There are several sources for financial assistance for emergency situations and ongoing financial need for families. The focus on most programs and services is to prevent families from becoming homeless, hungry, and unstable. Most programs are also temporary, and geared to help transition families from dependency back to financial independence and stability. The first step for a family or individual in need should be to visit the Department of Social Services and speak to an Employment Resource Specialist to discuss programs and eligibility.

(List not all inclusive)

The Department of Social Services (DSS) provides comprehensive state and federal funded programs to help individuals and families in need. Visiting the DSS office in your city should be the first one of the first resources you seek. Most other sources will refer you back to qualifying DSS programs. Contact DSS at: San Luis Obispo (805) 781-1825 and ask for the office nearest you.

• CalWORKs – is a temporary cash assistance program that is available to eligible families.  The San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services administers this program and has five offices in the county.
• Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants – this program is a state-funded program that provides cash assistance to qualified disabled, blind, and aged non-citizens. Contact the Department of Social Services in your County.
• The Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment (Kin-GAP) – is a cash assistance program for guardians of juveniles exiting the juvenile court system. Contact the DSS for info.
• General Assistance/General Relief Program – provides financial relief and support for indigent individuals who cannot support themselves or who receive no other financial support.
• Disabled Children & Adults – Several Programs are in place to help support individuals and children with disabilities and their families. Contact the Department of Social Services for more information.

Community Organization play a vital role in helping families and individuals with rapid emergency assistance with deposits, utility bills, rent, and food.

• The Salvation Army – provides assistance with rent, utilities, food and other emergency situations. Contact (805) 466-7201/238-9591 in North County, (805) 544-2401 in South County.
• Catholic Charities – provides emergency assistance with rent, utilities and other support services. Contact in SLO at (805) 541-9110.
• Community Action Partnership of SLO (CAPSLO) – Provides emergency assistance and homeless prevention services to help with rent, utilities and deposits. Contact CAPSLO at (805) 544-4355.

There are several programs available for qualified utility customers through PG&E and The Gas Company. PG&E offers a few programs including the most popular CARE Program, which can lower a significant portion of your energy bill if you quality. For more information follow the links below.

Click for: PG&E Programs and qualifications