Resources and Assistance Programs

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TRANSITIONAL EMPLOYEE ASSITANCE PROGRAM (TEA)

The TEA Program is a time-limited assistance program to help needy families with children become more responsible for their own support and less dependent on public assistance.  In addition to monthly cash assistance, employment-related services are provided to parents, including job-readiness activities, transportation assistance, childcare assistance, and other supportive services so that the parent can engage in work or education and training activities.

FILING FOR DISABILITY

 

UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS

Claims must be filed with a State Division of Workforce Services office. Certain conditions must be met during each week for which benefits are payable.

To be eligible, you must be:

  1. Unemployed,
  2. Physically and mentally able to perform suitable work,
  3. Available for suitable work,
  4. Making a reasonable effort to find work,
  5. Free of participation or direct interest in a labor dispute, and
  6. Free of disqualification

In addition to the above, a waiting period of one (1) week must be served before benefits are payable to you. A week to be used as a valid waiting period must be a valid week of unemployment. A valid week of unemployment must be a week you have claimed subsequent to filing your Initial Claim, in which you did not have any earnings or had earnings of less than 140% of your Weekly Benefit Amount, met all Eligibility Requirements, and week for which you are not disqualified.

Craighead County Public Library

The Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library and all branches offer free computer and internet access.  Wireless internet access is also available at all locations.

To use the computers, patrons must have a library card and be 13 years of age or older. Free first time cards are available for those who live in Craighead and Poinsett Counties or one of the surrounding counties (Greene, Jackson, Lawrence, and Mississippi). Visitors from other areas can ask for assistance at the Information Services Desk.

For more information call the Information Services Department at 935-5133 ext. 1111 or 1121.

Branches available in:

  • Caraway
  • Craighead
  • Harrisburg
  • Lake City
  • Lepanto
  • Marked Tree
  • Monette
  • Weiner

TEMPORARY HOUSING ASSISTANCE

The currently homeless and residents facing eviction can get assistance from transitional housing resources and programs. Many non-profits in Arkansas help the evicted, homeless, and low income families by providing them with temporary lodging and other support. Clients of the programs will also be able to enroll into several other services, such as job placement, training, and self-sufficiency.

Most of the towns and cities in Arkansas have some form of low income and/or transitional housing program. If a location is not near you then referrals and other information may be provided. Some centers focus on veterans, single parents, youth, or the long term homeless. There is often a waiting list in place as resources and capacity is limited. However most will offer some form of support or guidance to anyone seeking help.

PERMANENT HOUSING

Arkansas Homeless Service Organizations are regional and local non-profits that coordinate local resources and provide assistance to the homeless. Most Arkansas Homeless Service Organizations are funded through Continuum of Care (CoC). Continuum of Care is a federal program that consolidates the following Homeless Assistance programs: the Shelter Plus Care Program, the Supportive Housing Program, and the Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Single Room Occupancy Program. The CoC Program is designed to promote community-wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness by providing grants to nonprofit providers, State, and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused to homeless individuals, families, and communities.

Arkansas Homeless Service Organizations funded by CoC assist individuals (including unaccompanied youth) and families experiencing homelessness. With the main goal of long-term stability, those Arkansas homeless service organizations provide the services that are needed to help such individuals move into transitional and permanent housing.

PROJECTS ASSISTING TRANSITION FROM HOMELESSNESS (PATH)

For persons meeting the definition of SMI and who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless, assistance may be available in designated areas of the state to help promote seeking mental health evaluation and ongoing care along with assistance with seeking and maintaining stable housing, if eligibility criteria are met.

THE SALVATION ARMY OF JONESBORO
Rehabilitation, Emergency Financial Assistance, Emergency Shelter, Seasonal Services, Food Pantry
800 Cate Avenue
Jonesboro, AR

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Habitat’s homeowner selection is managed at the local level, through our hundreds of local Habitat for Humanity locations all over the U.S. and around the world. For more information and to learn more about the process or how you can apply, please contact your local Habitat, or call 1-800-HABITAT (1-800-422-4828).

LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (LIHEAP)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households with home energy costs by administering the Regular Assistance and Crisis Intervention Programs. Each program provides financial assistance to eligible households with a one-time per year payment to the household’s energy supplier or, under certain circumstances, to the applicant. The Crisis Intervention Program only provides assistance to eligible households facing energy-related emergencies.  Mail your application to your Community Action Agency.  The counties they serve are listed on the link below.  If you need more information contact Ometra Okuwoash at  501-682-0977 their website www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy

 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE CELL SERVICE

Lifeline is the FCC’s program to help make communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service, broadband Internet access service, or voice-broadband bundled service purchased from participating providers.

Lifeline typically provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers. Subscribers may receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but they may not receive a discount on both services at the same time. Lifeline also supports broadband Internet access service and broadband-voice bundles. FCC rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household.

Lifeline is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, commonwealth, territory, and on Tribal lands. The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for data collection and maintenance, support calculation, disbursements, and assisting consumers with Lifeline eligibility and enrollment for the program. USAC’s website provides additional information regarding the program, including program requirements.

To participate in the Lifeline program, consumers must either have an income that is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in certain federal assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Medicaid. You can see if you are eligible by reviewing the information available at lifelinesupport.org (see “Do I Qualify?”).

FOODBANK OF NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

If you, or someone you know, is in need of food assistance Foodbank of Northeast Arkansas has provided a list of agencies that are available in your area.

SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) – Food Stamp Program

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (formerly known as Food Stamp Program) provides food assistance to eligible households to cover a portion of a household’s food budget.  Benefits are distributed through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.  SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items for home consumption including seeds and plants which produce food for consumption by SNAP households. Farmers markets are available for SNAP benefits as well as eligible retailers.  In addition to food assistance, the program provides SNAP recipients with nutrition education, employment and training, and work experience in some cases.

THE SALVATION ARMY OF JONESBORO
Rehabilitation, Emergency Financial Assistance, Emergency Shelter, Seasonal Services, Food Pantry
800 Cate Avenue
Jonesboro, AR

ABILITIES UNLIMITED

Jonesboro Thrift Store on Union
Clothing, furniture, household items and tools.
311 Union St.
Jonesboro, AR

Paragould Thrift Store in Downtown
Clothing, furniture, household items and tools.
121 N 2nd St
Paragould, AR

Abilities Too
Furniture and Electronics
1334 West Monroe Avenue
Jonesboro, AR

 

GOODWILL

(870) 931-1374
1515 S Caraway Rd
Jonesboro, AR
72401

 

THE SALVATION ARMY OF JONESBORO
Rehabilitation, Emergency Financial Assistance, Emergency Shelter, Seasonal Services, Food Pantry
800 Cate Avenue
Jonesboro, AR

 

ARKIDS

ARKids First health insurance provides two coverage options for more than 70,000 Arkansas children who otherwise might have gone without. ARKids A offers low-income families a comprehensive package of benefits. ARKids B provides coverage for families with higher incomes.

LINK: ARKids First Health Insurance Program

 

FAMILY-TO-FAMILY

The Family-To-Family Health Information Center of Arkansas (F2F HIC) is a non-profit family-run organization that assists families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and the professionals who serve them. Health-related support, information, resources and training are provided by families for families.

 

GOT TRANSITION

Success in the classroom, within the community, and on the job requires that young people with special health care needs stay healthy. To stay healthy, young people need an understanding of their health and to participate in their health care decisions.

This site provides information and connections to health and transition expertise nationwide – from those in the know, doing the work and living it!

This site focuses on understanding systems, access to quality health care, and increasing the involvement of youth. It also includes provider preparation plus tools and resources needed to make more informed choices!

 

MEDICAID

Medicaid reimburses health care providers for covered medical services provided to eligible needy individuals in certain categories. Eligibility is determined based on income, resources, Arkansas residency, and other requirements. Covered services also vary among categories. 

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES

Adult Protective services housed in the Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services within the Department of Human Services,is mandated by state law to investigate maltreatment, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people age 18 and older, who are:

  • Impaired by mental or physical disease, and as a result, cannot protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
  • Endangered, which means, found in a situation or condition that poses a danger to themselves and does not understand the consequences of staying in that situation or condition.
  • LINK: More Information

ADULT DAY CARE SERVICES

Adult Day Care Facilities provide custodial care, supervision, and social services. Adult Day Health Care Facilities provide organized programs of rehabilitative, therapeutic, and supportive health and social services and activities. These facilities serve functionally impaired adults for periods of less than 24 hours per day in a licensed structure. Contact Number: 501-320-6287

LINK: More Information

ARKANSAS SMP – EMPOWERING SENIORS TO PREVENT HEALTHCARE FRAUD

This program helps consumers understand more about healthcare fraud. It involves recruiting retired persons to teach Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries to recognize and report healthcare fraud.

CHOICES IN LIVING RESOURCE CENTER

The Choices in Living Resource Center is an Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). We provide helpful information about long term services and supports in Arkansas. Trained Counselors are here to help you sort through the many options that are available and to assist you in making informed decisions. Anyone may contact us for assistance at 1-866-801-3435

  • LINK: More Information

DIVISON OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES

The Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) strives to provide quality services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and delays. We believe clients and their families should have choices when selecting appropriate services in their local community. The Division provides an array of services through Medicaid funded programs and federally funded grants. Our Intake and Referral unit is the best place to start if you are seeking services. You can contact Intake and Referral by calling 501-683-5687.

EDUCATION AND CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL HEALTHCARE NEEDS

Some children experience difficulties in school, ranging from problems with concentration, learning, language, and perception to problems with behavior and/or making and keeping friends. These difficulties may be due to one or more of the following: physical disorders, psychiatric disorders, emotional problems, behavioral problems, and learning disorders (or disabilities). These children with special needs are usually entitled to receive special services or accommodations through the public schools. Federal law mandates that every child will receive a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment. To support their ability to learn in school, three Federal laws apply to children with special needs:

  • The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1975)
  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 
  • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (1990)

Different states have different criteria for eligibility, services available, and procedures for implementing their laws. It is important for parents to be aware of these laws and regulations in their particular area.

FAMILY-TO-FAMILY

The Family-To-Family Health Information Center of Arkansas (F2F HIC) is a non-profit family-run organization that assists families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and the professionals who serve them. Health-related support, information, resources and training are provided by families for families.

INDEPENDENT CHOICES PROGRAM

Program supports at-home care by providing a monthly allowance in place of “Personal Care Services.” Contact Number: 866-710-0456

LIVING CHOICES ASSISTED LIVING

Services to provide housing, supportive services, personalized assistance and healthcare designed to respond to the individual needs of those who need help with activities of daily living. Contact Number: 501-682-2441

MONEY FOLLOWS THE PERSON

Money Follows the Person (MFP) is a federal program that helps Medicaid-eligible people ─ the elderly, adults with physical and developmental disabilities, and adults with mental illnesses ─ currently living in long-term care facilities; such as nursing homes, and other qualified institutions, transition back into to the community and receive home and community-based services.

PROGRAM OF ALL-INCLUSIVE CARE FOR ELDERLY (PACE)

The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is an innovative model that enables individuals who are 55 years of age or older and certified by the state to need nursing facility care, to live as independently as possible. Through PACE, fragmented health care financing and delivery system comes together to serve the unique needs of the enrolled individual with chronic care needs. The population served by PACE is historically very frail. The PACE organization must provide all needed services to the PACE participant.

PROVIDER-LED ARKANSAS SHARED SAVINGS ENTITY (PACE)

PASSE is a program that serves Medicaid clients with complex behavioral health, developmental, or intellectual disabilities.

The goal of the PASSE system is to monitor client’s health care needs, keep them healthy, and help them reach goals. DHS,AFMC and each PASSE continues to work together internally to address questions or concerns for providers and clients about the PASSE program as they arise.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME

SSI is a Social Security Administration program that provides benefits to individuals (children and adults) who are determined disabled according to SSI standards. To apply for disability benefits for a child, you will need to complete an Application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) AND a Child Disability Report. The report collects information about the child’s disabling condition and how it affects his/her ability to function.

WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES

You must be at least 16 and less than 65 years of age. You must also have a significant disability expected to last at least 12 months or to result in death. Eligibility is determined using Social Security Disability guidelines. Unlike receiving Social Security benefits, you may work full-time and earn more than what is allowed under Social Security benefit guidelines (SGA limit).

THERAPUTIC COUNSELING SERVICES

The Department of Human Services contracts with 27 providers of mental health services across the state to ensure state-funded mental health services are available to those without insurance coverage. Therapeutic Counseling Service contractors are required to provide Counseling Level Services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, psychoeducation, and multi-family groups. These contractors are mandated to assist persons who have no insurance to secure health insurance coverage if they are eligible.

 

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTERS

The Department of Human Services contracts with 12 Community Mental Health Centers (CMHC) across the state to ensure state-funded mental health services are available to those without insurance coverage for needed services. CMHCs are required to provide a broad range of services including crisis screenings, medication management, rehabilitative day services, and services for persons experiencing their first significant episode of a serious mental illness.

LINK: Community Mental Health Centers Directory & Map

 

GREATER ASSITANCE TO THOSE IN NEED (GAIN)

Greater Assistance to those in Need (GAIN) is an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program that provides comprehensive community support and psychiatric rehabilitation program for mentally ill adults or adults with mental illness and a co-occurring substance use disorder. More information can be found by calling 501-379-4246 or visit the GAIN website.

 

MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT (MAT)

Medicated-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. 

MAT Medications are administered, dispensed, and prescribed in various settings such as a SAMHSA-accredited and certified opioid treatment program (OTP) or certified practitioners depending on the medication.

 

MONEY FOLLOWS THE PERSON

Money Follows the Person (MFP) is a federal program that helps Medicaid-eligible people ─ the elderly, adults with physical and developmental disabilities, and adults with mental illnesses ─ currently living in long-term care facilities; such as nursing homes, and other qualified institutions, transition back into to the community and receive home and community-based services.

LINK: More Information

 

PROVIDER-LED ARKANSAS SHARED SAVINGS ENTITY (PACE)

PASSE is a program that serves Medicaid clients with complex behavioral health, developmental, or intellectual disabilities.

The goal of the PASSE system is to monitor client’s health care needs, keep them healthy, and help them reach goals. DHS,AFMC and each PASSE continues to work together internally to address questions or concerns for providers and clients about the PASSE program as they arise.

 

MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SUPPORT LINE

When seeking help for mental health or addiction services for yourself or a loved one, the first step is to find a service provider in your area. You can call our Mental Health & Addiction Support Line at 1-844-763-0198 to locate providers in your area.

 

NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI)

NAMI Arkansas is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to help people living with mental illness, their families, and the community. NAMI Arkansas operates a statewide organization providing and coordinating a network of local support groups who provide education, advocacy, and support throughout the state. NAMI also has a Warm Line available to assist those seeking resources at 1-800-844-0381.

ARKANSAS TRAINING AND EDUCATION VOUCHER (ETV) PROGRAM

The Arkansas Education and Training Voucher (ETV) Program offers funds to youth in foster care and former foster youth up to age 26 to enable them to attend colleges, universities, and vocational training institutions. Students may receive up to $5000 a year for four years as they pursue higher education. The funds may be used for tuition, books, or other qualified costs of attendance. These funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Number: 501-682-2447

TRANSITIONAL YOUTH SERVICES

The Transitional Youth Services (TYS) Unit works with teens in foster care ages 14-21 to teach them basic life skills as they transition to adulthood. The program encourages youth to remain in school until graduation from high school and will then assist them with their post-secondary educational needs and training, other programs designed to remove barriers to employment, and/or entry into the workforce. Contact Number: 501-320-6012

GOODWILL

Goodwill offers basic computer classes to assist job seekers and advanced computer training for those seeking to begin a career in Information Technology.

Computer classes will assist those who are seeking employment to improve their job opportunities by increasing their computer knowledge.

EL CENTRO HISPANO

El Centro Hispano takes a strength-based approach to help the Latino community acquire the necessary life skills to succeed in Jonesboro. We offer educational programs for members of all ages through our English language classes, Spanish language classes, mentorships, computer classes, citizenship orientation, as well as special activities.

CRISIS STABILIZATION UNITS

CSU were developed for the purpose of jail diversion and to provide another alternative for rapid access, short-term behavioral health stabilization and connection with needed local resources for mental health and/or co-occurring treatment services in the community after discharge. CSUs are funded through State General Revenue, as well as Medicaid and Private Health Insurance reimbursements. Referrals to CSU come through law enforcement or a Community Mental Health Center.

• Pulaski County Crisis Stabilization Unit covers central Arkansas – 501-340-6646
• Five West Crisis Stabilization Unit covers central western Arkansas – 479-785-9480
• Northwest Arkansas Crisis Stabilization Unit covers northwest Arkansas – 479-316-7100
• Craighead County Crisis Stabilization Unit covers northeast and east central Arkansas – 870-393-5335

GREATER ASSITANCE TO THOSE IN NEED (GAIN)

Greater Assistance to those in Need (GAIN) is an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program that provides comprehensive community support and psychiatric rehabilitation program for mentally ill adults or adults with mental illness and a co-occurring substance use disorder. More information can be found by calling 501-379-4246 or visit the GAIN website.

MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT (MAT)

Medicated-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. 

MAT Medications are administered, dispensed, and prescribed in various settings such as a SAMHSA-accredited and certified opioid treatment program (OTP) or certified practitioners depending on the medication.

MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SUPPORT LINE

When seeking help for mental health or addiction services for yourself or a loved one, the first step is to find a service provider in your area. You can call our Mental Health & Addiction Support Line at 1-844-763-0198 to locate providers in your area.

THE SALVATION ARMY OF JONESBORO
Rehabilitation, Emergency Financial Assistance, Emergency Shelter, Seasonal Services, Food Pantry
800 Cate Avenue
Jonesboro, AR

REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT PROGRAM

The Refugee Resettlement Program assists newly arrived eligible refugees to assimilate into the American way of life.  The program offers financial and medical services to eligible refugees for up to 8 months after arrival in the United States. Call 501-682-8256 or 800-482-8988 for additional information.

ARKANSAS DMV ID REQUIREMENTS

Arkansas government issued ID is only available to residents who can demonstrate that they are United States citizens, or otherwise legally present in the country. Applicants must also:

  • Have valid Social Security Numbers (or have affidavits explaining their ineligibility for an SSN).
  • Be at least 5 years of age.
  • Surrender any other IDs they hold, such as drivers licenses, issued by Arkansas or any other state.

Under DMV state ID requirements, applicants must provide their true full names, ages and birthdates, which will all be displayed on their cards.

Find information on the full process and required documents at DMV.com or DFA.Arkansas.gov.

APPLYING ONLINE

You can use a my Social Security account to apply for a replacement Social Security card online if you:

  • Are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address (this includes APO, FPO, and DPO addresses);
  • Are not requesting a name change or any other change to your card; and
  • Have a driver’s license or state-issued identification card from one of the many participating states or the District of Columbia.

APPLYING BY MAIL

Follow each of the links below for detials information on each step:

  1. Learn what Documents you need
  2. Print and Fill Out an application
  3. Take or mail this information to the Social Security Administration

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Eligible individuals (click here to see the list of eligible individuals) may order a birth certificate by any of the following methods:

  • Online: You may order a copy of a birth record online in minutes through Vital Records.  Multiple expedited shipping options are available through this service. Pay the service fee, certificate fee, and charges for any expedited shipping options by debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express). Requests typically take 7-14 business days from the date your order is approved plus additional shipping time. 
  • By Mail: You may order a certified copy of the birth record by mailing in a completed application (available here or from your local health unit) a check or money order made out to Arkansas Department of Health (no cash or temporary checks), and a copy or copies of acceptable ID to:

            Arkansas Department of Health
            Vital Records, Slot 44
            4815 West Markham Street
            Little Rock, AR 72205

Please allow 10-14 days for processing, in addition to mail delivery time.

  • Walk-in: You may order a certified copy of the birth record by coming into the Arkansas Department of Health’s vital records office. The office is located at 4815 West Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72205, across the street from War Memorial Stadium, and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. The office is closed on state holidays. Most certificate requests can be fulfilled the same day for customers arriving by 4:00 P.M., provided they are eligible to receive the certificate requested and have all the required information, including acceptable ID (see above). However, same day service is not guaranteed for non-routine requests such as certificate corrections, court orders, paternity affidavits, and genealogical requests prior to 1935. Customers who arrive in the office after 4:00 P.M. may pick up their request the following day or may ask that it be mailed.  Walk-in payment options are cash, credit or debit cards, or a check or money order made out to Arkansas Department of Health (no temporary checks are permitted).

  • Telephone: You may order a copy of the birth record via telephone toll-free at (866) 209-9482. Multiple expedited shipping options are available through this service. Payment of service fee, certificate fee, and charges for any expedited shipping options may be made by debit or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express).