Grameen America
Resource Manual
Charlotte, NC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
INTRODUCTION
3
SECTION I: THE BENEFIT BANK
1. What is the “Benefit Bank”?
2. Benefit Bank Locations in Mecklenburg County
3. Additional Public Benefit Resources
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SECTION II: FINANCIAL RESOURCES
1. Individualized Financial Counseling
2. Tax Assistance
3. Benefit Bank
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SECTION III: SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
1. Charlotte Business Resources.com
2. City of Charlotte Administration
3. North Carolina Administration
4. Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library
5. SCORE
6. Legal Assistance
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SECTION IV: WELFARE RESOURCES
1. The Benefit Bank
2. Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services
3. Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Program
4. Legal Services of Southern Piedmont
5. Temporary Cash Assistance
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SECTION V: ADULT EDUCTION RESOURCES
1. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
2. Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library
3. Other Educational Opportunities
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SECTION VI: HEALTH CARE RESOURCES
1. Federally-Funded Health Centers
2. Free and Low-Cost Clinics
3. Teen Health Connection
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4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Resource Manual
Finding Health Coverage in North Carolina
STD Screening
Pregnancy and Prenatal Care Assistance
Mental Health
Dental Care
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION VI: HEALTH CARE RESOURCES (CONT.)
9. Prescription Assistance
10. Health Education Materials
APPENDIX I: Federally Funded Health Centers in
Charlotte
APPENDIX II: Free & Low Cost Health Clinics in
Charlotte
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SECTION VII: CHILD CARE RESOURCES
1. Out-of-School (After-School & Summer Programs)
2. Job Development Programs and Internships
3. Early Childhood Services
4. Health Services
APPENDIX I: Head Start Center Locations In
Charlotte
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SECTION VIII: LEGAL RESOURCES
1. General Legal Issues
2. Domestic Violence
3. Tax Disputes
4. Immigration Law
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SECTION IX: IMMIGRATION RESOURCES
1. On Becoming a Citizen
2. Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library
3. Refugee Services
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MAJOR SOURCES OF INFORMATION
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Charlotte, NC
INTRODUCTION
CONTENT OF RESOURCE MANUAL
The Grameen America Resource Manual contains a detailed and user-friendly list of federal,
state, and local government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations that provide free
or low-cost services and programs to low-income households and individuals living in the
Charlotte-Mecklenburg area.
While not necessarily all-inclusive, the provided range of services and programs was compiled in
keeping with the most frequently asked questions posed by Grameen borrowers to their Center
Managers. Hence, the manual addresses primarily the concerns and issues of low-income
entrepreneurial women who obtain micro-credits from Grameen America to start, maintain, and
develop a small business. It includes the following nine sections:
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
The Benefit Bank
Financial Resources
Small Business Resources
Welfare Resources
Adult Education Resources
Health Resources
Child Care Resources
Legal Resources
Immigration Resources
The information contained herein was gathered from well-established and dependable sources
and from trusted public and private websites. To the extent that programs vary, eligibility
requirements may change over time, new providers appear on and existing agencies fade from
the social services scene, and providers may increase or reduce their services, we urge the user of
this manual to regularly consult the websites for updates. To assist the reader in staying current,
we clearly identify the sources of all information provided and explicitly indicate the visited
websites throughout the manual.
HOW TO USE THE MANUAL
This resource book is meant to provide Center Managers critical and useful information to
connect Grameen borrowers to the organizations that can provide social, economic, educational,
legal, and health services.
The manual was compiled in such a way that each section forms a self-contained unit;
consequently some of the information may be repeated in separate sections. This approach
enables the Center Managers to hand out individual sections to Grameen borrowers who,
entrepreneurs by nature, can use the provided information to find answers to their questions in a
self-sufficient and independent way.
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All organizations listed in this compendium, unless otherwise noted, are open to all people
regardless of immigration status. Some offer their services in other languages, the most frequent
one being Spanish. If bilingual services are available it is noted in the guide.
CAVEAT
The listed organizations were chosen based on their overall name recognition, length of
operations in the Charlotte area, geographical proximity to Charlotte borrowers, and, if
applicable, recognition or certification by official government agencies.
However, this manual expresses no opinion on the breadth, depth, and quality of the services
provided by each individual organization mentioned, and an organization’s inclusion does not
imply that it was approved, recommended, or supported by Grameen America. Any such
qualitative assessment is well beyond the ambition and scope of this manual.
GETTING STARTED
Grameen borrowers are strongly advised to take three initial steps, which should be regarded as
critical First Steps on the road to greater socio-economic self-reliance. Together, these steps will
assist borrowers in understanding and accessing all government benefits available to them,
taking care of their own and their family’s health, and, if needed, becoming more articulate and
fluent in English to manage successfully their business enterprise.
1. Find out what government-provided services you and your family may be eligible for.
Visit the Department of Social Services, use the online Self-Serve Benefit Bank tool, or
visit your nearest Benefit Bank location. On site, Benefit Bank Counselors can assist you
in getting acquainted with, understanding, assessing your eligibility, and starting the
application process for government-provided economic and welfare services, such as
subsidized child care, free lunch program, free health insurance, food stamps, and tax
benefits. (See: Section I. The Benefit Bank.)
2. Visit a free/low cost health clinic to get a checkup for you and your children and get
needed vaccinations and affordable dental care for your children. (See: Section VI.
Health Care Resources.)
3. Sign up for an English class to learn or improve your English and communicate more
efficiently in your personal and business life. (See: Section V. Adult Education
Services.)
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SECTION I
THE BENEFIT BANK
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Charlotte, NC
SECTION I: THE BENEFIT BANK
1- WHAT IS “THE BENEFIT BANK”?
The Benefit Bank can be seen as the gateway to government benefits and services for lowincome individuals and households.
The Benefit Bank is a web-based service that simplifies and centralizes the process of applying
for many state and federal benefits for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.
Through its eligibility screening tool, The Benefit Bank can ensure that people are fully aware of
the benefits to which they are entitled and, as an expert system it helps maximize the benefits and
tax refunds they can secure. The "one-stop-shop" concept of The Benefit Bank reduces the
amount of time needed to apply for benefits. Further, the information a person enters is stored
securely, so an individual who wishes to reapply for benefits, apply for new benefits or file
future tax returns simply needs to enter his or her username and password to initiate this new
action.
The Benefit Bank is a free service. No consumer can be charged for using The Benefit Bank
online service.
There are several area agencies and organizations that have designated Benefit Bank Counselors
that are certified to help inform people about the following services:
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Food Assistance
Medical Assistance
Prescription Drug Programs
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Veterans Education
Property & Rent Rebates
Child Care Subsidies
State Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Pace/Pacenet
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Voter Registration
To find a location offering free counselor assistance with The Benefit Bank online service, there
is a locator search tool where individuals enter an address, select the services they are interested
in and the distance you are willing to travel for a location. To find a location using the Benefit
Bank, visit http://www.thebenefitbank.org/Locate.
WARNING: Most government benefits are only available to U.S. citizens and legal
residents; undocumented residents qualify for very few government-provided socioeconomic benefits.
Note: When calling a Benefit Bank location to set up an initial appointment, people should ask
what information and documents they should bring to make the first interaction more productive.
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In addition to the above mentioned services, many of the organizations and service providers that
use The Benefit Bank software can also inform people about numerous other needed services
such as:
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Free tax preparation assistance
Financial counseling
Legal services
Immigration issues
Low-cost or no-cost health and mental health services
Housing assistance
Welfare benefits
Family support and domestic abuse services
Child care and after-school services
The Benefit Bank website offers a “QuickCheck” which is a fast and easy way for people to see
how likely they and their household are to qualify for tax credits and benefits available through
The Benefit Bank. After selecting a state, a series of brief questions are asked to assess potential
eligibility. The results are a rough estimate and while they do not guarantee qualification for the
programs, it will help determine what a household might qualify for.
There is also a secure internet-based self-serve tool where individuals can complete benefits
applications online. The online tool is available in English or Spanish on The Benefit Bank’s
website.
For more general information about The Benefit Bank, to complete a “QuickCheck”, or to access
the Self-Serve tool, visit http://tbb-nc.org/.
2- BENEFIT BANK LOCATIONS IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Table 1 below provides a list of the Benefit Bank Partners located in Mecklenburg County. The
list identifies the Benefit Bank services the organization offers, if any language services are
available, whether they are open to the public or just for clients/patients only, if an appointment
is required, and the contact information for the organization.
Note: This is a very dynamic and ever-changing list. Providers are frequently added or removed
from the list so please review the website for the most up-to-date list of service providers as well
as Benefit Bank locations in other surrounding counties.
Visit http://www.thebenefitbank.org/Locate.
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Table 1: Benefit Bank Partners located in Mecklenburg County (part 1 of 2)
Ada Jenkins Center
212 Gamble St.
Davidson, NC 28036
Tel: (704) 896-0471
Website: http://www.adajenkins.org/
Offering: benefits, taxes
Not open to the public; by appointment only
Residents of N. Mecklenburg and S. Iredell
Counties
Bilingual services available: Spanish
C.W. Williams Community Health Center
3333 Wilkinson Boulevard
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 393-7720
www.cwwilliams.org
Offering: Benefits
Not open to the public; CW Williams Patients
ONLY! By appointment only.
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Center for Employment Services (Charlotte
Housing Authority)
2201 Caronia Street
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 714-4051
http://www.chanc.org/living/employment_services.asp
Offering: Benefits, Taxes
Open to the public by appointment only
No bilingual services available.
Community Health Interventions & Sickle Cell
Agency
841 Baxter Street, Suite 112
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (980) 207-3295
www.communityhealthinterventions.org
Offering: Benefits, Taxes
Not open to the public; by appointment only
Services available to families living with sickle cell
disease and Thalassemia.
No bilingual services available.
Crisis Assistance Ministry
500- A Spratt Street
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 371-3000
www.crisisassistance.org
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter registration
Not open to the public; by appointment only
Bilingual services available: Spanish
C.W. Williams Community Health Center-East
Blvd.
900 East Boulevard
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Offering: Benefits
Not open to the public, CW Williams Patients
ONLY! By appointment.
Bilingual services available: Spanish
The Center for Community Transitions
2226 North Davidson Street
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 374-0762
www.centerforcommunitytransitions.org
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Not open to the public; by appointment only
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Changed Choices
1800 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 332-6388
www.changedchoices.org
Offering: Benefits, Voter Registration
Not open to the public; by appointment only
Services available to women transitioning from
prison.
No bilingual services available.
Connections BWB, Inc.
8430 University Executive Park
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 596-5553
www.Connectionsbwb.com
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Open to the public by appointment only
No bilingual services available.
Dress For Success Charlotte
500-A Clanton Road
Charlotte , NC
Tel: (704) 525-7706
www.dressforsuccess.org/charlotte
Offering: Benefits, Voter Registration
Not open to the public; by appointment only.
Female Clients Only; Translator may be available –
call for details.
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Table 1: Benefit Bank Partners located in Mecklenburg County (part 1 of 2 )
Durham Memorial Baptist Church
1601 Toddville Road
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 507-3458
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Not open to the public; by appointment only.
Must be a member of Durham Memorial Baptist
Church.
Bilingual services available: Vietnamese,
Montagnard
Genesis Project Family Wellness Center, Inc.
5108 Reagan Drive, Suite 14
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 596-0505
www.genesisproject1.org
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Open to the public by appointment only
Bilingual services available: Spanish
The Harvest Center of Charlotte, Inc.
1800 Brewton Drive
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 335-1616
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Open to the public.
Available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between
9am-11am, first-come-first-serve basis.
No bilingual services available.
Market Your Mind Services/Neet’s Sweets Inc.
6305 Reafield Dr
Charlotte, NC 28226
Tel: (980) 406-0953
Tel: (704) 512-0380
Offering: Benefits
Open to the public; by appointment. Women and
Children only.
No bilingual services available.
Flowers Ministries, Inc.
15720 John J. Delaney Drive
Ballantyne One, Suite 300
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 248-8889
www.Flowersincusa.org
Offering: Benefits, Voter Registration
Open to the public by appointment only
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont
2122 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 332-0313
www.goodwillsp.org
Offering: Benefits, Voter Registration
Open to the public by appointment only
No bilingual services available.
Melange Health Solutions
145 Scaleybark Road, Suite B
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 567-8690, ext. 102
http://www.melangehs.com
Offering: Benefits
Not open to the public; by appointment only.
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Q Foundation, Inc.
5633 Monroe Road, Suite D
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 566-4969
www.qfoundation.com
Offering: Benefits, Taxes, Voter Registration
Not open to the public; Current Students
By appointment only
Bilingual services available: Spanish
3- ADDITIONAL PUBLIC BENEFITS RESOURCES
Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services (DSS)
The Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services serves as an excellent referral source
to determine where to turn for local resources and services. Mecklenburg County DSS also
offers a variety of assistance programs to adults, children, and families. Some of the programs
include:
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Work First Family Assistance – (sometimes referred to as TANF - Temporary
Assistance for Needy Families) provides cash assistance and Medicaid coverage to
families with minor children. Work First Family Assistance provides parents with short10
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term training and other services to help them become employed and move toward selfsufficiency.
Food and Nutrition Services Program (FNS) - provides assistance to households with
limited income and resources. The limits are different, depending on the number and ages
of persons in the home.
Adult Medicaid – pays medical bills for people who meet certain eligibility requirements
(such as income, age, or disability) which are based on Federal regulations and State law.
Medical benefits may be authorized for services such as hospitalizations, physician
services, medications and different levels of care in nursing and residential facilities.
Family and Children's Medicaid – helps with medical bills such as doctor fees,
prescription drugs, and hospital charges.
Mecklenburg Transportation System (MTS) – provides a variety of transportation
services to Mecklenburg County residents.
In-Home Aide – provides personal care, home management, and respite services to older
adults (age 60 +) and adults with disabilities (age 18 +) who are unable to perform these
tasks.
Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS offers the “North Carolina ePass” which is a way for individuals to
check their potential eligibility for programs online. If eligible, individuals can also complete
their application online through the same ePass tool. To use the online assessment tool:
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Visit: https://www.epass.nc.gov
Note: For those who wish to apply for Medicaid using the NC ePASS application, the
application should be filled out, printed, and signed. The completed application can be mailed or
brought in to the Department of Social Services. The applicant must be interviewed by a DSS
eligibility worker in order to complete the application process. Applicants applying for Food &
Nutrition Services (FNS) can complete and submit the full application online.
For individuals who prefer in-person appointments, many of the services require eligibility
forms, most of which are now available online. To help minimize wait times, individuals should
fill out and bring the appropriate forms along with them when visiting the site for an
appointment.
For more information contact Charlotte Mecklenburg Department of Social Services:
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Contact the Customer Connection Call Center – (704) 336-3000. Customer Connection
is responsible for managing incoming calls from individuals who receive benefits through
Social Services as well as those seeking information about Social Services or resources
available in the community. Agents are available Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Visit http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/dss/Pages/Default.aspx
For Transportation Services (to schedule or cancel transportation) contact Transportation
Scheduling at 704-336-4547, Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS Locations
DSS Main Office
West Charlotte Location
Wallace H. Kuralt Centre
Valerie C. Woodard Center
301 Billingsley Road
3205 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211
Charlotte, NC 28208
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Department of Social Services also has a partnership with 6
community-based organizations. An employee from DSS makes site visits to these community
locations on a regular basis to hold appointments to discuss Medicaid questions and to assist with
the Medicaid application process. In order to schedule an appointment, please contact the
community organizations directly using the contact information listed below.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Department of Social Services Community Partnerships
Ada Jenkins Center
212 Gamble St.
Davidson, NC 28036
Tel: (704) 896-0471
Website: http://www.adajenkins.org/
Matthews HELP
119 N. Ames St.
Matthews, NC 28105
(704) 847-8383
Website: http://www.matthewshelpcenter.org/
No bilingual services available.
Urban Ministry Center
945 N College St
Charlotte, NC 28206-3200
Tel: (704) 347-0278
Website: http://www.urbanministrycenter.org/
No bilingual services available.
Serving the homeless of Charlotte.
Latin American Coalition
4938 Central Ave, Ste 101
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 531-3848
Website: http://www.latinamericancoalition.org/
Men's Shelter of Charlotte
1210 N Tryon St
Charlotte, NC 28206-3256
Tel: (704) 334-3187
Website: http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte.org
No bilingual services available.
Serving the homeless of Charlotte.
Women’s Shelter (Center of Hope)
534 Spratt St
Charlotte, NC 28206
Tel: (704) 334-0000
No bilingual services available.
Serving the homeless of Charlotte.
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SECTION II
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
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SECTION II: FINANCIAL RESOURCES
1- INDIVIDUALIZED FINANCIAL COUNSELING
There are a number of organizations in the Charlotte area that provide guidance to most financial
questions and can also connect individuals with the welfare resources they are eligible for.
The service providers have been divided into 2 separate categories:
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Financial Empowerment Services: provide free one-on-one financial counseling by
professional counselors, either in person or by phone. See Table 1.
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Financial Education Services: provide access to free or low-cost financial education
classes, workshops, hotlines, and/or counseling services. This is a list of nonprofit
organizations offering services that will help you take charge of your finances. See Table
2.
If you do not have access to the internet, call an organization below for resources, services,
classes, counseling, and to schedule an appointment if necessary.
Table 1: Charlotte Financial Empowerment Service Providers
Alliance Credit Counseling
13777 Ballantyne Corporate Place, Suite 100
Charlotte, N.C. 28277
Toll Free: (888) 995-7856
Tel: (704) 341-1010
Website: http://www.knowdebt.org/
Free counseling available by phone. $40 walk- in
fee for in-person visit. Services available in
English and Spanish. Other languages available
through translator service.
ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions
4421 Stuart Andrew Blvd., Suite 303
Charlotte, NC 28217
Toll Free: (877) 877-1995
Tel: (704) 525-4572
Website:
www.clearpointcreditcounselingsolutions.org
Free in-person or phone consultations regarding
services offered, as well as free Credit and Budget
Counseling. Additional services offered for a cost
such as Reverse Mortgage Counseling, Bankruptcy
Counseling, and Debt Management. Services
available in English and Spanish. Other languages
available through translator service.
Table 2: Charlotte Mecklenburg Financial Education Service Providers (Part 1 of 3)
Ada Jenkins Center
212 Gamble St.
Davidson, NC 28036
Tel: (704) 896-0471
Website: http://www.adajenkins.org/
Financial counseling. Available for residents of N.
Mecklenburg and S. Iredell Counties. Services
available in English and Spanish.
Benefit Bank
See Section I – Benefit Bank for a list of
participating organizations.
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Table 2: Charlotte Mecklenburg Financial Education Service Providers (Part 2 of 3)
Charlotte Area Fund
901 N. Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28206
Tel: (704) 372-3010
Website: www.charlotteareafund.org/
Free Budget Counseling and Money Management
Training Sessions for program participants. Must
complete an application process. English Only.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Housing Partnership
4601 Charlotte Park Drive
Suite 350, Charlotte, NC 28217
Tel: (704) 342-0933
Website: http://www.cmhp.org/Home/
Homeownership ($20 per family) and financial
literacy (free) classes open to the public.
Additional homeownership counseling and
homeowner association workshop trainings for
program participants. Most services available in
English only.
Community Link
601 E. 5th Street Suite 220
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 943-9490
Website: http://www.communitylinknc.org/about/obstacles.aspx
Financial coaching, Volunteer Income Tax
Preparation, Foreclosure Prevention,
Homeownership Program. (Additional
homeownership education and counseling for
homeownership program participants.) Services
available in English and Spanish.
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont
2122 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (704) 372-3434
6607 South Blvd. (Bilingual Services)
Charlotte, NC 28217
Tel: (704) 527-3195
Website: http://www.goodwillsp.org/
Classes on budgeting, money management,
financial products, and credit management. Home
Buyer Education and Homeowners in Distress
workshops. Seminars to prepare students for
college life, specifically as it relates to financial
matters. Access to the Benefit Bank. Volunteer
Income Tax Preparation site. Subsidized
transportation assistance. Services available in
English only. Some computer literacy training in
Spanish. Go online to register for classes or call
the Job Connection Staff.
Charlotte Housing Authority
400 East Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 336-5183
Website: http://www.cha-nc.org/
Homeownership counseling, homeownership
financial literacy classes, and homeowner
association workshop trainings for program
participants. Translator service available.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
Tel: (704) 416-0101 (Main Library)
Website: http://www.cmlibrary.org/programs/
The Public Library offers a variety of financial
literacy classes at its various locations across the
county. Call or visit their website for available
class listings. Several course offerings in Spanish.
Davidson Housing Coalition
220 Sloan St., Suite A
Davidson, NC 28036
Tel: (704) 892-4486
Website:
http://www.davidsonhousing.org/index.html
Home Rehabilitation Programs, Homebuyer/Home
Purchase Counseling, Public Housing, Personal
Financial Counseling. Spanish speaking volunteer
available on a part-time basis.
Latin American Coalition
4938 Central Ave, Ste 101
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 531-3848
Website: http://www.latinamericancoalition.org/
Youth to College program, providing scholarships
for Latino youth. Financial literacy courses for
Small Business program participants. Services
available in English and Spanish.
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Table 2: Charlotte Mecklenburg Financial Education Service Providers (Part 3 of 3)
Latino Community Credit Union
(Cooperative Latina Credit Union)
3 Locations:
South Boulevard - (704) 553-0386
Milton Rd - (704) 531-0201
Dickerson Blvd (Monroe, NC) - (704) 226-1651
Website: http://latinoccu.org/
Offering multiple financial literacy courses including
Savings, Budgeting, Credit History, Credit Cards,
How to Buy a Car, Homeownership. Other courses
available online. Services available in English and
Spanish.
2- TAX ASSISTANCE
By law, all people earning an income in the U.S. have to file annual tax returns, whether they
owe taxes or not. Also, low-income individuals and households who are entitled to a tax refund
or a tax credit — such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Care Tax Credit —
must file in order to obtain these monies. Citizens and legal residents are requested to use their
Social Security number on their returns; undocumented immigrants need to provide an Individual
Tax Identification Number (ITIN) for which they can apply either before or at the time they file
their tax returns.
EITC is a fully refundable federal tax credit for working low- and moderate-income individuals
and families. It is one of the largest benefit programs for families that work but do not exceed
a certain IRS-specified income level. Families that meet eligibility requirements can receive
thousands of dollars through the EITC by filing their taxes. Many states also offer their own
version of the EITC in addition to the federal tax credit. Securing tax credits can make a critical
difference in a household’s well-being.
For more information about the EITC visit the IRS’s EITC page:

http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/EITC-Home-Page--It%E2%80%99s-easier-than-everto-find-out-if-you-qualify-for-EITC.
2.1- Free Tax Preparation
The VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program offers free tax preparation services for
qualifying people (i.e., with incomes below an IRS-defined ceiling; the ceiling varies from year
to year) who need assistance in filing their tax returns. Volunteers prepare basic tax returns
during the January-April tax season. Tax preparers also help clients in maximizing their tax
benefits (refunds and credits, including the EITC and child credit), applying for an ITIN
(mandatory for people without Social Security Number), and investing a part of the anticipated
refund in savings accounts.
To know if you qualify for this service and to locate VITA sites in Charlotte:
 Call 311 or (800) 906-9887
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Visit http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-byVolunteers for more information.
Or visit http://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/ to find a VITA location near you.
Documents needed when going to a VITA center to have your taxes prepared:
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Proof of identification – Picture ID.
Social Security Cards for client, spouse, and dependents. People without a Social
Security Number need to establish an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
(ITIN).
Proof of Foreign Status if applying for an ITIN.
Birth dates for client, spouse and dependents on the tax return.
Wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc, from all
employers.
Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099).
A copy of last year’s federal and state returns if available.
If a direct deposit of the refund is requested, proof of bank account routing numbers and
account numbers, such as a blank check.
Total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider's tax identifying number.
To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be
present to sign the required forms.
2.2 - Solving Tax Problems
The LITC (Low Income Taxpayer Clinic) program assists low-income individuals who have a
problem with the IRS. LITCs can provide representation before the IRS or in court on income
tax audits, tax collection disputes, appeals, court proceedings, and other tax-related issues for
free or for a small fee.
LITC centers in Charlotte:
Table 3: LITC Centers in Charlotte
Legal Services of Southern Piedmont, Inc.
1431 Elizabeth Ave
Charlotte, NC 28204
Tel: (800) 247-1931 (English and Spanish)
Tel: (704) 376-1600 (English and Spanish)
Website: http://www.lssp.org/
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Visit http://www.irs.gov/uac/Low-Income-Taxpayer-Clinics for more information about
the LITC program.
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3- BENEFIT BANK
Many Benefit Bank Partners offer low-income households and individuals free, customized, and
confidential counseling on a broad range of government benefits, financial matters, and legal
issues. Many of them provide tax assistance or can refer clients to a tax assistance center.
See SECTION I: BENEFIT BANK.
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Charlotte Resource Manual
SECTION III
SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
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SECTION III: SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
Entrepreneurs who want to start a new business venture or expand an existing operation face a
variety of problems. Of these issues the most intricate are (a) securing the proper licenses and
permits and (b) complying with all the regulatory provisions pertaining to their specific business
endeavor. There are several sources to which these entrepreneurs can turn for assistance.
1- CHARLOTTE BUSINESS RESOURCES.COM
Charlotte Business Resources.com, is an online portal that is a community-wide collaborative
effort by a network of organizations (including the City of Charlotte) committed to working
together to save businesses and business owners time and money by providing relevant business
resources and information. The site makes important information and resources for new and
existing businesses available in one integrated place. Charlotte Business Resources.com offers
detailed information on numerous critical issues — the nature and limits of each specific
business, the kind of permits and certifications that are needed, approved training and education
centers, how and where to apply for a license, the annual or bi-annual cost of licensing fees,
insurance requirements, and the like.
The website has a language selection option where viewers can choose from 7 different
languages to browse the site.
The website provides a list of local, state and federal resources available for individuals looking
to start, grow, relocate, or finance their business. The site also provides various resources related
to contracting (including opportunities, certifications, bonding, and bidding).
Individuals who visit the site looking to start a business can choose from a range of topics –
Getting Started, Licensing & Permitting, Training & Development, Site Selection,
Entrepreneurship, Exporting, Patents, Franchise, and Networking. There are also resources
available for individuals looking to start a Non-Profit.
For more information:
 Visit http://charlottebusinessresources.com/.
2- CITY OF CHARLOTTE ADMINISTRATION
2.1- City of Charlotte Neighborhood & Business Services
Within the Economic Development tab of the City of Charlotte’s website there is a list of
programs offered by Neighborhood and Business Services (NBS) to help businesses start,
operate, and expand in the Charlotte area.
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For a full list of programs and resources available through NBS visit their website:
http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/nbs/ed/Pages/default.aspx.
Small Business Opportunity (SBO) Program. The Small Business Opportunity Program is a
program offered through the Neighborhood & Business Services department of the City of
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Charlotte. The SBO Program is designed to assist certified City Small Business Enterprises
(SBEs) in growing, enhancing and developing their businesses. The SBO Program is a race and
gender neutral program that ensures small business participation in contracting and
subcontracting opportunities with the City of Charlotte. It applies to all aspects of the City's
contracting and procurement programs, including but not limited to the purchase of apparatus,
supplies, materials, equipment, construction projects, all service contracts, and equipment rental
and lease agreements.
The program affords participants the opportunity to access a database with other SBEs and area
vendors, networking with other small business owners and key city staff and officials, business
development opportunities, contracting opportunities, access to additional lending resources, and
a combination of numerous development programs that support small businesses in
organizational training, strategic development, and networking opportunities such as free
monthly workshops, Professional Association Sponsorships, and a Mentor Protégé Program.
Professional Association Sponsorships. The Small Business Opportunity (SBO) Program
provides partial sponsorships for annual membership dues toward local organizations that foster
small business growth for a period of one year. SBEs that do not already have an existing
membership with the applied for organization are eligible to receive funds to subsidize the cost
to join one of the partnering associations. Partnering associations include:
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Carolinas Association of General Contractors (AGC)
Metrolina Minority Contractors Association (MMCA)
Charlotte Chamber of Commerce
Latin American Chamber of Commerce
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Hispanic Contractors Association of the Carolinas
CPCC’s Institute for Entrepreneurship. Another benefit of the City’s SBO program is the
option for participation in an established partnership with Central Piedmont Community
College’s (CPCC) Small Business Center. SBEs can enroll in free courses ($300 maximum) at
Central Piedmont Community College through the Institute for Entrepreneurship (IE). The
Institute for Entrepreneurship offers support to those that want to start a small business or those
who want help with an existing business. IE offers numerous classes for small business owners
such as Using YouTube to Promote Your Business, QuickBooks 2012 and Social Media
Marketing Tools for Business Owners.
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To learn more about the IE, go to http://www.cpcc.edu/einstitute.
The City of Charlotte also partners with CPCC’s Institute for Entrepreneurship to offer ten
scholarships for Getting to the CORE of Business: Strategic Development Program. This
innovative five-month program will provide business owners individualized practical training
designed to teach business owners how to integrate, implement and execute a focused growth
strategy.
Mentor-Protégé Program. One additional benefit of the SBO Program is the ability to
participate in the Mentor-Protégé Program. This program provides hands-on managerial and
technical assistance, matching larger “mentor” companies with less experienced “protégé” Small
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Business Enterprise (SBE) companies in need of guidance and training. Created as a value
added feature to the certification process, the Mentor Protégé program helps the Small Business
Opportunity Program develop, support and enhance the success of small business in the
community.
For more general information about the SBO Program:
 Visit http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/nbs/ed/SBO/Pages/default.aspx
 Call (704) 432-1395 for general information about Neighborhood & Business Services
 For information about the SBO Program in English, call Meg Capetta (704) 336-2487
 For information about the SBO Program in Spanish, call Giovy Buyers (704) 432-3304
To see if your business qualifies, visit the SBE certification page of the City of Charlotte
website:
 http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/nbs/ed/SBO/Pages/SBECertification.aspx
2.2- Mecklenburg County Health Department
The Mecklenburg County Health Department provides detailed information on all health and
hygiene requirements for individual businesses such as food vendors, pet store owners, tattoo
parlors, swimming pool operators, and more. More specifically, the website’s section on
Environmental Health provides a search option linking to guides and information on a wide
series of topics.
For more information:
 Call 311 and ask for Environmental Health Services (a division of the Mecklenburg
County Health Department) or call 704-336-5100.
 Visit
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/EnvironmentalHealth/Pa
ges/Default.aspx
3- NORTH CAROLINA ADMINISTRATION
3.1- Business Link North Carolina
Business Link North Carolina (BLNC) is a free service of the North Carolina Department of
Commerce.
Business Link helps entrepreneurs start, grow and support their business in North Carolina.
Business Link North Carolina offers a central source for consultations, information and referrals.
BLNC counselors provide one-on-one client consultations at no cost, customized licensing
information, employer and business structure forms, referrals to State Agencies and State
Occupational Licensing Boards, Local Governments & Federal Agencies, contacts for Local,
State & Federal business services, programs & resources, and a Small Business Ombudsman to
work on the individual’s behalf to resolve issues with State Government Agencies.
Two of its services are of particular interest for immigrants anxious to start their own business:
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Planning Checklist ― a guide to help prospective and actual entrepreneurs prepare a
comprehensive business plan and determine if their idea is feasible, to identify questions
and problems they will face in converting their idea into reality, and to prepare for
starting their business.
To view the Planning Checklist visit:
http://www.blnc.gov/start-your-business/planning-checklist\
Minority Programs ― a list of services, programs and support for minority business
owners such as the N.C. Institute of Minority Economic Development, the N.C.
Community Development Initiative, and the N.C. Department of Administration's Office
of Historically Underutilized Businesses HUB.
For more information about the available Minority Programs visit:
http://www.blnc.gov/start-your-business/minority-programs
Contact Business Link North Carolina to discuss business needs or for help finding the
appropriate resources to accomplish business goals. Business Counselors are available MondayFriday from 8:00am - 5:00pm EST:
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Call (800) 228-8443 or (919) 807-4280
Visit http://www.blnc.gov/
Bilingual staff available.
3.2- The Small Business Center Network (SBCN)
The North Carolina Community College System Small Business Center Network offers a wide
range of programs and services for existing and prospective business owners to help them realize
their dream of owning a business or making their current business more profitable. The Small
Business Center Network, comprised of 58 Small Business Centers throughout North Carolina,
supports the development of new businesses and the growth of existing businesses by being a
community-based provider of training, counseling, and resource information. Centers provide
local, confidential, experienced counselors as advisors for new and existing businesses.
Available on an as needed basis, this local confidential service acts as a sounding board for new
ideas and or concerns business owners may have about their business. SBCN’s professional staff
will help find solutions to challenging business questions. No question is too simple or
complicated. There is no charge for these services.
Small Business Centers offer year round a wide variety of seminars and workshops to help small
businesses be successful. Most seminars and workshops are available at no charge. If there is a
cost, that information is disclosed on the website. Some of the topics include:
 How to Start a Business
 How to Write a Business Plan
 Financing Your Business
 Bookkeeping and Taxes
 Marketing for Success
For a current listing of upcoming seminars and workshops:
 Visit www.cpcc.edu/sbc
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Your local Small Business Center also has a library of professional resources waiting to be
tapped such as:
 Market Research
 Business Plans
 Business/Legal Structure
 Computers
For more information:
 Visit https://www.ncsbc.net/
 Visit the local Mecklenburg County SBC located at the CPCC Small Business Center:
Hall Building – 1112 Charlottetowne Ave Charlotte, NC 28204
 Or call (704) 330-6736.
3.3- Small Business and Technology Development Center
The North Carolina Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is a
business advisory service of the University of North Carolina System, administered by NC State
University, and operated in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The
SBTDC is also a strategic partner of the North Carolina Department of Commerce.
SBTDC specialists assist small and mid-sized businesses throughout North Carolina from 16
offices across the state – each affiliated with a college or university. The SBTDC’s core mission
is to help North Carolina businesses grow and create new jobs to benefit all North Carolinians.
Most SBTDC services are free of charge, and all services are confidential.
SBTDC helps with a wide variety of business problems, issues, and challenges. They help
address immediate, pressing concerns, but also work with business owners on an on-going basis
to identify and address underlying issues and growth opportunities.
Services include:
 Business & Management Advice
 Financial Assistance – Assistance with how to obtain business capital
 Financial Analysis – Advice on how to make a business more profitable.
 Marketing Assistance – Learn how to expand into new geographies, customer segments,
or product/industry markets.
 Research – Acquire knowledge as a means of learning how to outperform competitors.
 Strategy Development & Implementation
 Leadership & Employee Performance – Analyzing staff to determine if employees,
managers, and systems as efficient and effective as they can be.
For more information:
 Visit www.sbtdc.org.
 Submit an online request for free, confidential business advice from an advisor
https://access.sbtdc.org/reg.aspx?mode=counsel&center=42010&subloc=0
 Or contact the regional SBTDC location for the Anson, Cabarrus, Iredell (southern),
Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Rowan, Stanly and Union counties.
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SBTDC at UNC Charlotte
The Ben Craig Center
8701 Mallard Creek Rd, Ste 102
Charlotte, NC 28262
Tel: (704) 548-1090
No bilingual services available.
Website: http://www.sbtdc.org/offices/uncc/
3.4- Office of Historically Underutilized Businesses
The North Carolina Department of Administration’s Office of Historically Underutilized
Businesses (HUB) was established to:
 Increase the amount of goods and services acquired by the state from businesses owned
and controlled by HUB firms.
 Encourage the purchasing officers within the state agencies, departments and universities
to identify and utilize prospective HUB designated vendors and service providers.
 Educate vendors on "how to" do business with the state.
 Encourage participation of qualified HUB designated vendors by directing them to
agencies that can benefit from their product or service.
 Maintain a database of designated HUB vendors for use by state purchasers, general
contractors and other purchasing entities seeking qualified vendors.
 Sponsor seminars and conduct training workshops that assist HUB vendors become an
active participant in state contracting opportunities.
A HUB is defined as a business where fifty-one percent or more of the business is owned by, and
the day-to-day management and daily business operations are controlled by, one of the
following:
 Black, Hispanic, Asian-American, American Indian, Female or a Socially and
Economically Disadvantaged person, or
 Disabled-Owned or a Disabled Business Enterprise.
To learn more about the HUB Office and the HUB certification process
 Visit http://www.doa.nc.gov/hub/default.aspx
 Or if you are a part of the SBO Program (see section 2.1 City of Charlotte Neighborhood
& Business Services above) contact Nancy Rosado at (704) 336-2116.
4- CHARLOTTE MECKLENBURG PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library has a list of resources available for small business
owners to use free of charge.
The Library offers a broad range of educational and informational materials on numerous topics
such as business start-up guides and plan books, business directories and industry data, sales and
marketing publications, demographic resources and assistance with online data, and research
computers with Online Business Resources available. The library also offers a series of programs
and events related to business, finance, and taxes. Courses range from basic computer skills and
financial literacy to complex business structure and tax guidelines. There are many offerings in
Spanish as well.
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For more information on the available library resources visit your nearest library, or:
 Visit http://www.cmlibrary.org/
 Or call (704) 416-0101 during library business hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10am - 7pm
Wednesday: 10am - 7pm
Thursday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 5pm
Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Sunday: 1pm - 5pm
For more information about upcoming programs, courses and events:
 View the online schedule: http://www.cmlibrary.org/programs/
5- SCORE
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, and
grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. The local Charlotte chapter
offers connections to mentors, workshops, and a number of tools to support, grow, and develop a
business. Many of the online tools are also available in Spanish. For more information about
SCORE resources:
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Visit the website: www.charlotte.score.org
Call (704) 344-6576
Or visit the Charlotte office: 6302 Fairview Road, Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28210
6- LEGAL ASSISTANCE
6.1- Charlotte School of Law
CPCC's Small Business Center has partnered with Charlotte School of Law to form a community
based legal resource and offer no-cost legal assistance. Charlotte School of Law has developed a
Business Law Clinic to provide basic legal services to small businesses in the Charlotte area. The
initiative will target entrepreneurs and business owners of firms that have insufficient resources
to obtain legal counsel.
Legal assistance will be focused on the following business issues:
 Business Formation
 Purchase Agreements
 Employee and Independent Contractor Contracts
In order to request legal assistance, business owners must first register for business counseling
through SBCN https://www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx?mode=counsel&center=75120&subloc=0. (See
section 3.2 The Small Business Center Network above for more details about SBCN.)
6.2- Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont
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Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont is an organization that helps provide legal assistance
to low-income individuals in Charlotte-Mecklenburg and west-central North Carolina. Services
are offered at low cost, and at times at no cost, depending on the case and client income
qualifications.
For more information:
 Visit their website http://www.lssp.org/index.html
 Call the Client Help Line, (704) 376-1600 for English
 Call the Client Help Line, (800) 247-1931 for Spanish
 Or visit the office in person at 1431 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204
6.3- NC LEAP (North Carolina Lawyers for Entrepreneur Assistance Program)
Empowering low-wealth business owners to build businesses in North Carolina that create jobs,
improve communities, and boost participants out of the poverty cycle, NC LEAP strives to be the
premier provider of business-related services to low-wealth entrepreneurs and business owners in
North Carolina.
NC LEAP clients are:
 Low-income individuals who want to start or grow a for-profit business;
 For-profit businesses expanding operations into economically distressed neighborhoods
and communities; or
 Established non-profit organizations serving economically distressed communities.
Low-income is defined as earning less than 80% of the median income relative to your location
and family size (visit the website - http://ncleap.ncbar.org/business-owners - for the most
current income-eligibility chart).
NC LEAP will review all applications, but for a client to be accepted into the program they need
to:
 Have a business plan;
 Possess a projection for profitability or the ability to break even within two (2) years;
 Have worked with or completed a business development program, or have a minimum of
one year's experience running a business;
 Not be pursuing the business as a hobby under IRS definitions;
 Either be low-income or have a for-profit business that exists in, or will assist in
developing, an economically distressed neighborhood or community; and
 Have a potential impact on the community by providing jobs, economic activity or other
contributions to the community in which the business is located.
 Applicants seeking help with patent filings should have completed a marketability study
and should submit proof of financial resources sufficient to undertake the patent
prosecution process.
 If operating a non-profit organization, the organization must be already established, hold
current 501(c) status with the IRS, be current with all required tax filings, and be seeking
assistance with a business law-related problem. Please note, any non-profit applying for
assistance will be given a high level of scrutiny, and help may not be available dependent
on other for-profit business demands on volunteers' time.
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In considering an application, NC LEAP also looks at:
 Business & personal access to credit and capital;
 Business & family adjusted gross income;
 Family size; and
 Business and personal assets.
What is the process for becoming an NC LEAP Client?
1. Complete an NC LEAP application and submit it with all attachments. Applications will
not be considered until business plan and a current tax filing for income verification have
been submitted.
(Complete the application online: https://ncleap.ncbar.org/business-owners/clientapplication.)
2. NC LEAP will screen applicants for income eligibility and to determine if the requested
legal issue is one NC LEAP can handle.
3. If eligible, NC LEAP we will refer the case to an attorney with the time and expertise to
handle the case. That attorney must then conduct a check to make sure there is no
conflict of interest in his/her handling the matter.
4. This process may take a few weeks so please be patient. Once everything is clear, the
applicant will receive a letter from NC LEAP with the attorney's name and phone
number.
5. Call the attorney within seven (7) days of receipt of the letter from NC LEAP.
6. Remember, while legal fees are pro bono, clients are still expected to pay out of pocket
expenses related to their matter (i.e. filing or application fees).
For more information
 Visit the NC LEAP website http://ncleap.ncbar.org/
 Call (919) 677-0561 or (800) 662-7407 for English.
 Or call (919) 677-8574 for Spanish.
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SECTION IV
WELFARE RESOURCES
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SECTION IV: WELFARE RESOURCES
NOTE: As a rule, government-provided welfare benefits are only available to U.S. citizens
and legal residents; undocumented residents qualify for very few welfare programs.
1- THE BENEFIT BANK
The Benefit Bank can be seen as the gateway to government benefits and services for lowincome individuals and households.
The Benefit Bank is a web-based service that simplifies and centralizes the process of applying
for many state and federal benefits for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.
Through its eligibility screening tool, The Benefit Bank can ensure that people are fully aware of
the benefits to which they are entitled and helps maximize the benefits and tax refunds they can
secure. The "one-stop-shop" concept of The Benefit Bank reduces the amount of time needed to
apply for benefits. Further, the information a person enters is stored securely, so an individual
who wishes to reapply for benefits, apply for new benefits or file future tax returns simply needs
to enter his or her username and password to initiate this new action.
The Benefit Bank is a free service. No consumer can be charged for using The Benefit Bank
online service.
When calling a Benefit Bank location to set up a first appointment, individuals should ask which
information and documents they should bring to make the first interaction more productive.
The Benefit Bank has several locations in Charlotte. See Section I: The Benefit Bank for more
details and a list of locations.
2- MECKLENBURG COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
The Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services serves as a source for government
assistance programs for adults, children, and families. Some of the programs include:
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Work First Family Assistance – (sometimes referred to as TANF - Temporary
Assistance for Needy Families) provides cash assistance and Medicaid coverage to
families with minor children. Work First Family Assistance provides parents with shortterm training and other services to help them become employed and move toward selfsufficiency.
Food and Nutrition Services Program (also known as food stamps or FNS) - provides
assistance to households with limited income and resources. The limits are different,
depending on the number and ages of persons in the home.
Adult Medicaid – pays medical bills for people who meet certain eligibility requirements
(such as income, age, or disability) which are based on Federal regulations and State law.
Medical benefits may be authorized for services such as hospitalizations, physician
services, medications and different levels of care in nursing and residential facilities.
Family and Children's Medicaid – helps with medical bills such as doctor fees,
prescription drugs, and hospital charges.
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Mecklenburg Transportation System (MTS) – provides a variety of transportation
services to Mecklenburg County residents.
In-Home Aide – This program provides personal care, home management, and respite
services to older adults (age 60 +) and adults with disabilities (age 18 +) who are unable
to perform these tasks.
Applicants can check and see if they are eligible for benefits online through “North Carolina
ePass” which is a program Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS offers for individuals to check their
potential eligibility for programs. If eligible, individuals can also complete their application
online through the same ePass tool.
Note: For those who wish to apply for Medicaid or Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) using the
NC ePASS application, the application should be filled out, printed, and signed. The completed
application can be mailed or brought in to the Department of Social Services. The applicant must
be interviewed by an eligibility worker in order to complete the application process.
Many of the services require eligibility forms, most of which are now available online. To help
minimize wait times, individuals should fill out and bring the appropriate forms along with them
when visiting the site for an appointment, if possible.
For more information contact the Charlotte Mecklenburg Department of Social Services:
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Contact the Customer Connection Call Center – (704) 336-3000
Customer Connection is responsible for managing incoming calls from individuals who
receive benefits through Social Services as well as those seeking information about
Social Services or resources available in the community. Agents are available Monday Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Visit http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/dss/Pages/Default.aspx
For Transportation Services (to schedule or cancel transportation) contact Transportation
Scheduling at (704) 336-4547, Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS Locations
DSS Main Office
West Charlotte Location
Wallace H. Kuralt Centre
Valerie C. Woodard Center
301 Billingsley Road
3205 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211
Charlotte, NC 28208
3- WOMEN, INFANTS & CHILDREN (WIC) PROGRAM
WIC provides basic nutrition services to eligible pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum
women, as well as infants and children, including:
 Issuance of monthly a food package (baby formula, milk, cheese, eggs, juice, cereal,
dried beans or peanut butter), fruits, vegetables, brown rice, whole wheat bread, tortillas,
tofu and jars of baby food.
 Vouchers redeemable at participating NC stores
 Provision of nutritional education, and
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Coordination with Health Department clinics or private healthcare providers in the
community
WIC is available to pregnant, breast feeding and postpartum women, infants and children up to
age five. To participate one must:
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Be a resident of North Carolina or receive health care in North Carolina. Aliens are
eligible to apply as long as they reside in the state.
Have a family income less than 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. A person
receiving Medicaid, Work First Families Assistance (AFDC), or Food Stamps
automatically meets the income eligibility requirement. Refer to chart.
Be at nutritional risk. A nutritionist or other health professional makes the nutritional risk
assessment at no cost to the participant. Examples of nutritional risk conditions are listed
below:
Underweight/overweight
Documented nutrition-related medical conditions
Inadequate dietary intake
Conditions that predispose a person to inadequate nutritional patterns such as lead
poisoning, mental retardation, alcohol or drug abuse
Clients are seen by appointments, and evening hour appointments are available. Please call the
Health Department (704) 336-6500 to schedule an appointment.
For more information please visit the WIC section of the Health Department Website:
 http://charmeck.org/MECKLENBURG/COUNTY/HEALTHDEPARTMENT/CLINICS
ERVICES/WIC/Pages/Default.aspx
There are 4 WIC locations in Charlotte:
Charlotte WIC Locations
WIC Eastland
WIC Clanton
5624 Executive Center Drive
801 Clanton Rd, Suite C-110
Charlotte, NC 28212
Charlotte, NC 28217
WIC Northwest Campus
2845 Beatties Ford Rd
Charlotte NC, 28216
Southeast Campus
249 Billingsley Rd
Charlotte, NC 28211
4- LEGAL SERVICES OF SOUTHERN PIEDMONT
Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont (LSSP) assists low-income individuals and
immigrants in obtaining and maintaining government benefits; it provides information and
guidance in areas such as public assistance, food stamps, Medicaid, housing allowances,
workfare, and immigrant rights to public benefits.
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LSSP is a Charlotte-based not-for-profit organization whose core mission is to assure a full
measure of justice for those in need. They provides a wide range of civil legal assistance to
eligible low-income persons in the Charlotte metropolitan area and west-central NC.
Contact LSSP to ask about assistance with your specific government benefit issue:
Legal Services of Southern Piedmont
CHARLOTTE OFFICE
1431 Elizabeth Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28204-2506
Tel: (704) 376-1600 – English
Tel: (800) 247-1931 – Spanish
5- TEMPORARY CASH ASSISTANCE
5.1- Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
Eligible families may receive up to 24 months of federally funded cash assistance under the
Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) Program, also known as Work First. For more
information, contact the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services:


Contact the Customer Connection Call Center – (704) 336-3000
Customer Connection is responsible for managing incoming calls from individuals who
receive benefits through Social Services as well as those seeking information about
Social Services or resources available in the community. Agents are available Monday Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Visit http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/dss/Pages/Default.aspx
Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS Locations
DSS Main Office
West Charlotte Location
Wallace H. Kuralt Centre
Valerie C. Woodard Center
301 Billingsley Road
3205 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211
Charlotte, NC 28208
5.2- Crisis Assistance Ministries
The Housing & Financial Stability Program at Crisis Assistance Ministries offers emergency
financial assistance with rent and utilities for urgent requests. Assistance is NOT provided on a
first-come, first-serve basis but rather is based on the urgency of the emergency. Cases are
assessed on an individual basis and if you are selected by a caseworker you will have a one-onone session in a private office to discuss your situation. If you are in need of assistance from
Crisis Assistance Ministries, please see the notes below regarding what to bring and what to
expect upon arrival at their location.
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What to bring:
In order to be seen by a Crisis Assistance Ministry caseworker, bring each of the following
items:
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



Picture ID for the applying client
Social Security documentation for all household members: social security card, documentation
from the Social Security Administration verifying social security number, W2 form from an
employer or paystub indicating the nine digit social security number, or W7 if applicable. If you
are not registered with the Social Security Administration you are required to provide some form
of identification.
Proof of all household income for the past 30 days. Clients who are paid every week are required
to present four current paystubs. Clients who are paid bi-weekly are required to present two
current paystubs, and clients who are paid monthly are required to bring one current paystub.
Clients who receive unemployment, SSI or SSA, VA Pension, Retirement Pension, Child Support,
Disability, and/or income from family or friends are required to present a statement of income
verification. Clients who are self-employed are required to present income verification.
All disconnection and past due utility statements. These should be in the applying clients name
and that person must reside in the household.
Rental lease.
What to expect:
You may have to wait several hours to meet with a caseworker to assess your situation. During
your interview, a caseworker will address your current situation and discuss with ways to help
you move toward financial stability. On busy days, some customers will spend the entire day
here. Following these tips will make your visit less stressful:






Be sure you bring everything listed on the “What to Bring” section. We cannot serve you without
all of this information.
Bring a book or something to read.
Bring a snack or lunch – there are vending machines, but they often empty quickly on busy days.
Bring an internet enabled device (phone, tablet, laptop) and charger – we offer free Wifi in our
lobby.
Make childcare arrangements. If you must bring a child along, bring along books, crayons, or
other items to entertain your child and adequate diapers and other supplies for a several hour
wait.
Wear weather appropriate clothing – we do our best to quickly seat everyone inside the building,
but the line may extend outside, especially on busy days.
If you are in need of assistance from Crisis Assistance Ministries, or have questions:
 Call (704) 371-3001
 Visit the website http://www.crisisassistance.org/
 Or visit their office in person at 500-A Spratt Street, Charlotte, NC 28206.
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5.3- The Ada Jenkins Center (Sunshine Fund)
The Sunshine Fund is emergency rent and utility assistance. In order to qualify, applicants must
be residents of Davidson, Huntersville or Cornelius. Mooresville residents may obtain assistance
through the Mooresville Christian Mission. Sunshine Fund clients must bring a picture ID, proof
of residency for the client and anyone else living in the home, current pay stubs, and Social
Security Cards for everyone in the home and bills for utility assistance and eviction notice for
assistance with rent.
If you are in need of assistance from the Sunshine Fund and meet the qualifications,
 Contact Jenni Eisbrener, Care Coordinator, (704) 896-0471 x 115, to arrange an
appointment.
5.4- The Good Fellows
Good Fellows is a Charlotte men’s membership club dedicated to be of service to the working
poor in the Charlotte community. Good Fellows utilizes 100% of donations to provide
emergency assistance for rent, utilities, and prescriptions to families in need throughout the year.
Services are provided at the discretion of the organization. If someone is in need of assistance
and does not speak English, they must provide their own interpreter; no bilingual services are
provided. Call in advance to ask about the required documentation needed for your specific case
and you must have been turned down by Crisis Assistance Ministries. Open Tuesday and
Thursday only. For questions or to make an appointment
 Contact the Director of Family Services (704) 333-5040.
5.5- Matthews HELP Center
Matthews HELP Center serves the Matthews community by providing programs and services
that meet life's basic needs. They provide financial and non-financial crisis assistance for those in
need. If someone is in need of assistance and does not speak English, they must provide their
own interpreter; no bilingual services are provided. The following items are required in order to
make an assessment of need and must be brought to your appointment.
 Picture ID for all adults: Driver’s license, state picture ID, or passport.
 Social Security Card for all household members.
 Proof of Income for everyone in the household: check stubs, a letter from employer
verifying pay or proof of any income household has (all roommates, etc.).
 Receipts to show how household has recently spent money they have had: insurance, bills
paid, etc.
 Proof of emergency: Doctor’s disability statement, medical bills, eviction notice, cut-off
notices.
 Rental/Homeowners information: Rent receipts, lease, landlord’s name and phone
number, mortgage papers.
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For additional information or to make an appointment contact the HELP Center directly:
 Call (704) 847-8383.
 Or visit 119 N. Ames St., Matthews, NC 28105.
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Charlotte Resource Manual
SECTION V
ADULT EDUCATION RESOURCES
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SECTION V: ADULT EDUCATION RESOURCES
1- CENTRAL PIEDMONT COMMUNITY COLLEGE (CPCC)
The College and Career Readiness Department of CPCC offers free professional instruction in a
variety of fundamental education courses. All classes are taught by certified teachers and are
offered free of charge.
Courses include Adult Basic Education (reading, writing, and math), High School Equivalency
(GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Career Exploration and Work Readiness, and
Occupation Training are held on an ongoing basis at 6 CPCC locations around the city.
For more information about the range of classes, locations, and Continuing Education, or to
become a student:
 Visit http://www.cpcc.edu/ccr
 Or call (704) 330-6129
2- CHARLOTTE MECKLENBURG PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library offers a variety of programs and services throughout
the year. Some courses offered include English Classes, Computer Basics, Technology Tutoring,
E-mail Basics, PowerPoint Basics, Microsoft Excel Basics, Microsoft Word Basics, Internet
Basics, and more!
A sample of some of the course descriptions is listed below:





Computer Classes - Two-hour weekly computer sessions on such topics as: Introduction
to Computers, Microsoft Word, and the Internet.
English Learning Opportunities: Crossroads Café - Students receive materials to help
them study at their own pace; they check out materials from the library. A teacher from
CPCC meets with the students once a week to answer questions. For more information,
call (704) 330-6172.
English / Spanish Conversations Clubs - The library offers several opportunities for users
to improve their English or Spanish in a friendly atmosphere. These programs are offered
at various library branches.
Library Tours - Guided tours of the Library’s facilities and various library informative
materials in Spanish are available.
Educational Trainings for the Community - The library offers a wide range of trainings in
English and Spanish related to early childhood, parenting, literature, music, outreach
strategies, biculturalism, multiculturalism, and literacy for all ages, among other themes.
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For more information about locating your nearest branch, registration dates, and class offerings:
 Call (704) 416-0101 during the main branch hours of operation:
Tuesday: 10am - 7pm
Wednesday: 10am - 7pm
Thursday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 5pm
Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Sunday: 1pm - 5pm
 Visit http://www.cmlibrary.org/programs/ and search the various events by category.
For questions about the Spanish programs and resources call (704) 416-0557.
Please note that classes are limited during the summer months. Please refer the additional
resources listed in this section for other alternatives.
3- OTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
In addition to the Community Based Organizations listed above, there are a number of
organizations in the Charlotte area that offer adult learning opportunities.
Table 1: ESL Classes for Adults
Ada Jenkins Center
First Baptist Church (Primera Igliesia
212 Gamble St.
Bautista De Huntersville Ministerio
Davidson, NC 28036
Latino)
Tel: (704) 896-0471
119 N Old Statesville Road
Cost: $45
Huntersville, NC 28078
Website: http://www.adajenkins.org/
Tel: (704) 875-6581, Ext. 14
Classes: English as a Second Language
Cost: Free.
Open to the public; Sundays at 6pm.
The International House
Lake Norman YMCA
1817 Central Avenue
21300 Davidson Street
Charlotte, NC 28205
Cornelius, NC 28031
Tel: (704) 333-8099
Tel: (704) 716-4400
Website: http://www.ihclt.org/
Cost: $45 (includes childcare during class
Classes: English Classes, English Tutors,
times)
English Conversation Hours, Citizenship
Website: http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/
Classes, Charlotte Works: Job Assistance.
branches/lakenorman/socialresp/ss/esl.aspx
Cost: English Course $50, Citizenship Course
$50, Other classes Free
Latin American Coalition
4938 Central Ave, Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 531-3848
Website: www.latinamericancoalition.org
Classes: English Classes
Call for details and class schedule.
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Table 2: Adult Education Classes
Ada Jenkins Center
Fill My Cup!
212 Gamble St.
3100 Leroy Street
Davidson, NC 28036
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 896-0471
Tel: (704) 605-4366
Website: http://www.adajenkins.org/
Website: www.fillmycupliteracy.org
Classes: Computer Training, Access Technical
Class types: Reading, writing, math, and
Foundations.
GED prep. Cost: Free.
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Call for information or to schedule an
appointment.
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont Latin American Coalition
Location varies depending on the course.
Computer Classes (Clases de Computación)
Visit the website for more details and contact
Tel: (704) 941-2545
information:
4938 Central Ave, Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28205
http://www.goodwillsp.org/training/trainingWebsite: www.latinamericancoalition.org
programs
General Information: (704) 372-3434
Times Offered - Tuesday 11a-1p or Thursday
Classes: Banking & Customer Service,
6p-7:30p.
Construction Skills Training, Hospitality &
Beginner and Intermediate courses available.
Tourism Training, Forklift/OSHA Training,
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Computer Classes
Bilingual services available: Spanish
Q Foundation
Urban League of Central Carolinas
5633 Monroe Road
740 West 5th Street
Charlotte, NC 28212
Charlotte, NC 28202
Website: http://www.qfoundation.com/
Website: http://www.urbanleaguecc.org/
Classes: Adult Basic Education, GED
Classes:
Tel: (704) 566-4969
General Equivalency Diploma (GED),
Bilingual services available: Spanish
HVAC Training, Broadband Fiber Optic
Curriculum, Technology & Business
Empowerment Skills Training Program
(TECH-BEST).
Tel: (704) 373-2256 ext. 218 (Angela Carter)
No bilingual services available.
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Charlotte Resource Manual
SECTION VI
HEALTH CARE RESOURCES
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SECTION VI: HEALTH CARE RESOURCES
Free healthcare is in extremely high demand in Charlotte, yet clinics offering free services are few and
their hours of operation restricted. In most instances, it is strongly recommended to call any health
center first to find out whether undocumented immigrants qualify for these services, if new
patients are being accepted, and what type of insurance is required. Once you know the answer to
these questions, make sure to schedule an appointment before going in person.
Free clinics are only available to the uninsured and may require prescription drug co-pay fees.
If you are in a health emergency, visit the nearest hospital emergency room immediately or call
911.
1- FEDERALLY-FUNDED HEALTH CENTERS
Federally-funded health centers care for all people, even persons without health insurance.
People pay what they can afford, based on their income. Health centers provide:






Checkups when you're well
Treatment when you're sick
Complete care when you're pregnant
Immunizations and checkups for your children
Dental care and prescription drugs for your family
Mental health and substance abuse care if you need it
There are four federally-funded health centers in Charlotte. Patients are urged to contact these
centers by phone before going. For a complete list of these health care centers:


Visit http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/Search_HCC.aspx
See APPENDIX I: Federally-funded Health Centers in Charlotte
2- FREE AND LOW COST HEALTH SERVICES
In addition to the federally funded clinics there are a number of private and nonprofit
organizations offering free or low cost health services in the Charlotte area. For a complete list
of these health clinics:
 Visit http://medlinkofmecklenburg.org/clinics/
 See APPENDIX II: Free and Low Cost Health Clinics in Charlotte
3- TEEN HEALTH CONNECTION
Teen Health Connection is a medical practice that specializes in health services for adolescents.
They partner with Levine Children's Hospital to offer a wide range of programs and services for
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youth ages 11 to 22. The Teen Health Connection staff understands teen issues. They know the
challenges, the questions to ask and spend all day, every day, working with teenagers. Each
medical team tries to get to know each of their patients as an individual.
Their services can combine treatment for both physical and mental health conditions. Some of
the services include primary preventive physical healthcare, vaccinations, acute care (colds,
acne, injuries), treatment for chronic illness (asthma, diabetes), and nutrition and wellness
guidance.
Teen Health Connection accepts private insurance and Medicaid and also works with patients
without insurance on a sliding fee scale. Co-payment of $50 for patients without insurance and
there are other additional fees that may apply. Patients in need of assistance are encouraged to
first visit DSS (See Section 2 Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services under Section
IV WELFARE RESOURCES above) or visit the CMC Biddlepoint Clinic or CMC Myers Park
Clinic (See APPENDIX II below) for a referral to Teen Health Connection.
To learn more about these or other services or to make an appointment call (704) 381-TEEN
(8336).
4- FINDING HEALTH COVERAGE IN NORTH CAROLINA
Due to the current legislative environment and pending changes as a result of the Affordable
Care Act, there are many changes happening to the health insurance industry. Several changes
will take effect in North Carolina by the end of 2013. As a result, the website healthcare.gov is
available (in English and Spanish) as a guide of how to learn about the upcoming changes and
also how to find coverage now. Visit the website for more information.
The North Carolina Department of Insurance also has a program Health Insurance Smart NC
which is a contact center for individuals to call with questions about health insurance. For more
information:


Visit www.ncdoi.com/Smart/
Toll Free: (877) 885-0231
Family and Children's Medicaid helps with medical bills such as doctor fees, prescription drugs,
and hospital charges. You must be a US Citizen or Legal Resident to apply. The following
individuals may be eligible, depending on the amount of monthly income and resources available
to the individual/family, and the amount of medical expenses incurred:
 Children through age 20 who live alone, with one or both parents, or with other adults
 Parents caring for children under age 19
 Pregnant women, with or without other children
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Medicaid for Pregnant Women (MPW) coverage is limited to services or treatment for conditions
that affect the pregnancy. Medical verification of pregnancy is required. If a pregnant woman is
covered by Medicaid, her newborn child is automatically eligible for Medicaid up to age 1.
Baby Love, Medicaid's maternity and child services program provides formal case management
services to eligible women during and after pregnancy and intervention as early in pregnancy as
possible to promote healthy pregnancy and positive birth outcomes.
North Carolina Health Choice assists children under the age of 19 who do not receive Medicaid
or have any other health insurance coverage. Coverage provided is the same as coverage
provided for the children of state employees and teachers, plus vision, hearing and dental
benefits.
When applying in person, if possible, take the items listed below with you when you go. If you
do not have some or all of these items, please apply anyway because it is very important to
protect your application date. DSS can assist you in obtaining these items and information.









Certified birth certificates or other proof of citizenship/alien status for each individual
applying for Medicaid/NCHC
Identity documents for each individual applying for Medicaid/NCHC
Social security cards, social security numbers, or proof that you have made an application
for a number from the Social Security Office, for each individual applying for Medicaid
or NCHC
A copy of all pay stubs for last month
Copies of all medical or life insurance policies
A list of all cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, etc. you or anyone in your household own,
including the year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) for each item
Most recent bank statements
A list of all real property you own
Current financial statements/award letters from other sources of income, such as social
security, retirement benefits, pensions, veteran benefits, and child support.
It is not required to bring a completed application to the appointment, but it may speed up the
process to print and fill out as much of the application as possible ahead of time.
To obtain further details about these programs and services or to apply:
 Visit a Benefit Bank location near you (See SECTION I)
 Call Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services at (704) 336-3000
 Visit at DSS location (See Table 1 below).
 In an effort to provide outreach in locations more convenient to families and children,
individuals with accounts at the hospital locations may also apply for Family and
Children's Medicaid at those specific locations. (See Table 2 below.) It is strongly
recommended to call before going in person. Some sites also require an appointment.
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Table 1: Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS Locations
DSS Main Office
West Charlotte Location
Wallace H. Kuralt Centre
Valerie C. Woodard Center
301 Billingsley Road
3205 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211
Charlotte, NC 28208
Table 2: Family and Children’s Medicaid Carolinas Medical
Center Hospital Application Sites in Charlotte
CMC-University (Main Entrance)
CMC-Main / Levine (4th Floor)
8800 N Tryon St
1000 Blythe Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28262
Charlotte, NC 28203
Tel: (704) 863-6000
Tel: (704) 355-7936 (for children)
Please call (704) 863-5621 for an
Tel: (704) 355-7960 (for adults)
appointment at this location. Interpreter
Walk-ins accepted. Appointment suggested for
service available.
children. Interpreter service available.
CMC Myers Park Clinic (CMC Myers
CMC Northpark Clinic (CMC Northpark–
Park–1st Floor)
1st Floor)
1350 S Kings Dr
251 Eastway Dr
Charlotte, NC 28207
Charlotte, NC 28213
Tel: (704) 446-1600
Tel: (704) 446-0899
Bilingual services available.
Source: Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services;
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/dss/esd/Pages/MedicaidChildrenFamilies.aspx
5- STD SCREENING
The Mecklenburg County Health Department provides free and confidential clinics that test for
HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD).
This service is offered on-site at two Mecklenburg County Health Department locations (see
Table 2 below). Services are free to patients. HIV/Syphilis testing is provided on a walk-in basis
- no appointment necessary. Tests are free and confidential. Appointments are needed for STD
screening and can be made by calling (704) 336-6500.
HIV and Syphilis testing is also provided at various Health Department Community Based
Clinics. Services are free to patients. HIV/Syphilis testing is provided on a walk-in basis - no
appointment necessary. Tests are free and confidential.
The Community Based Clinic locations can be found on the Testing Calendar located on the
Health Department website:
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/CDControl/Pages/HIVSTDTesti
ngCalendar.aspx
The clinics are open to anyone age 13 and older. The on-site health department locations offer
additional health screenings for issues such as Tuberculosis and Hepatitis. (See Table 3:
Mecklenburg County Health Department Locations below.)
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Table 3: Mecklenburg County Health Department Locations
Northwest Campus
Southeast Campus
2845 Beatties Ford Rd
249 Billingsley Rd
Charlotte, NC 28216
Charlotte, NC 28211
Appointment Line: (704) 336-6500
Appointment Line: (704) 336-6500
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wed: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Services Available:
Physical Examination, Screening & Treatment
for STDs, Pre-counseling for HIV Test,
Professional Laboratory Staff Services,
Prevention Education, Free Condoms, Free
Hepatitis A/B Vaccines, and Referrals (as
needed).
Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thurs: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Services Available:
Physical Examination, Screening & Treatment
for STDs, Pre-counseling for HIV Test,
Professional Laboratory Staff Services,
Prevention Education, Free Condoms, Free
Hepatitis A/B Vaccines, and Referrals (as
needed).
Source: Mecklenburg County, NC Health Department
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/CDControl/HIVSTDSurveillance/Pages/S
TD%20Testing%20Sites.aspx
For more information on STD screening, counseling, and clinics:
 Call (704) 432-TEST (8378) or (704) 432-5758
 Visit:
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/CDControl/HIVSTDSurveillance/
Pages/HIVSTD%20Services.aspx
6- PREGNANCY AND PRENATAL CARE ASSISTANCE
6.1- Mecklenburg County DSS Pregnancy & Birth Services
The Community Health division of the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services
offers a number of Pregnancy and Birth Services. Services include:
 Family Planning Clinic – This clinic provides comprehensive family planning and
reproductive health services including pregnancy testing, birth control, counseling and
pelvic/breast exams. Services are available by appointment only. Call (704) 336-6500 to
schedule an appointment.
 Pregnancy Care Management – Pregnancy Care Management (PCM) is a statewide
program in N.C. promoting healthy mothers and healthy babies. This program provides
care management services for high risk women during pregnancy and for two months
after delivery by a social worker or nurse. Call (704) 336-5458 for more information on
this program.
 Smart Start - Healthy Families Mecklenburg – This is a home visiting program that
provides education on healthy pregnancy, child development, healthy life choices and
links to community resources. Services are provided by a nurse or social worker and are
provided during pregnancy and until the child is age 2 years, with the possibility of
extending services to age 3 years depending on the need. The frequency of visits varies.
Initially, visits are weekly and may be decreased according to the need of the family and
the program requirements. The goal of Smart Start - Healthy Families Mecklenburg is to
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promote a healthy pregnancy by teaching parenting skills, linking families to needed
resources, and improving healthy life choices.
Pregnant women can also apply for the State Maternity Home Fund through DSS. The State
Maternity Home Fund, a component of Pregnancy Services, provides payment for up to six
months of residential care and services. The fund pays for care and related medical services for
any North Carolina resident expectant mother who is experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
Funds may be provided regardless of age or marital status for the expectant mother who is unable
to remain in her own home during the prenatal period. If you believe you may be eligible for
assistance from the Maternity Home Fund, please make an appointment for a consultation with a
DSS case worker.
For more information:
 Call Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services at (704) 336-3000
 Visit at DSS location (See Table 4 below).
Table 4: Charlotte Mecklenburg DSS Locations
DSS Main Office
West Charlotte Location
Wallace H. Kuralt Centre
Valerie C. Woodard Center
301 Billingsley Road
3205 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211
Charlotte, NC 28208
6.2- Free/Low Cost Clinics offering Prenatal Care
There are some free or low cost clinics that provide prenatal care in Charlotte. See Table 5:
Prenatal Care Providers/Clinics in Charlotte below.
Table 5: Pre-Natal Care Providers/Clinics in Charlotte
C.W. Williams Community Health Center
3333 Wilkinson Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28208-5631
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Website: http://www.cwwilliams.org
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Prenatal care up to 3 months and
then referred to another agency for care post 3
months.
Uninsured women will need to apply for Medicaid
for Pregnant Women (see Section 7 Finding
Health Coverage in North Carolina above).
CMC Biddle Point Health Clinic
1801 Rozzelles Ferry Rd
Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (704) 446-9987
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Women’s Health and Prenatal
Care.
C.W. Williams Community Health Center, East
Blvd
900 East Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203-5204
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Prenatal care up to 3 months and
then referred to another agency for care post 3
months.
Uninsured women will need to apply for Medicaid
for Pregnant Women (See Section 7 Finding
Health Coverage in North Carolina above).
CMC Northpark Clinic
251 Eastway Dr
Charlotte, NC 28213
Tel: (704) 446-9991
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: OB/GYN.
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6.3- Baby Love
Baby Love, Medicaid's maternity and child services program, provides formal case management
services to eligible women during and after pregnancy and intervention as early in pregnancy as
possible to promote healthy pregnancy and positive birth outcomes. (See Section 4 - Finding
Health Coverage in North Carolina above.)
6.4- La Leche League
La Leche League is a Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program for pregnant women and
mothers. La Leche League meetings emphasize the joys of breastfeeding while they inform and
encourage mothers who wish to nurse their babies. Mother-to-mother support is at the heart of La
Leche League: getting to know other women who have breastfed their babies can be helpful and
reassuring. It is also important to have accurate, up-to-date information. La Leche League
Leaders guide discussion at meetings and answer questions from the group or individually. All
mothers and mothers-to-be are welcome. Babies and children are welcome too!
There are 6 meeting sites in Charlotte in the following areas: Ballantyne, North Charlotte, South
Charlotte, Cotswold, Lake Norman, and Matthews.
Table 6: La Leche League Locations in Charlotte
Earthfare (Ballantyne)
LiveWell Carolinas (Northlake Mall)
12235 N Community House Rd
6801 Northlake Mall Drive
Charlotte, NC 28277
Charlotte, NC 28216
rd
3 Saturday of the Month at 10:00am
Lower level (near Dillards)
Leader Contact Info:
3rd Wednesday of the Month at 10:00am
Ann (704) 843-0429
Leader Contact Info:
Margaret (704) 971-5250
Amy (704) 609-6276
Melanie (704) 553-9314
Melissa (704) 246-5224
Messiah Lutheran Church (South Charlotte)
Scottish Rite Temple (Cotswold)
8300 Providence Road
4740 Randolph Rd
Charlotte, NC 28277
Charlotte, NC 28211
4th Thursday of the Month at 10:00am
3rd Wednesday of the Month at 10:30am
Leader Contact Info:
Leader Contact Info:
Jennifer (704) 540-2322
Laura (704) 365-4047
Katherine (704) 447-7322
Cynthia (704) 643-5401
Heather (704) 845-4508
Erin (704) 333-3805
Shannon (704) 780-1401
Priscilla (704) 962-1616 (Bilingual)
Lake Norman
Sisky YMCA
Visit the Facebook page for location and times.
3127 Weddington Rd
Matthews NC 28105
https://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Leche2nd Thursday of the Month at 10:30am
League-of-Lake-Norman/127810347251575
Leader Contact Info:
Leader Contact Info:
Kristin (801) 647-3669
Kristen: nov02mom@aol.com
Source: La Leche League of North Carolina: http://www.lllofnc.org/groups/Charlotte.html
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6.5- Angel House Maternity Home
The Angel House Maternity Home in Charlotte is dedicated to helping displaced pregnant
adolescent and adult women in crisis realize their dreams by providing safe housing, education,
comprehensive health care, personal growth, and counseling. Angel House will provide a
humane environment, in order to help enhance the self-image of its clients and to preserve their
dignity.
In order to be eligible for the Angel House Maternity Home services applicants must meet the
following requirements:
 Be at least 15 years of age.
 In the process of completing primary, secondary or GED or employed or willing to obtain
employment.
 Agree to pay financial portion of the cost of program.
 Have private medical insurance or Medicaid.
 Able to function independently, physically and emotionally with minimal supervision.
 Willing to commit to her service plan.
 If there is a history of prior substance abuse, must be been stable in recovery and must
continue in her recovery program.
 Does not possess any health concern which may place her life, the life of her unborn
child, or other clients in home in danger.
 Must not have a history of causing harm to herself or others.
For more information call Angel House Maternity Home at (704) 392-6270. No bilingual
services available.
6.6- Florence Crittenton Services of North Carolina
Florence Crittenton Services is a non-profit organization that helps pregnant and non-pregnant
yet at-risk girls and women by providing comprehensive medical and prenatal care, social,
educational, adoption and parenting support services, and substance abuse intervention,
treatment and prevention. Florence Crittenton Services offers a full range of other
comprehensive services. They include:











Health Care and Prenatal Care
Education
Parenting Skills
Early Childhood Development Education
Life Skills (such as money and time management)
Scholarships
Group/Individual Counseling
Family Planning
Career Services
Healthy Relationship Curriculum
Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention
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Florence Crittenton Services can help you if you are pregnant, you are a mother enrolled in DSS
custody, or you are a non-pregnant young woman aged 16-21 enrolled in DSS custody.
If you or someone you know is interested in receiving help from Florence Crittenton Services,
contact the Admissions Office at (704) 372-4663. Bilingual staff available.
6.7- Pregnancy Resource Center
The Pregnancy Resource Center Pregnancy is a non-profit organization that provides
compassion, information and support to anyone facing the challenge of unintended pregnancy.
Some services include testing, options counseling, community referrals, and support groups.
Services are offered free of charge. If you have questions or would like to schedule an
appointment call (704) 372-5981. Bilingual staff available.
7- MENTAL HEALTH
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm or harm to others, or you have an
urgent need, please CALL 911 and request a CIT (Crisis Intervention Trained) professional.
MeckLINK Behavioral Healthcare, a local government agency, is a Managed Care Organization
serving persons in Mecklenburg County. MeckLINK manages, coordinates, and monitors
mental health, intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and substance abuse services. They
authorize payment for Medicaid and State funded behavioral health services and manage a
network of community providers who offer a variety of services to meet an individual's needs
and promote wellness. MeckLINK monitors the provider network to ensure that consumers
receive the highest quality of care possible. MeckLINK provides these resources for those with
Medicaid and those without insurance.
MeckLINK is a single point of contact to request behavioral healthcare services:
 In an emergency or crisis situation
 To receive more information about Mental Health, Intellectual and/or Developmental
Disabilities, and Substance Abuse services
 To be connected to a provider
 If you or a family member are experiencing depression, anxiety or thought disorder
symptoms
 If you or a family member are experiencing substance abuse or addiction problems
 If you or a family member have an intellectual and/or developmental disability
 For further information about community advocacy organizations or resources
MeckLINK assists people who are experiencing emotional and substance abuse problems. These
problems, which may occur in the work place, at school or at home, include family difficulties,
drug or alcohol abuse, depression, excessive worry, fear or anxiety, eating disorders, or one of
the many serious emotional problems which can affect daily life.
MeckLINK operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week. The hotline's staff helps callers find
the most appropriate mental health and substance abuse services for their needs.
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24 Hour Customer Service Call Center
Tel: (704) 336-6404
Toll Free: (877) 700-3001
TTY: (704) 432-3452 (Speech and Hearing
Impaired)
People in need of assistance can also call the Mobile Crisis Team directly – (704) 566-3410. The
Mobile Crisis Team will assess urgent needs and is able to dispatch a mobile professional team
to anywhere within Mecklenburg County if the need arises.
8- DENTAL CARE
Charlotte has some low-cost dental clinics where children and adults can go for continuing dental
care. (See Table 7: Low-cost Dental Clinics in Charlotte below.)
Please call before going to ask what kind of health/dental insurance is needed and/or accepted,
cost, business hours, and to make an appointment if needed.
Table 7: Low-cost Dental Clinics/Providers in Charlotte
CareRing - Physicians Reach Out Program
601 E. 5th Street, Suite 140
Charlotte, NC, 28202
Tel: (704) 375-0172
CMC Pediatric Dental Clinic/ Mecklenburg
County Health Department – Biddle Point
1801 Rozzelles Ferry Rd
Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (980) 314-9600
CPCC Dental Hygiene Clinic
1335 Elizabeth Ave
Charlotte, NC 28235
Tel: (704) 330-6704
Carolinas Medical Center Dental Clinic
1000 Blythe Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203
Tel: (704) 355-2165
Carolinas Mobile Dentistry
Mobile unit serving older adults in retirement
communities, assisted living facilities, and nursing
homes.
Tel: (704) 512-2510
Mobile Community Dental Clinic
The Ada Jenkins Center and First Baptist Church of
Huntersville
119 N. Old Statesville Rd (Hwy 115)
Huntersville, NC 28078
Tel: (704) 896-0471
In addition, Community Care Partners of Greater Mecklenburg provides a Provider Directory
with a list of healthcare providers who accept public health insurance such as Medicaid or North
Carolina Health Choice. The directory is searchable by type of practice (dental, vision, GYN,
etc.), language, and distance from your zip code. To access this list of providers:

Visit http://www.ccpgm.org/body.cfm?id=110
9- PRESCRIPTION ASSISTANCE
9.1- NC MedAssist
NC MedAssist's mission is to assist low-income, uninsured North Carolina residents by
operating a licensed pharmacy that provides free medications, healthcare advocacy and related
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educational services. NC MedAssist serves as a Community Pharmacy dispensing free
prescription medication to uninsured residents of North Carolina who are at or below 200% of
the Federal Poverty Level. Interested clients can call for a free phone screening to determine
how MedAssist may be able to help you.
If you believe that you may be eligible for help with your prescription medication and want to
complete a consultation or schedule an appointment:
 Call (704) 536-1790
NC MedAssist
601 E. 5th St. Suite 350
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 536-1790
Office Hours
Monday – Friday – 8am – 4:30pm
Pharmacy Hours
Monday, Thursday – 10am – 6pm
Tuesday - 1pm - 6pm
Wednesday – 1pm – 6pm
Friday – 9am – 2pm
Saturday, Sunday – Closed
Pharmacy Counseling (existing patients):
1(866) 331-1348
9.2- Partnership for Prescription Assistance North Carolina
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance helps qualifying patients without prescription drug
coverage get needed medications for free or nearly free. The PPA serves as a single point of
access to hundreds of programs.
For more information,
 Visit http://www.pparxnc.org/ and complete the online assessment and application, or
 Call 1(888) 4PPA-NOW or 1 (888) 477-2669 Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm (EST).
When completing an application, individuals will be prompted to answer some questions;
responses are completely confidential. When applying, applicants should be prepared to provide
the patient’s:
 Age
 State of residence and ZIP code
 Estimated gross annual household income
 Number of people living in household
 Brand name of prescription medicines they are currently taking or have been prescribed
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Type of health insurance and/or prescription coverage (if applicable)
9.3- National Prescription and Patient Assistance Programs
There are a number of national programs that help clients in need to financial assistance that
meet certain requirements such as specific illnesses, income needs, or insurance coverage
limitations. Many of these services are very case-specific so it is recommended that interested
parties review the website for eligibility requirements. See Table 6 below with the website and
phone number of those additional resources if the above options are of no assistance.
Table 6: Additional Prescription and Patient Assistance Resources
National Organization for Rare Diseases –
Patient Assistance Program
Tel: (203) 744-0100 or (800) 999-6673 (voicemail)
Website: http://www.rarediseases.org/patientsand-families/patient-assistance
Family Matters Health Advantage Program
(Prescription Discount Card)
Website: www.familymattershealthadvantage.com
Also available at the Latin American Coalition.
HealthWell Foundation
Tel: (800) 675-8416
Website: http://healthwellfoundation.org/
Bilingual services available.
Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief
Tel: 1(866) 512-3861
Website: http://www.copays.org/
Bilingual services available.
Community Assistance Program (Prescription
Discount Card)
Website: www.caprxprogram.org
Also available at the Latin American Coalition.
Pfizer Helpful Answers
Tel: 1(866) 706-2400
Website: www.pfizerhelpfulanswers.com
Bilingual services available.
10- HEALTH EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
The Mecklenburg County Health Department offers information on hundreds of health-related
topics, including general health and wellness, diseases and conditions, chemical dependency and
substance abuse, mental health, environmental health, public health services, health care
insurance, women’s health, and more.
For more information on these educational resources:
 Visit http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/Pages/Default.aspx
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APPENDIX I
FEDERALLY-FUNDED HEALTH CENTERS CHARLOTTE
C.W. Williams Community Health Center
C.W. Williams Community Health Center, East
3333 Wilkinson Blvd
Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28208-5631
900 East Blvd
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Charlotte, NC 28203-5204
Website: http://www.cwwilliams.org
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Bilingual services available.
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Primary care, pediatrics, physical Services offered: Primary care, pediatrics, physical
exams, health screenings, sports physicals,
exams, health screenings, sports physicals,
women’s health, teen sevices, immunizations,
women’s health, teen sevices, immunizations,
vaccinations, and pharmacy.
vaccinations, and pharmacy.
Men's Shelter of Charlotte
Urban Ministry Center
1210 N Tryon St
945 N College St
Charlotte, NC 28206-3256
Charlotte, NC 28206-3200
Tel: (704) 334-3187
Tel: (704) 347-0278
Website: http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte.org
Website: http://www.urbanministrycenter.org/
No bilingual services available.
Services available for the homeless.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration;
www.hhs.gov
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APPENDIX II
FREE AND LOW COST HEALTH CLINICS IN CHARLOTTE (PART 1 OF 2)
Bethesda Health Center
133 Stetson Dr
Charlotte, NC 28262
Tel: (704) 596-5606
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Primary Care, Women’s Health
(Pap Smears).
Centro Médico Latino
1661 Walkup Ave. Suite F
Monroe, NC 28110
Tel: (704) 776-4812
(Walk-ins welcome; no appointment needed.)
***Please note: Open Tuesdays ONLY.
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Family Practice, Primary Care,
Diabetes, HyperTension/High Blood Pressure,
Women’s Health.
CMC Northpark Clinic
251 Eastway Dr
Charlotte, NC 28213
Tel: (704) 446-9991
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Family physician, pediatrics,
OB/GYN
C.W. Williams Community Health Center, East
Blvd
900 East Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28203-5204
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Primary care, pediatrics, physical
exams, health screenings, sports physicals,
women’s health, teen sevices, immunizations,
vaccinations, and pharmacy.
Charlotte Community Health Clinic
6900 Farmingdale Dr.
Charlotte, NC 28226
Tel: (704) 316-6561
All appointments are by referral from CareRing.
Please contact CareRing for scheduling.
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Adult and pediatric services
offered. General Medicine.
Centro Médico Latino
3541 Randolph Rd, Suite 303
Charlotte, NC 28211
Tel: (704) 333-0465
(Walk-ins welcome; no appointment needed.)
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Family Practice, Primary Care,
Diabetes, HyperTension/High Blood Pressure,
Women’s Health.
CMC Biddle Point Health Clinic & Pediatric
Dental Clinic
1801 Rozzelles Ferry Rd
Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (704) 446-9987
Tel: (980) 314-9600 for Dental Appointments
Bilingual services available.
Services provided (Health Clinic): Primary care,
Physicals, Women’s Health and Prenatal Care.
Services provided (Dental Clinic): Pediatric Dental
Care.
C.W. Williams Community Health Center
3333 Wilkinson Blvd
Charlotte, NC 28208-5631
Tel: (704) 393-7720
Website: http://www.cwwilliams.org
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Primary care, pediatrics, physical
exams, health screenings, sports physicals,
women’s health, teen sevices, immunizations,
vaccinations, and pharmacy.
CareRing Clinic/ Physicians Reach Out (PHO)
601 E. 5th St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 375-0172
Bilingual services available.
Services offered (clinic): General medicine.
Services offered (PHO): Range of services offered
by a network of doctors in the Charlotte area. Call
for details.
Dental Hygiene Clinic at CPCC
1335 Elizabeth Ave (Health Career Buliding)
Charlotte, NC 28204
Tel: (704) 330-6704
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APPENDIX II
FREE AND LOW COST HEALTH CLINICS IN CHARLOTTE (PART 2 OF 2)
Free Clinic of Our Towns (Ada Jenkins Center)
212 Gamble Street
Davidson, NC
Tel: (704) 896-0471 ext. 116
Bilingual services available.
Services offered: Dental clinic, Acute Care Health
Clinic.
Services available for residents of North
Mecklenburg and South Iredell only.
Matthews Volunteers in Medicine
196 South Trade St
Matthews, NC 28105
Tel: (704) 841-8882
Bilingual services available.
Appointment required (please call).
Services provided: General medicine, chronic
disease treatment, and women’s health.
Lake Norman Community Health Clinic
14230 Hunter Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
Tel: (704) 947-6858
Appointment required. $10 suggested donation for
screenings.
Bilingual services available.
Services provided: Acute care, chronic illness
treatment/care/prevention, women’s health
Patients must live in North Charlotte, Cornelius,
Davidson, Huntersville, or Mooresville.
Mecklenburg County Health Department
Various clinic locations. Appointment will be
scheduled at the appropriate location depending on
services needed.
Tel: (704) 336-6500
Bilingual services available.
Appointment required (same day appointments are
available); please call to schedule.
Services provided: Women’s health, pediatric
dental services, family planning and reproductive
health, flu and pneumonia shots, STD testing,
immunizations, lead poison screening, nutritional
services, pregnancy testing/counseling,
Tuberculosis testing and control.
Presbyterian Community Care Cruiser
Mobile unit serving uninsured or underinsured
youth ages 0-17 with various locations in
Mecklenburg County. See website for details and
cruiser schedule.
Website: www.presbyterian.org/cruiser/
Tel: (704) 384-3031
Shelter Health Services
534 Spratt St
Charlotte, NC 28206
Tel: (704) 334-0000
No bilingual services available.
Note: Services available for Salvation Army
Women’s Shelter residents only.
Services provided: Primary care, chronic disease
control, nutrition, exercise and prevention.
Source: MedLink of Mecklenburg; http://medlinkofmecklenburg.org/clinics/
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Charlotte Resource Manual
SECTION VII
CHILD CARE RESOURCES
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SECTION VII: CHILD CARE RESOURCES
Many community-based institutions and nonprofit organizations provide Charlotte residents with
high-quality youth and family programs.
1- OUT-OF-SCHOOL (AFTER-SCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAMS)
1.1- Child Care Resources, Inc.
Child Care Resources Inc. is a private, non-profit child care resource and referral (CCR&R)
agency that works with families and communities to ensure that all children have access to high
quality, affordable early learning and school-age opportunities and experiences that enable them
to succeed in school and in life. Child Care Resources, Inc. provides family information services
by delivering information, education and support so that families can select early learning and
school-age child care services that promote child well-being. They also assist with determining
financial aid to help families determine a way to afford early learning and school-age child care
services.
Finding affordable child care promotes family well-being by allowing parents to maintain
employment, supporting child protective, foster care and preventive services, and serving
families that are homeless or need child care for medical or social reasons. It also provides the
children with a solid foundation for appropriate development and education.
Child Care Financial Aid may be available to families who demonstrate a need for child care and
who have been determined eligible for services. For comprehensive information about day care
programs, to apply for child care, to review the financial aid eligibility requirements, or to learn
more about the application process:


Call (704) 348-2181.
Or visit http://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/.
1.2- The Bethlehem Center
The Bethlehem Center offers an after-school enrichment program that promotes selfsufficiency by providing specialized remedial and enrichment education to increase reading,
math and language skills. They also provide a number of activities as a means of promoting
interpersonal and relationship skills and self-esteem. Workshops are also offered to parents
covering topics like parenting skills, health & nutrition, home ownership, money management,
stress management and corrective disciplining.
Programs are held Monday – Friday immediately after school to 5:30 pm for grades K-5, and
Monday – Thursday for grades 6-12 from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, with monthly field trips.
For more information:
 Call (704) 375-1417 and ask to speak to someone about the School Age Enrichment
Program.
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Visit http://bethlehemcenter.org/how-we-make-a-difference/school-ageenrichment/afterschool/
1.3- YWCA
The YWCA offers youth a safe, educational, and fun environment with a variety of activities.
There are 11 YWCA Youth Learning Centers in the Charlotte area that operate 50 weeks out of
the year offering after-school, holiday, and summer programs.
Parents of the YWCA Youth Learning Center participants work with the staff and volunteers to
develop homework, study and tutoring programs personalized to fit their child’s individual
needs. Center coordinators show children the crucial connection between academic success and
achieving their future goals.
The three primary goals of the program are to provide a safe environment for children, improve
literacy, and provide support to families.
In order to enroll parents and students must go through and orientation program during which
parents will complete an application and financial assessment. Proof of income and proof of
residency are required and students must be up to date on their immunizations. There is no cost
for qualified applicants to participate in the program. Enrollment is limited to 30 students per
center so please contact the general information number or the closest Learning Center to begin
the enrollment process.
For more information about the Youth Learning Center in your area:
 Call (704) 525-5770 ext. 218
 Visit http://www.ywcacentralcarolinas.org/programs/youth-programs
 See Table 1: YWCA Youth Learning Centers
Table 1: YWCA Youth Learning Center Locations (Part 1 of 2)
Amay James Rec Center
2425 Lester Street
Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (704) 376-3495
Leafcrest YWCA
6513 Leafcrest Ln.
Charlotte, NC 28210
Tel: (704) 552-9293
Park Road YWCA
3420 Park Road
Charlotte, NC 28209
Tel: (704) 525-5770
Sugaw Creek Rec Center
943 W. Sugar Creek Road
Charlotte, NC 28213
Tel: (704) 494-7040
Billingsville Elementary
124 Skyland Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (980) 343-5520
YWCA at Old Armory
500 South Johnson Street
Monroe, NC 28112
Tel: (704) 282-5765
Southside YWCA
435 Fairwood Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28203
Tel: (704) 332-1622
Sunridge YWCA
4005 Sunridge Ln.
Charlotte, NC 28215
(704) 532-2244
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Table 1: YWCA Youth Learning Center Locations (Part 2 of 2)
Tuckaseegee YWCA
4820 Tuckaseegee Rd
Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 393-4017
Willow Oaks YWCA
3223 Walkup Avenue, Bldg E
Monroe, NC 28110
Tel: (704) 283-7733
West Charlotte YWCA
2401 Kendall Drive
Charlotte, NC 28216
Tel: (704) 405-3193
Source: http://www.ywcacentralcarolinas.org/programs/youth-programs/67
1.4- The Boys and Girls Club
The Boys and Girls Club offers a number of programs and activities for youth members.
Programs are tailored to help youth develop character and leadership skills, assist with career
exploration and education, achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, enhance their ability to
express themselves, and develop a multicultural appreciation. Programs are offered throughout
the year including afterschool programs and activities as well as summer camp and other
programming.
Club membership is open to any youth between the ages of six and eighteen. There is an
application and a $5 membership fee that must be submitted to obtain membership.
There are 6 Boys and Girls Club locations in Charlotte. See Table 2: Boys and Girls Clubs in
Charlotte to locate the club nearest you.
Table 2: Boys and Girls Clubs in Charlotte
Belmont Avenue Club
901 Belmont Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 295-1605
Center of Hope Club
(Located in the Women and Children's Shelter)
534 Spratt Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 348-2560 ext.247
Marsh Road Club
940 Marsh Road
Charlotte, NC 28209
Tel: (704) 523-0394
West Boulevard Club
Southview Community Center
1720 Vilma Street, Charlotte, NC 28208
Tel: (704) 295-0207
Dillehay Courts Club
(Must be a resident of Dillehay Courts Complex)
2600 North Pine Street
Charlotte, NC 28206
Tel: (704) 295-0977
Milton Road Club
2901 Milton Road
Charlotte, NC 28215
Tel: (704) 568-4636
1.5- YMCA
The YMCA offers a number of programs for children, youth, and young adults to promote youth
development and healthy living. YMCA membership is available for youth and adults.
Membership cost is prorated based on income, and discounts are also available for families. In
order to qualify for a reduced rate applicants are required to bring in their most recent tax return
(IRS form 1040).
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Programs include various fitness classes, nutrition classes, lifeguard training, child care, day
camps, ESL classes, and much, much more! Some of the programs are available for nonmembers. Please call, visit the website, or visit the YMCA location nearest you for specific
programming details.
Table 3: YMCA Locations in Charlotte
Website: http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/
Harris YMCA
Johnston YMCA
5900 Quail Hollow Road
3025 N. Davidson Street
Charlotte, NC 28210
Charlotte, NC 28205
Tel: (704) 716-6800
Tel: (704) 716-6300
McCrorey YMCA
Morrison Family YMCA
3801 Beatties Ford Road
9405 Bryant Farms Road
Charlotte, NC, 28216
Charlotte, NC 28277
Tel: (704) 716-6500
Tel: (704) 716-4650
Simmons YMCA
Steele Creek YMCA
6824 Democracy Drive
2135-A Ayrsley Town Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28212
Charlotte, NC 28273
Tel: (704) 716-6600
Tel: (704) 716-4900
Stratford Richardson YMCA
University City YMCA
1946 West Boulevard
8100 Old Mallard Creek Road
Charlotte, NC 28208
Charlotte, NC, 28262
Tel: (704) 716-4800
Tel: (704) 716-6700
1.6- PAL (Police Activities League)
The Charlotte Police Department and the Mecklenburg Sherriff’s Office have joined forces to
provide assistance and service for youth residing within our community. PAL offers afterschool
and summer enrichment programs for youth, as well as a number of athletic programs.
Through their afterschool programming PAL provides safe, affordable and supervised options
for many youth from low-income families at-risk youth, as well as, youth that are simply in need
of a special and inviting environment who reside within communities' of need. Services are
available for youth between the ages of 8-16 who would otherwise be unsupervised during the
hours of 2:00pm – 7:00pm during the school year. For an additional fee, PAL participants age 715 are also eligible to participate in a summer camp available through a partnership with
Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation.
For additional information about PAL call (704) 336-2105, Monday – Saturday.
2- JOB DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND INTERNSHIPS
UNCC in collaboration with Goodwill Services of the Southern Piedmont has created an online
Youth Services Catalog. The virtual guide includes all organizations that provide workforce
development services for youth in the Charlotte area. It contains a range of information on each
program/organization, including basic contact information, whom it serves, what services it
offers and how it operates. To view the guide online:
 Visit http://ri.uncc.edu/display/goodwill-youth-catalog
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2.1- Mayor’s Office of the City of Charlotte
The Mayor’s Office supports two youth development programs – The Mayor’s Youth
Employment Program and The Mayor’s Mentoring Alliance.

Mayor's Youth Employment Program (MYEP) – MYEP provides eight-week summer
internships, job shadowing, and mentoring opportunities for area youth. Program
participants are primarily recruited from school and community programs such as
Communities In Schools and Right Moves for Youth. All program participants are
required to complete job readiness, financial literacy and customer service training, and
undergo background checks and drug screenings. Participants not placed in internships
are referred to Goodwill's Youth Job Connection and other youth employment and
training resource providers for continued assistance.
For information about MYEP call (704) 353-0486 or visit the website:
www.charmeck.org/city/charlotte/mayor/myep.

Mayor’s Mentoring Alliance - The Mayor's Mentoring Alliance connects potential
mentors with young people. More than 60 agencies and organizations make up the
alliance. Their basic purpose is to provide positive role modeling that ranges from
academic assistance to leadership development.
For information about the Mayor’s Mentoring Alliance call (704) 336-8409 or visit the
website: www.charmeck.org/city/charlotte/mayor/mentoringalliance.
2.2- Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont
Goodwill Youth Services offers three programs to connect youth to training, mentors, and
employers in the Charlotte region: Youth Job Connection, Good Guides, and the WIA Youth
Program.
 Youth Job Connection - Goodwill’s Youth Job Connection is a service dedicated to
providing job skill development and job search resources for Charlotte youth ages 14-21.
The Youth Job Connection serves both youth and employers in the community. Youth
who participate in the program can access free job training and placement assistance,
including resume writing, customer service and interview skills. The program also
provides a one-stop shop for area employers to access a job-ready, pre-screened pool of
young adults eager to work.
 GoodGuides - The GoodGuides Youth Mentoring Program matches committed, caring and
supportive adults with youth ages 12-17 to empower them to make positive choices and
enable them to maximize their current and future potential. Youth that want to learn
about career paths, leadership skills and how to take charge of their future will be
matched with a GoodGuides mentor who will listen, support and help them achieve their
dreams.
 WIA Youth Program - The WIA Youth Program provides youth ages 16-21 with training
and guidance that will help prepare them for successful employment in a competitive
workforce. Program services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual
and may include: tutoring, GED preparation, paid and unpaid work experience,
occupational skills training, leadership development opportunities, adult mentoring and
supportive services such as transportation and childcare assistance.
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Youth who are interested in getting more information on any of the above programs can contact
Goodwill Corporate office location during normal office hours (12-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday,
12-4:30 p.m. Friday).
 Visit 2122 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208
 Call (704) 372-3434
2.3- Charlotte Works – Youth Works
Youth Works offers the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Program which provides education,
training, and employment opportunities for youth. Services are tailored to meet the specific
needs of individuals through the following elements:
 Tutoring, study skills, and dropout prevention strategies
 Alternative secondary school offerings
 Summer employment opportunities linked to academic and occupational learning
 Resume development
 Job readiness training
 Life skills training
 Customer service training
 Financial literacy
 Leadership development
 Job placement/referral
 Mentoring and vocational assessment
 Professional clothing provision
WIA is a year round program that assists eligible youth between the ages of 16-21 who are low
income and are within one of the following categories:
 Basic skills deficient (math & reading)
 Pregnant or parenting youth
 High School dropout
 Homeless, runaway or foster child
 Offender, or
 An individual (including youth with disabilities) who requires additional assistance to
complete an educational program, or to secure and hold employment
There is no cost for participation in the program. For more information about the Youth Works
WIA program:
 Call (704) 206-1350
 Visit the website: http://www.charlotteworks.com
Information can also be found by contacting one of Youth Works’ collaborating organizations
(see Table 4: Youth Works Supporting Organizations).
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Table 4: Youth Works Supporting Organizations
Arbor Employment & Training
5624 Executive Center Dr., Suite 100
Charlotte, NC 28212
Tel: (704) 364-8898
Q Foundation
5633 Monroe Road
Charlotte, NC 28212
Tel: (704) 566-4969
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont
2122 Freedom Drive
Charlotte, NC
Tel: (704) 332-0313
Urban League of the Central Carolinas
740 West 5th Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 373-2256
2.4- Urban League of the Central Carolinas
The Urban League of the Central Carolinas is a multi-service organization with a range of
programs to benefit anyone in need of education, skills training, career development,
employment services, and youth programs. The Urban League serves persons from all economic
levels - from area professionals to those living within designated “fragile” and “at risk”
neighborhoods.
Programs include GED courses, a youth mentorship program, technology training, and
professional certification training (HVAC/Fiber Optics/Broadband).
For more information about the programs and services offered by the Urban League:



Visit the website http://www.urbanleaguecc.org/
Call (704) 373-2256
Visit 740 West Fifth Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
2.5- The Genesis Project
The Genesis Project works with families, as a total unit, to provide individual and collective
services, such as counseling, structured groups, exposure events, and in-home meetings, with the
goal of empowerment and family growth and success. Genesis Project applies a 5 Pillar of
Health model to all of its consumers, providing mental, financial, social, spiritual, and physical
care. Every family has a team assigned to them, including a case manager, therapist, and support
worker. This team teaches the family to identify and use natural supports, as well as to determine
and address personal goals.
Genesis Project offers the following youth services:
 Clinical & Vocational Assessment
 Resume Development
 Job Readiness Training
 Financial Education
 Mentoring
The Genesis Project also offers the Prodigal Sons, a support group for at-risk young men, and
GLASS, a support group for women ages 13-21. For more information about the Genesis
Project:
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 Visit http://www.genesisproject1.org
 Call (704) 596-0505
2.6- The Q Foundation
The Q Foundation’s mission is assisting youth and youth-based organizations by providing
programs and services that promote self-sufficiency through Education, Occupation, Athletics
and Behavioral Health Services.
The Q Foundation has a youth sports program that serves ages 4–24. The workforce
development program serves youth 14 to 21. Through the workforce development program
students take a vocational assessment at the start of the program. Using the results of the
assessment the case manager then develops an Individual Service Strategy (ISS) to identify the
student's strengths, weaknesses and interests. Students also receive financial education from
volunteers from First Legacy Bank. There is also a job placement program that enables
participants to gain on-the-job training. Participants can also be paired with a mentor who
provides support and guidance in the youth’s personal and professional life. In addition, the Q
Foundation also offers GED and Adult Basic Education tutoring and prep.
To be eligible, a young person must be a resident of Mecklenburg County, be considered low
income, and also have at least one of the other qualifying barriers: high school dropout, test
below grade level, pregnant or parenting youth, be a foster child or runaway, or an ex-offender.
For more information:
 Visit http://www.qfoundation.com/
 Call (704) 566-4969
2.7- Right Moves for Youth
Right Moves for Youth serves youth in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) in grades 6
through 12. Youth have to be attending school to participate in this program. Target students
may be in need of motivation to improve school attendance/timeliness, direction in making
appropriate social and behavioral decisions necessary to reduce office referrals/suspensions, an
increase in positive self-esteem/self-image, help in improving and maintaining a positive
attitude, assistance in pursuing educational success despite home environments, or support to
improve their academic standing.
For more information about the program or for enrollment details:
 Visit http://www.rightmovesforyouth.org/
 Call (704) 377-4425
3- EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICES
Two major resources in the Charlotte area for locating affordable child care are Childcare
Resources, Inc. and the HeadStart program (administered by the Bethlehem Center).
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3.1- Child Care Resources, Inc.
Child Care Resources Inc. is a private, non-profit child care resource and referral (CCR&R)
agency that works with families and communities to ensure that all children have access to high
quality, affordable early learning and school-age opportunities and experiences that enable them
to succeed in school and in life. See Section 1.1 above for more info.
3.2- Head Start Program
Head Start, a federally-funded, family-centered child development program, offers educational
activities for children age 3 to 5, and a wide variety of opportunities and support services for
their families. The Bethlehem Center of Charlotte, Inc. Serves as the Head Start Delegate for
Charlotte and has eight centers located in Charlotte. Every one of them offers a safe, caring
environment where both children and parents come to learn and grow and achieve. And every
Head Start program is absolutely free.
Children who are 3 to 5 years old are eligible for Head Start services. Pregnant women and
children from birth to 3 years of age are eligible for Early Head Start services. Children and
families who are homeless, in foster care, or receive TANF or SSI are also eligible for services.
Eligibility is determined by Head Start program staff and some families may be eligible for
services if they are determined to be at or below the federal poverty level. Some grantees enroll a
percentage of children from families with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines as well.
Families are encouraged to apply.
For more information about Head Start:
 Call the Bethlehem Center Head Start Program, (704) 333-0203
 Visit the Bethlehem Center’s website http://bethlehemcenter.org/.
 Call 211 for details regarding Head Start and how to find centers in your neighborhood
 Visit the Head Start Locator on the Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center
website http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/hs/directories.
 See APPENDIX I: Head Start Center Locations In Charlotte
4- HEALTH SERVICES
For affordable health care and dental services for children, see SECTION VI: HEALTH CARE
RESOURCES
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APPENDIX I
HEAD START CENTER LOCATIONS IN CHARLOTTE
CE Dewberry Head Start
2740 Dr. Carver Rd
Charlotte NC, 28208
Tel: (704) 362-3901
Seigle Avenue Head Start
701 Jackson Ave
Charlotte NC, 28204
Tel: (704) 370-1218
St. John's Head Start
300 Hawthorne Ln
Charlotte NC, 28204
Tel: (704) 372-1341
Stephanie Jennings Education Center
3320 N Sharon Amity Rd
Charlotte NC, 28205
Tel: (980) 355-0978
Oaklawn Head Start
1920 Stroud Park Ct
Charlotte NC, 28206
Tel: (704) 334-1974
Southside Head Start
2617 Baltimore Avenue
Charlotte NC, 28203
Tel: (704) 371-7455
Starmount Head Start
1600 Brookdale Ave
Charlotte NC, 28210
Tel: (704) 333-0203
Tryon Hills Head Start
2600 Grimes St
Charlotte NC, 28206
Tel: (704) 333-0203
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SECTION VIII
LEGAL RESOURCES
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SECTION VIII: LEGAL RESOURCES
1- GENERAL LEGAL ISSUES
1.1- Legal Aid of North Carolina
Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide, nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services in
civil matters to low-income people in order to ensure equal access to justice and to remove legal
barriers to economic opportunity.
Legal Aid of NC offers a number of services and programs and assists clients who are at risk of
losing their assets, representing clients who suffer from housing discrimination, unlawful
eviction, foreclosure prevention, protective orders, family law issues, migrant worker
representation, and much more.
For more information:
 Visit https://www.legalaidnc.org/public/learn/locations/#StatewideProjects.
 Or contact the Legal Aid office in Charlotte to get assistance with your specific legal
issue.
Legal Aid of North Carolina
CHARLOTTE OFFICE
1431 Elizabeth Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28204-2506
Tel: (704) 971-2621
Toll Free: (800) 438-1254 (English)
Toll Free: (800) 247-1931 (Spanish)
1.2- Legal Services of Southern Piedmont
Legal Services of Southern Piedmont provides a wide range of civil legal assistance to eligible
low-income persons in the Charlotte metropolitan area and west-central NC.
LSSP serves immigrants, seniors, families facing foreclosure, renters facing eviction, lowincome consumers, those in need of government assistance, children in need of special
education, domestic violence victims, persons with disabilities, patients with chronic illness or
disease, low-wage workers, and others in need of free legal services.
LSSP handles a multitude of legal issues but specific programs include:
 Family Support and Health Care
 Immigrant Justice
 Consumer Protection and Employment Law
 Western North Carolina Low Income Taxpayer Clinic
 Legal Services for the Elderly
 HIV/AIDS Legal Assistance Project
 Veterans Legal Services Project
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For more general information, visit: http://www.lssp.org/.
Individuals in need of legal assistance in one of the areas of service listed above should contact
Legal Services of Southern Piedmont:
Legal Services of Southern Piedmont
CHARLOTTE OFFICE
1431 Elizabeth Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28204-2506
Tel: (704) 971-2621
Toll Free: (800) 438-1254 (English)
Toll Free: (800) 247-1931 (Spanish)
2- DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
If you are a victim of domestic violence:



If you feel you or a family member is in immediate physical danger, call 911.
Call 311 and ask for the Safe Alliance Shelter for Battered Women, or
Call the Safe Alliance 24-hour hotline directly: (704) 332-2513.
Both Legal Aid of North Carolina and Legal Services of Southern Piedmont offer free
services to victims of domestic abuse. LSSP specializes in assistance to immigrants. (See
Section 1 General Legal Issues above.)
The North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence has 2 service providers in
Mecklenburg county, the Mecklenburg County Women’s Commission and Safe Alliance.
These 2 organizations offer various services, including legal assistance or referrals for
individuals that are victims of domestic abuse.
Table 3: NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence Service Providers
Mecklenburg County Women’s Commission
700 North Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 336-3210
Program Confianza (Spanish)
Tel: (704) 432-6970
Safe Alliance Children & Family Services
601 East 5th Street, Suite 400
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 332-9034 (Appointments & General
Info)
Safe Alliance Court Services
720 East 4th Street, Suite 204
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 336-4126
Charlotte Domestic Violence Shelter
Confidential Charlotte Location
Tel: (704) 944-0169
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Safe Alliance Lake Norman Office
9624 Bailey Road, Suite 290
Cornelius, NC 28031
Tel: (704) 655-8745
24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline:
(704) 332-2513
24/7 Rape Crisis Hotline:
(704) 375-9900
2.1- The Mecklenburg County Community Support Services Women’s Commission
Mecklenburg County's Community Support Services Women's Commission domestic violence
or “intimate partner violence” team works with victims, children exposed to the abuse and
abusers, as well as spearheading public awareness efforts and education throughout the
community. Services include crisis counseling, individual therapy, support groups for victims of
domestic violence, case management services, information and referral services, personal
advocacy, criminal justice support advocacy, bi-monthly Family Law Information Clinic, and
professional training in domestic violence. The Women’s Commission also offers “Program
Confianza” which is a program designed specifically to serve battered Latinas.
The CSS Women’s Commission also works with the unemployed and underemployed with a
number of training offerings, a clothing closet, and a job bank to assist in finding a job.
Educational programs for support persons of domestic violence victims (family, friends,
neighbors, employees, etc.) are also offered.
To schedule a confidential session, register for support groups or for additional information
regarding services or if you or someone you know needs help please contact the Women’s
Commission using the contact information provided above or visit their website –
http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/CommunitySupportServices/WomensCommission/A
boutUs/Pages/default.aspx.
All services are free of charge. The Women's Commission is located in the Hal Marshall
Building at 700 N. Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte, on the bus line (11 or 22) at the corner of
11th Street and has free parking out front.
2.2- Safe Alliance
The Safe Alliance Shelter for Battered Women is available 24 hours a day and offers assistance
in English and Spanish. Safe Alliance also provides counseling services, general information
about protective orders, help file papers for an emergency restraining order, and links victims to
the legal resources they may need. Staff will also help follow the case as advocates and will
accompany clients to court if contacted by victim. Any services related to domestic violence,
whether hotline services or law enforcement services, are provided regardless of immigration
status.
Safe Alliance also provides a Free Legal Clinic once a month. Please note that you must call for
an appointment to participate in the Legal Clinic.
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To schedule a confidential session, register for support groups or for additional information
regarding services or if you or someone you know needs help please contact them using the
contact information provided above or visit their website – http://www.safealliance.org/.
Safe Alliance is located in the in the Children & Family Services Center – a building in Uptown
Charlotte where ten agencies offer comprehensive assistance to strengthen families.
Table 4: Domestic Violence Hotlines
Safe Alliance Hotline and Victim Assistance
(704) 332-2513 (24 hours/day, 7 days/week)
Women’s Commission
(704) 336-3210 (English) or (704) 432-6970
(Spanish)
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233)
Local
Safe Alliance Rape Crisis Hotline
(704) 375-9900 (24 hours/day, 7 days/week)
National
National Teen Dating Violence Hotline
1 (866) 331-9474
Table 5: Domestic Violence Emergency and Transitional Shelters
Charlotte Domestic Violence Shelter (Safe
Alliance)
Confidential Charlotte Location, call for details.
(704) 332-2513 (24 hours/day, 7 days/week)
Center of Hope – Women & Children’s
Homeless Shelter
Salvation Army
534 Spratt Street
Charlotte, NC 28206
(704) 348-2560 ext. 244
The Relatives, Crisis Center
(Shelter for youth ages 7-17; part of the Alexander
Youth Network.)
119 East 8th Street
Charlotte, NC 28203
Tel: (704) 377-0602
Table 6: Domestic Violence Counseling Services
a. For Victims & Children
Safe Alliance
Mecklenburg County Women’s Commission
(704) 332-9034
(704) 336-3210
REACH Program (Reaching to Educate
HERO Program (Help, Encouragement and
Adolescents about Choices & Healthy
Recognition of Observers of Domestic Violence)
Children ages 5-18
Relationships)
Youth age 13-17
Tel: (704) 336-3210
Tel: Tel: (704) 336-3210
b. For Individuals Committing the Acts of Violence
IMPACT Program (The Be There Group)
NOVA Program (New Options for Violent
(980) 721-7268
Actions)
(704) 336-4344
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Table 7: Domestic Violence Financial Assistance
Victim’s Compensation (local liaison) – Safe
Alliance
(704) 332-9034
Mecklenburg County Women’s Commission
(704) 353-1688
Crisis Assistance Ministries (Emergencies only)
(704) 371-3000
Mecklenburg County Social Services
Tel: (704) 336-3150
Emergency Tel: (704) 336-2273
Charlotte Area Fund (English Only)
(704) 372-3010
3- TAX DISPUTES
Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) centers provide free representation and advice to lowincome taxpayers who have disputes with the Internal Revenue Service or North Carolina
Department of Revenue. LITCs assist people with income tax audits, appeals, court proceedings,
or collection matters. Tax issues include earned income credit, child tax credit, filing status,
dependency exemptions, innocent spouse relief, employee classification and more.
When calling an LITC site, people should have their current income records on hand, including
pay stubs; Social Security card; any tax bills, letters, or notices from the IRS or the U.S. Tax
Court; and tax return for the year in question.
LITC location in Charlotte:

Legal Services of Southern Piedmont, Inc.
- Call (704) 971-2621 or toll free (800) 438-1254 (English)
- Call (800) 247-1931 (Spanish)
- The LITC services of Legal Services of Southern Piedmont are located at:
1431 Elizabeth Ave
Charlotte, NC 28204
For additional information about the LITC program and locations:
 Visit http://www.irs.gov/uac/Low-Income-Taxpayer-Clinics
4- IMMIGRATION LAW
4.1- Legal Service of Southern Piedmont
Legal Service of Southern Piedmont protects low-income, non-English-speaking, Latino
residents and immigrants of other national origins from exploitation through a program called the
Immigrant Justice Program.
The program focuses on the following issues:
1) Providing individual legal assistance to:
 Aid victims of family abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking and gender based violence;
 Enforce rights to habitable housing and prevent discrimination or eviction
 Prevent or overcome unfair acts or business practices
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Ensure accessibility of public services; and
Stabilize the immigration status of clients.
2) Educating community service agencies concerning the legal rights of immigrants and assisting
those agencies in serving immigrants.
3) Educating immigrants regarding their rights in family, housing, consumer and public benefits
law.
4) Participating in systemic advocacy against discriminatory legislation and practices that harm
immigrants and promoting the rights and welfare of immigrants and immigrant communities.
Within the Immigrant Justice Program LSSP also offers 2 other programs - The Immigration
Assistance Program and The Legal Orientation Program for Custodians (LOPC).
The Immigration Assistance Program assists unrepresented immigrants at Charlotte's
Immigration Court by providing consultation, education and referrals. The Legal Orientation
Program for Custodians (LOPC) provides outreach, information and education to potential
custodians of unaccompanied children who are in immigration removal proceedings.
For more information about Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont’s Immigrant Justice
Program or other immigration-related legal services:



Call (704) 971-2621 or toll free (800) 438-1254 (English)
Call (800) 247-1931 (Spanish)
Or visit the website: http://www.lssp.org/index.html
There are no citizenship or immigration status requirements to participate in this program. The
program provides individual representation for immigration cases in Alexander, Alleghany,
Ashe, Avery, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, McDowell,
Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Stanly, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancy counties. For all other case
types, the program provides individual representation in Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, and Union
counties with some limited assistance in the other counties.
4.2- The Ginter Immigration Law Clinic at International House
The Ginter Immigration Law Clinic provides affordable immigration assistance to low-income
individuals. The clinic focuses on uniting families, serving disadvantaged individuals, and
preventing exploitation of vulnerable immigrants. The Clinic is open to all ethnic groups,
targeting the most disadvantaged cases, specializing in family immigration and naturalization,
and refugee and asylee representation. The staff helps protect vulnerable immigrants from
unscrupulous non-attorney providers. New clients should call the clinic and request information
over the phone before stopping by the International House office. Services are offered at lowcost (typically 15%-20% of the cost charged by a private legal firm) and some refugee and asylee
cases may be eligible to be handled free of charge.
For more information about the Immigration Law Clinic contact the International House:
 Call (704) 405-0962 Monday – Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
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4.3- The Latin American Coalition provides free and low-cost services regarding immigration
related legal services. The LAC’s Immigration Program provides consultations with their Board
of Immigration Appeals Accredited Representative. Consultation hours are held on Tuesdays
from 9am-12pm and on Thursdays from 2pm-5pm. No call-ahead appointments are accepted;
consultations are scheduled the day-of on a first-come-first -serve basis. Space is limited to
approximately 6 cases per day, so plan to arrive early. The cost is $25 the day of the
consultation.
For more information about the Immigration Program other LAC immigration advocacy
programs:



Call (704) 531-3848.
Monday between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM
Tuesday – Friday between 9:00 AM and 12:00PM or 1:00PM and 5:00 PM
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SECTION IX
IMMIGRATION RESOURCES
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SECTION IX: IMMIGRATION RESOURCES
1- ON BECOMING A CITIZEN
In order to apply for U.S. citizenship, a person must pass a citizenship exam, which tests an
individual’s knowledge of English and of America’s political and legal system, general history,
and culture. Therefore, it is recommended that undocumented (or non-legal) residents first take
an English and citizenship course, and then consult with an immigration lawyer prior to formally
applying for US citizenship.
Undocumented residents applying for citizenship risk deportation if they have a previous police
record or if their application for citizenship is denied. Legal assistance before starting the
application process becomes even more imperative. SECTION VIII: LEGAL RESOURCES
provides information on immigration lawyers and legal services.
To locate English as a Second Language (ESL) as well as English Literacy classes please consult
SECTION V: ADULT EDUCATION RESOURCES, which provides a broad list of Charlottearea agencies offering elementary, intermediate, and more advanced English classes in
preparation of the citizenship exam.
1.1- Latin American Coalition
The Latin American Coalition provides a free Citizenship Workshop that offers free
prospective naturalization applicants different services and information related to the
naturalization process. For more information contact the LAC at (704) 531-3848.
1.2- Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont
Legal Service of Southern Piedmont protects low-income, non-English-speaking, Latino
residents and immigrants of other national origins from exploitation through a program called the
Immigrant Justice Program. (See section VIII. LEGAL RESOURCES above, subtopic 4.A.,
for more details about the specific program offerings.)
For more information about Legal Services of the Southern Piedmont’s Immigrant Justice
Program or other immigration-related legal services:



Call (704) 971-2621 or toll free (800) 438-1254 (English)
Call (800) 247-1931 (Spanish)
Or visit the website: http://www.lssp.org/index.html
1.3- The International House
The International House offers Citizenship Classes which are composed of three-hour sessions
over five-six consecutive Sunday afternoons from 2:00– 5:00pm. Students learn about major
areas of the CIS test and prepare for their interview. International House reviews U.S. history,
American government, and civics, incorporating basic English skills. A local immigration
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attorney attends one of the sessions to answer questions from students. The classes emphasize
the responsibilities of United States citizenship such as voting and civic participation. Classes
are held at the International House (1817 Central Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28205). Citizenship
classes cost $50, which includes a workbook and other materials. Scholarships are available if
the cost is prohibitive.
For more information about citizenship classes at International House:
 Call (704) 405-0962.
 Contact the program coordinator, Gail Johnson via e-mail: gjohnson@ihclt.org or by
phone (704) 333-8099
 Or visit the IH website http://ihclt.org/what-we-do.php?cat=40
1.4- Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Center
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Center offer a Multi-Cultural Program targeted to meet the
needs of the International Senior Community in the Charlotte area. The program is operated out
of the Shamrock Senior Center and includes:


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English as a Second Language Classes (also at the Tyvola Senior Center)
Citizenship programs
Health and Wellness programs/screenings
Holiday parties
Arts and Crafts
Counseling
Employment
Volunteer opportunities
Nutrition Information
Linkages to Mecklenburg County community resources
For more information about the citizenship classes at the Senior Center:
 Contact the Shamrock Center Multicultural Director Myra Green via e-mail at
shamrockdirector@cmseniorcenters.org or Multicultural Program Assistant Mirian
Gonzalez via e-mail at shamrock1assist@cmseniorcenters.org.
 Call (704) 531-6900 and request to speak with Myra or Mirian.
 Or visit the Senior Centers website http://www.cmseniorcenters.org/Multicultural.htm.
2- CHARLOTTE MECKLENBURG PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library system offers a broad range of informational and
educational services for immigrants, especially those who want to apply for U.S. Citizenship. In
addition to its ESL and English conversation classes the CMPL offers a comprehensive list of
useful library books, audiobooks, DVDs, and web resources that help people prepare for
citizenship.
These resources address the following topics:
 Reasons to become a U.S. Citizen
 The application process
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Questions and quizzes to prepare for the U.S. citizenship
Frequently asked questions
List of associations and nonprofit organizations assisting with English literacy.
To access the literacy partners, see Section V. Adult Education Resources above, or visit the
library’s website http://www.cmlibrary.org/Services/literacypartner.asp.
3- REFUGEE SERVICES
3.1- Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency
The Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency provides resettlement services to refugees and
asylees who are escaping violence, persecution, and repression, without regard to their race,
religion, nationality, ethnicity, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
They work to connect refugees and asylees to other service agencies in the Charlotte area.
For more information:
 Visit their location at 5007 Monroe Road, Suite 101, Charlotte, NC 28205
 Call (704) 535-8805
 Or visit their website www.carolinarefugee.org.
3.2- Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte Refugee Resettlement Office
Catholic Charities welcomes newly arrived refugees who are victims of war, political upheaval,
religious, economic or ethnic persecution to Charlotte. They provide services to help refugees
adapt to their adopted homeland by becoming self-sustaining and productive members of their
community. Some of the services include assistance with housing, health care referrals, school
registration, budgeting and financial education, immigration assistance, and employment
assistance.
For more information about the Immigration Services provided:
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Call (704) 370-3262
Visit the website www.ccdoc.org
Visit the Catholic Charities Office at 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-3405
3.3- Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) Refugee Education
CPCC provides English language education for all Refugees in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. For
more information about the classes, locations, and how to enroll:
 Call (704) 330-6172
 Visit http://www.cpcc.edu/ccr
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MAJOR SOURCES
OF INFORMATION
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MAJOR SOURCES OF INFORMATION
Special thanks to the Latin American Coalition, Crisis Assistance Ministries, and the Mecklenburg
County Health Department for the use of their Resource Guides. Their guides were helpful starting
points for many of the sections within this guide.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
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Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services (Benefit Bank; Health Care
Resources)
o http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/dss/Pages/Default.aspx
City of Charlotte, Neighborhood & Business Services (Small Business Resources)
o http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/nbs
Mecklenburg County Health Department (Small Business Services; Welfare Resources;
Health Care Resources)
o http://charmeck.org/MECKLENBURG/COUNTY/HEALTHDEPARTMENT
NORTH CAROLINA STATE GOVERNMENT
 NC ePass (Benefit Bank; Welfare Resources)
o https://www.epass.nc.gov
 Business Link of North Carolina (Small Business Resources)
o https://www.blnc.gov
 NC Department of Administration Historically Underutilized Businesses (Small Business
Resources)
o http://www.doa.state.nc.us/hub/default.aspx
 NC Department of Insurance (Health Care Resources)
o www.ncdoi.com
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
 Internal Revenue Service (Financial Resources: Tax Assistance)
o http://www.irs.gov
 US Department of Health & Human Services (Health Care Resources)
o http://www.healthcare.gov/
o http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/Search_HCC.aspx
PUBLIC LIBRARIES

Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library (Small Business Resources; Adult Education
Resources)
o http://www.cmlibrary.org
CENTRAL PIEDMONT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
 Small Business Center Network (Small Business Resources)
o www.cpcc.edu/sbc
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College & Career Readiness Programs (Adult Education Resources)
o www.cpcc.edu/ccr
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM
 Small Business and Technology Development Center
o www.sbtdc.org
NORTH CAROLINA LEGAL SERVICES (Small Business Resources)
 NC LEAP
o http://ncleap.ncbar.org/
 Legal Aid of North Carolina
o http://www.legalaidnc.org/
LEGAL SERVICES OF CHARLOTTE
 Legal Services of Southern Piedmont (Small Business Resources)
o www.lssp.org
THE BENEFIT BANK (Benefit Bank; Welfare Resources)
o http://www.thebenefitbank.org/
o http://tbb-nc.org/
SAFE ALLIANCE (Legal Resources: Domestic Violence)
o http://www.safealliance.org/
CHARLOTTE BUSINESS RESOURCES.COM (Small Business Resources)
o http://charlottebusinessresources.com/
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