Get Help: The HELP Center

United Way of Bucks County provides our neighbors with the basics.

The HELP Center fills the gap for local families in need by providing essentials like cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, and home goods – completely free of charge – through a dignified personal shopping experience.

HOW TO GET HELP

Referral Process: Appointments at the HELP Center are generally scheduled through referrals from case managers affiliated with approved United Way of Bucks County Member Agencies, school representatives, or faith-based organizations. Your case manager or social worker can schedule an appointment on your behalf.

For Individuals Without a Case Manager: If you do not have a case manager or social worker through a nonprofit agency, school district, or faith-based organization, you can request assistance directly. Complete the appointment request form below, and a HELP Center representative will contact you to arrange an appointment.

If you have any questions, please call (215) 949-1660 ext. 194.

Please click below to learn more about registration requirements.

1. How do I refer a client to the HELP Center?
You can schedule an appointment for your client through the online referral form provided by United Way of Bucks County. Ensure you include all required client information and any special notes. You must register each client separately through the form. Do not make an appointment if you have not registered. *Please note, once you submit your request, you should receive an email with the link to make an appointment within 48-72 hours. If you do not, please check your SPAM folder.

2. Who qualifies for HELP Center services?
Clients must be residents of Bucks County and should be able to demonstrate a clear need that cannot be met in any other way. Documentation of need may be required. Typically, those we serve earn less than 300 % of Federal Poverty Guidelines, ($93,600 for a family of four). Exceptions are made for extenuating circumstances.

3. Do I need to accompany my client to their appointment?
Case manager should accompany clients to their appointment to provide additional support. Exceptions can be made by contacting HELP Center staff directly.

4. What items are available at the HELP Center?
The HELP Center provides cleaning supplies, hygiene products, home goods, and other necessities. Inventory may vary based on donations and availability.

5. Can I refer multiple clients in one day?
Yes, but each client must have their own individual appointment. Please coordinate with the HELP Center to avoid scheduling conflicts.

6. How often can a client visit the HELP Center?
Clients may visit the HELP Center every 3 months during the first year, then once every 6 months the second year. If additional visits are needed, please discuss with the HELP Center staff.

7. What should I do if a client needs to reschedule?
Notify the HELP Center as soon as possible if your client cannot make their appointment. You can reschedule through the same referral process.

1. What is the HELP Center?
The HELP Center is a community resource providing essential items—like cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products, and home goods—free of charge to Bucks County residents in need.

2. Do I need a referral to get an appointment?
If you are working with a nonprofit agency, case manager, social worker, a school representative, or faith-based organization, they can refer you. If you do not have a case manager or social worker, you can request an appointment directly by completing the form below.

3. How do I schedule an appointment?
Your case manager or social worker can arrange an appointment for you. If you don’t have one, fill out the appointment request form below, and a HELP Center representative will contact you.

4. What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring a form of identification and any documentation that supports your need for services (e.g., proof of income or residency).

5. How long is an appointment?
Appointments are 30 minutes, depending on the items you need and the availability of resources.

6. What can I expect during my visit?
You’ll experience a dignified shopping experience where you can choose items that suit your needs. HELP Center staff and volunteers will be available to assist you.

7. Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes, you may bring ONE support person, such as a family member or friend, if needed; however, ONLY YOU will be allowed to shop for your household. Let the HELP Center know in advance if you require accommodations.

8. How often can I visit the HELP Center?
As long as a need is still present, clients may visit the HELP Center 3 months after their initial visit. HELP Center staff will evaluate each individual’s need when requesting additional appointments.

9. Where is the HELP Center located?
The HELP Center is located at 194 Commerce Circle Bristol, PA 1007 and serves residents of Bucks County.

10. What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Your appointment confirmation email will give you the option to cancel or reschedule at the bottom; however, if you have trouble, please contact the HELP Center immediately to inform them by calling (215) 949-1660 ext. 194.

1. Who is eligible to receive assistance through the HELP Center?  The HELP Center serves residents of Bucks County who are experiencing financial hardship or other challenges that make it difficult to afford essential household items. Eligibility criteria include:

  • Residency: Must reside in Bucks County, PA
  • Demonstrated Need: Families and individuals experiencing economic difficulties or emergencies. Clients should be able to demonstrate a clear need that cannot be met in any other way. Documentation of need may be required. Typically, those we serve earn less than 300 % of Federal Poverty Guidelines, ($93,600 for a family of four). Exceptions are made for extenuating circumstances.
  • Referral Requirement: Typically, clients must be referred by an approved nonprofit agency, case manager, or social service provider.
    • If you do not have a case manager, you can still request assistance by completing the appointment request form on our website.
  • Documentation: In some cases, proof of income, residency, or need may be required to confirm eligibility.

    For questions about eligibility or documentation, please contact the HELP Center directly.

    2. How often can I visit the HELP Center? As long as a need is still present, clients may visit the HELP Center 3 months after their initial visit. HELP Center staff will evaluate each individual’s need when requesting additional appointments.

    3. How will I know if I am approved? After submitting a referral or appointment request:

    For Referrals by a Case Manager: Your case manager will receive an email instructing them to work directly with you to schedule your appointment. Once scheduled, uou will also receive an email confirmation as well as a text message reminder of your appointment as long as that information was provided.

    For Individuals Without a Case Manager: You will receive an email with information on how to schedule your appointment. Once scheduled, you will receive an email confirmation as well as a text message reminder of your appointment as long as that information was provided.

    If you haven’t received a response within 5 business days of your request, please call (215) 949-1660 ext. 194.

    4. How will I know if I haven’t been approved? You will receive an email explaining why your application was not approved.

    5. I didn’t receive a confirmation email. Did you get my submission? If you did not receive a confirmation email, please check your spam/junk email folder. Please make sure to fill out all required fields designated by an asterisk (*). Please also note, your request is successfully submitted when you are taken to the confirmation page stating, “Thanks for completing our HELP Center Form! If you are not taken to this screen, your request was not submitted. If you do not properly submit your request, we will not be able to process your application.

    6. Who do I contact if I am not eligible? If you need help but you do not qualify, please contact PA 211.

    7. Who can I contact if I have other questions? If you have a question not addressed here, please Nikki Farrior at nikkif@uwbucks.org or (215) 949-1660 ext., 106.

    REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

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