Prices for groceries, rent and utilities keep climbing, and many Columbus families are stretching every dollar. The good news: there is real help available right here at home, much of it free. Here's what you can get now and how to get it.

Not sure where to start? Dial 2-1-1

The United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley runs 211, a free and confidential help line that connects you with local resources for food, housing, utilities, health care and mental health services. Dial 211, or text your ZIP code to 898-211. Local operators are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and help is available in multiple languages. You can also browse resources at unitedcv.org.

Food for your family

• Food pantries: Feeding the Valley, the regional food bank, works with pantries and churches across Columbus and runs mobile pantries in neighborhoods without one nearby. Find the closest pantry at feedingthevalley.org.
• SNAP (food stamps): Apply online through Georgia Gateway at gateway.ga.gov.
• WIC for moms, babies and young children: WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition help and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new mothers and children under 5. The Columbus WIC office is at 5601 Veterans Parkway (lower level). Call 706-321-6374, or the appointment line at 800-789-5502. You can apply in person or by phone.

Free school meals

Most Muscogee County School District schools serve free breakfast and lunch to every student, with no application needed, through a federal program called the Community Eligibility Provision. At the remaining schools, families can apply for free or reduced-price meals. Ask your child's school which applies.

Help with your power or gas bill

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible families pay heating and cooling bills. In Muscogee County, it's run by the Enrichment Services Program (ESP). You need an appointment, which you can make online at enrichmentservices.org (choose "Energy Assistance") or by calling 706-257-0004.

Bring proof of income for the past 30 days, Social Security numbers for everyone in the household, your current electric or gas bill, proof of citizenship or legal immigrant status, and a photo ID. Appointments go fast when cold weather arrives, so don't wait.

Free fun for the whole family

• National Infantry Museum: Free admission to one of the best military museums in the country, at 1775 Legacy Way. There's a suggested $5 donation, and the theater and simulators cost extra.
• The Columbus Museum: Free admission to art and Chattahoochee Valley history at 1251 Wynnton Road, recently renovated with new family spaces. It's open Tuesday through Sunday and until 8 p.m. on Thursdays.
• The Chattahoochee RiverWalk: Miles of free trail for walking, biking and watching the river.
• Your library card: A free card from Chattahoochee Valley Libraries gets you books, movies, free Wi-Fi, laptops to use in the library, free online tutoring and test prep, and free family passes to attractions including Atlanta's Center for Puppetry Arts. Bring a photo ID to any branch to sign up.

Free pre-K

Georgia's Pre-K Program is free for 4-year-olds, regardless of family income. Classes are offered at public schools and private child care centers across Columbus. Find a program through Bright from the Start at decal.ga.gov.

Know of a program we missed?

Email [email protected], and we'll add it to this guide. Have a free community event coming up? Post your flyer at columbustimes.com/events/submit.