Cherokee County assistance programs.

How to get help with paying bills.

MUST Cherokee is a local organization that is committed to providing services and assistance to individuals and families who are facing an emergency and will also help them get back on their feet over the long term. They have several ways for people to get help with paying their bills.

They have programs that provide utility and rent assistance. The organization receives tens of thousands of dollars per year to distribute to residents who need help. However the need for MUST's services are increasing rapidly.

Some of the other assistance offered includes:

• Christmas Toyshop – About 3,000 children are provided free toys. These kids would otherwise not have gifts to open on the holidays.
• Summer Lunch program - Over 2,000 lunches are served to children every day, which amounts to over 100,000 lunches provided per summer.
• Back to School Supplies are supplied for 3,000 children.
• Holiday Meals for over 8,000 families.

 

There are offices and service centers located in Canton, Cherokee, Marietta, and Smyrna that provide free food, clothing, employment assistance, financial aid, education, interview training, assessment and referral services, to individuals and families in crisis.

MUST offices are located in Canton, GA at 141-B W. Marietta St. and in Marietta, GA at 1407 Cobb Parkway. Phone 770-427-9862.

 

 

 

Another option is to call the Salvation Army - Cherokee County Service Unit. The primary goal of this agency is to provide emergency cash and other assistance to persons who are in a short term hardship or crisis situation. the salvation Army can provide help in the areas of free food, clothing, rent and utility assistance, lodging, counseling, shelter, credit counseling, and referrals to other comprehensive crisis centers as well as both Georgia and federal government programs. (770) 720-4316.

The North Georgia Community Action, Inc. (dial (706) 692-5644) offers the following programs and services to those in need of help.

• Home Energy Assistance - Aid for utility, air conditioning, and winter heating bills.
• Food assistance - Both surplus food and food banks are available. Also get referrals to free Georgia food banks.
• Early Intervention Program - This provides crisis type help for bills and expenses, but on a limited basis.
• Emergency food and shelter - This federal government program can help with housing expenses, including utility bills, and also offer food.