Denver family resources: help beyond sleep

Start with resource navigation

If you don’t know where to begin, call or text 2-1-1 Colorado. It’s free and confidential, and they help with food, shelter, utilities, healthcare, childcare, transportation and emergency assistance. Colorado PEAK is the state’s online portal for applying for benefits, and MyFriendBen helps you estimate which benefits and tax credits your family might qualify for before you apply.

Food, diapers and everyday essentials

Local food banks, diaper banks and family resource centers across Denver, Broomfield, Boulder and the Front Range can help with groceries, formula, diapers, clothing and household items. Many programs work together or refer families to partners, so if one place can’t help, ask: “If you can’t help with this, who can?”

Housing, bills and legal help

There are programs for rental and utility assistance, furniture and household goods, and free or low-cost legal aid for family, housing and benefits issues. Availability and funding change, so check directly with each program before visiting.

Disability, school and early intervention support

If your child is autistic, has ADHD, or you’re wondering about development, Colorado has early intervention services, disability advocacy organizations, and school-based support. You can also ask your child’s doctor whether the office has a caseworker, social worker or care coordinator—some can connect your family with transportation, diapers, car seats, benefits or housing referrals.

A few honest notes

• Every program has its own service area, eligibility and availability. Supplies, funding and appointments aren’t guaranteed.
• Organizations often work together, but that doesn’t mean they’re all part of the same organization.
• Most police stations in the area have homeless outreach case workers or community resource officers. Sometimes they’re a lifeline, sometimes you get the runaround—it’s still worth asking.
• If one person can’t help, try another location, call back, or ask for a supervisor.

The full list, ready to print

I keep the complete, updated directory—with every organization, phone-free and printable—on my Denver family resources page. There’s also a downloadable PDF packet you can save, print or share with another family, a caseworker or a neighbor.

In crisis? Call or text 988. Educational information, not medical, legal or financial advice.