FAQs
Do you serve people living outside of south Kansas City?
Yes, absolutely! There are certain programs that require participants to live in south Kansas City (defined as Kansas City limits south of 87th street). These programs include our clothing closet, general pantry food, and rent and utilities assistance. However, people living outside of south Kansas City can still get food through our USDA-funded Emergency Food Assistance Program, can participate in life skills classes, and receive case management. Our motto is: When in doubt, reach out! Even if you are outside of the service area for services you need, our experienced staff can point you in the right direction to find services in your area.
Do you have any walk-in services?
Yes. While most of our services require that you call ahead for an appointment, we do have walk-in pantry services Monday mornings from 9:30-11 a.m., and clothing closet walk-ins Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. We still encourage you to call first, just because if it is your first time, there will be paperwork and documents that you will need to bring with you to get started, and we want to make sure you come with everything you will need to get services when you come in.
I need help or know someone who does. Now what?
Give us a call at (816) 763-3277 or email info@cackc.org and we will be happy to assist you. If you need immediate assistance after CAC hours, we recommend that you call United Way's free and confidential 2-1-1 phone line where they can help you find the most appropriate resources for your needs.
How can I, as a business owner or representative of a church, support CAC and the needs of people in poverty?
For the past 40 years, local businesses and churches have been absolutely essential in allowing CAC to serve people in need in our community. Common ways to get involved include: monthly or one-time giving (note that our donation page has an option for company giving), sponsoring the Fall banquet, hosting food and/or clothing drives, allowing CAC to organize team-building group volunteer opportunities for your staff or congregation, advocating for CAC through business/church websites and social media, and offering in-kind donations of services either specifically for CAC or for CAC clients. We would be more than happy to help find a meaningful opportunity for your business. While you can contact CAC through the organizational phone and email, we recommend reaching out directly to the Executive Director, April Diaz, at (816) 763-3277, x103, or by email at aprildiaz@cackc.org.
How can I, as an individual, support CAC and the needs of people in poverty?
The opportunities for individual community members to get involved are endless. Of course, monthly and one-time donations are always needed to help the most families. We also need dozens of volunteers to help with all programs. Whether you are looking for a one-time opportunity, something long-term, or an in-depth internship, we can put your compassion to work for the community! You can also review our Other Ways to Give page for more ideas. If you're still not finding exactly what you're looking for, then reach out to us and we can have you come in for a tour, meet with you, and discuss potential new ways of partnership. And if you're not sure you want to commit to anything, but want to know more about CAC, then let us know and we can set you up for a one-time or short-term volunteer shadowing experience!