Parenting without a partner and managing finances on one income can be challenging and stressful for single moms. They may find it difficult to pay the bills and keep a roof over their head, despite working multiple jobs.
Fortunately, help for single mothers are available from all levels of the government, as well as private organizations, that helps families meet their basic needs.
The amount and type of grant varies by state but usually includes welfare, food stamp programs, housing and healthcare.
State Grants for Single Mothers
If you’re a single mother in need of financial help, given below are some of the state assistance made available on the merit of financial hardship – meaning priority is given to those with “the absolute highest levels of need”.
Each state has its own Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. This federally funded grant program which replaced the traditional “welfare” program offers a combination of financial assistance and work opportunities. TANF is meant for those who have children who are unable to afford even the basic necessities. To apply for assistance, locate the local TANF office in your area.
If your income level disqualifies you from TANF, find a local food bank or food pantry in your area – which provides free and reduced-priced food items for one-parent families who may not qualify for other welfare programs.
Dial 2-1-1 on your telephone to find out a local food pantry or food bank in your area or visit www.govbenefits.gov for more information.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP as it commonly referred to, is the new name for what used to be known a the federal “Food Stamp Program“. If you are accepted into the program, you will receive an EBT (Electronic Benefits Card) which can be used at the grocery store similar to a debit card.
The federal Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a very successful government-funded initiative that provides support (foods, supplement diets, nutrition education & counseling) to low-income women and children who are considered to be at nutritional risk.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is yet another federally-funded grant program that is implemented at the state levels that helps single families pay for their energy bills, either heating or cooling. Priority is given to low income families with children, disabled and elderly people.
For those with no medical insurance, the Medicaid Program provides medical benefits to single mothers whose financial situation would be characterized as low income or very low income. Keep in mind that each State has its own rules related to eligibility.
For more information on any other types of state assistance programs available in your home state, contact the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) at 1-877-696-6775 or visit www.hhs.gov.