Immediate Needs & Support
Becoming a parent can feel overwhelming, but support is always within reach. Utah has programs for food, healthcare, diapers, childcare, and more, all designed to help you and your baby thrive. Reaching out isn’t weakness—it’s love in action. Every small step you take matters, and there are people who care and want to see you succeed. Breathe. Hug your baby. You’ve got this—and we’re cheering you on.
Quick Links
WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
WIC is a nutrition program for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5. It helps families with low or moderate incomes get healthy food, nutrition advice, and support so both you and your child can thrive.
What They Offer
- Nutritious food supplements – Free healthy foods like formula, baby cereal, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help you and your child stay nourished.
- Nutrition counseling – Practical advice and one-on-one guidance on healthy eating for you and your child.
- Breastfeeding support – Trained staff to answer questions and provide help if you choose to nurse.
- Referrals to other services – Connections to health care, immunizations, and community resources for extra support.
How to Get Help
Call: 1-877-WIC-KIDS (1-877-942-5437) for the Utah WIC Program.
Website: wic.utah.gov for clinic locations, online applications, and appointment requests.
You can also apply in person at your local health department’s WIC clinic—offices are available in every county.
Why It Matters
WIC can ease some of the financial stress of feeding yourself and your baby, so you don’t have to worry about going without essentials. You’ll get caring support from people who understand parenting and want you to succeed. It’s okay to reach for this help—WIC is here to make sure you and your child get the nourishment and care you both deserve.
Medicaid for Pregnant Women & Children
Medicaid is public health insurance for those who qualify based on income, with special programs in Utah for pregnant women, new moms, and children. If you’re pregnant or just had a baby, Medicaid can cover medical care at little or no cost, so you and your baby get the healthcare you need.
What They Offer
- Pregnancy and birth coverage – Doctor’s visits, ultrasounds, lab tests, and hospital delivery, all covered throughout your pregnancy and for 12 months after birth.
- Baby’s health coverage – Babies born to mothers on Medicaid are automatically covered for at least their first year.
- Postpartum care – Full health coverage for mothers for a year after delivery, including check-ups and postpartum care.
- Healthcare for kids – Ongoing coverage for children in low-income families, including doctor visits, emergency care, prescriptions, dental, and vision care.
How to Get Help
Apply online: jobs.utah.gov/mycase or get a paper application at any Department of Workforce Services (DWS) office.
Call: Medicaid hotline at 1-866-435-7414 for assistance, or the Baby Your Baby hotline at 1-800-826-9662 for help with prenatal applications.
In person: Local DWS Family Employment Centers can help you apply, and hospital or clinic staff can often assist with the process.
Why It Matters
Medicaid is a safety net—making sure you and your baby can see a doctor, get medicines, and handle emergencies without the stress of big medical bills. Prenatal and postpartum care helps you stay healthy, and your baby can get all the check-ups and shots they need. You deserve this peace of mind, knowing care is available even when money is tight.
SNAP (Food Stamps)
SNAP, sometimes called “food stamps,” helps low-income families buy groceries using an electronic benefits card (EBT). If you’re worried about affording enough food for yourself and your baby, SNAP can provide monthly funds so you can keep healthy meals on the table.
What They Offer
- Monthly food assistance – A set dollar amount each month loaded onto an EBT card, which you can use to buy food at most grocery stores and some farmers’ markets.
- Wide choice of foods – Buy fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, baby food, and more—almost all basic groceries are covered.
- Fast help for urgent needs – Emergency applications can sometimes provide benefits within days for new parents with very low or no income.
How to Get Help
Apply online: jobs.utah.gov/mycase, or visit any DWS Employment Center for a paper application and in-person help.
Call: 1-866-435-7414 for application assistance, or the Utahns Against Hunger hotline at 1-800-453-3663 for questions or guidance.
Why It Matters
SNAP can help you get the food you need to recover, breastfeed, or simply stay strong while caring for your baby. By lifting some of the grocery burden, SNAP lets you focus your money and energy on what matters most—your family’s well-being. There is no shame in using this support; it exists so parents and children never have to go hungry.
Birth Certificate Application
A birth certificate is your baby’s first official ID—a legal document proving their birth, identity, and parentage. You’ll need it for things like health insurance, Social Security, and enrolling in important programs. In Utah, these are handled by the Office of Vital Records and Statistics.
What They Offer
- Certified proof of birth – Legal documentation needed for insurance, Social Security, and other benefits.
- Multiple copies – You can request certified copies (for a small fee), which you’ll need for many situations.
- Assistance with paperwork – Guidance for registering a birth, even if not done at the hospital or if you need to file after leaving the hospital.
How to Get Help
If you delivered in a hospital, staff usually submit the paperwork for you—you’ll get a notification or worksheet.
Order online or by mail: vitalrecords.utah.gov using the SILVER or VitalChek system.
In person: Utah Office of Vital Records in Salt Lake City, or most county health departments can print certificates on-site if you show photo ID.
Call: 801-538-6105 to speak to the Birth Registration team for guidance.
Email: birthregistration@utah.gov
If the certificate fee is a hardship, ask about assistance or possible waivers—help may be available if you qualify.
Why It Matters
Getting your baby’s birth certificate early clears the way for other important steps—like insurance, Social Security, or public benefits. It’s peace of mind knowing your child’s identity is official and secure, and it prevents last-minute stress when paperwork is needed. Taking care of this early on gives your child a solid foundation and lets you focus on bonding and caring for your newborn.
Car Seat Safety Checks & Assistance
Car seat programs help make sure your baby’s car seat is safe, fits your child, and is installed correctly. Certified technicians offer hands-on education, safety inspections, and even provide free or low-cost car seats to families who qualify—so you can drive with confidence and peace of mind.
What They Offer
- Car seat safety inspections – Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians check your car seat for proper installation and fit, and guide you on using it safely.
- Education on proper use – Learn step-by-step how to install and adjust your car seat, when to switch seats, and how to keep up with safety as your child grows.
- Low-cost or free car seats – If you qualify (WIC, Medicaid, SNAP), many local programs provide car seats at a reduced price or even free to make sure every baby rides safely.
- Replacement and recall information – Get help if your seat was in a crash, is expired, or was recalled—technicians can direct you to safe replacement options.
How to Get Help
Call: Your local county health department for car seat programs and appointments or 2-1-1 and ask about car seat programs.
Website: clickit.utah.gov for a statewide list of inspection locations and event times.
Other options: Safe Kids Coalitions, many hospitals, and sometimes fire or police stations offer car seat checks—call ahead to confirm. The Utah Highway Safety Office’s Occupant Protection Program (801-505-3315) can connect you with resources statewide.
If cost is a barrier, let the program staff know—they may have free car seats or can direct you to partner organizations.
Why It Matters
Having your car seat checked by a professional takes away the guesswork and helps keep your baby as safe as possible on the road. You’ll get real answers to your questions, and you’ll know your child is protected, no matter your budget or experience level. This support helps you feel empowered and confident as a parent, knowing you’re doing everything you can to keep your little one safe every time you drive.
Diaper Assistance
Diaper assistance programs help families who need extra support by providing free diapers and sometimes wipes, formula, or other essentials. With the high cost and constant need for diapers, these programs make sure every baby can stay clean, dry, and healthy—no matter the family’s financial situation.
What They Offer
- Free diapers and wipes – Diaper banks and partners distribute disposable (and sometimes cloth) diapers for babies and toddlers at no cost, often with a set number per child each month.
- Multiple distribution sites – Diapers are available through a wide network of food pantries, churches, and family support agencies across Utah—help is likely available close to home.
- Basic baby supplies – Some programs also provide formula, baby food, baby shampoo, or gently used clothing when available—just ask if you have additional needs.
How to Get Help
Call: 2-1-1 to ask for diaper assistance locations near you.
Website: utahdiaperbank.org for lists of partner organizations and distribution sites statewide.
Local resources: Check with food pantries, United Way agencies, churches, and family support centers in your area.
Most places will ask for photo ID and sometimes proof of your child’s age or your income—don’t worry, staff are kind and understand the need.
Why It Matters
Running low on diapers is stressful and can happen to anyone. By reaching out for diaper help, you can keep your baby comfortable and healthy, and relieve some financial pressure. Every parent deserves support, and these programs exist to remind you that your community cares about you and your little one. Getting this help means one less worry on your shoulders and more time to enjoy your baby.
Utah 2-1-1 Helpline (General Help Line)
2-1-1 is a free, confidential helpline that connects you to hundreds of programs for everything from housing and food to counseling and childcare. Trained specialists listen to your situation and guide you to the right resources, making it easier to find help when you don’t know where to start.
What They Offer
- Resource navigation – Specialists learn about your needs and provide contact info for agencies and programs that can help—whether you need food, rent help, medical care, or parenting support.
- Available 24/7 – You can call anytime, day or night, and someone will be there to listen and assist.
- Multilingual and accessible – Spanish-speaking staff and interpreters are available, and the service is accessible for those with hearing or speech disabilities.
- Comprehensive information – Help is available for immediate needs (like shelter or tonight’s meal) as well as long-term support like employment, legal aid, or classes.
How to Get Help
Call: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Utah. If 2-1-1 doesn’t work, call 1-888-826-9790.
Website: 211utah.org to search the database or use live chat on weekdays.
Text: Your zip code to 898-211 for help by text message.
Just explain your situation—the specialists will walk you through the options and give you what you need to get started.
Why It Matters
You don’t have to know exactly what to ask for—2-1-1 is there to help you sort out overwhelming problems and connect you to practical solutions. The people who answer are patient, kind, and truly want to help. Reaching out can bring relief, clarity, and real support, so you can focus on loving and caring for your baby with a little more hope and a lot less stress.
Family Support Centers (Crisis Nurseries)
Family Support Centers, including Crisis Nurseries, offer safe, free childcare when you’re facing an emergency or just need a short break. Whether you’re dealing with a crisis, an appointment with no childcare, or simply feeling overwhelmed, these centers provide a nurturing space for your child—so you can take care of yourself, knowing your little one is in good hands.
What They Offer
- Short-term respite care – Free, scheduled childcare for babies and children up to age 11, so parents can rest, run errands, or regroup—no extreme crisis needed.
- Crisis overnight care – Emergency childcare for up to 72 hours in serious situations (illness, hospitalization, domestic violence, etc.), including overnight stays with caring staff.
- Trained, loving caregivers – Staff with expertise in childcare and trauma-informed care provide meals, play, and comfort in a safe, home-like environment.
- Additional family support – Many centers offer parenting classes, support groups, counseling, and referrals for housing or other needs—no judgment, just support.
How to Get Help
Salt Lake County: Call the Family Support Center to schedule care at one of three nurseries (Sugar House, West Valley, Midvale): 385-231-1209 (weekdays), or 801-635-8510 (24-hour emergency line).
Website: familysupportcenter.org for info, locations, and after-hours help.
Utah County: Family Haven (Orem) crisis nursery, 801-229-1181, 1255 N 1200 W, Orem.
Weber/Morgan Counties: Family Support Center of Ogden, 801-394-5926.
Statewide: Visit utahfamilies.org to find a crisis nursery in your area, or call 2-1-1 for the closest support center.
When arranging care, you’ll fill out a basic form, give emergency info, and show photo ID at drop-off/pick-up. Everything is confidential—just explain you need crisis nursery services and staff will help.
Why It Matters
Parenting is hard, and everyone reaches a breaking point sometimes—needing help is normal, not a sign of failure. Crisis nurseries provide a compassionate safety net so your child is cared for while you regroup, rest, or handle urgent needs. These centers exist to prevent burnout, stress, and harm, helping you be the strong, loving parent you want to be. You’ll find reassurance, support, and a community that understands—so you can come back to your child rested, recharged, and ready to keep going.
Home Visiting Programs for New Parents (Nurse & Parent Support)
Home visiting programs send trained nurses or parent educators to your home to support you after your baby is born. These free, voluntary visits help answer questions, check on you and your baby’s health, and offer parenting advice—all in the comfort of your own space, at a time when it might be hard to get out.
What They Offer
- Regular home visits – Nurses or educators come weekly, biweekly, or monthly (as you choose) during pregnancy and after birth—sometimes up to toddlerhood.
- Health check-ups and development checks – Baby’s growth and development are monitored, and your health as a parent is supported.
- Emotional support – Screenings and support for postpartum depression, someone to listen, and referrals if you need more help.
- Parenting education and coaching – Learn everything from newborn care and soothing techniques to babyproofing, early learning activities, and positive parenting.
- Referrals and resources – Help connecting with other programs (like WIC, diaper banks, food assistance) so you don’t have to navigate alone.
- Free goodies and incentives – Some programs offer books, baby kits, or small gifts for participating.
How to Get Help
Local Health Departments: Most counties offer home visitation services; call your county’s maternal/child health division (2-1-1 can help you find the number!)
Welcome Baby (United Way): In Utah County, call United Way of Utah County at 801-374-8108 or visit unitedwayuc.org.
For Northern Utah (Weber/Ogden): United Way of Northern Utah, 801-399-5584.
Ask your OB, pediatrician, or clinic social worker—they can refer you directly.
State resources: Visit familyhealth.utah.gov for an interactive county map and contact form, or call 2-1-1 and ask for “home visiting programs for new parents.”
When you reach out, staff will walk you through enrollment and match you with a visitor. Participation is always voluntary, and you choose how involved you want to be.
Why It Matters
Having expert support come to you—checking on your baby’s growth, answering your “Is this normal?” questions, and caring about your well-being—can bring enormous relief in the early months. Home visiting builds confidence and reminds you that you’re doing a good job, even when things feel hard. Many parents develop lasting, supportive relationships with their home visitor and feel less alone during a vulnerable time. Letting someone in to help is a sign of strength—your baby, and you, both deserve all the support and kindness your community can offer.