Low-Income Resources in Alaska

This page is a public directory of programs that may help with food support, housing and utilities, child and family care, healthcare resources, and crisis services. Availability and eligibility vary by program. If something looks outdated, please let us know.

Food resources
Housing and utilities
Child and family care
Healthcare resources
Crisis care
Debt help

Food resources

If you need help with groceries, start with Alaska SNAP through the Department of Health. Nutrition support for families with young children and local food pantry options are also available statewide, including resources adapted for rural and remote communities.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — Alaska Department of Health

Helps with: Monthly food benefits for eligible households, including higher allotments to reflect Alaska costs.
How to start: Review program details, then apply online or by mail when ready.

Program overview: Alaska SNAP
Apply: MyAlaska (public assistance portal)

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) — Alaska Department of Health

Helps with: Nutrition support for eligible pregnant people, infants, and young children.
How to start: Learn about the program and contact a local WIC clinic.

Program overview: Alaska WIC Program

Find food assistance — Food Bank of Alaska

Helps with: Locating food pantries, food banks, and community food programs across Alaska.
How to start: Use the food bank directory to find local food assistance.

Food Bank of Alaska Find Food

Housing and utilities

If housing or utility bills are a concern, Alaska offers assistance through energy programs and housing agencies. Many services are delivered through regional and rural partners due to Alaska’s geography.

Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Alaska Department of Health

Helps with: Assistance paying home heating costs for eligible households.
How to start: Review program details and apply through the appropriate regional office.

Program overview: Alaska Heating Assistance Program
Apply: MyAlaska (HAP application)

Housing programs and renter resources — Alaska Housing Finance Corporation

Helps with: Affordable housing programs, rental assistance information, and renter guidance.
How to start: Review renter resources and housing programs.

Alaska Housing renter resources

Child and family care

Families may need help with child care costs or temporary cash assistance. In Alaska, these programs are administered through the Department of Health and regional partners.

Child Care Assistance Program — Alaska Department of Health

Helps with: Assistance paying for child care for eligible working families.
How to start: Review program information and apply when ready.

Program overview: Alaska Child Care Assistance
Apply: MyAlaska (CCAP application)

Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP)

Helps with: Temporary cash assistance and employment supports for eligible families with children.
How to start: Review eligibility and apply through the state system.

Program overview: Alaska Temporary Assistance Program
Apply: MyAlaska (ATAP application)

Healthcare resources

If healthcare coverage or medical costs are a concern, Alaska offers Medicaid and Denali KidCare for eligible residents. Applications are handled through the state benefits system.

Alaska Medicaid & Denali KidCare

Helps with: Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible Alaska residents, including children and families.
How to start: Review eligibility information and apply online when ready.

Program overview: Alaska Medicaid & Denali KidCare
Apply: MyAlaska (healthcare application)

Find a community health center — HRSA

Helps with: Locating federally supported clinics that often offer sliding-fee care.
How to start: Search by location to find a clinic near you.

HRSA Find a Health Center

Crisis care

If you or someone in your household is in immediate danger, call 911. If you need urgent emotional support or help finding local services, the options below can help you find the right next step quickly.

211 Alaska

Helps with: Local referrals for food, housing, utilities, childcare, healthcare, and community services.
How to start: Call 211 or use the online directory.

Dial: 2-1-1
211 Alaska

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Alaska)

Helps with: Free, confidential support for mental health or emotional crisis.
How to start: Call or text 988, or use chat.

Call or text: 988
988 in Alaska

Careline Alaska

Helps with: 24/7 crisis support, suicide prevention, and substance use help statewide.
How to start: Call the statewide crisis line.

Call: 1-877-266-4357
Careline Alaska

Alaska Domestic Violence Hotline

Helps with: Confidential support and connection to domestic violence services across Alaska.
How to start: Call the statewide hotline to reach an advocate.

Call: 1-800-478-7233
Alaska Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

Disaster Distress Helpline (SAMHSA)

Helps with: Crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to disasters.
How to start: Call or text.

Call or text: 800-985-5990
Text: TalkWithUs to 66746
Helpline details

If debt is part of the picture

Many people looking for assistance are also dealing with credit card balances, collections, payday loans, or medical bills. If you want a calm review of options, Money Fit offers nonprofit credit counseling and education. We’ll help you understand what’s realistic, without pressure.

Talk with Money Fit Debt management plan help Payday loan help

Note: Program availability and eligibility vary. Money Fit does not provide cash assistance and cannot guarantee outcomes.

Last reviewed: January 2026 | URL: /low-income/alaska/