Grand Rapids Local Assistance Programs

This page lists local organizations in Grand Rapids, Michigan that provide free legal help, food and social services. Statewide programs are described on the Michigan page.

Legal aid

Legal Aid of Western Michigan provides free legal advice and representation in civil cases to people with low incomes and seniors in Kent County and nearby counties. Its Grand Rapids office covers Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties. Areas include housing, family matters, consumer cases and public benefits.¹

The Legal Assistance Center is a nonprofit legal self-help center on the fifth floor of the Kent County Courthouse. It offers legal information, forms, guidance and referrals for family, housing, debt, guardianship and basic probate matters. It does not give legal advice or provide representation.²

Food

Feeding America West Michigan is the regional food bank for 40 counties in West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. It supplies food to local pantries and runs mobile food pantries. Its main warehouse sits in Kentwood, next to Grand Rapids.³

The Community Food Club is a nonprofit grocery store for Kent County residents who income qualify. Members pay $12 to $18 for a 30-day membership and shop with points based on household size.⁴

Social services

The Salvation Army in Kent County offers emergency rent and utility assistance, housing help, family services and a food pantry. Its Housing Assessment Program is the county central intake for people who are homeless or at immediate risk of homelessness.⁵

Kent County Community Action helps Kent County residents meet basic needs and work toward long-term stability. Programs cover food, rent and mortgage help, utility help, weatherization and case management. Its Homeless Prevention Program may help with back rent when funding is available.⁶