Burke County Resources Guide

2–1–1 United Way Help Line for Health & Human Services Resources

Caring, local experts are available to provide 24/7 help accessing the best local resources and services to address any need. Most calls, web chats, and text messages are from people looking for help meeting basic needs like housing, food, transportation, and health care.

9–1–1 Burke County Emergency Services

FOR FIRE, MEDICAL or POLICE EMERGENCIES CALL or TEXT 9–1–0

9–8–8 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A crisis worker will listen to the caller and offer information about mental health services in the caller’s local area. The previous Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will continue to function indefinitely. THE CALL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND FREE.

995Hope (The Homeownership Preservation Foundation)

Provides fee, confidential and comprehensive financial and foreclosure prevention education through our national Homeowner’s HOPE™ hotline. Can assist consumers in more than 200 languages that are under financial stress and wanting to understand options or looking toward the future and eager to learn how to better manage finances. Services include Homeowners & Renters assistance, Homebuyers & Reverse Mortgages guidance, and Financial Wellness Resources.

Abernathy Memorial United Methodist

Food Pantry open the 4th Saturday of the month from 9 am-12 pm

A Caring Alternative

Provides psychological and psychiatric assessments; Comprehensive Clinical Assessments; individual and group outpatient therapy for adults, children, and families; intensive in-home services; behavior management consultation; medication management; Day Treatment Services; therapeutic and family foster care; Assertive Community Treatment Team for adults with chronic mental health conditions; Community Support Team for adults; and CAP I/DD (Community Alternatives Program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities) Specialized Consultative Services.

Alcoholics Anonymous–Area 51 District 12

District 12 serves the counties of Catawba, Caldwell, and Burke. A list of area meetings and locations can be found on the website.

Alexander Youth Network

Provides a comprehensive array of services developed to treat children with or at risk for serious emotional disturbance. Services include diagnostic assessment; outpatient therapy; therapeutic, specialized, and intensive foster care; multi-dimensional treatment foster care; and intensive in- home services.

ALFA (AIDS Leadership Foothills Area Alliance, Inc.)

Services: Educates community about HIV/AIDS and related issues. Assists in AIDS prevention efforts. Offers clean injecting supplies and a place to dispose of used needles and syringes. Offers overdose reversal kits. Offers testing for sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and Hepatitis C. Offers safe sex supplies, including condoms and PrEP services. Offers case management and information and referrals to other community resources. All services are free of charge.

ALFA @ Steve’s Place Address: 211 NC HWY 127 S, Hickory, NC 28602 Phone: (828) 999-8367 Services: Condom Distribution, Prep Services, STI Testing, Syringe Exchange, Hep C treatment & Testing.

ALFA @ the Burke Mission Station Address: 305-B W Union Street, Morganton, NC 28665 Phone: (828) 999-7770 Services: Prevention services include HIV/HEPC/STI testing, condoms, Harm Reduction supplies, links to community resources. All services are free of charge.

American Bar Association

North Carolina Free Legal Answers is a virtual legal advice clinic in which qualifying users post civil legal questions at no cost to be answered by pro bono attorneys licensed in their state. Question topics include Family, Divorce, Custody, Housing, Eviction, Homelessness, Consumer Rights, Financial, Work, Employment, Unemployment, Health and Disability, Civil Rights, Income Maintenance, Juvenile and Education Law.

American Diabetes Association Camp Carolina Trails

ADA Camp is a lifeline for children living with diabetes. Camp Carolina Trails is a free overnight camp made possible by a partnership with Victory Junction, which allows us to offer this program at no cost to camp families. Campers will have tons of fun swimming, boating on the lake, challenging themselves on the adventure tower, crafting, and so much more!

American Red Cross

Offers 24-hour disaster and military family emergency service, aid to victims of fire and other disasters, blood donation collections, health classes (CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguard), and disaster preparedness education.

AMOREM, formerly Burke Hospice and Palliative Care & Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care

AMOREM is the result of the 2021 merger of two like-minded, respected, and well-established North Carolina organizations—Burke Hospice and Palliative Care and Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care—to maintain the legacy of 11 | Page AMOREM, continued community-based hospice care. As a non-profit, AMOREM offers a host of life-affirming services such as music and pet therapy, Veterans programs, counseling and community grief support and education. AMOREM provides this care to anyone who needs it, regardless of ability to pay. As AMOREM, we offer our communities more quality, more compassion, and more support

Ashure Ministry (formerly known as Eastern Catawba Cooperative Christian Ministry, Inc. or ECCCM)

Ashure Ministry offers crisis assistance to the people of Catawba County. This includes food support, rent and utility help, and financial training. Ashure Ministry also operates the Thrifty Threads & Treasures Thrift Shop.

Provides emergency financial assistance for mortgage/rent payments, assistance with utility bills, fuel oil, kerosene purchases, life-necessary pharmaceuticals, emergency food and clothing.

Aspire Youth & Family

"Assists young people in overcoming behavioral, emotional, or substance abuse obstacles, so they may realize their full potential. We provide counseling, life skills development, and education through experience, in a supportive environment that emphasizes the strengths of each individual.

We also help our clients and their families strengthen their relationships through family counseling, family events, and parent support groups."

Programs & services include: Kids at Work! (an after-school program led by a chef and an Interpersonal / Vocational Coach, designed to help kids ages 12-17 learn the technical skills of cooking while building better methods of communication. Participants do not have to be enrolled in school to participate), Vocational Directions (a restitution/community service program designed to provide juveniles with accountability for their previous actions while also learning about different careers through exposure at various service sites. The youth learn from the individuals who work in those locations while also contributing to the site and/or those it serves. They also complete processing exercises about their past actions as well as the learning that took place as a result of the program), Mental Health and Substance Counseling (individual and family services for mental health and substance concerns from the Asheville office), and more.

Seves the Piedmont and Western North Carolina Regions. Programs may vary by location.

Assurance Wireless–NC Lifeline Program

FREE wireless phone, 350 FREE minutes with unlimited free texts each month within a nationwide coverage area if you participate in any of the following: Medicaid, SNAP (formerly Food Stamps), SSI, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Section 8 housing, Low Income Energy Assistance Program, National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program; OR, your household income is at or below the eligibility guidelines.

Autism Society of North Carolina

Camp Royall is a hub of year-round activity that offers a caring, accepting atmosphere and celebrates each individual. The 133-acre camp near Pittsboro is the nation’s largest and oldest autism camp, serving thousands of people each year.

Camp Royall provides typical camp activities, including swimming, arts and crafts, hiking, hayrides, and boating. All activities take place in a structured environment to meet the needs of individuals with autism. Our staff is professionally trained to guide campers through all activities.

During the summer, Camp Royall offers residential and day camp. Year-round programs include Family Fun Days, Family Camping, Mini Camps, Adult Retreats, Residential Camps and Day Camps during school breaks, Teen Retreats, and Teen Tuesday (social groups for teens).

BEGINNINGS for Parents of Children Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Inc

Offers free information, support, and advocacy for families who have children with hearing loss, ages birth to 22 years of age.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina

Serves children ages 6-14 (once enrolled can be served until 18), primarily from single-parent families who need an adult friend and/or role model. There are no fees for the service. Both the parent and the child must want a mentor and have a say in the match between child and mentor. Community-based mentors are age 18 or older with transportation; they commit to spending quality one-to-one time with their “Little” twice a month, for a minimum of one year. School-based mentors are aged 16 or older with transportation and commit to going to the student’s school for one hour each week during the school day.

Blue Ridge Community Action, Inc.

Programs include adult day care, childcare, Head Start (ages 3-5), Early Head Start (Birth-3), NC Pre-K, VITA tax assistance, AmeriCorp Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, information and referral, rental units, self-sufficiency case management, and weatherization.

Brighter House

Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) day program for adults with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) utilizing the Clubhouse International methodology.

Burke County – (Government Center)

Burke County, North Carolina government – departments – general information

Burke County 4–H – (North Carolina Cooperative Extension Burke County)

Through 4-H, young people in North Carolina and Burke County learn new skills and serve their communities each year. Burke County 4-H offers boys and girls ages 5-19 opportunities to be involved in clubs, special interest programs, summer camps, and school enrichment. Guided by North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agents and adult and teen volunteers, 4-H'ers gain knowledge, skills and experience that help them become responsible citizens and leaders.

Burke County Care Coordination for Children (CC4C)

Care Coordination for Children (CC4C) is an at-risk population management program that serves children from birth to 5 years of age who meet certain risk criteria. Services provided by CC4C care managers are tailored to patient needs and risk stratification guidelines. A comprehensive health assessment, including the Life Skills Progression, assists the care manager in identifying a child’s needs, plan of care and frequency of contacts required. Contacts occur in medical homes, hospitals, in the community and in children’s homes.

Burke County Children's Advocacy Center – (The Gingerbread House)

Forensic interviewing, forensic medical examinations, mental health counseling services, and multi-disciplinary team and case review. Referrals must come from the Department of Social Services or law enforcement.

Burke County Department of Social Services

Work First, SNAP (formerly Food Stamps), Medicaid, Emergency and General Assistance, Child Protective Services, Child Day Care subsidy, Child Support Enforcement, Foster Care, Foster Home Licensing, Adoption, CAP/DA, and Adult Protective Services.

Burke County Exceptional Children Preschool Services – Burke County Public Schools

Preschool Specialty Services is an early intervention program serving preschool age children. Preschool services may include early education, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy aimed to meet the individual needs of children who are deemed eligible for services through comprehensive evaluations.

Burke County Health Department

Includes General Immunization Clinic, Family Planning Clinic, Pregnancy Testing, Maternity Clinic, HIV Testing, Testing and Treatment for other Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Pregnancy Medical Home (PMH) Program, WIC (Women, Infants and Children), Obstetrics Care Management (OBCM), Health Education Programs, Communicable Disease Management, Care Coordination for Children (CC4C), and Community Preparedness. Environmental services include restaurant inspection, on-site private water and sewage systems, and other regulatory functions.

Burke County Literacy Council

Offers library loans, internet access, and programing for children, young adults, and adults. The mission is to develop readers, communities, and cultural awareness by providing informational, educational, and creative opportunities. See the website for hours of operation.

Burke County Public Schools EL (English Learners) Department

The English Language Department provides English Language development instruction for students who are new to english and provides support for accessing classroom content. The EL department also has an interpreter pool for translation and interpreting services.

Burke County United Way

Removing barriers and improving access to self-sufficiency through financial education programs and coaching; negating homelessness by addressing our homeless populations’ needs through collaboration with community partners; and fostering opportunities and success for youth through programs that support early learning and family engagement. Burke County United Way focuses on root causes, builds strategic partnerships, and mobilizes the community, to build a stronger Burke County.

Burke Health Network

Burke Health Network assists individuals who live in Burke County, between ages of 18-64, are uninsured, and are under the 200% FPL gain access to a medical home by coordinating with community partners and creating resources to improve the whole person care for individuals with low or no income.

Burke Recovery (also known as Burke Council on Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency) & BSAN (Burke Substance Abuse Network)

“Burke Recovery is a local nonprofit agency offering substance abuse treatment and prevention for adults and adolescents; operating with the following mission: to work collaboratively with community partners to prove education/prevention, treatment and recovery support services to all citizens of Burke County regardless of their ability to pay.”

Burke Recovery offers a continuum of care for substance use by prevention (through the provision of community and school-based education, including the Drug-Free Burke program), intervention (through the Adolescent Prevention Services (APS) Program and the ScIP Program), and treatment (Comprehensive Clinical Assessments [CCAs]; outpatient treatment for both adults and adolescents) while also providing harm reduction tools including Narcan (as well as Narcan training) and medication lockboxes. Burke Recovery also runs The Flynn Recovery Community which provides a 90-day integrative, extended-care recovery program for men.

BSAN

"Burke Substance Abuse Network (BSAN) is a coalition of providers, support groups, related agencies and other stakeholders who come together to: (a) network; (b) identify gaps in service; and (c) strategically plan responses to community needs as they relate to the reduction of substance abuse and use in youth, young adults, their families, and all citizens of Burke County, NC for long term community health.

BSAN is facilitated and managed by Burke Recovery, a non-profit substance use treatment and prevention provider serving the residents of Burke County, NC."

Burkemont Baptist Church

Food Pantry open Monday 9 am - 2 pm and Thursday 9 am - 2 pm

Burke United Christian Ministries

Burke United Christian Ministries is a community-based nonprofit providing Burke County residents with nutritious foods (Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry), crisis assistance funds, clothing, services to the homeless community, and community-based recovery support.

C2Life

C2Life affects change through education, nutrition, & community support. Offer a THRIVE - Food is Medicine, a 9-week, lifestyle medicine program providing daily education, plant-based nutrition, coaching & group support to those who are ready to make lifestyle changes. Participants learn how lifestyle changes can help prevent, reduce & even reverse risk factors for heart disease, type II diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's, obesity & more.

Caldwell House (The)

The Caldwell House is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit facility that provides a safe place for 26 recovering alcoholics/addicts; serves as a 24-hour hotline information center for families with substance abuse problems; provides information, guidance, and direction for those who might need detox, treatment or 12-step meetings; provides programs to the schools, churches, and civic organizations. The House accepts only male persons who have completed at least 14 days in a 12-Step inpatient treatment program prior to admission as well as active involvement in the implementation of aftercare plans and employment. They must make at least a 4-month commitment, and pay a weekly residential service fee of $150. Individuals who do not meet certain admission criteria may not be accepted to the Caldwell House.

CareerOneStop – (US Department of Labor)

CareerOneStop is the flagship career, training, and job search website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Emploment and Training Administration. The website serves job seekers, businesses, students, and career advisors with a variety of free online tools, information, and resources to explore career options, find training and education, as well as assist with job search and planning.

Carolina Caring

Providing serious illness care and counseling for Burke and surrounding areas from prenatal to geriatric.

Catawba Valley Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic

Clinic information found on website under the Patient Information tab of the Program Information section. Fee schedule available online.

Services provided at the CVCC Dental Hygiene Clinic are by appointment only and "include taking vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature), performing extra oral and intra oral examinations, providing dental cleanings, exposing and processing radiographs (x-rays), applying topical fluoride, applying pit and fissure sealants, and designing and implementing dental hygiene patient education programs. A licensed dental hygienist and dentist supervise the treatment provided by each student. As a patient, you will receive high quality care at reduced fees in comparison with those found in private dental offices. A parent or legal guardian must accompany individuals and clients under the age of 18 at each appointment.

Payment is due at the time of treatment. If you have dental insurance, you will be required to pay all fees to the CVCC Dental Hygiene Clinic and file the claim with your insurance carrier. Cash and local checks are accepted (no bills accepted larger than $50). We do not accept credit cards or debit cards.

Catawba Valley Healthcare

Catawba Valley Healthcare is an independent, comprehensive, non-profit healthcare organization that offers a wide range of whole-person healthcare and services that integrate physical and mental health.

Emphasizes whole-person healthcare which is based on the foundation that one’s biology, psychology, and sociology must be considered and addressed together to deliver effective healthcare and achieve positive outcomes. Provides primary care, mental health services, intellectual & developmental disabilities services, and community-based services such as mobile crisis management and a jail services program. We serve people with Medicaid, Medicare, and third-party insurance, those who are uninsured and underinsured, those who are homeless, those who are incarcerated or recently incarcerated, as well as those who may face barriers receiving treatment elsewhere.

Catawba Valley Medical Services

Provides in-home health care, senior care services, and disabled adult care services.

Services include the following: Housekeeping, Medical Monitoring, Medication Management, Nursing Care, On-Call Medical Services, Therapy (Occupational, Physical and Speech), Trained Staff Available 24/7, Transportation.

Offers free consultations. Services areas include Morganton, Hickory, Marion and surrounding communities.

Centro Latino

Centro Latino empowers, educates & supports the Latino community in a safe and culturally understanding environment, and promotes unity among the residents throughout the Unifour area. Services include educational programming for Spanish and non-Spanish speaking adults, immigration services, and cultural enrichment opportunities for children and families."

Services & Programs: Resource Connection (referrals), Translation Assistance, ESL Classes, Hosting Mexican Consulate Visits, Educational Workshops, Community Outreach, Community Food Pantry, Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors) Program, Tutoring, Summer Learning Program, Scholarship Opportunities, Enrichment Programs, Immigration Services and more.

Child Care Connections

"Child Care Connections is Burke County's child care resource and referral agency. We help families pay for child care if they qualify, provide training opportunities and technical assistance to our early educators, and we are a sponsor of the Child and Adult Care Food Program."

Provides parents with information on quality childcare, current licensing standards, information about assistance in paying for childcare, and community resources to help meet their needs. For childcare professionals, we offer information and technical assistance with increasing star-rated licenses, technical assistance with areas of need, and professional development opportunities. In addition, we are a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor for family childcare homes. Child Care Connections serves the community with information relating to families, children, and childcare, sponsors and participates in community events and activities related to children, and advocates for quality childcare in Burke County.

Child Custody and Visitation Mediation Program – (NC Judicial Branch)

"In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 50-13.1, all cases involving contested custody and visitation issues of minor children will be sent to the Custody Mediation and Visitation Program before or concurrent with the setting of the matter for hearing, unless the court waives mediation.

Mediation is a guided conversation that provides an alternative way for families to address their parenting conflicts, exchange information, and discuss co-parenting from different homes.

When parents separate or already live in separate homes, they often turn to the court to resolve disputes regarding custody and visitation. Families can save time, money, and the stress of a custody trial if they reach a parenting agreement in the Child Custody and Visitation Mediation Program. If a parenting agreement is completed and signed by both parties, a judge reviews it and may incorporate it into a court order."

Serves to reduce parental acrimony and re-litigation of child custody or visitation disputes in Burke, Catawba, and Caldwell counties. The program accepts court-ordered referrals only and provides a structured confidential nonadversarial setting to facilitate the cooperative resolution of parenting issues by developing a parenting agreement. Participation in the North Carolina Custody Mediation Program requires an orientation class and a mediation session.

Childhelp

"Childhelp exists to meet the physical, emotional, educational and spiritual needs of abused, neglected and at-risk children. We focus our efforts on advocacy, intervention, treatment, prevention, family resilience and community outreach. Childhelp aims not only to address the immediate consequences of child abuse, but also to create a foundation for long-term healing and prevention. By breaking the cycle of abuse, Childhelp strives to empower children and families to lead healthier, more secure lives. hrough our various programs and services, we seek to break the cycle of child abuse and provide healing and hope to those who have experienced abuse."

Programs & Services: Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe (A comprehensive child abuse prevention education curriculum, with age-appropriate lessons, and the only such program listed as evidence-based for all grades Pre-K through 12), National Child Abuse Hotline (Serving the U.S. and Canada, this 24-hour hotline is staffed seven days a week with professional crisis counselors who offer crisis intervention, information and referrals — in more than 170 languages — via call, text and online chat), Courage First Athlete Helpline (The only program of its kind in the nation. Courage First was developed in partnership with the Foundation for GlobalSports Development, and serves athletes, parents, coaches and sports communities who have concerns about abuse in sports in the U.S. and Canada), Advocacy Centers (Childhelp Advocacy Centers provide treatment, intervention and investigation services in a child-friendly and child-centric environment. The goal of the centers is to address the immediate safety and well-being of children referred), Foster Care and Adoption Programs (Provides short and long-term therapeutic care to abused and neglected children. We are licensed to recruit, screen, train and certify foster care and adoptive parents), and The Village (Located in rural Virginia, The Alice C. Tyler Village of Childhelp is a residential psychiatric facility for abused children and adolescents suffering from psychiatric and behavioral disorders).

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline specializes in child abuse, child welfare, and the impact of the trauma of child abuse on survivor’s and loved ones’ mental well-being. Counselors provide support, coping resources, and crisis counseling to helpseekers first and foremost. Counselors also can provide information to help guide helpseekers through the process of making a child maltreatment report and can provide information on how the child welfare system works. The Childhelp hotline has a database of over 10,000 national, local and international resources to help you connect with additional services and can connect to interpretation services being available for 170 languages on crisis calls.

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is NOT a reporting line for child abuse. The hotline is NOT connected to emergency services nor is it a replacement for 911 emergency responsive services.

Children's Cochlear Implant Center at UNC

"The Children’s Cochlear Implant Center at UNC is part of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Department of Otolaryngology at the University of North Carolina Hospital and Clinics. Our pediatric cochlear implant program, which is independent of the adult program, is staffed by audiologists and Listening and Spoken Language certified speech and language pathologists. In addition to world renowned pediatric cochlear implant care, we feature individualized therapy for children with all levels of hearing loss, and learning opportunities for hearing care professionals through mentorships and continuing education programs. We serve children with hearing loss from birth to 21 years of age by providing the complete range of diagnostic and habilitative hearing-related services, as well as quality audiology and speech-language services to children and their families, regardless of their ability to pay."

Supplies communication devices, as well as UNC physician, audiological, and speech services for qualifying children with hearing and other communication disorders. Children enrolled in the financial assistance program must be North Carolina residents under 21 years of age. Their acceptance is also based on family size, income, other medical expenses, and the limitations of insurance and other resources such as Medicaid.

Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA)

The CDSA is the single portal for children ages birth to 3 years old to obtain an evaluation to determine eligibility for the N.C. Infant Toddler Program. Through a team approach with several professionals, this agency provides an in-depth evaluation of a child’s medical, psychological, educational, physical, and speech-language needs. Early intervention service coordinators assist families in locating services and therapies (such as speech, occupational, or physical) as well as other support resources. Parents and others may refer children to the CDSA.

Children’s Home Society of North Carolina

"We specialize in education and prevention programs, family preservation, and adoption and foster care."

Services & Programs: Family Education & Support, Professional and Community Education, Youth Education, Foster Care & Adoption, Lifelong Post Adoption Services, Therapeutic Services, and more.

Children’s Hope Alliance – Morganton Office

"Children’s Hope Alliance (CHA) has been around for 130 years and is committed to helping children and families of all shapes, sizes, and definitions through a vast array of community-based services. Our comprehensive programs give hope to North Carolina’s children and families by providing a safe family home, a pathway to healing, and a healthy start toward a bright future."

Services & Programs in Burke County: Alternatives to Commitment (in-home counseling for court-involved children and teens), Family Support through Catawba Valley Healthy Families (CVHF), Child-focused Assertive Community Treatment Teams (Child ACTT), Foster Care and Adoption Services.

Christmount Conference Center

Camp Lakey Gap is a week-long residential summer camp for people on the autism spectrum at Christmount Conference Center. We serve both children and adults, grouped together by age and assigned to different weeks. Our staff are trained to incorporate evidence-based strategies for supporting people with autism into all elements of our program. Our staff support our campers in experiencing social success with peers, being empowered to take leadership roles, successfully trying new things, and learning to accept and embrace themselves. Additionally, we offer an Adult Virtual Social Group, activity ideas, and caregiver resources.

Sunshine Retreats offer adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to build connections with peers and others in a caring community. With the support of our trained staff, attendees will enjoy a variety of activities designed to accentuate strengths, build upon emerging skills and interests, and return home with renewed confidence and a feeling of efficacy.

City of Morganton – (NC Local Government)

Morganton, North Carolina -Municipal Government DEPARTMENTS City Council City Manager City Attorney Community House CoMMA Performing Arts Center CoMPAS Development & Design Services Electric Services Finance Human Resources IRMS Information Resource Management Systems Main Street Parks & Recreation Public Safety Public Works Water Resources

Cognitive Connection (The)

Works to promote self-sufficiency and pro-social life choices through effective client education, training, and treatment programs.

Services & Programs: Cognitive Behavioral Intervention and Rehabilitation, Outpatient Alcohol & Drug Treatment Programs, Individual Alcohol & Drug Treatment Programs, Family Alcohol & Drug Counseling, Suboxone and Dual Diagnosed Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program, Telehealth Services, Primary Care Services, Weight Management, and Group Therapy programs such as Intensive Outpatient Therapy (IOP), Substance Abuse Comprehensive Outpatient Treatment, and more.

College Foundation of North Carolina

College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) is a free service of the State of North Carolina provided by a collaboration of the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority, Pathways (the University of North Carolina System, the N.C. Community College System, the N.C. Independent Colleges and Universities, and the N.C. Department of Public Instruction) and College Foundation, Inc. CFNC promotes access to N.C. higher education and assists students with education planning, career planning and applying and paying for college.

Communication Disorders Clinics – (Appalachian State University)

"The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences operates two Communication Disorders Clinics within the Beaver College of Health Sciences. We serve people of all ages from the Boone and greater High Country region.

The Charles E. and Geneva S. Scott Scottish Rite Communication Disorders Clinic, located in University Hall, serves children who have speech and language disorders that are primarily behavioral or developmental in nature. Through the generous support of the North Carolina Scottish Rite Masonic Foundation, we are able to provide these services to children regardless of their family's ability to pay.

The Interprofessional Communication Disorders Clinic, located in the Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences, provides speech-language pathology services for adults and children with medically-based communication and swallowing disorders, as well as audiology services."

CompleatKiDZ

Offers Applied Behavioral Analysis, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy

Conflict Resolution Center

The Conflict Resolution Center is a nonprofit community mediation and conflict resolution center serving Catawba, Caldwell, and Burke Counties. Services & programs include mediation, education, anger management classes, Circles (Restorative Community-Building Circles), youth diversion programs and more.

Corporate Angel Network

"Corporate Angel Network (CAN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps cancer patients access the best treatment centers in the United States by arranging free travel on corporate aircraft. Whether a patient is traveling for surgery, clinical trial, or a second opinion, CAN aims to reduce a patient’s physical, emotional and financial stress by providing a seat on a corporate flight.

Participation is open to all cancer patients, as well as bone marrow and stem cell donors and recipients, who are ambulatory and do not require medical assistance while traveling. Eligibility is not based on financial need, and patients may travel as often as necessary."

Crosslink Church

Food Pantry open Thursdays 11 am - 2 pm

Crossnore Communities for Children

"A recognized leader in helping children who have experienced abuse or other trauma reclaim, rebuild, and reimagine the essential belief in a safe, dependable home. For more than 100 years Crossnore Communities for Children has provided a Christian sanctuary of hope and healing for children and families in need from North Carolina. Our holistic model of care allows us to care for and nurture each child’s mind, body and spirit. On-site medical care, trauma-based therapy services, a wide variety of extracurricular enrichment activities, and educational services make us a unique place for children to live, learn, and grow."

Other services include Foster Care and Adoptions, Family Preservation, Youth Independent Living, and Therapy Services.

Division of Employment Security (Unemployment Benefits)

Administers the unemployment insurance program for the state of NC. Benefits are paid to eligible workers who lose their job through no fault of their own and are able, available, and actively seeking work.

Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – Morganton Regional Center

"The Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing works to ensure that all Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind North Carolinians have the ability to communicate their needs and to receive information easily and effectively in all aspects of their lives, especially their health and well-being."

The Morganton Regional Center services the following counties: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Iredell, McDowell, Rutherford, Watauga, Wilkes.

Offers information and/or assistance, presentations, and training sessions. Also, provides access to telecommunications devices (such as amplified phones, text telephones, alerting devices, and hearing aids) for people with limited household income who have a hearing loss or speech impairment. These services are open to Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf-Blind individuals. Family members, professionals, agencies, and individuals seeking information or assistance also have access to these services. There is no charge for these services.

East Burke Christian Ministries

East Burke Christian Ministries is a small crises assistance agency located in Hildebran serving Eastern Burke County. Our main assistance is with food. We also assist financially with past due bills for power and rent, medicine and kerosene. You must live in the Eastern part of Burke County to be able to receive services from East Burke Christian Ministries."

Food Pantry open on Tuesdays from 9am-4pm and Thursdays 9am-noon. Please call to confirm hours and availability of assistance.

Easterseals PORT Health (formerly known as: Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, Inc.) - Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)

"Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a full spectrum, long-term, community-based treatment model for adults with severe and persistent mental health needs that have not been adequately treated by more traditional treatment services. This evidence-based treatment approach involves a high level of coordinated care and supports individuals as they manage their mental health challenges and live independently."

Serves Medicaid participants in Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell counties. Referrals are made through primary care physicians or self referrals on the website.

Eckerd Connects

A national non-profit organization with a family of services including Job Corps, workforce development, foster care, aid for the homeless, transitional services for troubled youth, and so much more. CARING for Children Offers free-of-charge services to children and families in crisis. Services & programs include foster care services, family support and respite services, Angel’s Watch program (temporary support for families in crisis), and more.

Enola Group (The)

Offers innovative services and opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their families, as well as women who are pregnant.

The Enola Group also provides Adult Services for 18 years and older that have intellectual and developmental disabilities, including the licensed Signature Day Program and Signature Living (Alternative Family Living) Program.

Child and family services are also availlable through the Early Head Start program, which provides early childhood education in quality licensed child development classrooms, education and support in families' homes, and family resource centers in Alexander, Burke, and Caldwell counties. This program promotes the health and well-being of children and adults.

Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center

Offers help for parents across North Carolina to navigate the special education system, know their rights, and use their voice. Provides information, support, training, and resources to assist families caring for children with special needs from birth to age 26. Also supports young adults with disabilities in becoming self-advocates and leaders and the educators and professionals who serve them. All ECAC services are provided at no cost to families. Spanish-speaking staff are available.

EyeCare America

Offers no or low cost comprehensive eyecare by volunteer ophthalmologists to eligible individuals.

Family Caregiver Support Program (The) - a program of The Western Piedmont Council of Governments (WPCOG)

The Family Caregiver Support Program offers information, resources, and support for caregivers aged 18 and over who are caring for someone over the age of 60 or caregivers of a person with Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia. The program also serves grandparents or relative caregivers who are 55 years and older and are providing care for adult children with a disability who are between 19 and 59 years of age.

Services in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties include the following: Information and Assistance, Caregiver Support and Training, Respite Care, and Limited Supplemental Services.

Family Support Network/HOPE

Family Support Network/HOPE provides information, support, and training for families in promoting the education, development, and quality of life for their children of all ages and with all types of special healthcare needs and disabilities in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell Counties.

Family, Infant and Preschool Program Services – (FIPP)

"The Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP) serves families of young children with and without disabilities in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell counties. We also proudly serve as an international research and training institute as well as a community-based model demonstration program for children (ages birth to five years), families, and women who are pregnant."

FIPP provides developmental services and medical support, and assists families with support for their children’s learning and development in their homes and communities. Highly-skilled team members hold degrees in early childhood education, early childhood special education, nursing, nutrition, occupational therapy, assistive technology, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology.

First Baptist Church of Drexel

Offers a food ministry / food pantry to community members in need on the 2nd Sunday of every month starting at 5:45 pm. You must bring a photo ID.

First United Methodist Church of Valdese

Offers community resources including the Dry Bottoms Ministry (on the 2nd Tuesday each month, baby items - diapers, cleaning wipes, etc. - are available for babies and children up to 3 years of age that are residents of Burke County) and Hygiene Closet (open on the 1st Monday of every month at 5:00 PM to distribute cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items to those in need as well as fellowship and devotion time). Must provide proof of address.

FOCUS Behavioral Health Services, LLC

"FOCUS Behavioral Health Services, LLC in close collaboration with families and communities, will provide effective prevention, treatment and support by empowering children and their families to achieve optimum health. We offer a full continuum of care for children and their families. We work closely with community stake-holders, including; primary care physicians, DSS, DJJDP, Guardian Ad Litem, public school system, LME, and other mental health agencies to ensure that all care given to consumers and their families is as integrated and comprehensive as feasibly possible."

Services & Porgrams: Day Treatment Services (through partnership with the local school systems as well as with the North Carolina Department of Non-Public Schools, we serve youth that have emotional and behavioral problems that interfere with their ability to have a successful experience in the public school system), Outpatient Services (services received are based on a detailed assessment conducted during the initial session with a licensed clinician), and Residential Services (for high risk adolescent males with a history of sexualized behaviors).

Foothills Service Project

"Foothills Service Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Christian home repair ministry established for the purpose of assisting persons in Burke and surrounding counties to make homes dry, safe, warm, and accessible. Our project is committed to honoring the God-given dignity and value of all people, regardless of race, color or creed. We intend to promote the physical, and the spiritual health of all those who need help but are lacking knowledge or physical ability to help themselves with emphasis on assisting the older adult population." Call or email for inquiries and service requests.

Foothills Thrift Store – (Foothills Service Project)

Foothills Thrift Stores serve the local community by providing a wide range of affordable, quality merchandise. Our stores feature clothing, furniture, jewelry, books, linens, cookware, electronics, and more. New items arrive daily so make plans to visit often!

Frye Regional Medical Center – South Campus

Frye Regional’s South Campus is an 81-bed behavioral health hospital that offers treatment for adults suffering from emotional, behavioral and addictive difficulties.

FUTuRES (Families United to Resources and Education through the Schools)

Family Support Specialists that provide programs as well as connection for parents and families to resources within the school and community.

Programs:

Circle of Parents: Provides a safe, relaxed environment at schools and in the community throughout the school year for grandparents and kinship caregivers to share ideas, fears, frustrations, and achievements. Groups meet weekly. Dates, times and locations are determined each school year. Circle of Parents groups include Circle of Grandparents and Circle of Parents Mamas Latinas Group (Spanish translation & breakfast provided). Open to all families in Burke County.

Triple P Parenting Program: Triple P is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of raising children in a warm and trusting household. It is founded on the belief that a child who is cared for can learn to care for him or herself and can transfer that caring to others and to the environment. This program is open to Burke County families with at least one child between 3-12 years of age. Can not take open DSS cases.

Glen Alpine Food Pantry, Inc.

Food Pantry. Providing supplemental food to families in need in Glen Alpine and Burke County.

Good Samaritan Clinic, Inc.

Good Samaritan Clinic is an interdenominational faith-based ministry providing medical care, dental care, mental health counseling, farm worker outreach, confidential HIV testing and counseling, ancillary services, and prescription medications to Burke County residents between the ages of 18-64 who are without private insurance, government assistance, or the financial resources to afford such care has a household income less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. No one is ever refused services based on race, gender, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation. Good Samaritan Clinic was founded on the belief that healthcare is an essential right for all, regardless of income.

Greenway Public Transportation

Greenway Public Transportation provides around 250,000 boardings each year to residents living in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba County. Greenway is a responsible transportation solution and an excellent way to build a cleaner, more vibrant, healthier and less congested community.

Also provides free Travel Training for residents that are unsure of how to use the bus system. The "dial-a-ride" demand response and paratransit services cover Catawba, Burke, Alexander, and Caldwell Counties by appointment. Third party language translation services are available by calling the office.

Guardian ad Litem (GAL) – Burke County

Guardian ad Litem (GAL) equips community volunteers to serve abused and neglected children by advocating for their best interests in court and conduct independent investigations to determine the facts, needs of the child, and the resources appropriate to meet those needs.

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) advocate is a trained community volunteer who is appointed, along with a Guardian ad Litem Attorney Advocate, by a district court judge to investigate and determine the needs of abused and neglected children petitioned into the court system by a department of social services. The GAL’s role is mandated by North Carolina General Statute 7B-601.

Our Program exists in every county throughout the State.

Habitat for Humanity of Burke County

Builds affordable homes for qualified people. Participants must live in Burke County and currently live in overcrowded or substandard, unsafe housing conditions; have steady, verifiable income making enough money to make a house payment but not so much that one would qualify for a loan at a bank; have a decent credit report; and be willing to help build their house and the houses of others. Also operates Burke County Habitat For Humanity ReStore, where "donated items become someone else's treasure."

Hands of Hope -Manos de Esperanza

Help with food, hygiene products resources needs in crisis. Access to legal aid, etc. This non-profit is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community by providing essential support and resources to those in need as well as having access to legal aid. Also, with one-on-one help with filing out SNAP or Medicaid applications if needed. This non-profit also stepped up after Helene and organized volunteers in our community helping to distribute food, water, and other essentials.

High Country Community Health

High Country Community Health has locations in Avery, Burke, Watauga, and Surry Counties in western North Carolina. Provides quality, patient-centered, culturally appropriate, affordable and compassionate care and integrated care for all, regardless of ability to pay, that serves the whole person. Services include Primary Care, Medical & Pediatric Care, Dental, Behavior Health, School-Based Mental Health Services, Health & Nutrition, 340B Pharmacy, 340B Drug Discount Program, Farm Worker Health, Medicaid Expansion Program and more. A sliding fee application can be found online.

Hope4NC Helpline

In a disaster, it's essential that first responders and volunteers have the resources they need—when and where they need them.

If you are a first responder or volunteer experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, you can call the Hope4NC Helpline, 1-855-587-3463. Hope4NC is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Hope4NC is a Crisis Counseling Program which will provide immediate support and crisis counseling services for responders and volunteers providing hurricane disaster response.

House of Refuge Ministries (The)

The House of Refuge Ministries exists to meet the needs of homeless men in the Morganton area to help end homelessness in Burke County. As a faith-driven outreach, we strive to restore men to hopeful, productive, independent, and healthy living through compassion, dignity, and excellence. While our priority is to provide safe housing, holistic personal care, and material support to those in need, we are also committed to advocacy and awareness in our community for the benefit and well-being of all citizens. The Morganton areas’ only private faith-based, non-denominational emergency mass shelter for homeless men, eighteen years of age and up. Our daily goal is to provide basic housing and material support to men who have become homeless, and restore them to a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, we designate a portion of shelter beds to men who qualify for transitional housing.

Open daily from 4:30pm to 8:00am, 365 days a year, we offer a safe and positive haven from the streets, a clean bed in which to sleep, two hot meals each day, shower and laundry facilities, various media connections, and social/recreational interaction. The shelter has the capacity to host fourteen guests.

Admission Criteria and other information can be found online.

Humanitarian Foundation (Grottoes of North Carolina)

Grottoes International Humanitarian Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that brings “Special Smiles” to children with special needs by providing them much-needed dental care.

The program helps cover the cost of dental treatment and anesthesia costs, whether done in a hospital setting or dental office. We do not cover the hospital costs.

The Dental Care for Children with Special Needs Program is designed for people or children under 21 with one or more of the following conditions: cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular disorders, intellectual disabilities, including Downs Syndrome for profound to 2 years overall delayed, and organ transplant recipients pre & post.

Medicaid patients are not covered by the program. The Dental Care for Children with Special Needs Program is the secondary carrier when insurance is involved and acts as the primary carrier if no insurance is available, and covers the maximum allowable fees as determined by the Humanitarian Foundation.

Industrial Commons (The)

"We bring our values to life by fostering the growth of community-owned businesses and cooperatives. Our approach includes financial support through the Capital for the Commons loan fund and the Land for the Commons development initiative. These resources provide start-up co-ops with the initial capital they need, setting in motion a cycle that supports new and existing projects within our ecosystem.

We further support these ventures, and others, with a comprehensive range of programs aligned with our core values, aimed at ensuring long-term success. Our initiatives extend to workforce development and training, offering opportunities for community members, students, and young workers to engage actively in shaping a promising future for labor. Our educational programs span traditional regional industries experiencing revival, such as sewing and upholstery, alongside essential skills like workplace management and bookkeeping. We also guide businesses through the transition to worker ownership, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive economic landscape."

The Industrial Commoms Ecosystem includes the Carolina Textile District, Material Return, Good Books, Work in Burke, and TOSS. See website for more details.

InfantSEE

InfantSEE, a public health program, managed by Optometry Cares - The AOA Foundation, is designed to ensure that eye and vision care becomes an integral part of infant wellness care to improve a child's quality of life. Under this program, AOA member optometrists provide a no-cost comprehensive eye and vision assessment for infants 6-12 months old regardless of a family's income or access to insurance coverage. InfantSEE provides early intervention using necessary specialized equipment and procedures - which are not available as part of most vision screenings.

Job Corps

Job Corps is an education and training program that helps young people learn skills and resources to be successful in a career, earn a high school diploma or GED, train in one of 10 different industries, and engage with a supportive community to access graduate resources and connections.

Eligible students receive free housing, meals, basic medical care, and a living allowance. For admissions and other information, visit their website.

Juvenile Crime Prevention Council

"The purpose of the council is to assess the needs of at-risk youth in Burke County giving particular attention to the offenders on a continuing basis. They also assist the county in planning delinquency prevention programs and recommending community-based alternatives to becoming involved in the justice system. Finally, they evaluate programs receiving community-based alternatives funds or recommend new programs for Juvenile Crime Prevention Council funds to meet the continued need. Members of the Council are appointed by the Burke County Commissioners"

Khan Academy

Free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. These resoruces are being translated into more than 36 languages.

"With practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalized learning dashboard, Khan Academy empowers learners to study at their own pace, both in and out of the classroom. Covering subjects from kindergarten through early college, including math, science, reading, computing, history, art history, economics, financial literacy, SAT, MCAT, and more, Khan Academy focuses on skill mastery to help learners build the strong foundations they need to succeed in higher education and in their careers."

Legal Aid of North Carolina

"Legal Aid of North Carolina provides free legal help when people need it most because everyone deserves an advocate when their home, health or livelihood is on the line.

Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide, nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services in civil matters to low-income people in order to ensure equal access to justice and to remove legal barriers to economic opportunity." The Foothills office serves Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell counties.

LifeWorks/Brian S. Hissom & Associates, PLLC

"Provides professional mental health counseling, psychological, behavioral health, and employee assistance (EAP) services to help organizations, families, and people of all ages reach their full potential. With offices in Hickory and Morganton, NC, we also provide on-site services for employers, medical practices, and human services organizations."

Make-A-Wish® Central & Western North Carolina

Grants wishes for children with critical illnesses.

"For children diagnosed with critical illnesses, a wish come true can be a crucial turning point in their lives. A wish can be that spark that helps these children believe that anything is possible and gives them the strength to fight harder against their illnesses. This impact is why we are driven to make every one of these wishes come true."

March of Dimes

"March of Dimes is a nonprofit organization committed to ending preventable maternal health risks and death, ending preventable preterm birth and infant death and closing the health equity gap for all families. They are dedicated to funding lifesaving research, providing programs and education and advocating for vital health equity to create a world where every family, mom and baby are healthy and strong, regardless of wealth, race, gender or geography. March of Dimes focuses on critical issues affecting moms and babies from prematurity and health equity to maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. They’re in communities across the country supporting moms and babies with research, education, advocacy and programs to be healthy and strong. Today, we serve as a convener to unite the nation and improve maternal and infant health in the U.S."

Online Services & programs: Prenatal education, support and care, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) initiatives, professional education for health care professionals, patient education and more.