Start here: help in Louisiana, step by step
The short answer
If you don't know where to start, dial 211. Apply for SNAP online, by phone at 888 524 3578 (888 LAHelp U), or at an LDH office. Then use the pages below for shelter, ID, jobs and legal help.
Need help tonight?
Step 1: Dial 211
Louisiana 211 connects you to local help for shelter, food, bills and more.
"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: louisiana211.org
Step 2: Food help
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) now runs SNAP. Apply online, by phone at 888 524 3578, on paper, or at a parish office. The application comes in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and large print.
Official page: ldh.la.gov/page/snap-eligibility-application
Step 3: Keep going, one thing at a time
- No safe place to sleep tonight? See Emergency shelter tonight.
- Got a 5 day notice to pay or leave? Evictions move very fast in Louisiana. See Legal and tenant help.
- Someone hurting you at home? Louisiana statewide hotline: 1 888 411 1333.
- Crisis? Call or text 988.
Official pages: louisianalawhelp.org/resource/evictions, lcadv.org/get-help, 988lifeline.org
More help in Louisiana
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.