Care
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Tennessee Department of Human Services
Child Care Payment Assistance
Child care assistance helps eligible families pay for child care while they work or attend approved activities.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging
Aging Services
Area Agencies on Aging and Disability connect older adults and adults with disabilities to local services.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging
Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services
The department helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities access state services and supports.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhone
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Head Start and Early Head Start
Free preschool, child care and family support for young children from birth to age 5 in families with low income, run by local programs.
Find a program near you with the Head Start locator and contact it to apply.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- Tennessee 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988