Frequently Asked Questions

SEARCHING

How do I find resources that provide services I am looking for?

There are several ways to search:

Common Searches are the recommended method for your first search. These are searches which have been pre-defined by the site's administrators to match you quickly with popular services. Simply click the name of a search term to view the search results. You will be able to customize the search criteria on the Search Results page, such as adding your ZIP code.

The Simple Search is a simple text search. Type what you are looking for into the search bar. For example, if you would like a list of food banks, type "food bank". If you are looking for multiple services or resources, search for one at a time to maximize your search results. Using general terms ("food" instead of "milk") will also give you more results. You can also use the Simple Search to locate a specific provider by searching for its name.

The Advanced Search allows for very specific searches. You can specify a topic and a location, or taxonomy codes, or shelters.

The Service Tree allows you to browse by service categories. The categories start off broad and become more specific as you click. Once you have found the exact service you need click on the providers who offer that service to get their details.

How do I refine my search results?

On the Search Results page there is a link titled "Add a location and other properties." Click that link to reveal the refinement options. Make your changes, then click "Update My Results."

How do I find a specific agency or program?

Using the Simple Search, type the name you are looking for into the search bar. If the agency does not show up in your search results try only using keywords from the agency' name.

How do I find the details about agencies and services?

To view a provider' details, click on its name from the Search Results page.

Every provider profile page lists the services that provider offers. To view the details for a specific service, click on its name.

Can I save my search results so that I can access those resources later?

Yes. Once you have created an account (which is free), you can add a resource group to your account. Click "My Account" in the main menu, then click "Manage my resource groups," then click "Create your first group." Give the group a name and a description, then click "Save Group."

After creating a resource group you can save resources to your group by visiting a provider' profile page. An option will be available titled "Add Resource to a Group." Select your group from the drop-down list then click the "Add" button.

You can access your resource groups at any time on the My Account page. Click on "Manage my resource groups," then click on the name of a group to see all the providers saved there.

MY ACCOUNT

Do I need an account to use this site?

No. Searching this site does not require an account. Most users do not need or use an account. Having an account only gives you a few extra options for specific tasks.

Do I have to pay to create an account?

No, creating an account is free.

What does having an account allow me to do?

Creating an account allows you to save your search results, to submit change-requests on provider profiles, and to submit requests for new resources to be added to the database. You do not need an account to search the directory or to send provider information via text messages or email.

How do I create an account?

Click on the "My Account" link in the main menu. This will take you to a log-in screen. Click the option labeled "I want to create an account." This will take you to a registration form. Enter the required information then click "Register." Next, click on "My Account" again to return to the log-in form. Enter your username and password then click "Sign in."

How do I log out?

To log out, click on the "My Account" link in the main menu, then click on the "Log out" link under your user name.

How do I delete my account?

To delete your account you must contact the adminsitrators of this site.

ADDING & UPDATING RESOURCES

I don't see my agency listed as a resource in this database. How can I add my agency to this database?

First you must create an account. After logging in you can click on the "Add a new resource record" link located on your Account page. Fill out and submit the form. This will send a request to the administrators of this site, who will review your application. If confirmed, your agency will be added to this site.

I see information on a resource's profile that needs to be updated or added. What can I do?

You can submit requests to update a provider's profile if you are logged in. (If you do not have an account you can create one.) Once logged in, visit a provider' profile page and click the link labled "Report updated information." This will take you to a form where you can mark changes. Fill out and submit the form. A notification will be sent to this site's administrators who must review your submission. If approved the changes will appear on this site.

I've been asked to update my agency's listing but everything looks correct and no changes are needed. What do I do?

In this situation you can simply "verify" your profile. Once you have logged in visit your agency's profile page. Click the link labeled "Verify all current information." Fill out and submit the form. This will notify the administrators that the information is correct and up-to-date.

How do I delete my agency from this directory?

To delete your agency's record from this site please contact the administrators.

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