Get help in Lake County

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free, confidential support by call, text or chat for anyone in suicidal, mental health or substance use crisis.

Hours

24/7/365

Who

Anyone

Veterans Crisis Line

Free, confidential crisis support for veterans, service members, Guard and Reserve, and the people who support them.

Hours

24/7

Who

Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve, and those who support them. No VA enrollment required.

LifeStream Behavioral Center - Crisis and Access Line

24-hour mental health and substance use crisis line, screening and intake for Lake County.

Where

2020 Tally Road, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

24/7 (Access Center open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Who

All ages

LifeStream Mobile Response Team

Crisis counselors who come to the person in a mental health crisis, any age.

Hours

24/7

Who

All ages

Haven of Lake & Sumter Counties - Domestic Violence Helpline

24-hour helpline for domestic violence victims: safety planning, emergency shelter, advocacy and counseling.

Hours

24/7

Who

Victims of domestic violence and their children

Florida Domestic Violence Hotline

Statewide 24-hour domestic violence hotline that connects callers to their local certified center.

Who

Anyone

Haven of Lake & Sumter Counties - Sexual Assault Helpline

Sexual assault advocates for Lake and Sumter: crisis support, accompaniment to forensic exams and police interviews, follow-up care.

Hours

24/7 (advocates available 24 hours daily)

Who

Survivors of sexual assault

Florida Sexual Assault Helpline (FCASV)

Statewide sexual violence helpline that routes Florida callers to their local rape crisis center.

Who

Anyone

Florida Abuse Hotline (child, elder and vulnerable adult abuse)

Report known or suspected abuse, neglect or abandonment of a child, or abuse, neglect or exploitation of a vulnerable adult.

Hours

24/7

Who

Anyone may report

Florida Poison Control

Free expert help from nurses, pharmacists and doctors for poisonings, overdoses and medication mistakes.

Hours

24/7

Who

Anyone

Lake County Sheriff's Office - Non-Emergency

Non-emergency line for the Lake County Sheriff; call 911 for emergencies.

Where

360 W. Ruby St., Tavares, FL 32778

Who

Anyone

Leesburg Police Department - Non-Emergency

Communications / non-emergency line for Leesburg city police; call 911 for emergencies.

Where

115 East Magnolia Street, Leesburg, FL 34748

Who

Anyone

United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties 2-1-1

Free 24-hour helpline that connects people to local help for food, housing, utilities, health and crisis needs.

Hours

24/7/365

Who

Anyone

Christian Care Center Benevolence Center

Free groceries (about five days of food per month), clothing and household items; largest food pantry in Lake County.

Where

118 North 14th Street, Leesburg

Hours

Monday-Friday 9:00am-11:00am, by appointment (call to book)

Who

Lake County residents; free; one appointment per month; first visit sets up a client file with family documentation.

Leesburg Food Bank, Inc.

Free monthly groceries; also hands out donated pet food (The Animal League Nourish the Needy partner).

Where

503 N. 13th Street, Leesburg

Hours

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30am-11:30am

Who

Food once a month; people who are homeless every 2 weeks. Pet food requires proof of financial need per pantry rules.

St. Paul Catholic Community Food Pantry

Free food pantry run by St. Paul Catholic parish, across the street from the church next to the thrift store.

Where

1321 Sunshine Avenue, Leesburg

Hours

Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00am-12:00pm

The Salvation Army of Lake & Sumter Counties (Leesburg) feeding programs

Emergency food pantry, community breakfast, senior (55+) lunch Tuesdays at noon, and kids' dinners Monday and Tuesday afternoons.

Where

2605 South Street, Leesburg

Hours

Senior lunch Tuesdays at noon. Breakfast: org site says 'daily'; United Way says Mon-Wed and Fri 7:30am. Call to confirm.

Who

Emergency pantry serves Lake County; seniors 55+ for Tuesday lunch.

Beyond the Walls Food Pantry

Free food pantry by appointment, deliveries available.

Where

609 West Berckman Street, Fruitland Park

Hours

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 8:30am-11:30am, appointments only

Community United Methodist Church Food Pantry

Free food pantry (USDA TEFAP partner).

Where

309 College Avenue, Fruitland Park

Hours

Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:00pm-3:00pm

Life Church Assembly of God Food Pantry

Free weekly food pantry.

Where

4001 Picciola Road, Fruitland Park

Hours

Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30am-12:00pm

St. Timothy Outreach Ministry (St. Vincent de Paul, Lady Lake)

Free food pantry run by St. Timothy Catholic parish outreach.

Where

1351 Paige Place, Building D, Lady Lake

Hours

Tuesday and Thursday 9:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-3:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm

Who

United Way lists coverage as Lady Lake and Fruitland Park.

Hope 2 Restoration

Free food pantry.

Where

945 E. Main Street, Leesburg

Hours

Monday-Thursday 11:00am-4:00pm

HOPE Vision Inc

Free food pantry with daytime and evening hours.

Where

2795 South Street, Leesburg

Hours

Tuesday and Thursday 10:00am-12:00pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm; 4th Saturday 11:00am-1:00pm

Mana Del Rey, Inc

Free food distribution twice a month.

Where

2316 W. Main Street, Leesburg

Hours

2nd and 4th Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm or until food runs out

Logos Christian Fellowship

Monthly free food distribution; on call for emergencies.

Where

8839 County Road 44, Leesburg

Hours

Last Friday of the month 10:00am-1:00pm

Stepping Stone Coalition

Weekly free food pantry.

Where

10401 US Highway 441, Leesburg

Hours

Fridays 1:00pm-3:00pm

Lake Cares Food Pantry

Large food pantry with a main site (by appointment) plus monthly no-appointment distributions in Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Howey-in-the-Hills, Paisley, Lisbon and Sorrento.

Where

4500 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora

Hours

Main site: Tuesday 9:00am-12:30pm; Wednesday 9:00am-12:30pm and 2:30pm-4:45pm (appointment only). Satellites, no appointment: Tavares (Faith Christian Fellowship, 1951 Dora Ave) 1st Saturday 8:30-10:30am; Eustis (Orange Ave Church of Christ, 1511 E Orange Ave) 4th Friday 8-10am; Mount Dora (Nathaniel Bell Center, 1010 Lincoln Ave) 3rd Friday 8-9am. Use ONE site only.

Who

Lake County residents. Bring photo ID and proof of Lake County residency (such as a utility bill). New clients call for an appointment.

St. Vincent de Paul / St. Mary of the Lakes Food Pantry

Free walk-in food pantry, first come first served.

Where

218 Ocklawaha Avenue, Eustis

Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10:00am-1:00pm

W.I.N. 1 Ministries

Monthly free food distribution.

Where

301 W. Ward Avenue, Eustis

Hours

3rd Tuesday of the month 10:30am-1:30pm

Lake County Missions Thrift Store Food Pantry

Walk-in food pantry at a thrift store.

Where

415 N. Grove Street, Eustis

Hours

Walk-ins Monday and Thursday 10:00am-1:00pm; every other Tuesday from 10:00am until food is gone

First Baptist Church of Umatilla Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen

Emergency food pantry (client choice) plus soup kitchen, haircuts and referrals.

Where

4 E. Collins Street, Umatilla

Hours

Wednesday and Saturday 8:30am-12:00pm

Hilltop Community Center

Monthly food distribution plus weekly bread and pastry giveaway; deliveries available.

Where

41444 North Central Avenue, Umatilla

Hours

2nd Sunday 10:00am-1:00pm; bread/pastry Tuesdays 10:30am-1:00pm

House of God Mt. Dora

Free food distribution twice a month (TEFAP partner).

Where

1300 North Grandview Street, Mount Dora

Hours

2nd and 4th Thursday 11:30am-3:00pm or until food runs out

Mt. Dora Church of Christ

Monthly free food distribution.

Where

1801 N. Donnelly Street, Mount Dora

Hours

2nd Saturday 9:00am-11:00am or until food runs out

South Lake Presbyterian Church Food Pantry

Weekly free food pantry.

Where

131 Chestnut Street, Clermont

Hours

Mondays 11:00am-1:00pm

Word Keepers Inc (Well of Hope)

Food pantry inside the Well of Hope Thrift Store, off Hwy 27 behind Wendy's.

Where

16605 Sunrise Lakes Blvd, Clermont

Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 11:00am-4:00pm; Wednesday 1:30pm-4:00pm; Saturday 10:00am-2:00pm

New Beginnings of Central Florida

Food help on weekdays.

Where

415 Citrus Tower Boulevard, Clermont

Hours

Monday-Friday 10:00am-1:30pm

The Neighborhood Center of South Lake

Food pantry plus free in-person SNAP (food stamp) application help from Second Harvest on Wednesdays.

Where

14727 Timber Village Road, Groveland

Hours

Pantry: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00am-12:00pm; Thursday 1:00pm-4:00pm; 1st Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm. SNAP help: Wednesdays 9:00am-12:00pm, first come first served.

You Thrive Florida Senior Services (Lake County senior meals)

Group lunches at senior centers and home-delivered meals for seniors, plus in-home help.

Where

1211 Penn Street (Leesburg Senior Center)

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Who

Age 60+. Other eligibility varies by program (income, functioning, diagnosis). Case-managed clients may owe a co-pay based on ability to pay.

WIC - Florida Department of Health in Lake County (Leesburg office)

Free healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, new moms, infants and children under 5.

Where

1904 Griffin Road, Leesburg

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Who

Pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women, infants and children under 5 who meet income guidelines; automatically income-eligible if on Medicaid, TCA or Food Assistance (SNAP).

ACCESS Florida / MyACCESS (SNAP food assistance, cash assistance, Medicaid)

Florida's state application for SNAP food benefits, Temporary Cash Assistance and Medicaid; apply online at MyACCESS.

Who

One application covers all programs; each has its own income rules.

Second Harvest Food Bank Benefits Connection (free SNAP application help)

Free one-on-one help applying for SNAP, including doing the required interview on-site.

Where

14727 Timber Village Road (The Neighborhood Center of South Lake), Groveland

Hours

Wednesdays 9:00am-12:00pm, first come first served

Lake County Schools school meals

Breakfast and lunch at no charge for all students at participating (Community Eligibility) schools.

Where

201 West Burleigh Blvd, Tavares

Who

Students at listed CEP schools; no application needed at those schools.

Mid Florida Homeless Coalition - Housing Assessment (Coordinated Entry)

The Lake County homeless Continuum of Care; call to schedule a housing assessment, the front door to rapid rehousing and other homeless housing programs.

Where

1512 US-41 (office is in Citrus County), Inverness, FL 34450

Hours

Office Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Who

People homeless or at risk of homelessness in Citrus, Hernando, Lake and Sumter counties. People fleeing DV should call Haven (352-753-5800) instead.

The Open Door (LifeStream) - Homeless Drop-In Center

Drop-in center with showers, laundry, mailing address and phone access, food, and help getting benefits.

Where

115 Citrus Ave., Eustis, FL 32726

Hours

Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (unconfirmed, see flags)

Who

Individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness

Come As You Are Ministry - Drop-In Center

Leesburg drop-in center for people experiencing homelessness: meals, showers and laundry, help replacing ID and applying for benefits.

Where

1305 Sunshine Ave., Leesburg, FL 34748

Who

Adults experiencing homelessness

Christian Care Center - Men's Residence

Six-month faith-based residential drug and alcohol recovery program for men; serves a free hot evening meal to anyone in need.

Where

1309 High St. (Bldg 105), Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Free community dinner served 4:30pm (own site); CoC list says Mon-Sat 4:30pm, Sun 1pm

Who

Men with substance use problems for the residential program; meal open to homeless and hungry men, women and children

Christian Care Center - Women's Care Center

Six-month faith-based residential drug and alcohol recovery program for women without children in their care.

Who

Women without children in their care, struggling with drug or alcohol addiction

Christian Care Center (main office)

Leesburg faith-based ministry running men's and women's recovery homes, family transitional housing, a free clinic, food and clothing.

Where

115 N. 13th St., Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Admin office Mon-Thu 8am-5pm, closed 11:45am-12:45pm

Who

Varies by program

New Beginnings of Central Florida

South Lake nonprofit offering emergency shelter, transitional and affordable housing, case management and emergency food.

Where

415 Citrus Tower Blvd, Clermont, FL 34711

Who

Individuals and families facing homelessness or crisis

Lake County Cold Weather Shelter (seasonal, activated on freezing nights)

Overnight shelter the county opens only during freezing weather, with free rides on county transit.

Hours

Recent activations ran 5pm to 7am

Who

Anyone needing shelter from the cold

The Salvation Army of Lake & Sumter Counties (Leesburg)

Feeding programs, Pathway of Hope case management and emergency help; also a housing assessment site for the homeless system.

Where

2605 South Street, Leesburg, FL 34748

Who

Anyone in need

Lake County Housing & Community Services (Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher)

County office that runs Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, rental assistance and homelessness services.

Where

2008 Classique Ln, Tavares, FL 32778

Who

Low-income households; voucher program has income limits

VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans

VA hotline for veterans who are homeless or about to lose housing; connects to VA housing programs including SSVF and HUD-VASH.

Hours

24/7

Who

Veterans homeless or at risk, their family and friends, and providers

Vincentian CARES (formerly St. Vincent de Paul CARES) - SSVF for Veterans

Supportive Services for Veteran Families: rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention, including short-term help with rent, utilities and moving costs.

Who

Veterans and their families who are homeless or at imminent risk

Leesburg Resource Center (City of Leesburg)

City-run resource hub with partner agency offices, computer and job-training space for Leesburg residents.

Where

501 West Meadow Street, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm

Who

Leesburg residents

United Way 2-1-1 (Lake & Sumter)

Free 24/7 helpline that connects you to rent, utility, food and other help; also the route to SECO and Duke Energy bill-help funds.

Where

32644 Blossom Lane (United Way office), Leesburg

Hours

24/7/365

Who

Anyone.

Lake Community Action Agency - LIHEAP Home Energy Assistance

Helps pay electric/heating/cooling bills (one regular benefit a year plus crisis help for shut-offs).

Where

501 North Bay Street, Eustis

Hours

Appointment lines: Mondays 8:30am-1:00pm and Thursdays 9:00am-10:00am (or until weekly appointments fill)

Who

Lake County residents; income limits apply. Must call the appointment line first; applications without an appointment are not accepted. Applications by mail or online only.

Lake County Housing & Community Services - SHIP Rental Assistance

County program that helps income-eligible renters at risk of homelessness pay past-due rent or a security deposit.

Where

2008 Classique Lane, Tavares

Who

Income-eligible renters in danger of homelessness.

Lake County Solid Waste / Fire Assessment Hardship Reimbursement

Refunds up to 50% of the county solid waste and/or fire assessment on a low-income homeowner's tax bill.

Where

2008 Classique Lane, Tavares

Who

Homestead property; household income at or below 100% of federal poverty guideline; taxes paid and current.

The Salvation Army of Lake & Sumter Counties - Emergency Financial Assistance

Emergency help with bills, plus Pathway of Hope case management and motel vouchers for emergencies.

Where

2605 South Street, Leesburg

Who

Lake and Sumter County residents.

St. Vincent de Paul - Lady Lake / Fruitland Park / Leesburg

Parish volunteers who help with emergency needs including utility bills.

St. Vincent de Paul - Eustis / Tavares / Umatilla

Parish volunteers who help with emergency needs including utility bills.

Where

218 Ocklawaha Avenue, Eustis

Catholic Charities of Central Florida - Family Stability Program

Homeless prevention: up to $1,000 rent and/or up to $500 utility help after case manager review.

Who

Lake County is served. Household must have income and no eviction case already filed. Takes 8-10 business days; funding not guaranteed. Apply by online intake form.

City of Leesburg Utilities Customer Service (payment plans and CURE)

City electric, gas, water, sewer and trash customers can set up payment plans and ask about CURE bill-help vouchers.

Where

501 W. Meadow Street, Leesburg

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm

Who

City of Leesburg utility customers.

SECO Energy bill payment help (Angel Fund)

SECO members can get electric bill help through local agencies funded by SECO's Angel Fund; find them via 2-1-1 or SECO's map.

Who

SECO Energy members.

Duke Energy Florida - Share the Light Fund

Duke Energy funds local agencies that help Duke customers pay past-due bills, deposits or reconnection charges.

Who

Duke Energy residential customers with a past-due balance, unpaid deposit or unpaid reconnection charge.

Lifeline phone/internet discount

Federal discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone, internet or bundled service.

Hours

Support line 7 days a week 9:00am-9:00pm ET

Who

Based on income or getting SNAP, Medicaid or other qualifying programs.

LifeStream Behavioral Center - Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Use

Mental health and substance use treatment for adults and children, including crisis stabilization and medication-assisted treatment.

Where

2020 Tally Road (Access Center), Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Access Center 24/7 for screening and intake

Who

All ages; ask about the Patient Assistance Program if uninsured

Community Health Centers - Leesburg

Federally qualified health center with family medicine, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and a sliding discount program.

Where

225 N 1st St, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Mon 8am-6pm; Tue 8am-7pm; Wed-Thu 8am-5pm; Fri 8am-1pm

Who

Anyone; sliding discount based on income; most insurance accepted

Community Health Centers - Tavares

Family medical, dental and specialty care with sliding discount fees.

Where

212 E Main St, Tavares, FL 32778

Hours

Mon 8am-6pm; Tue 8am-7pm; Wed-Thu 8am-5pm; Fri 8am-1pm

Who

Anyone; sliding discount based on income

Community Health Centers - Clermont

Family medicine and lab for children and adults on the Orlando Health South Lake Hospital campus, sliding discount fees.

Where

2140 Don Wickham Dr, Ste C, Clermont, FL 34711

Hours

Mon 8am-6pm; Tue 8am-7pm; Wed-Thu 8am-5pm; Fri 8am-1pm

Who

Anyone; sliding discount based on income

Florida Department of Health in Lake County - Leesburg Health Center

Public health clinic: family planning, refugee health, birth and death certificates.

Where

2113 W. Griffin Road, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Vital Statistics 8am-4:30pm, closed noon-1pm

Who

Eligibility must be determined before booking; bring ID, Lake County proof of residency and income proof

Florida Department of Health in Lake County - Umatilla Health Center

Public health clinic for adults and children, family planning and refugee health.

Where

249 E. Collins St., Umatilla, FL 32784

Hours

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Who

Eligibility determined before appointment

Florida Department of Health in Lake County - Clermont Health Center

Public health clinic with WIC, refugee health, birth and death certificates.

Where

875 Oakley Seaver Drive, Clermont, FL 34711

Hours

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Vital Statistics 8am-4:30pm, closed noon-1pm

Who

Eligibility determined before appointment

Community Medical Care Center (Christian Care Center free clinic)

Free primary medical and dental care for qualifying uninsured adults, with help getting free prescription medicine.

Where

115 N. 13th St., Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

By appointment: Mon-Thu 8am-5pm, Fri 8am-noon; closed noon-1pm

Who

Income at or below 150% of poverty level; no Medicaid or Medicare; age 65 and under

St. Luke Free Medical & Dental Clinic (Catholic Charities of Central Florida)

Free primary medical and dental care for uninsured adults.

Where

722 S Grove St, Eustis, FL 32726

Hours

By appointment only; evening hours available

Who

Uninsured, household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level

We Care of Lake County

Connects uninsured low-income adults to free specialty care from volunteer doctors, working with the local free clinics.

Where

401 E. Alfred Street, Tavares, FL 32778

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm

Who

Lake County resident 6+ months, uninsured, income at or below 200% FPL, ages 18-64, not eligible for Medicaid/SSI

ACCESS Florida / MyACCESS (apply for Medicaid, SNAP, cash assistance)

Florida DCF online system to apply for Medicaid, food assistance (SNAP) and Temporary Cash Assistance.

Hours

Online 24/7; call center Mon-Fri 8am-5pm (secondary source)

Who

Florida residents meeting program income rules

Florida Elder Helpline

Statewide line connecting seniors and caregivers to local elder services, including help with health, vision and hearing resources.

Who

Seniors and caregivers

EyeCare America (American Academy of Ophthalmology)

No-cost medical eye exams by a volunteer ophthalmologist for eligible uninsured and underinsured people.

Hours

Mon-Fri 8am-2pm Pacific (11am-5pm Eastern)

Who

Uninsured or underinsured, 18 and older; see site for senior-specific criteria

Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) - Free amplified phones

Free specialized phones and communication equipment for Floridians who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired.

Hours

Relay 24/7

Who

Florida resident, age 3+, certified hearing or speech condition

Lake County Veterans Service Office

Free county office that helps veterans and their dependents and survivors file VA claims, including burial and death benefits, and get a DD-214.

Where

1996 Classique Lane (mail: P.O. Box 7800), Tavares, FL 32778

Who

Veterans and their dependents in Lake County; survivors can ask about DIC, Survivors Pension and burial benefits.

Veterans Crisis Line

Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support for veterans, service members and the people who love them.

Hours

24/7

Who

Veterans, service members, Guard and Reserve, and family or friends. You do not have to be enrolled in VA care.

VA Benefits Hotline (survivor benefits: DIC and Survivors Pension)

VA phone line for questions and claim status on disability, pension and survivor benefits, including DIC and Survivors Pension.

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET

Who

DIC: generally a surviving spouse who lived with the veteran until death and married within 15 years of discharge, was married at least 1 year, or had a child together. Survivors Pension: wartime service, not remarried, and income and net worth under limits set by Congress.

National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (VA)

Free, private 24/7 line that connects homeless or at-risk veterans to VA and local housing help.

Hours

24/7

Who

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and people calling for them.

SSVF: St. Vincent de Paul CARES (Society of St. Vincent de Paul South Pinellas)

The VA-funded SSVF provider for Lake County, offering rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention for low-income veteran households.

Where

Mid-Florida office: 2224-2226 Hwy 44 W, Inverness, FL 34453 (serves Lake County)

Who

Low-income veteran families who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness.

The Villages VA Clinic

VA outpatient clinic closest to Leesburg, offering primary care, mental health, PTSD care, dental, radiology and pharmacy.

Where

8900 SE 165th Mulberry Lane, The Villages, FL 32162

Hours

Mon-Fri 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed weekends

Who

Veterans enrolled in VA health care.

Tavares VA Clinic

VA outpatient clinic in Lake County offering primary care, mental health, PTSD care, lab, pharmacy and telehealth.

Where

1390 East Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778

Hours

Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed weekends

Who

Veterans enrolled in VA health care.

Clermont VA Clinic

VA outpatient clinic in south Lake County.

Where

3200 Citrus Tower Boulevard, Clermont, FL 34711

Hours

Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed weekends

Who

Veterans enrolled in VA health care.

Orlando VA Medical Center (Lake Nona)

Full VA hospital with a 24/7 emergency department; walk-ins accepted, no referral needed.

Where

13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, FL 32827

Hours

24/7 (emergency department open 24/7, 365 days)

Who

Veterans; emergency care does not need an appointment.

Malcom Randall VA Medical Center (Gainesville)

Main VA hospital for the North Florida system, which runs The Villages VA Clinic.

Where

1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608

Hours

24/7

Who

Veterans.

Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, claims help

Free state veteran service officers and claims examiners who help with VA claims and return calls within 24 hours.

Where

9500 Bay Pines Blvd, Suite 214, Bay Pines, FL 33744

Who

Florida veterans and their families; free.

Florida Veterans Support Line

State support line for veterans and families, listed by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs.

Who

Florida veterans and their families.

Mission United (United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties)

Case management and help with jobs, legal aid, housing stability, financial coaching and health care for local military families.

Where

32644 Blossom Lane, Leesburg, FL 34788

Who

Veterans, active duty service members and military families in Lake and Sumter Counties.

PROJECT: VetRelief (American Legion Department of Florida)

One-time emergency grant, about $2,000 on average, paid directly to the landlord, utility or provider for shelter, utilities, emergency transportation or critical health costs.

Who

Florida residents who are honorably discharged veterans, active-duty members, or eligible immediate family who are normally stable but facing a recent, unforeseen hardship. Bills more than 30 days past due are not accepted.

Army Emergency Relief (AER), Survivor Assistance

Grants, and for the most destitute possibly monthly stipends, for surviving spouses and children of active-duty and retired Army Soldiers.

Where

2530 Crystal Drive, Suite 13161, Arlington, VA 22202

Who

Surviving spouses who have not remarried, of Soldiers who died on active duty or after reaching retirement eligibility. Army only.

TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)

24/7 grief support, peer mentors and survivor programs for families grieving a military loved one.

Where

3101 Wilson Blvd, Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22201

Hours

24/7

Who

Families of fallen service members; call to confirm fit.

Gold Star Wives of America

Congressionally chartered peer support and advocacy organization for military surviving spouses.

Where

P.O. Box 279, Kimberly, AL 35091

Who

Surviving spouses of service members who died on active duty or from a service-connected cause (usually those receiving DIC).

American Legion Mid Florida Lakes Post 330

Leesburg American Legion post: veteran fellowship and local referrals.

Where

212 Forest Dr, Leesburg, FL 34788

Hours

Meets third Thursday, 7:00 PM

Who

Membership for eligible veterans; Auxiliary membership may be open to family including widows.

Veterans Memorial American Legion Post 347

Lady Lake American Legion post with an active Auxiliary.

Where

699 W. Lady Lake Road, Lady Lake, FL 32158

Hours

Legion meets second Wednesday, 5:30 PM; Auxiliary first Wednesday, 6:00 PM

Who

Veterans; the Auxiliary accepts eligible family members including widows.

American Legion John Gella Memorial Post 219

Fruitland Park American Legion post.

Where

194 E Fountain St, Fruitland Park, FL 34731

Hours

Legion meets first Thursday, 6:00 PM

Who

Veterans; Auxiliary for eligible family.

VFW Golden Triangle Post 8087

Veterans of Foreign Wars post serving the Mount Dora, Eustis and Tavares area.

Where

4065 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora, FL 32757

Hours

Meets 2nd Tuesday, 6:00 PM

Who

Veterans of foreign wars; VFW Auxiliary for eligible family.

VFW William Alfred Suggs Memorial Post 5277

Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Clermont.

Where

855 W. Desoto St., Clermont, FL 34711

Hours

Meets 3rd Thursday, 7:00 PM

Who

Veterans of foreign wars; Auxiliary for eligible family.

Florida Elder Helpline

Statewide toll-free line to apply for elder services and get information, including free SHINE Medicare counseling.

Who

Older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers.

Elder Options (Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging / Aging and Disability Resource Center)

The state-designated aging agency and resource center for Lake County, offering in-home services, caregiver support, SHINE and Veterans Directed Care.

Where

100 SW 75th Street, Suite 301, Gainesville, FL 32607 (serves Lake County)

Who

Elders, adults with disabilities and caregivers in its 16-county area, which includes Lake and Sumter.

SHINE Medicare counseling, Lake County (Leesburg Public Library walk-in)

Free, unbiased one-on-one help with Medicare, Medicaid, prescription plans and Medicare Savings Programs from trained volunteers.

Where

Leesburg Public Library, 100 E Main Street, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Walk-ins. 2026: 1st and 3rd Tuesday through September; open-enrollment dates 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 12/1

Who

Medicare beneficiaries, families and caregivers. Free.

You Thrive Florida, Lake County Senior Services

Local senior services provider (Elder Options partner) for meals, in-home help and case management for Lake County elders.

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Who

Lake County seniors; programs have eligibility screening.

Leesburg Senior Center (meal site)

Senior center and congregate meal site in Leesburg.

Where

1211 Penn Street, Leesburg, FL 34748

Who

Seniors; call to register for meals.

Social Security Administration (national line and Leesburg office)

Social Security and SSI benefits, survivor benefits, replacement Social Security cards, and Medicare enrollment.

Where

900 N 14th St, Suite 100 (Leesburg field office), Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

National line: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time

Who

Anyone.

Medicare Savings Programs (Medicare Buy-In) through Florida DCF

Medicaid programs that pay Medicare premiums, and for some people deductibles and copays, for people with limited income.

Who

Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and assets.

LakeXpress (Lake County fixed-route bus)

Lake County's public bus, with routes including Leesburg-Eustis (1), The Villages-Leesburg (1A), Leesburg Circulator (2) and Leesburg-Clermont (27 Xpress).

Where

Lake County Office of Transit Services, 2440 U.S. Highway 441, Fruitland Park, FL 34731

Hours

Buses run Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; no service Sat, Sun or federal holidays. Office Mon-Fri 8-5.

Who

Anyone. Half-price fares for qualifying riders with ID or a Medicare card; children under 5 and students ride free.

Lake County Connection (door-to-door paratransit)

Shared door-to-door rides by appointment for people whose disability or transportation-disadvantaged status keeps them off the bus, including medical trips out of county.

Where

560 E. Burleigh Blvd. (applications), Tavares, FL 32778

Hours

Rides Mon-Fri 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; office Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Who

An ADA disability that prevents using LakeXpress, OR Florida Transportation Disadvantaged eligibility. Requires an application certified by a health care professional; approval can take up to 21 days.

DAV van to Gainesville VA (North Florida/South Georgia VA)

Free volunteer DAV van rides to VA medical appointments in the North Florida system, which runs The Villages clinic and Gainesville VA.

Where

Malcom Randall VAMC, Room A164-1, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608

Who

Veterans with VA appointments who can walk and board without the driver's help (ambulatory only).

DAV van to Orlando VA (Orlando VA Healthcare System)

Free volunteer DAV van rides to Orlando VA facilities for scheduled appointments.

Where

13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, FL 32827

Who

Veterans with VA appointments who are ambulatory.

Florida Medicaid non-emergency ride benefit

Medicaid covers rides to Medicaid-covered appointments for enrollees with no other way to get there.

Who

Florida Medicaid enrollees with no other means of transportation.

Lake County Animal Services (Animal Shelter)

County animal shelter: lost and found pets, strays, adoptions, Wellness Hour (low-cost vaccines, microchips, testing by appointment) and a spay/neuter rebate.

Where

12280 County Road 448, Tavares

Hours

Open to the public 1-6pm Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri; 1-5pm Sat and Sun; closed Wednesday and holidays

Lake County Spay/Neuter Rebate Program

Rebate of up to $50 after you get your pet spayed or neutered at your own licensed vet.

Who

Full-time Lake County residents; apply online with supporting documents after the procedure.

Misfit Clinic

Nonprofit low-cost spay/neuter clinic with walk-in vaccines, microchips, flea/tick/heartworm prevention and testing.

Where

220 North Rockingham Avenue, Tavares

Hours

8:00am-5:00pm Wed-Fri every week, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and Tuesdays opposite those Saturdays. Walk-in vaccine clinic 12:00pm-3:00pm on open days.

Who

Open to the public. Deposit at booking: $100 dogs, $50 cats.

The Animal League Wellness Center

Low-cost vet care: spay/neuter, vaccines, flea/tick/heartworm prevention and wellness visits. Se habla espanol.

Where

32721 Radio Road, Leesburg

Hours

Mon-Thu 8:30am-5:00pm; Fri 8:00am-2:00pm; Sat-Sun closed

Who

By appointment.

Leesburg Humane Society (pet food pantry and spay/neuter help)

No-kill shelter that runs a dog and cat food pantry and arranges reduced-rate spay/neuter with local vets for people who need financial help.

Where

41250 Emeralda Island Road, Leesburg

Hours

Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm

Who

For people in need; shelter does not provide vet services directly.

Pet food at local food pantries (The Animal League Nourish the Needy)

Free pet food at partner food pantries for families in financial crisis, so they can keep their pets.

Where

503 N 13th St (Leesburg Food Bank)

Who

Proof of financial need per each pantry's rules.

Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida (Tavares office)

Free civil legal aid for issues such as housing and eviction, public benefits, family, consumer debt, wills, and military and veterans matters.

Where

226 W. Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778

Hours

Helpline Mon, Wed, Thu 8:30-4:30; Tue 8:30-5:30; Fri 8:30-3:30. Office by appointment only.

Who

Low-income residents; screening by phone or online prescreen.

Lake County Tax Collector, Leesburg office (Florida driver license / state ID)

Get a Florida ID card or driver license, including replacements, plus tag and title services.

Where

1720 N. Citrus Blvd., Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Who

Florida residents with the required identity documents.

Florida Department of Health in Lake County, Vital Statistics (Leesburg)

Certified Florida birth certificates (and death certificates) in about 15 minutes in person.

Where

2113 W. Griffin Road, Leesburg, FL 34748

Hours

Vital Statistics Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed noon to 1 p.m.

Who

Must be the person named, a parent on the certificate, or a legal guardian or representative; 18 or older; bring state-issued ID. Florida births only.

VITA free tax preparation (United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties)

Free tax preparation and e-filing by IRS-certified volunteers.

Where

32644 Blossom Lane (United Way office), Leesburg, FL 34788

Hours

Seasonal (tax season)

Who

Individuals and households who meet program criteria (income limit not published on the page).

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free tax preparation by trained volunteers, with a site locator by phone or online.

Hours

Early February to mid-April

Who

Focus on taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate income; AARP membership not required.