Resource Category: Legacy Development

A state agency in Ohio that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep meaningful employment and get connected with needed supports and services.

? What OOD Does

OOD partners with individuals, employers, and community organizations to help people with disabilities:

• Find and keep employment through personalized vocational services and job supports.
• Provide Vocational Rehabilitation services, including assessments, job coaching, workplace accommodations, career planning, job search assistance, and training.
• Assist with Social Security disability benefits application or determination.
• Offer student-focused programs like College2Careers (support during and after postsecondary education) and apprenticeships.
• Through initiatives like Accessible Ohio, help businesses and public spaces improve disability inclusion and accessibility.

Programs and services are free or based on need as part of state and federal funding.

? How to Access Services

? Apply for Support & Vocational Rehabilitation

• OOD Works portal — where you can start an application or log in to continue services: OOD Works application page
• Online application start — secure portal for new applicants: Start an application with OOD

? General Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance:
• Toll-free phone: 800-282-4536 (for general questions or to begin services)
• Local phone: 614-438-1200 (OOD Columbus/South Central office)

? Main Office & Contact (Columbus, Ohio)

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)
? 150 E. Campus View Boulevard
Columbus, OH 43235 (State agency headquarters)

? Phone:
• Toll-free: 800-282-4536
• Direct: 614-438-1200

? Email: info@ood.ohio.gov (general contact)
? Website: https://ood.ohio.gov/

? Typical Hours

State agencies like OOD generally operate Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours can vary by department). Call ahead to confirm specific program availability.

? Other Helpful Links & Programs

? Find an Office Near You

• Office Locator: https://ood.ohio.gov/about-us/find+us/find-us (search for local offices statewide)

? Student & Youth Supports

• College2Careers Program: Helps students with disabilities explore careers and support through college:
? https://ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/ohio-college-2-careers

?‍? Apprentice Opportunities

• Vocational Apprentice Program: Paid apprenticeships that can lead to permanent employment:
? https://ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/postsecondary/ohio-vocational-apprentice-program

? Quick Summary

Who qualifies: Ohio residents with a disability who want help preparing for, finding, or maintaining employment or need related supports (including Social Security disability determination support).

Cost: Most services are free or based on income/need through state and federal funding.

Getting started:
✔ Call 800-282-4536 to speak with a counselor
✔ Apply online at OOD Works portal
✔ Visit a local OOD office for in-person help

The housing and related supportive services are nonprofit, free or based on need, and are ongoing.
• This organization is a nonprofit affiliate of the national Volunteers of America network focused on helping people with housing, homelessness prevention, and supportive services rather than a short-term or one-time program.
• Programs include supportive housing, transitional housing, emergency shelter, and rapid re-housing that offers short-term rental assistance (e.g., up to about 90 days while a family stabilizes).
• Some services (like Supportive Services for Veteran Families) include temporary financial assistance and counseling to prevent homelessness — also ongoing unless funding changes.

⚠ Exactly what assistance you qualify for and how much rental help you receive depends on your situation and specific program eligibility. The best step is to contact them directly.

? Columbus Services — Hours, Contacts, & Info

? Main Administrative & Program Contacts (Columbus, Ohio)

? Address:
215 N. Front Street, Suite 510,
Columbus, Ohio 43215, USA

? General Phone: (614) 253-6100
? General Email: info@voaohin.org
? Website: https://www.voaohin.org/

? Key Programs in Columbus

? Housing & Homelessness Support

Family Services (Columbus):
? 624 Harmon Ave, Columbus, OH 43223
? (614) 251-7610
• Offers housing stabilization support and may connect you with rental assistance and case management.

Veterans Resource Center:
? 624 Harmon Ave, Columbus, OH 43223
? (614) 849-0145
• Provides supportive services and housing help for veterans (including transitional housing and referrals).

? Hours & Operation

VOA programs’ official onsite hours vary by service location and program — for specific intake hours or appointments, you should call ahead. Some examples from related Columbus program listings include:

Veterans & Family Services at 624 Harmon Ave:
• Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (typical office hours, not guaranteed for every service)

Many VOA housing programs do not have fixed public “walk-in” hours — screenings and intake often require a phone call to schedule an appointment.

? What They Typically Provide

Through their housing programs, VOA Ohio & Indiana offers (as available):

• ? Rapid Re-Housing: Short-term rent assistance + support to help move into stable housing.
• ? Transitional Housing: Temporary housing with support services for homeless individuals/families.
• ? Emergency Shelter: Safe, temporary shelter support.
• ? Supportive Services: Case management, employment help, connection to other resources.
• ? Veteran-Focused Help: Special programs assisting veterans and their families.

Most services are free or based on income/need as nonprofit programs but always confirm eligibility directly.

? How to Get Help

Here’s how to start:

1. Call or email VOA Ohio & Indiana (Columbus):
? (614) 253-6100 • info@voaohin.org

2. For specific housing/rent help questions:
? Call the program lines for the particular location (e.g., Family Services or Veterans Center) to check availability, intake procedures, and required documents.

3. Bring paperwork to intake, such as:
• Proof of income
• ID
• Lease/rental agreement
• Any eviction notice or rent-related notices

What It Is
211 is a free, confidential community resource line and online service coordinated by United Way that helps people find local support for a wide range of needs — including assistance with paying bills such as rent, utilities, housing costs, and other essential expenses. It does not directly pay bills but connects you with programs and services in your area that can help.

? How to Access Help

• Dial: 211 from any phone in the United States
• Text: Your ZIP code to 898211
• Online: Visit 211.org and enter your ZIP code to find local resources
• Specialists are available to talk in real time and guide you to programs in your community.

? What 211 Can Do for You

211 serves as a connection hub — it helps you identify programs that may assist with:

? Bill-Related Assistance

• Housing expenses: Help finding rental assistance, eviction prevention programs, and mortgage support.
• Utilities help: Connections to local utility assistance, LIHEAP energy support, or payment plan options.
• Other financial support: Referrals for general financial programs that may help reduce cost burdens.

? Important: 211 does not directly provide funds or pay bills itself — instead, it connects you to nonprofit, government, and local agency programs that may be able to assist.

? What to Expect

• A live, trained specialist will often ask a few questions about your situation (income, who lives with you, type of bill help needed) to match you with the best local services.
• Resources available vary by state and community — larger cities often have more options than smaller areas.
• You may be referred to government benefit programs, nonprofit assistance agencies, charities, or utility support programs.

? Why Use 211?

• Free and Confidential: No cost to call or use online, and conversations are private.
• Local Expertise: Specialists know what’s available near you.
• Wide Range of Help: Beyond bill help, 211 can connect you with food resources, housing programs, health care support, and more.

My Free Taxes is a free, nonprofit online tax filing service offered by United Way in partnership with the IRS. It helps U.S. residents file their federal and state tax returns at no cost, guiding users step-by-step so they can maximize refunds and claim all eligible credits — without paying tax preparation fees.

Key Benefits

• ? 100% Free Filing: No fees for federal or state returns through the MyFreeTaxes platform.
• ⏱️ Fast & Easy: Most people can complete their taxes in about an hour from a phone, tablet, or computer.
• ? Guided Support: The secure software walks you through each step so even first-time filers can confidently file.
• ? Maximize Refunds: Screens for credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit.
• ? Accessible & Secure: Works on multiple devices and keeps your data safe (United Way partners with secure software providers).
• ?️ English & Spanish Available: The service is offered in both languages to support more taxpayers.

Who Can Use It

• Individuals and families with simple tax returns can file for free.
• There’s usually an income threshold for certain features (often around $89,000 per year), but many users with a variety of tax situations qualify.

How to File

1. Go to MyFreeTaxes.com to start your federal and state return online.
2. Follow the guided questions and upload income info (like W-2s).
3. Review your return and submit electronically.

Need Help?
United Way provides support via phone and online help from IRS-trained specialists — especially helpful if you run into questions.

Impact
Since its launch, My Free Taxes has helped millions of people file returns and save hundreds of millions of dollars in tax preparation fees, putting more money back into households.

What It Is
The Golden Buckeye Program is a free state benefit administered by the Ohio Department of Aging that connects eligible Ohio residents with discounts, savings, and perks at thousands of participating businesses and organizations across the state.

✅ Who Is Eligible?

You qualify if you are:

• 60 years of age or older, or
• An Ohio resident 18–59 with a permanent disability (as defined by state rules).

Golden Buckeye Card

Your card gives you access to discounts, waived fees, free products/services, and other benefits at participating locations throughout Ohio.

✔ Automatic Enrollment – If you have a current Ohio driver’s license or state ID, you should automatically receive your Golden Buckeye Card in the mail around your 60th birthday.
✔ Apply if You Didn’t Receive One – If you didn’t get your card, you can request it online or apply in person.

How to Apply

Online:
Apply or request a card here: https://aging.ohio.gov/getgbc

In Person:
Visit any participating Ohio senior center or public library (many locations participate in sign-up events).

Phone Help:
Call 1-800-422-1976 (Golden Buckeye Hotline) for assistance.

What Your Card Can Do

Once you have your Golden Buckeye card, you can:

✅ Receive discounts on goods and services
✅ Save at restaurants, retail stores, entertainment venues
✅ Get special offers at community partners
✅ Use in Ohio State Parks for reduced fees on camping, rentals, and activities (ask locations for specifics)

Tip: Businesses that participate may display a Golden Buckeye logo in their window or at the register.

Resources & Support

Official Program Website (Ohio Dept. of Aging):
https://aging.ohio.gov/getgbc

Golden Buckeye Hotline:
1-800-422-1976

Find Local Help or Apply In Person:
Check with your local senior center or public library (most participate in sign-ups).

⭐ Quick Summary

• Free benefit for eligible Ohio residents
• Automatic at age 60 with current Ohio ID
• Discounts, savings & perks statewide
• Apply online or in person at local partners

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development — Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Tenants page.

What Is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (also known as Section 8) helps low-income families, elderly persons, veterans, and people with disabilities afford housing in the private rental market. Participants can choose eligible housing (single-family, townhouses, apartments) where the rent is partially paid by HUD subsidy.

Learn more: https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans/housing-choice-vouchers-tenants

Getting Started — Eligibility & Application

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the HCV program, applicants generally must:

• Have income at or below HUD’s income limits for their area — find local limits here: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Provide a valid Social Security number.
• Meet additional criteria such as criminal background screening.
  (Specific requirements vary by PHA.)

How to Apply

You must apply through your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) — find contact info and agency listings here:
HUD PHA Directory: https://www.hud.gov/contactus/public-housing-contacts

Tips:

• Many PHAs maintain waiting lists because demand exceeds vouchers.
• You can apply to more than one PHA to increase your chances.

After You Are Selected

Orientation & Voucher Issuance

Once selected from a waitlist, your PHA will contact you for:

• Eligibility verification
• Briefing/orientation
• Voucher issuance with a timeline to locate housing (often 60–120 days)

Finding and Leasing a Home

1. Find an eligible rental unit where the landlord accepts the voucher.
2. Submit a Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) to your PHA.
3. A PHA inspection checks unit health and safety standards.
4. The PHA ensures rent is reasonable for the local market.
5. You, the landlord, and the PHA sign leases and assistance contracts.

Rent & Payments

Your monthly rent share is normally about 30% of your adjusted income (sometimes up to 40%).
The PHA pays the rest directly to the landlord.

Tenant Responsibilities

To keep your voucher you must:

• Comply with your lease and program rules.
• Live in the unit as your primary residence.
• Report income or household changes promptly to your PHA.
• Complete annual re-certification with your PHA.

Portability — Moving with Your Voucher

One key benefit: the ability to move to most other U.S. communities and continue using your voucher — ask your PHA about the portability process.

⚖️ Fair Housing & Discrimination Protections

All participating tenants have rights protected under federal housing law.

Fair Housing Act

It’s illegal to discriminate in renting housing because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status — learn more here:
Fair Housing Act overview: https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans/fair-housing-act-overview

Source of Income Protection

Refusing to accept vouchers to pay rent may be prohibited by state or local source-of-income discrimination laws — but protections vary by location. See HUD’s page on this topic:
Source of Income Protections for Voucher Holders: https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans/housing-choice-vouchers-income-protect

Report Housing Discrimination

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against:
Report housing discrimination with HUD: https://www.hud.gov/reporthousingdiscrimination

LSS 211 Central Ohio helps families and individuals connect to essential community resources. By calling or visiting online, you can receive personalized referrals for housing, utilities, food, healthcare, and other supportive services in Franklin County.

Contact Information

Dial: 211
☎️ Alternate Phone: 614-221-2255
Website: https://lssnetworkofhope.org/211centralohio

⏰ Hours of Availability

Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
(Closed weekends and major holidays)

Location

1105 Schrock Rd., Suite 100
Columbus, OH 43229

‍ ‍ ‍ Who This Resource Serves

✔️ Open to all Franklin County residents
✔️ Free and confidential
✔️ Available to individuals, families, caregivers, and advocates

️ Support & Referrals Available

LSS 211 provides information and referrals to trusted local agencies based on your specific needs.

☐ Utility Assistance ⚡
Referrals for electric, gas, water, and other utility payment assistance programs.

☐ Housing Support Referral
Connections to rental assistance, eviction prevention, shelters, and housing stability services.

☐ Community / Social Services Referral
Help finding food resources, healthcare, mental health support, transportation, employment services, and more.

‍ How It Works

1️⃣ Call 211 to speak with a trained resource specialist
2️⃣ Share your needs and location
3️⃣ Receive customized referrals to local programs and services

FACCES Family Tip

You don’t need to know exactly what help you’re looking for. 211 specialists can help you talk through your situation and identify the right next steps.

Last Reviewed

1/27/2026