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Starting Over With Nothing: Resources for Moms Who Had to Leave Fast

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These resources exist to help moms survive, rebuild, and know they’re not alone.
Sections
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Immediate needs

 
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Did you know Goodwill had an online shop? Did you know Goodwill has an online shop? You can order affordable clothes, coats, and shoes for yourself and your kids — shipped right to you. It’s not just local stores anymore. Sometimes it’s easier to ord...
ShopGoodwill.com
 
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These stores sell gently used and unused children’s clothes.
Once Upon A Child
 
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Plato’s closet offers clothes for adult and teens. They also sell accessories like purses, jewelry, and sunglasses.
Plato's Closet Charlotte
 
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Did you know you can find free clothes, toys, and even strollers from your own neighbors? Search for Buy Nothing groups on Facebook or download the Buy Nothing app. It’s a way people give directly to each other, no strings attached. You might be surp...
Buy Nothing
 
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Did you know the YWCA isn’t just about gyms or swim classes? Many YWCAs offer housing, childcare, financial literacy classes, and job support for women and children. It can be a lifeline when you’re rebuilding.
YMCA of Greater Charlotte: Home Page
 
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Did you know every state has its own Coalition Against Domestic Violence? These groups help with relocation, safe housing, and even standing beside you in court. Just search your state coalition against domestic violence” and you’ll find a local cont...
Victim Assistance
 
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Dairy free. Zealousness is warranted
Ice Cream in Charlotte, NC · Dairy Free · Seemingly Overzealous

Setting up a home

Did you know support doesn’t always have to be in person? Local churches, faith groups, and community centers often provide food, clothing, or small financial help with no strings attached.
 
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Did you know you can call 211 anywhere in the U.S.? It’s a hotline run by United Way that connects you instantly to food, housing, legal help, and crisis resources in your area.
NC 211
 
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Did you know there’s a National Domestic Violence Hotline that’s open 24/7? Call 800-799-SAFE anytime — they’ll help with safety planning, finding resources, or just listening if you need someone who understands.
Contact Us
 
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Did you know support doesn’t have to be in person? Local churches, faith groups, and community centers often provide food, clothing, or small financial help with no strings attached. Sometimes it’s the simplest places that give the biggest relief.
THE BEST 10 COMMUNITY CENTERS in CHARLOTTE, NC - Updated 2025

Setting up a home

Did you know most communities have shelters that go far beyond a safe bed? DV shelters often provide meals, counseling, childcare, and even legal advocacy. Call and ask
 
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Did you know Habitat for Humanity has thrift stores too? They’re called ReStores, and they sell furniture, kitchenware, and even appliances at a fraction of the cost. It’s one of the fastest ways to make a new space feel like home.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Wendover
 
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Did you know there are whole websites where people give away furniture for free? Freecycle.org is a community where neighbors post beds, dressers, dishes, and more. All you need to do is ask.
Freecycle: Front Door
 
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Did you know Craigslist has a “free” section? Check your local listings — you can often find cribs, mattresses, and couches people are happy to pass along. Sometimes all it takes is a quick pickup.
craigslist: charlotte jobs, apartments, for sale, services, community, and events

Feeding the family

 
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Did you know most towns have food banks or pantries? They can provide groceries, formula, diapers, and even hygiene items. Many don’t ask for paperwork — you just show up. Google “food pantry”
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina
 
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Did you know WIC covers more than just formula? The Women, Infants, and Children program gives healthy food, nutrition support, and breastfeeding help for moms and kids under 5.
City-County Government: Wic Supplemental Food Program
 
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Did you know SNAP can be used at many grocery stores and even farmers’ markets? The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps) gives monthly benefits to help stretch your budget and feed your family.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)