Benefits & Basic Needs
From assistance with SSI/SSDI to a list of meal sites and food banks, we will connect you to our community partners in times of need.
On this page:
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Lifeline Cell Phone Program
Lifeline is a federal program that offers free or reduced phones and plans. Wireless companies in the area are offering the Lifeline program based on the zip code where you reside. The program limits cell phones to one per household, not one per family member.
Eligibility Requirements
This program is income-based. If you meet one of these income levels or participate in a Federal Assistance Program (e.g. SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA), you may be eligible to take advantage of this benefit.
Visit Us To Get Started
A Lifeline representative is available at the Resource Center of Spokane County every Tuesday and Thursday starting at 9:15 am to assist with activating the device and service plan, no appointment is necessary.
Please arrive with one of the two options below to validate your identity and address to ensure your application is processed efficiently:
Option 1 - One Document Only
Documents that validate both address and identity:
- Unexpired driver's license
- Unexpired state, U.S. government, military, or tribal issued ID
Option 2 - Combination of Address and Identify Validation
Documents that validate address only:
- Utility bill (dated within the last 365 days)
- Statement of benefits from a qualifying government program
- Income documents: includes W2, prior year's state, federal, or tribal tax return
- Non-handwritten mortgage or lease statement with signatures from both parties
- Mailed envelope with non-handwritten name/address (Note: must be stamped "Postage Paid" and received within the last 365 days)
- Any document received within the last 365 days with the applicant's name, address, and a federal/state/county...
Documents that validate identity only:
- Medicaid card with applicant's DOB
- Unexpired passport
- Social security card
- U.S. birth certificate
- Permanent resident card
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
Unable to visit the Resource Center of Spokane County to take advantage of this benefit?
Each wireless company/service provider will offer different incentives, i.e. free phones, more minutes, etc. Please research the best plan for you and your family.
Low-Cost Internet Service & Computer Equipment
EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing low-income families with the technology equipment necessary for today's evolving digital world.
Internet Essentials
A Comcast program, Internet Essentials can provide affordable high-speed internet and low-cost computers to keep you digitally connected.
SNAP Financial Assistance
Our partners at SNAP can help keep your home's energy and utilities from turning off. They can even help prevent foreclosure and provide essential home repairs.
Click on the button below to contact SNAP and learn about their eligibility requirements.
SSI and SSDI Assistance
Individuals experiencing homelessness can connect with an SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) Specialist who will assist with and expedite the SSI/SSDI application process. Application advice is available to everyone.
Community Shelters, Clothing, & Meals
We offer personalized recommendations for shelters, food & clothing banks, and meal sites.
- The following lists are up-to-date and accurate; however, due to the nature of community resources, it is common for there to be schedule and location changes.
- Please call each location before visiting. If you find any of the information offered needs to be updated, please send us an email here.
Local Shelters
Clothing Banks
Clothing banks serve specific ZIP codes; you may need to bring proof of your address, e.g. photo ID or a piece of mail, in order to benefit from the items they can provide.
Meal Sites
Meal sites are offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner during specific hours. Our Community Events calendar will provide you with the details of meal sites.
It is encouraged to call ahead of time as this service to the community is based on availability.
Food Banks
Food banks serve specific ZIP codes; you may need to bring proof of your address, e.g. photo ID or a piece of mail, in order to benefit from the items they can provide.
Our partners at 2nd Harvest have provided a website to connect you to a food bank or pantry.