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Find Help in Wisconsin: Where to Start with 211, FoodShare, BadgerCare and ID

A simple first step guide for Wisconsin: dial 211, apply for FoodShare and BadgerCare Plus on ACCESS, get a free ID for voting, reach 988, and find free legal aid.

Need help tonight?

911Danger or emergency right now988Call or text. Crisis or thinking about suicide. 24 hours211Shelter, food, bills, anything else1 800 799 7233Someone hurting you at home. Text START to 88788

Start here

Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.

Dial 211Call or text 988

Quick answers

What is 211 Wisconsin and how do I reach it?

211 Wisconsin connects you with local help. Dial 211 from any phone, or call 877 947 2211 if 211 does not connect. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211 or search and chat on the website, 211wisconsin.org.

Official page: content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIGOV/bulletins/3fbcb51

How do I apply for BadgerCare Plus or FoodShare?

Apply online through ACCESS at access.wi.gov. For BadgerCare Plus, the state says online is the easiest and fastest way, and there is no open enrollment period, so you can apply any time. You can also apply in person, by phone or by mail. For questions, call ForwardHealth Member Services at 800 362 3002.

Official page: dhs.wisconsin.gov/badgercareplus/index.htm

Can I get a free ID in Wisconsin?

Yes, for voting. U.S. citizens who will be 18 by the next election can get a free ID at a DMV office, even if they don't have every paper. Bring what you have and fill out forms MV3004 and MV3012. The voter ID hotline is 844 588 1069.

Official page: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/how-to-apply/petition-process.aspx

What if I'm in crisis or thinking about suicide?

Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. It is free and private, and it is answered 24 hours a day. The greeting offers a Spanish option, and there is an option for veterans.

Official page: dhs.wisconsin.gov/crisis/988.htm

Where can I get free legal help?

Legal Action of Wisconsin helps people with low income. Call 855 947 2529 on weekdays from 9 am to 4 pm, or fill out the online form any time. If they can't answer, you can ask for a callback.

Official page: legalaction.org/get-help

Your next steps

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All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: if you can't talk out loud, text your ZIP code to 898211 and 211 will text you back.

Who to call in Wisconsin

Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.

More help in Wisconsin

Housing help in Wisconsin (rent, eviction, utilities)Emergency Shelter Tonight in Wisconsin: Milwaukee, Madison and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in Wisconsin: FoodShare, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in WisconsinNo cost Job Help and Job Training in WisconsinNo cost and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in WisconsinNo cost Domestic Violence Help in Wisconsin: Hotlines, Shelter and SafetyNo cost Help for Veterans in Wisconsin: Housing, VA Care and Crisis SupportNo cost Help for Youth in Wisconsin: Shelter, Drop In Centers and School RightsGetting ID and Documents Back in WisconsinNo cost and Low Cost Phones and Internet in WisconsinNo cost Legal and Tenant Help in Wisconsin: Evictions, Deposits and CourtHow to Make Blessing Bags in Wisconsin: Safe Food, Cold Weather and Heat Tips

Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.

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