Benefits · Emergency Aid
How to apply for Jackson County General Assistance + Emergency Aid — Referral Coordination (Jackson County)
Jackson County government (General Assistance) + community organizations
Who it's for
Jackson County emergency aid: (1) DISTINCTIVE — Jackson County is one of Illinois's 17 COMMISSION (non-township) counties, so it has NO townships; instead General Assistance (GA) — emergency rent/utility/food relief for residents with little or no income — is administered at the COUNTY level by Jackson County government (the county is divided into precincts, not townships). (2) Egyptian Area Agency on Aging / the local senior center for case management, meals, and the Community Care Program (618-985-8311). (3) Western Egyptian EOC for LIHEAP utility help and other Community Action supports. (4) SIH's Healthcare Assistance Program for medical bills. (5) Salvation Army / Catholic Charities / Good Samaritan Ministries (Carbondale) / The Women's Center. (6) Centerstone / local food pantries. (7) Dial 211.
Jackson: COMMISSION (non-township) county — General Assistance runs at the COUNTY level, not by townships (precinct form). Layered with Egyptian AAA, Western Egyptian EOC LIHEAP, SIH HAP, and 211.
What you'll need
- Proof of Jackson County residency
- Proof of all household income
- Photo identification
- Documentation of the emergency need (eviction notice, shutoff notice, etc.)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 211
Renewals
as-needed
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.