Basic Needs Assistance in Appalachia

Americans are struggling with the rising costs of everyday goods, and basic needs assistance is becoming increasingly crucial. Americans Helping Americans addresses this issue by providing items often taken for granted. We distribute coats and blankets for enduring the harsh Appalachian winters. Proper footwear for students so their feet are protected and they can do the activities they want. Food boxes so that 10,000 families can supplement their nutrition needs. Also, dental kits to help the children practice correct oral hygiene.

Additionally, we work with local leaders and organizations through grants to offer community assistance, such as help with utility bills. Often times landlords evict renters for delinquent utility payments which can snowball a family into living on the streets. Americans with oxygen machines also rely on electricity to live and we make sure we can assist those people.

The Challenges Faced in Appalachia

While poverty rates in Appalachia have decreased slightly in recent years, nearly 14.5% of residents still live below the poverty line, including 19.8% of children and 22.6% of young adults. Access to basic needs like food, coats, and hygiene items remains a persistent challenge, especially for households in rural areas far from essential services. Additionally, while participation in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) has declined, 13.2% of households still rely on this assistance to get by. That’s why our programs provide community assistance to help people overcome these challenges and build a brighter future.

The Bare Feet Program: New Shoes for Children

For a child growing up in poverty in Appalachia, the worn-out pair of shoes they are wearing today likely came from an older sibling, or perhaps even a parent. That’s why we began our Barefeet program in which a child and their parent or guardian is taken to a shoe store by one of our partner organizations where the child is able to pick out EXACTLY what pair of shoes they want.

Utility and Rent Support for Families

Not being able to pay rent or utilities can often mean eviction and homelessness. We ensure thousands of lights stay on, respiratory assisting machines operate, and children stay warm during the cold winter months. We also ensure hundreds of children get new shoes, as well as warm winter coats and winter gear.

How to Access Our Programs

Americans Helping Americans works through community partners throughout Appalachia. To inquire about meeting needs in a particular community, please refer to our Partners Page, or contact us at info@helpingamericans.org

How We’ve Made a Difference in 2025

Every contribution makes a meaningful difference in the lives of families struggling to meet their basic needs. By supporting Americans Helping Americans, you help provide critical items like coats, blankets, dental kits, and utility assistance to those in need. Your generosity can also ensure safe and secure housing through our home rehabilitation programs.

Together, we can bring warmth, comfort, and hope to communities in Appalachia. Whether it’s a one-time donation or a recurring gift, your support directly strengthens families and uplifts entire communities.

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