Need it today? Need diapers, formula or childcare help? Call 211. To find child care near you, call 1-877-255-4254.
✓ Checked by Hettie: she called or visited ⚠ Confirm before you go: call first
Childcare and early learning
Help paying for child care (CAPS)
State of Georgia (DECAL) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) helps families with low income pay for child care while parents work or go to school.
How to get it · Apply online at gateway.ga.gov and choose child care. CAPS staff will call you to review it. Need help? Call 1-833-442-2277.
Who it’s for · Georgia families with kids 12 or younger (17 with a disability) whose parents work or study. Income limits apply. You may pay part of the cost.
Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) helps families with low income pay for child care while parents work or go to school.
How to get it · Apply online at gateway.ga.gov and choose child care. CAPS staff will call you to review it. Need help? Call 1-833-442-2277.
Who it’s for · Georgia families with kids 12 or younger (17 with a disability) whose parents work or study. Income limits apply. You may pay part of the cost.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Your ID
✓ Proof you live in Georgia
✓ Child’s birth certificate
✓ Proof of child’s citizenship or immigration status
✓ Child’s shot record
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Your ID
✓ Proof you live in Georgia
✓ Child’s birth certificate
✓ Proof of child’s citizenship or immigration status
✓ Child’s shot record
Free help finding child care (1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS)
State of Georgia (DECAL) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
A specialist finds child care or Pre-K that fits your needs, calls programs for you and helps you enroll. Help in English, Spanish and more.
How to get it · Call 1-877-255-4254, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed state holidays), or email findqrcare@decal.ga.gov.
A specialist finds child care or Pre-K that fits your needs, calls programs for you and helps you enroll. Help in English, Spanish and more.
How to get it · Call 1-877-255-4254, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed state holidays), or email findqrcare@decal.ga.gov.
Georgia’s Pre-K Program
State of Georgia (DECAL) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free school-day Pre-K for 4-year-olds at public schools and child care centers across Georgia.
How to get it · Find a Pre-K at families.decal.ga.gov and apply with that program. Each one sets its own sign-up dates. Questions: 1-888-442-7735.
Who it’s for · Kids who are 4 by September 1 and live in Georgia. Public school programs require you to live in that school district.
Free school-day Pre-K for 4-year-olds at public schools and child care centers across Georgia.
How to get it · Find a Pre-K at families.decal.ga.gov and apply with that program. Each one sets its own sign-up dates. Questions: 1-888-442-7735.
Who it’s for · Kids who are 4 by September 1 and live in Georgia. Public school programs require you to live in that school district.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of child’s age, like a birth certificate
✓ Proof of address, like a lease or utility bill
✓ Pre-K application
✓ After you’re accepted: health exam form and shot record
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of child’s age, like a birth certificate
✓ Proof of address, like a lease or utility bill
✓ Pre-K application
✓ After you’re accepted: health exam form and shot record
YMCA Head Start and Early Head Start
YMCA of Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free early learning for babies, toddlers and kids 3 to 5, plus support for pregnant women, at YMCA centers in Atlanta and Lithonia.
How to get it · Call 404-420-5800 or apply online from the YMCA Early Learning page. You can also call the center nearest you.
Who it’s for · Pregnant women and kids under 5. The program checks age and income, and families with the most need go first.
Free early learning for babies, toddlers and kids 3 to 5, plus support for pregnant women, at YMCA centers in Atlanta and Lithonia.
How to get it · Call 404-420-5800 or apply online from the YMCA Early Learning page. You can also call the center nearest you.
Who it’s for · Pregnant women and kids under 5. The program checks age and income, and families with the most need go first.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or shot record)
✓ Proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, or SNAP, TANF or SSI letter)
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or shot record)
✓ Proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, or SNAP, TANF or SSI letter)
Sheltering Arms Head Start and Early Head Start
Sheltering Arms · Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free early learning and child care for kids 6 weeks to 5 years from low-income families, at 11 centers in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett and Douglas. Free under federal rules.
How to get it · Fill out the pre-application at shelteringarmsforkids.com, upload or bring your papers, then do an enrollment call or visit with a Family Support Coach. Questions: 404-523-2767 or enrollment@shelteringarmsforkids.com.
Who it’s for · Early Head Start: 6 weeks to under 3. Head Start: ages 3–5. Families at or below the poverty line, or who get TANF, SSI or SNAP, or whose child is in foster care or homeless.
Free early learning and child care for kids 6 weeks to 5 years from low-income families, at 11 centers in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett and Douglas. Free under federal rules.
How to get it · Fill out the pre-application at shelteringarmsforkids.com, upload or bring your papers, then do an enrollment call or visit with a Family Support Coach. Questions: 404-523-2767 or enrollment@shelteringarmsforkids.com.
Who it’s for · Early Head Start: 6 weeks to under 3. Head Start: ages 3–5. Families at or below the poverty line, or who get TANF, SSI or SNAP, or whose child is in foster care or homeless.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Child’s birth certificate or passport
✓ Proof of income (tax return, W-2, or TANF/SSI/SNAP award letter)
✓ Proof of address (lease or mortgage statement, not a phone bill)
✓ Guardianship papers if you are not the parent
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Child’s birth certificate or passport
✓ Proof of income (tax return, W-2, or TANF/SSI/SNAP award letter)
✓ Proof of address (lease or mortgage statement, not a phone bill)
✓ Guardianship papers if you are not the parent
Boost child care scholarship (Clayton County)
Quality Care for Children · Clayton County
⚠ Confirm before you go
Helps Clayton County families pay for quality child care for babies and toddlers. You pay 7% of your average weekly income; the scholarship pays the rest at a Quality Rated center.
How to get it · Apply online at qualitycareforchildren.org (BOOST Scholarship program). Questions: email boost@qccga.org or call 1-877-722-2445. Space and funding are limited, so qualifying does not guarantee a spot.
Who it’s for · Clayton County families earning at or below 85% of the state median, working 24+ hours a week. Kids 0–2 first (born after Sept. 1, 2023); ages 3–4 only with a sibling 0–2. Not if on CAPS.
Helps Clayton County families pay for quality child care for babies and toddlers. You pay 7% of your average weekly income; the scholarship pays the rest at a Quality Rated center.
How to get it · Apply online at qualitycareforchildren.org (BOOST Scholarship program). Questions: email boost@qccga.org or call 1-877-722-2445. Space and funding are limited, so qualifying does not guarantee a spot.
Who it’s for · Clayton County families earning at or below 85% of the state median, working 24+ hours a week. Kids 0–2 first (born after Sept. 1, 2023); ages 3–4 only with a sibling 0–2. Not if on CAPS.
Baby needs
WIC
Your county health department · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Food help for pregnant women, new moms and kids under 5.
How to get it · Apply online through Georgia Gateway or call 1-800-228-9173. Find a WIC clinic near you on dph.georgia.gov/WIC.
Food help for pregnant women, new moms and kids under 5.
How to get it · Apply online through Georgia Gateway or call 1-800-228-9173. Find a WIC clinic near you on dph.georgia.gov/WIC.
Helping Mamas (diapers and baby supplies)
Helping Mamas · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free diapers, period products and baby supplies through 180+ partner groups, Fulton County libraries and a TANF diaper program.
How to get it · Use the Get Help page to find a partner that serves your county. If you get TANF, apply there for a 4-month diaper supply. The office does not hand out items.
Who it’s for · Each partner sets its own rules. The TANF diaper program is only for families enrolled in TANF.
Free diapers, period products and baby supplies through 180+ partner groups, Fulton County libraries and a TANF diaper program.
How to get it · Use the Get Help page to find a partner that serves your county. If you get TANF, apply there for a 4-month diaper supply. The office does not hand out items.
Who it’s for · Each partner sets its own rules. The TANF diaper program is only for families enrolled in TANF.
Babies Can’t Wait (free evaluation, ages 0–3)
State of Georgia (DPH) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Georgia’s early intervention program for babies and toddlers with a developmental delay or a condition that causes one. Evaluation and a service coordinator are free at any income.
How to get it · Use the Locate Services tool on dph.georgia.gov/babies-cant-wait to find your county’s Child Health Referral Contact, then call them. You can also download the Child Health Referral Form (English or Spanish) from that page and send it in.
Who it’s for · Children from birth up to their 3rd birthday who have a diagnosed delay, or a condition known to cause one (check the Conditions Database on the page). No income test.
Georgia’s early intervention program for babies and toddlers with a developmental delay or a condition that causes one. Evaluation and a service coordinator are free at any income.
How to get it · Use the Locate Services tool on dph.georgia.gov/babies-cant-wait to find your county’s Child Health Referral Contact, then call them. You can also download the Child Health Referral Form (English or Spanish) from that page and send it in.
Who it’s for · Children from birth up to their 3rd birthday who have a diagnosed delay, or a condition known to cause one (check the Conditions Database on the page). No income test.
HMHBGA Care Line and free pregnancy classes
Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
A free, confidential phone line connects pregnant women and new parents to resources near them. The same group runs Pickles & Ice Cream Georgia, with free online classes on prenatal care, baby care, breastfeeding and postpartum.
How to get it · Call the Care Line at 1-866-985-2598, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For class dates see hmhbga.org (Pickles & Ice Cream Georgia upcoming events). Main office 770-451-0020.
Who it’s for · Anyone in Georgia who needs maternal or infant health resources for themselves or a family member. No income limit is listed.
A free, confidential phone line connects pregnant women and new parents to resources near them. The same group runs Pickles & Ice Cream Georgia, with free online classes on prenatal care, baby care, breastfeeding and postpartum.
How to get it · Call the Care Line at 1-866-985-2598, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For class dates see hmhbga.org (Pickles & Ice Cream Georgia upcoming events). Main office 770-451-0020.
Who it’s for · Anyone in Georgia who needs maternal or infant health resources for themselves or a family member. No income limit is listed.
Medicaid for pregnant women (plus 12 months after birth)
Georgia Department of Community Health / DFCS · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
If you are pregnant and your household income is at or below 220% of the federal poverty level, you may get Medicaid for your pregnancy and for a full 12 months after the baby is born. The baby counts as a household member when your income is checked.
How to get it · Apply at gateway.ga.gov or at a DFCS office. Health departments and some clinics can sign you up for temporary 'presumptive' coverage the same day while your full application is processed.
Who it’s for · Pregnant women in Georgia with income at or below 220% of the federal poverty level. The 12 months after birth apply if you had Georgia Medicaid or PeachCare while pregnant. You may qualify.
If you are pregnant and your household income is at or below 220% of the federal poverty level, you may get Medicaid for your pregnancy and for a full 12 months after the baby is born. The baby counts as a household member when your income is checked.
How to get it · Apply at gateway.ga.gov or at a DFCS office. Health departments and some clinics can sign you up for temporary 'presumptive' coverage the same day while your full application is processed.
Who it’s for · Pregnant women in Georgia with income at or below 220% of the federal poverty level. The 12 months after birth apply if you had Georgia Medicaid or PeachCare while pregnant. You may qualify.
School-age kids
Free school meals in Atlanta Public Schools
Atlanta Public Schools · City of Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
59 APS schools give free breakfast and lunch to every student, no form needed. At the other 12 schools, you can apply for free meals.
How to get it · Ask your school if it is a free-meals (CEP) school. If not, apply online at myschoolapps.com (Atlanta) or call APS Nutrition at 404-802-2540.
Who it’s for · APS students. At the 12 schools that need a form, the district decides who qualifies. Reduced-price meals cost $0 in 2026-27.
59 APS schools give free breakfast and lunch to every student, no form needed. At the other 12 schools, you can apply for free meals.
How to get it · Ask your school if it is a free-meals (CEP) school. If not, apply online at myschoolapps.com (Atlanta) or call APS Nutrition at 404-802-2540.
Who it’s for · APS students. At the 12 schools that need a form, the district decides who qualifies. Reduced-price meals cost $0 in 2026-27.
Free summer meals for kids (Happy Helpings)
State of Georgia (DECAL) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
In summer, when school is out, kids 18 and younger get free meals and snacks at meal sites across Georgia.
How to get it · Summer only. Meals stop when school starts and come back in summer 2027 when school is out. Then text 'summer meals' and your ZIP code to 914-342-7744, or call 1-866-348-6479 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.), to find a site near you.
Who it’s for · Kids 18 and younger. Also adults over 18 with disabilities who are in school programs.
In summer, when school is out, kids 18 and younger get free meals and snacks at meal sites across Georgia.
How to get it · Summer only. Meals stop when school starts and come back in summer 2027 when school is out. Then text 'summer meals' and your ZIP code to 914-342-7744, or call 1-866-348-6479 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.), to find a site near you.
Who it’s for · Kids 18 and younger. Also adults over 18 with disabilities who are in school programs.
Free 24/7 online tutoring (Fulton County Library)
Fulton County Library System
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free online help with homework, math and essays, any time of day or night, for students at every level.
How to get it · On the library’s Paper page, choose ‘Continue with Fulton’ and log in with your library card number (or APS student ID) and PIN.
Who it’s for · Students who live in Fulton County or the City of Atlanta. You need a library card or an APS student ID.
Free online help with homework, math and essays, any time of day or night, for students at every level.
How to get it · On the library’s Paper page, choose ‘Continue with Fulton’ and log in with your library card number (or APS student ID) and PIN.
Who it’s for · Students who live in Fulton County or the City of Atlanta. You need a library card or an APS student ID.
Free online tutoring, grades 3–12 (DeKalb library)
DeKalb County Public Library
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free homework help and live online tutoring in math, English, science and social studies for grades 3–12, every day from 2 pm to 11 pm, through HelpNow.
How to get it · Go to dekalblibrary.org, open the Teens page (Teen Resources) and click Online Tutoring. You log in through the library’s website, so you may need your DeKalb library card number.
Who it’s for · Students in grades 3–12 in DeKalb County. The same page has free test prep, writing help and ESL resources for all ages.
Free homework help and live online tutoring in math, English, science and social studies for grades 3–12, every day from 2 pm to 11 pm, through HelpNow.
How to get it · Go to dekalblibrary.org, open the Teens page (Teen Resources) and click Online Tutoring. You log in through the library’s website, so you may need your DeKalb library card number.
Who it’s for · Students in grades 3–12 in DeKalb County. The same page has free test prep, writing help and ESL resources for all ages.
Homework help and reading buddies (Gwinnett library)
Gwinnett County Public Library
⚠ Confirm before you go
In-branch homework help in math, science, reading and writing for students of all ages, 30-minute Reading Buddies sessions for kids and teens, and Brainfuse online tutoring (K–12).
How to get it · Call 770-978-5154 or check the Events calendar at gwinnettlibrary.com/tutoring for Homework Help and Reading Buddies times at your branch. For Brainfuse, click the link on that page and log in.
Who it’s for · Students of all ages at Gwinnett library branches. Reading Buddies is for children and teens; Brainfuse covers K–12, college students and job seekers.
In-branch homework help in math, science, reading and writing for students of all ages, 30-minute Reading Buddies sessions for kids and teens, and Brainfuse online tutoring (K–12).
How to get it · Call 770-978-5154 or check the Events calendar at gwinnettlibrary.com/tutoring for Homework Help and Reading Buddies times at your branch. For Brainfuse, click the link on that page and log in.
Who it’s for · Students of all ages at Gwinnett library branches. Reading Buddies is for children and teens; Brainfuse covers K–12, college students and job seekers.
Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor for your child (ages 8–16)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
A free, screened adult mentor (a ‘Big’) who spends time with your child. Free for families; you may give your child a little spending money for outings.
How to get it · Enroll online at bbbsatl.org (Get a Big, Enroll Your Child) or call 404-601-7000. Right now new Little Sisters are accepted; applications for Little Brothers are paused because of a waiting list.
Who it’s for · Kids ages 8–16 in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, Cherokee, Douglas, Fayette, Henry, Paulding or Rockdale counties.
A free, screened adult mentor (a ‘Big’) who spends time with your child. Free for families; you may give your child a little spending money for outings.
How to get it · Enroll online at bbbsatl.org (Get a Big, Enroll Your Child) or call 404-601-7000. Right now new Little Sisters are accepted; applications for Little Brothers are paused because of a waiting list.
Who it’s for · Kids ages 8–16 in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, Cherokee, Douglas, Fayette, Henry, Paulding or Rockdale counties.
Boys & Girls Clubs after-school and summer (ages 6–18)
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
After-school and summer programs at 26 Clubs in 9 metro counties. There is a membership fee, but no child is turned away for inability to pay. Kids with Amerigroup pay no fee.
How to get it · Find your nearest Club at bgcma.org and register in the Parent Portal. Ask the Club about the fee and scholarships. Headquarters: 404-527-7100. 2026 after-school registration is open.
Who it’s for · Kids and teens ages 6–18. A 6-year-old must have finished kindergarten for summer camp. Scholarships are decided case by case, as money allows.
After-school and summer programs at 26 Clubs in 9 metro counties. There is a membership fee, but no child is turned away for inability to pay. Kids with Amerigroup pay no fee.
How to get it · Find your nearest Club at bgcma.org and register in the Parent Portal. Ask the Club about the fee and scholarships. Headquarters: 404-527-7100. 2026 after-school registration is open.
Who it’s for · Kids and teens ages 6–18. A 6-year-old must have finished kindergarten for summer camp. Scholarships are decided case by case, as money allows.
Free eye exams and glasses for kids (Prevent Blindness GA)
Prevent Blindness Georgia · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Vouchers for a free eye exam and glasses for low-income children with no insurance, or free glasses if your child already has a prescription. Replacement glasses for $30.
How to get it · Download the application at georgia.preventblindness.org/vouchers and send it with proof of income; emailing it is fastest. Questions: 404-266-1548 (children’s vouchers). Mail: Prevent Blindness Georgia, 7507 Roswell Road, #268, Sandy Springs 30350.
Who it’s for · Low-income, uninsured children. Kids who do not qualify for Medicaid or PeachCare may qualify. For the glasses-only voucher, the prescription must be under 2 years old.
Vouchers for a free eye exam and glasses for low-income children with no insurance, or free glasses if your child already has a prescription. Replacement glasses for $30.
How to get it · Download the application at georgia.preventblindness.org/vouchers and send it with proof of income; emailing it is fastest. Questions: 404-266-1548 (children’s vouchers). Mail: Prevent Blindness Georgia, 7507 Roswell Road, #268, Sandy Springs 30350.
Who it’s for · Low-income, uninsured children. Kids who do not qualify for Medicaid or PeachCare may qualify. For the glasses-only voucher, the prescription must be under 2 years old.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of income
✓ Your child’s eyeglass prescription (if you have one)
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of income
✓ Your child’s eyeglass prescription (if you have one)
Bearings Bike Works: kids earn a free bike
Bearings Bike Works · City of Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Kids 6 to 17 fix and build bikes at a Southwest Atlanta shop, earn points for every hour of work, and use the points to take home a bike of their own. No cost to families.
How to get it · Enrollment is ongoing. Stop by during drop-in hours, Monday to Thursday 4 pm to 6:30 pm, at 982 Murphy Avenue SW (The Garage), or call 404-484-4180 or email info@bearingsbikeworks.org. The enrollment form is at bearingsbikeworks.org.
Who it’s for · Boys and girls ages 6 to 17. The Skills for Life program is at no cost to families.
Kids 6 to 17 fix and build bikes at a Southwest Atlanta shop, earn points for every hour of work, and use the points to take home a bike of their own. No cost to families.
How to get it · Enrollment is ongoing. Stop by during drop-in hours, Monday to Thursday 4 pm to 6:30 pm, at 982 Murphy Avenue SW (The Garage), or call 404-484-4180 or email info@bearingsbikeworks.org. The enrollment form is at bearingsbikeworks.org.
Who it’s for · Boys and girls ages 6 to 17. The Skills for Life program is at no cost to families.
Dual Enrollment: free college classes in high school
Georgia Student Finance Commission (GAfutures) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Georgia pays tuition, mandatory fees and required books for high school students who take college courses, up to 30 semester hours. 11th and 12th graders can take any approved course; 10th graders can take career (CTAE) courses at a technical college, or any course with an SAT of 1200 or ACT of 26.
How to get it · Apply for admission to the college first, then complete the Dual Enrollment funding application at gafutures.org. A parent signs the Parent Participation Agreement and your school counselor approves the courses. Each year's application is released in February.
Who it’s for · Georgia residents in grades 10-12 at an eligible public or private high school or home study program. 9th graders are not eligible. You may qualify.
Georgia pays tuition, mandatory fees and required books for high school students who take college courses, up to 30 semester hours. 11th and 12th graders can take any approved course; 10th graders can take career (CTAE) courses at a technical college, or any course with an SAT of 1200 or ACT of 26.
How to get it · Apply for admission to the college first, then complete the Dual Enrollment funding application at gafutures.org. A parent signs the Parent Participation Agreement and your school counselor approves the courses. Each year's application is released in February.
Who it’s for · Georgia residents in grades 10-12 at an eligible public or private high school or home study program. 9th graders are not eligible. You may qualify.
REACH Georgia: $10,000 for college, sign up in 8th grade
Georgia Student Finance Commission (REACH Georgia) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Students from low-income families are picked in 8th grade, get a mentor and an academic coach through high school, and earn a scholarship of up to $10,000 ($2,500 a year for up to 4 years) at a HOPE-eligible Georgia college when they graduate.
How to get it · Ask your middle school counselor. Schools nominate students in spring of 7th grade or fall of 8th grade; the student completes an application with recommendations and an interview. Atlanta Public, Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Marietta City, Gwinnett, Clayton and Decatur City all participate. Email REACH@gsfc.org.
Who it’s for · Rising 8th graders in a participating school system who meet federal income eligibility guidelines (the same ones used for school meals). You may qualify.
Students from low-income families are picked in 8th grade, get a mentor and an academic coach through high school, and earn a scholarship of up to $10,000 ($2,500 a year for up to 4 years) at a HOPE-eligible Georgia college when they graduate.
How to get it · Ask your middle school counselor. Schools nominate students in spring of 7th grade or fall of 8th grade; the student completes an application with recommendations and an interview. Atlanta Public, Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Marietta City, Gwinnett, Clayton and Decatur City all participate. Email REACH@gsfc.org.
Who it’s for · Rising 8th graders in a participating school system who meet federal income eligibility guidelines (the same ones used for school meals). You may qualify.
GEORGIA MATCH: colleges that already have a spot for you
Georgia Student Finance Commission (GAfutures) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
High school seniors get a letter in October listing Georgia public colleges where they are provisionally eligible for admission based on their HOPE GPA. You can claim a spot at up to 3 colleges for free through GAfutures; most colleges also waive application fees in November and March.
How to get it · Watch for the GEORGIA MATCH letter in October, or sign in to gafutures.org and open your Dashboard. Click 'Claim Your Spot!' for up to 3 colleges, then finish each college's application.
Who it’s for · Current high school seniors (Class of 2027) at public and private accredited Georgia high schools. Claiming a spot is a provisional acceptance, not a guarantee.
High school seniors get a letter in October listing Georgia public colleges where they are provisionally eligible for admission based on their HOPE GPA. You can claim a spot at up to 3 colleges for free through GAfutures; most colleges also waive application fees in November and March.
How to get it · Watch for the GEORGIA MATCH letter in October, or sign in to gafutures.org and open your Dashboard. Click 'Claim Your Spot!' for up to 3 colleges, then finish each college's application.
Who it’s for · Current high school seniors (Class of 2027) at public and private accredited Georgia high schools. Claiming a spot is a provisional acceptance, not a guarantee.
Kilometer Kids: free running club for K-5
Atlanta Track Club · Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
A free youth running program for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade (ages 5-12) at schools, parks and community sites around metro Atlanta. Public teams are open to anyone.
How to get it · Fall 2026 registration is closed. Spring 2027 season runs February 22 to May 7, 2027; participant registration opens January 19, 2027. Find a team by ZIP code on the Kilometer Kids map, or email kilometerkids@atlantatrackclub.org to find the closest team. Club phone 404-231-9064.
Who it’s for · Kids in grades K-5. Public teams are open to anyone; private teams are for one school or group.
A free youth running program for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade (ages 5-12) at schools, parks and community sites around metro Atlanta. Public teams are open to anyone.
How to get it · Fall 2026 registration is closed. Spring 2027 season runs February 22 to May 7, 2027; participant registration opens January 19, 2027. Find a team by ZIP code on the Kilometer Kids map, or email kilometerkids@atlantatrackclub.org to find the closest team. Club phone 404-231-9064.
Who it’s for · Kids in grades K-5. Public teams are open to anyone; private teams are for one school or group.
Parents
TANF monthly cash help for families with kids
State of Georgia (DFCS) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Monthly cash assistance for very low-income families with children under 18, and for pregnant women. Comes with job help. Free to apply.
How to get it · Apply online at gateway.ga.gov (click Apply for Benefits), call 1-877-423-4746, or mail Form 297 to your county DFCS office. You will need to work with Child Support Services and do 30 hours a week of work activities.
Who it’s for · Families with a child under 18 (or 18 and in school full time) or a pregnant woman; citizens or permanent residents; very low income (about $784 a month for 3) and under $1,000 in assets.
Monthly cash assistance for very low-income families with children under 18, and for pregnant women. Comes with job help. Free to apply.
How to get it · Apply online at gateway.ga.gov (click Apply for Benefits), call 1-877-423-4746, or mail Form 297 to your county DFCS office. You will need to work with Child Support Services and do 30 hours a week of work activities.
Who it’s for · Families with a child under 18 (or 18 and in school full time) or a pregnant woman; citizens or permanent residents; very low income (about $784 a month for 3) and under $1,000 in assets.
Georgia child support services
State of Georgia · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
The state can find a parent, prove who the father is, set up a child support order and collect payments for your child.
How to get it · Apply online at childsupport.georgia.gov or at a local child support office. Questions: 1-877-423-4746.
Who it’s for · $25 fee to apply unless your family gets TANF or you get Medicaid. Grandparents and other relatives raising a child apply at no cost.
The state can find a parent, prove who the father is, set up a child support order and collect payments for your child.
How to get it · Apply online at childsupport.georgia.gov or at a local child support office. Questions: 1-877-423-4746.
Who it’s for · $25 fee to apply unless your family gets TANF or you get Medicaid. Grandparents and other relatives raising a child apply at no cost.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Photo ID
✓ Copies of any child support or divorce orders
✓ Children’s birth certificates
✓ Proof of income, like pay stubs
✓ Children’s Social Security cards, if you have them
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Photo ID
✓ Copies of any child support or divorce orders
✓ Children’s birth certificates
✓ Proof of income, like pay stubs
✓ Children’s Social Security cards, if you have them
Georgia Fatherhood Program
State of Georgia · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Job training, job search help, GED classes and help getting your driver’s license back, for parents who pay child support.
How to get it · Call 1-877-423-4746 and choose option 3 for child support. Ask about the Fatherhood Program, or use the online request form.
Who it’s for · Parents with an open Georgia child support case and paternity set, mainly parents who don’t live with their child. Joining is voluntary.
Job training, job search help, GED classes and help getting your driver’s license back, for parents who pay child support.
How to get it · Call 1-877-423-4746 and choose option 3 for child support. Ask about the Fatherhood Program, or use the online request form.
Who it’s for · Parents with an open Georgia child support case and paternity set, mainly parents who don’t live with their child. Joining is voluntary.
Parent to Parent of Georgia
Parent to Parent of Georgia · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Free support for families of children with disabilities or health needs: other parents to talk to, support groups and help finding services.
How to get it · Call 1-800-229-2038. A coordinator will ask about your needs and help you plan next steps.
Who it’s for · Families of children with any disability or health concern, in every county in Georgia.
Free support for families of children with disabilities or health needs: other parents to talk to, support groups and help finding services.
How to get it · Call 1-800-229-2038. A coordinator will ask about your needs and help you plan next steps.
Who it’s for · Families of children with any disability or health concern, in every county in Georgia.
Kinship Navigator: relatives raising a child
Georgia DFCS · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
A navigator helps relatives raising a child find and apply for help in their community, including TANF, Medicaid for the child and the relative care subsidy. Georgia Legal Services runs a free Relative Caregiver Hotline for legal questions.
How to get it · Fill out the referral form on the Kinship Care Portal at dhs.georgia.gov, then contact your local navigator from the statewide list. DHS main line 1-877-423-4746. Legal questions: Georgia Legal Services Relative Caregiver Hotline 1-800-745-5717.
Who it’s for · Any grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling or other relative or close family friend caring for a child short- or long-term. You may qualify for the programs they help with.
A navigator helps relatives raising a child find and apply for help in their community, including TANF, Medicaid for the child and the relative care subsidy. Georgia Legal Services runs a free Relative Caregiver Hotline for legal questions.
How to get it · Fill out the referral form on the Kinship Care Portal at dhs.georgia.gov, then contact your local navigator from the statewide list. DHS main line 1-877-423-4746. Legal questions: Georgia Legal Services Relative Caregiver Hotline 1-800-745-5717.
Who it’s for · Any grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling or other relative or close family friend caring for a child short- or long-term. You may qualify for the programs they help with.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: $100 a month per child
State of Georgia (DFCS, through TANF) · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
If you are a grandparent raising a grandchild on TANF, you may get an extra $100 a month per child (the GRG Monthly Subsidy). There is also a one-time emergency payment (CRISP) of up to four times the monthly TANF maximum for your family size.
How to get it · Apply with Form 297 (TANF, SNAP and Medical Assistance application) at gateway.ga.gov or at your county DFCS office; you can also ask for GRG by phone. Decisions within 45 days (10 days for CRISP). For kinship support groups and a Kinship Navigator, call Aging Services at 1-866-552-4464 or DHS at 1-877-423-4746.
Who it’s for · You may qualify if you are the grandchild's caretaker, get or are approved for TANF for the child, the child's parent does not live in the home, and you are 55 or older OR disabled at any age. Household income must be under 160% of the federal poverty level.
If you are a grandparent raising a grandchild on TANF, you may get an extra $100 a month per child (the GRG Monthly Subsidy). There is also a one-time emergency payment (CRISP) of up to four times the monthly TANF maximum for your family size.
How to get it · Apply with Form 297 (TANF, SNAP and Medical Assistance application) at gateway.ga.gov or at your county DFCS office; you can also ask for GRG by phone. Decisions within 45 days (10 days for CRISP). For kinship support groups and a Kinship Navigator, call Aging Services at 1-866-552-4464 or DHS at 1-877-423-4746.
Who it’s for · You may qualify if you are the grandchild's caretaker, get or are approved for TANF for the child, the child's parent does not live in the home, and you are 55 or older OR disabled at any age. Household income must be under 160% of the federal poverty level.
Holidays and school supplies
Empty Stocking Fund holiday gifts for kids
Empty Stocking Fund · Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Parents and legal guardians on public assistance in metro Atlanta can register to pick out holiday gifts for their children, then pick them up at a site near them.
How to get it · Make an account at my.emptystockingfund.org, add each child and upload proof of benefits in the upload period. If approved, you'll be told when to pick gifts and where to get them. As of Nov 2026, gifts for kids 13 and up are gone. Call 470-816-1416.
Who it’s for · Legal guardians of kids newborn to 17 on public assistance (Medicaid, PeachCare, SNAP, TANF or SSI) in metro Atlanta. Demand is higher than supply, so approval does not guarantee gifts.
Parents and legal guardians on public assistance in metro Atlanta can register to pick out holiday gifts for their children, then pick them up at a site near them.
How to get it · Make an account at my.emptystockingfund.org, add each child and upload proof of benefits in the upload period. If approved, you'll be told when to pick gifts and where to get them. As of Nov 2026, gifts for kids 13 and up are gone. Call 470-816-1416.
Who it’s for · Legal guardians of kids newborn to 17 on public assistance (Medicaid, PeachCare, SNAP, TANF or SSI) in metro Atlanta. Demand is higher than supply, so approval does not guarantee gifts.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of benefits (only the documents on ESF’s Proof of Benefits list)
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Proof of benefits (only the documents on ESF’s Proof of Benefits list)
Free classroom supplies for Title I teachers
The Empty Stocking Fund · Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Teachers, paraprofessionals, school social workers and counselors at Title I schools shop a free store for classroom supplies: pencils, paper, notebooks, headphones, games and more. Up to $500 in supplies per school year, at no cost.
How to get it · Register or renew at teachersfreestore.com/Atlanta. Check the Approved Schools Directory on the page first. Show your school ID at pickup. Shopping dates roll out through the year, including weekends and afternoons. Phone 470-816-1416. Warehouse: 693 Humphries St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30310.
Who it’s for · Educators actively working at a Georgia Title I public school in metro Atlanta where at least 50% of students are economically disadvantaged. New registrations are reviewed case by case.
Teachers, paraprofessionals, school social workers and counselors at Title I schools shop a free store for classroom supplies: pencils, paper, notebooks, headphones, games and more. Up to $500 in supplies per school year, at no cost.
How to get it · Register or renew at teachersfreestore.com/Atlanta. Check the Approved Schools Directory on the page first. Show your school ID at pickup. Shopping dates roll out through the year, including weekends and afternoons. Phone 470-816-1416. Warehouse: 693 Humphries St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30310.
Who it’s for · Educators actively working at a Georgia Title I public school in metro Atlanta where at least 50% of students are economically disadvantaged. New registrations are reviewed case by case.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Valid school ID
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Valid school ID
Cobb Christmas: 3 new toys for each child
Cobb Christmas Inc. · Cobb County
⚠ Confirm before you go
Low-income Cobb County families get 3 new toys for each child ages 3 to 12. You pick up your gifts in Marietta on December 18 or 19, 2026, by appointment.
How to get it · Registration for 2026 opens in mid-November. Check cobbchristmas.net/registration or call 770-428-2601. Pickup is December 18 and 19, 2026, by appointment only. Signing up here may make you ineligible for other toy programs.
Who it’s for · Low-income families living in Cobb County with children ages 3 to 12 living in the home. You may qualify.
Low-income Cobb County families get 3 new toys for each child ages 3 to 12. You pick up your gifts in Marietta on December 18 or 19, 2026, by appointment.
How to get it · Registration for 2026 opens in mid-November. Check cobbchristmas.net/registration or call 770-428-2601. Pickup is December 18 and 19, 2026, by appointment only. Signing up here may make you ineligible for other toy programs.
Who it’s for · Low-income families living in Cobb County with children ages 3 to 12 living in the home. You may qualify.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Photo ID for the parent or guardian, ID for every child on the application
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Photo ID for the parent or guardian, ID for every child on the application
Free things to do
Free state park, museum and show passes from the library
Georgia Public Library Service, with your county library · All of Georgia
⚠ Confirm before you go
Borrow a pass from your library like a book and get in free. Passes cover free parking at every Georgia state park and historic site, up to 4 free admissions to the Breman Museum, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Center for Puppetry Arts, Mimms Museum and Go Fish Education Center, up to 6 at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, and 2 tickets to the Alliance Theatre or Shakespeare Tavern.
How to get it · Ask at any branch or search your library's catalog. Most passes check out for 7 days with one renewal and cannot be put on hold, so call your branch first. Each pass can be borrowed once every 6 months. Fulton: fulcolibrary.org (404-612-8700). DeKalb: dekalblibrary.org. Gwinnett: gwinnettlibrary.com (770-978-5154). Cobb: cobbcounty.gov/library (770-528-2326). Clayton: claytonpl.org (770-473-3850).
Who it’s for · Anyone with a free Georgia public library card. DeKalb limits passes to adult cardholders, 2 passes at a time. Late and replacement fees apply if you keep or lose a pass.
Borrow a pass from your library like a book and get in free. Passes cover free parking at every Georgia state park and historic site, up to 4 free admissions to the Breman Museum, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Center for Puppetry Arts, Mimms Museum and Go Fish Education Center, up to 6 at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, and 2 tickets to the Alliance Theatre or Shakespeare Tavern.
How to get it · Ask at any branch or search your library's catalog. Most passes check out for 7 days with one renewal and cannot be put on hold, so call your branch first. Each pass can be borrowed once every 6 months. Fulton: fulcolibrary.org (404-612-8700). DeKalb: dekalblibrary.org. Gwinnett: gwinnettlibrary.com (770-978-5154). Cobb: cobbcounty.gov/library (770-528-2326). Clayton: claytonpl.org (770-473-3850).
Who it’s for · Anyone with a free Georgia public library card. DeKalb limits passes to adult cardholders, 2 passes at a time. Late and replacement fees apply if you keep or lose a pass.
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Library card, the pass, your checkout receipt (Gwinnett), photo ID (Chattahoochee Nature Center)
WHAT TO BRING
✓ Library card, the pass, your checkout receipt (Gwinnett), photo ID (Chattahoochee Nature Center)
Free Atlanta Symphony tickets (ASO Amplify)
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra · Metro Atlanta
⚠ Confirm before you go
Up to 4 free tickets to select Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concerts, including Delta Classical and Family performances. You register once, then get emails about concerts you can claim.
How to get it · Fill out the sign-up form at aso.org/amplify, or ask a social worker or partner agency for sign-up information. Then log in to the ASO Account Manager (am.ticketmaster.com/aso) and redeem tickets online 5 days before each performance. Ticket office help: 404-733-4800.
Who it’s for · People 'receiving financial assistance from the State of Georgia' (for example SNAP, Medicaid, TANF). The page does not list which programs count.
Up to 4 free tickets to select Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concerts, including Delta Classical and Family performances. You register once, then get emails about concerts you can claim.
How to get it · Fill out the sign-up form at aso.org/amplify, or ask a social worker or partner agency for sign-up information. Then log in to the ASO Account Manager (am.ticketmaster.com/aso) and redeem tickets online 5 days before each performance. Ticket office help: 404-733-4800.
Who it’s for · People 'receiving financial assistance from the State of Georgia' (for example SNAP, Medicaid, TANF). The page does not list which programs count.
Free this week: for kids and families
Giveaways posted by local groups and checked by Hettie show up here.
Common questions
How can I get help paying for child care?
Apply for Help paying for child care (CAPS) at gateway.ga.gov, or call 1-833-442-2277. To find a provider, call 1-877-255-4254. Georgia's Pre-K Program is free for 4-year-olds, and YMCA Head Start and Early Head Start is free for families who qualify.
Where can I get free diapers?
Helping Mamas gives free diapers through partner groups and some Fulton County libraries. If you get TANF, you can apply on their website for a 4-month supply. For baby formula, ask WIC. You can also call 211.
How do I get child support?
Apply with Georgia child support services online or call 1-877-423-4746. It costs $25 unless your family gets TANF or you get Medicaid. Grandparents and relatives raising a child apply at no cost. Parents who pay support can ask about the Georgia Fatherhood Program.