Support Center: 800.234.9473, 7 days a week, 9 am to 9 pm Eastern. To find phone and internet companies that offer Lifeline where you live, use https://www.lifelinesupport.org/companies-near-me/
Source https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers and https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Georgia
Here are some places to start.
United Way 211 (metro Atlanta)
What it offers A help line and online search for local help with housing, food, utilities, health care and more, run by United Way of Greater Atlanta. Outside metro Atlanta, dialing 211 connects you to the 211 for your area.
How to reach Dial 211, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Search any time at https://unitedwayatlanta.org/about-211/
Source https://unitedwayatlanta.org/about-211/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Georgia Gateway
What it offers Georgia's online site to apply for SNAP (food stamps), TANF cash help, Medicaid, WIC and child care help, and to check your case.
How to reach Apply at https://gateway.ga.gov/ Questions: call the DFCS Customer Contact Center at 877.423.4746.
Source https://dfcs.georgia.gov/about-us/contact-information
Last checked October 22, 2026
WorkSource Georgia
What it offers Georgia's network of local workforce areas. Job search help, career coaching and training for people who qualify, at offices across the state.
How to reach Find your local area at https://www.tcsg.edu/worksource-georgia/ or dial 211.
Source https://www.tcsg.edu/worksource-georgia/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Atlanta and Fulton County
Here are some places to start.
Gateway Center
What it offers A center in downtown Atlanta that helps people who are homeless with shelter, case management and a path to housing.
How to reach Call 404.215.6600. Office: 275 Pryor St. SW, Atlanta.
Source https://gatewayctr.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Partners for HOME (City of Atlanta)
What it offers The City of Atlanta's homelessness response. Call 311 for homeless help inside the city. Partners for HOME also lists access points for youth, veterans and health care.
How to reach Call 311 inside the City of Atlanta, or dial 211.
Source https://partnersforhome.org/help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Gwinnett County
Here are some places to start.
Gwinnett County Coordinated Entry (HomeFirst Gwinnett)
What it offers The front door to homeless help in Gwinnett County. Walk in assessments at the Latin American Association Gwinnett Outreach Center, 5320 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross.
How to reach Start at https://homefirstgwinnett.org/ or dial 211.
Source https://homefirstgwinnett.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Partnership for Community Action
What it offers The Community Action Agency for DeKalb, Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale counties. Help with energy bills (LIHEAP) and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 3597 Covington Hwy., Decatur. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
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.
ACTION, Inc. (Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe and Walton counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 2440 West Broad St., Suite 9, Athens. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
action pact, Inc. (Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Bulloch, Candler, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Effingham, Evans, Jeff Davis, Long, Pierce, Tattnall, Toombs, Ware and Wayne counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 510 Tebeau St., Waycross. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Central Savannah River Area EOA (Burke, Columbia, Emanuel, Glascock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren and Wilkes counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1261 Greene St., Augusta. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Clayton County Community Services Authority (Clayton, Fayette and Henry counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1000 Main St., Forest Park. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Coastal Georgia Area Community Action Authority (Bryan, Camden, Glynn, Liberty and McIntosh counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1 Community Action Dr., Brunswick. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Coastal Plain Area EOA (Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, Tift and Turner counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1810 W. Hill Ave., A6, Valdosta. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Community Action for Improvement (Carroll, Coweta, Heard, Meriwether and Troup counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1380 Lafayette Pkwy., LaGrange. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Enrichment Services Program (Chattahoochee, Clay, Harris, Muscogee, Quitman, Randolph, Stewart and Talbot counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 2601 Cross Country Dr., #C, Columbus. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
EOA for Savannah-Chatham County Area (Chatham County)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 618 West Anderson St., Savannah. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Heart of Georgia Community Action Council (Bleckley, Dodge, Laurens, Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, Treutlen, Wheeler and Wilcox counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 324 Pine St., Eastman. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Macon-Bibb County EOC (Bibb County)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 456 Bay St., Macon. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Middle Georgia Community Action Agency (Butts, Crawford, Houston, Jones, Lamar, Monroe, Peach, Pike, Spalding, Twiggs and Upson counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 121 Prince St., Warner Robins. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Ninth District Opportunity (Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union and White counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 308 Spring St., Gainesville. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
North Georgia Community Action (Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Dade, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, Walker and Whitfield counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 1344 Talking Rock Rd., Jasper. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Overview, Inc. (Baldwin, Hancock, Jasper, Johnson, Putnam, Washington and Wilkinson counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 325 N. Cobb St., Milledgeville. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Partnership for Community Action (DeKalb, Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 3597 Covington Hwy., Decatur. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Southwest Georgia Community Action Council (Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 912 First Ave. SE, Moultrie. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Tallatoona Community Action Partnership (Bartow, Cobb, Douglas, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Paulding and Polk counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 314 E. Main St., Cartersville. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
UNITY Community Action Council (Crisp, Dooly, Macon, Marion, Schley, Sumter, Taylor and Webster counties)
What it offers Help with energy bills and emergency needs for people who qualify, when funds allow.
How to reach Office: 4036 State Route 90 East, Montezuma. Dial 211 for the phone and hours.
Source https://georgiacaa.org/find-your-local-agency
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My connection plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
Key numbers to keep
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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