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If you’re a single mom in Indiana struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Indiana

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)-Indiana

TANF provides cash assistance for qualifying low-income families with children under the age of 18 to help them achieve economic stability. 

A family of three can be paid $288/month through TANF. View all payout amounts and income limits here.

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
  • Indiana resident
  • Have children under 18, be pregnant, or be 18 years of age or younger and head of your household 
  • Must provide Social Security numbers for household
  • Adult applicants are required to attend Applicant Job Search Orientation and complete 20 days of Applicant Job Search activities
  • Family must not possess assets valued in excess of $1,000 (housing is exempt)
  • You must be unemployed or underemployed with a low or very low income

How to get help:

Find a Department of Human Services office near you:

google-maps-usa-image

More emergency cash help in Indiana: 

Single moms in Indiana can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Indiana

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Indiana

There are multiple programs in Indiana to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Emergency Rental Assistance (IERA)

The Indiana Housing and Community Authority has stopped accepting applications for emergency rental assistance. Sign up on the IERA waitlist to be notified of any openings. 

Qualifications:

If the portal becomes active again, qualifications are determined by the individual county. The programs look at income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio. You must also meet the following guidelines: 

  • Sales price of home must be under the federal acquisition limit
  • Certain programs require you to be a first-time home buyer, unless buying in a certain area

How to get help: 

Contact your housing authority for more information.

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers affordable housing and vouchers to help low-income households pay their rent. The voucher covers a portion of the rent. The tenant pays 30-40% of their monthly adjusted gross income for rent and utilities. 

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Income cannot exceed 50% of median income for the county in which you live
  • The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) does not cover Indianapolis or Marion County

How to get help: 

  • Contact your local public housing agency (PHA) and ask how to apply for assistance
  • Call 317-226-6303
  • Visit IHCDA for more information 

HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)

HUD-VASH combines Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance for homeless Veterans with clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 

Qualifications:

  • VA health care eligible veterans (determined by the VA)
  • Must participate in case management and utilize supportive services/treatment recommendations
  • The PHA will determine eligibility 

How to Get Help:

  • Access the listing of VASH locations in Indiana
  • Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans 877-4AID-VET
  • Contact IHCDA at 317-232-7788, option 7
  • Visit IHCDA website for more information

Mortgage assistance in Indiana

If you need help with your mortgage in Indiana, these programs can help: 

Indiana Homeowner Assistance Fund (IHAF)

The IHAF is a federally funded assistance program created to help those impacted by COVID-19 with mortgages and property expenses. 

IHAF assistance may be used for the following:

  • Pay outstanding monthly mortgage payments
  • Provide ongoing monthly mortgage payments
  • Pay outstanding escrow items such as taxes, insurance, or HOA fees

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Demonstrate COVID-19 has impacted your finances on or after January 21, 2020 and caused you to miss regular mortgage payments. Hardships include:
    • Job loss
    • Reduction in income
    • Reduction in hours worked
    • Increased health care costs
  • Owner/occupant of one of the following:
    • Single-family home
    • Condominium
    • 2, 3, or 4-family dwelling
    • Manufactured home permanently on Indiana property 
  • Using the home as primary residence
  • Income equal to or less than 150% of AMI
  • Have a conforming loan

How to get help: 

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Homeless and special needs housing assistance in Indiana 

The following programs help homeless individuals and those at risk of becoming homeless: 

Coalition for Homelessness Intervention & Prevention (CHIP)

CHIP secures funding for housing services, analyzes homeless data, advocates for policy change, and supports community partners with an aim to reduce homelessness. 

How to get help:

Housing First

Housing First is a program that quickly connects individuals or families experiencing homelessness to Permanent Housing (PH) through the following initiatives:

  • Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH): Client receives rental assistance, counseling, life skills training, and psychiatric visits
    • Qualifications:
      • Must be homeless and have a disability 
      • Must be homeless for a year or more or have had four episodes of homelessness in the last three years
      • Must apply through supportive services
    • How to get help:
  • Rapid Rehousing: provides assistance through quickly re-housing persons who are homeless
    • Residents may receive assistance from one month to one year
    • Coaching assistance includes goal setting, budgeting, and referrals
    • Financial assistance is dependent upon participation in coaching process and may include rent or utility assistance
    • Qualifications:
      • Individual/family must be homeless
      • Fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence
      • Has no other residence and lacks support
      • Lives in emergency shelter
      • ID needed for all household members
      • No income guideline
    • How to get help:

Homeless Initiative Program (HIP)

HIP services are for homeless veterans and their families. Programs include Per Diem Transitional Housing, Per Diem Transition-in-Place to Permanent Housing, and the Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program. 

Qualifications:

  • Veterans living on the street, in a shelter/mission, or in a transitional housing program
  • Veterans who are being evicted by a private landlord 

How to get help:

More housing help: 

Electric bill assistance in Indiana

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Indiana, check out the following programs:

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) in Indiana

The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) provides a one-time annual benefit to help cover home energy bills if you are disconnected or about to be disconnected. EAP will not cover all energy costs.

Qualifications:       

  • U.S. Citizen or legally admitted immigrant
  • Indiana resident
  • Total gross annual household income at or below 60% of State’s Median Income
  • Meet certain income qualifications — for a family of three, the maximum income is $44,492

How to get help:

  • Apply online
  • For more information, visit LIHEAP
  • Contact LIHEAP@ihcda.in.gov
  • Call 317-232-7777

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP helps qualifying households lower their monthly energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Once you apply you are placed on a waitlist. Once at the top of the waitlist, an auditor will come to assess your property and install energy-efficient upgrades as needed. Weatherizing your home can save you an average of $437 a year on energy bills. 

Weatherization may include: 

  • Air and duct sealing
  • Wall, floor, attic insulation
  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system improvements
  • Lighting efficiency 
  • Hot water tank insulation
  • Water conservation devices

Qualifications:

  • You are at or below 200% of the poverty level

How to get help:

Low-Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) in Indiana

LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program created in response to COVID-19 and helps eligible households pay for drinking and wastewater. 

Qualifications:

  • U.S. Citizen or legal immigrant
  • Indiana resident
  • Receive water through public pipelines from participating vendor
  • Total gross income at or below 60% of State Median Income
  • Responsible for paying the water bill

How to get help:

  • When completing the EAP application, select you would also like to apply for water assistance
  • Apply on EAP client portal

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Indiana

The following medical and dental services are available to qualifying individuals and families in the state of Indiana:        

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) in Indiana

HRSA, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, funds health centers that provide free or subsidized health and dental care to low-income people and those otherwise unable to access quality health care, like people living in rural areas.

HRSA also offers a 24/7 free and confidential mental health hotline for pregnant and new moms. Dial 833-943-5746 (833-9-HELP4MOMS) if you are struggling.

Qualifications: 

Each health center sets its own eligibility criteria for free or reduced cost care. 

How to get help:

Find an HRSA health center in Indiana by typing in your address on HRSA’s search tool.

Indiana Medicaid Options

These are the different programs offered under Indiana Medicaid: 

Healthy Indiana Plan

The Healthy Indiana Plan is a health insurance program that covers Indiana residents ages 19 to 64 who are not disabled and who meet specific income levels. 

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Ages 19 to 64
  • Meet the program’s income limits — $2,860/month for a family of three

How to get help:

Hoosier Healthwise

Hoosier Healthwise is Indiana’s version of the CHIP health care program for children up to 19 years old and pregnant women that covers:

  • Doctor visits
  • Prescription medication
  • Mental health care
  • Dental care
  • Hospitalizations
  • Surgeries. 

There are two benefits packages available, depending on your income level: 

Package A: 

Services are covered at no cost to members who meet income eligibility — $3,128/month for a family of three. Once enrolled, you may select from the following health plans:

  • Anthem
  • CareSource
  • Managed Health Services
  • MDwise

Package C: 

Package C is for children enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) whose families have slightly higher incomes — $4,894/month for a family of three. Members are required to pay a low monthly premium (up to $70/month for a family with two children) and copays on certain services.

Two packages are available:

  • Package A: Full-service plan for children and pregnant individuals with no cost-sharing obligations
  • Package C (CHIP): Full service plan for children enrolled in CHIP. Small monthly premium and co-pays for certain services

Traditional Medicaid

This is a fee-for-service (FFS) program that provides full health coverage to those with low incomes. Traditional Medicaid members must go to an Indiana Medicaid provider.

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Over age 65 or disabled
  • Children receiving home and community based services
  • Eligible for home/community based services
  • Eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid
  • In a nursing home, care facility for intellectually disabled, or state-operated facility 
  • Maximum of $2,000 in assets (bank account balance, cash, stocks, property other than primary residence, vehicle equity)
  • Meet qualifying income limits — $2,072 for a family of three

How to get help with all Indiana Health programs:

Indiana Donated Dental Services

The Indiana Donated Dental Services is part of Dental Lifeline Network. This program provides dental care to disabled, elderly, or medically at risk patients. 

Qualifications: 

  • Lack adequate income to afford dental services
  • Permanently disabled, medically at risk, or 65 years or older

How to get help: 

Low or no cost dental care in Indiana

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

SHIP is a free counseling program for people with Medicare. It provides educational materials and brochures, referrals to appropriate agencies, help with applications, etc. Visit the website for more information. 

My Healthy Baby

My Healthy Baby connects pregnant women to support providers in their area to help with free guidance and assistance during pregnancy and the first 12 months postpartum. You can meet regularly in a place that is comfortable for you, have your questions about pregnancy and infant care answered, and get help with access to resources and free baby products. 

How to get help:

  • Visit their website to see your community resources
  • Call 844-624-6667
  • Fill out the online form to get connected

MCH MOMS Helpline

The MOMS Helpline helps improve pregnant women’s early access to regular prenatal care. Helpline specialists offer information about the following:

  • Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
  • Infant Health Programs
  • Educational Resources
  • Local Primary Care Providers
  • OB/GYNs
  • Pediatricians
  • Dentists
  • Child Development Resources
  • Parentings Topics

How to get help:

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Indiana

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) provides food benefits and nutrition education to low-income households. 

SNAP recipients are issued an EBT card that can be used like an ATM card to purchase food in retail food stores, including:

  • Breads
  • Cereals
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Meats
  • Fish
  • Poultry
  • Dairy
  • Plants and seeds to grow food 

For a family of three, the maximum monthly benefit is $740.

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
  • Work registration and cooperation with IMPACT (job training)
  • Asset/resource limit of $5,000
  • Meet income limits — $2,495 gross monthly income for a family of three

How to get help: 

  • Apply online
  • Mail your completed application to or apply in person at any DFCS office
  • Once your application is filed a DFCS case manager will interview you

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) 

TEFAP is a federal program that helps low-income individuals in Indiana supplement their diet by providing emergency nutrition at no cost. 

Qualifications: 

  • Each food bank sets its own eligibility and proof of need requirements 

How to get help: 

Indiana’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

WIC provides checks to buy healthy foods, information about nutrition and health, support and information about breastfeeding, and help finding other community services. 

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help:

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP)

NSLP serves healthy, well-balanced, reduced-price or free meals to children in school. An extension of the NSLP, the School Breakfast Program provides free or low-cost breakfast to eligible students. 

Qualifications: 

How to get help: 

  • Contact your child’s school to enroll

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

The CSFP provides food packages for low-income qualifying individuals. Each participant receives a monthly food package containing a variety of food items. 

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Must be low income and fall under at least one of the following categories:
    • Pregnant
    • Breastfeeding
    • New mothers up to one year postpartum
    • Infants
    • Children up to 6 years old
    • Adults 60 years or older who meet income requirements
  • Meet income limits — $2,495 gross monthly income for a family of three

How to get help:

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

SFSP provides nutritious meals/snacks to children in low-income areas during summer months and long vacation periods during the school year. The program provides up to two meals or one meal and one snack per day per child. These are typically available at schools, churches, recreation centers, camps, playgrounds, parks, etc.

Qualifications:

  • Children 18 years old and younger
  • Children 19 years and over who have a mental/physical disability

How to get help:

Child & Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

CACFP provides food to low-income children in child care and adults who receive care in nonresidential adult day care centers. It also provides food to children residing in emergency shelters and eligible afterschool programs. 

Qualifications:

  • Household with income at or below 130% of poverty are eligible for free meals 
  • Household with income between 130% to 185% are eligible for meals at reduced price
  • Infants and children through age 12 in child care centers or day care homes
  • Children through age 18 are eligible in afterschool care centers
  • Adults enrolled in daycare center and are at 60 years or older or have a mental/physical disability 

How to get help:

  • Call Indiana Department of Education at 317-232-0851
  • Contact your agency for participating care facilities
  • Visit Child & Adult Care Food Program for more information

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Indiana

There are multiple federally funded education programs and resources in Indiana.

Indiana Head Start and Early Head Start 

Head Start is a free federal preschool program for children ages 3 to 5 from low-income families. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children under age 3. The programs focus on cognitive, social, and emotional development and prepare children for school. 

Qualifications: 

  • Children from birth to 5 
  • Meet federal poverty guidelines 
  • Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, etc.) are eligible regardless of income
  • Some programs accept kids with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines
  • Pregnant women can also receive prenatal and postpartum information, education, and services through Early Head Start

How to apply: 

Child Care & Development Fund (CCDF) 

The CCDF is a federal program that helps low-income families with childcare so they are able to work, attend training, or attend school. 

Qualifications:

  • Be working, going to school, or have a referral from the Department of Child Services (DCS) or TANF/IMPACT
  • Have proof of identity of all family members
  • Be a resident of county in which you apply
  • Child must be U.S. Citizen or qualified legal alien
  • Child must be 12 years old or younger or have a mental/physical disability
  • Income at or below 127% of FPL
  • Family’s gross income cannot exceed 85% of state median income to remain eligible
  • Meet income limits — $2,299 for a family of three

How to get help:

On My Way Pre-K

This program awards grants to 4-year-olds from low income families so they have access to pre-K programs the year before they begin kindergarten. 

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident
  • Child must be 4 but not yet 5
  • Parents/guardians must have a service need due to working, going to school, attending training
  • Families must earn less than 127% of FPL

How to get help:

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Indiana

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education, here are some helpful resources: 

Indiana High School Equivalency Exam

Indiana does not use the GED but rather the High School Equivalency (HSE) exam. Testing costs $90 or less. 

Qualifications:

  • Indiana resident for a minimum of 30 days prior to taking the test
  • Students who are 16 years of age or older

How to get help:

Grants and scholarships in Indiana

The Indiana Scholarships Guide details various scholarships available to Indiana residents. Qualifications vary depending on the scholarship. For most scholarships, a FAFSA application and ScholarTrack application are required. 

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Indiana

Workforce programs in Indiana provide training and assist with employment:

Unemployment Insurance

This program provides temporary unemployment compensation to eligible Indiana workers who are out of work through no fault of their own.

Qualifications: 

  • Indiana resident
  • Unemployed through no fault of your own
  • Previously employed for the first four quarters of the last five calendar quarters
  • Must have earned at least $4,200 in base period
  • Must have earned at least $2,500 in the last six months of base period
  • Must have earned at least 1.5 times your wages in the highest paid quarter of the base period
  • Able to work, available to work, actively seeking work 

How to get help: 

American Job Centers

The American Job Centers offer employment and training services, career counseling, and job search assistance. 

How to get help: 

IMPACT

IMPACT provides employment resources to support Indiana residents receiving TANF or SNAP. 

Services available include:

  • Education and training
  • Job search and job readiness help
  • Employment and job retention services
  • Support Services

How to get help:

  • Call 800-403-0864, option 3, to enroll
  • Visit IMPACT for more information

More employment help: 

Charity organizations in Indiana

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Indiana that offer support to single moms:

The Salvation Army of Indiana

The Salvation Army wears many hats. Chapters assist with:

  • Food, shelter and clothing
  • Medication costs
  • Education and job training
  • Christmas presents
  • Rent and utility bills
  • Substance abuse rehabilitation
  • Youth services
  • Emergency disaster response

Qualifications: 

Each Salvation Army branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs.

How to get help: 

VIsit Indiana’s branch to find out more information. 

Catholic Charities of Indiana

Catholic Charities assist with:

  • Housing
  • Utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Health care assistance

Qualifications: 

Each Catholic Charities branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs. 

How to get help: 

United Way of Indiana

The United Way of Indiana connects people in need with local resources like: 

  • Food
  • Shelter
  • Child care services
  • Housing
  • Health care
  • Support groups

How to get help: 

More charities for single moms: 

Visit nonprofit programs in Indiana.

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




Not your state? Select yours here:

If you’re a single mom in Iowa struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Iowa

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Family Investment Program (FIP)

FIP is Iowa’s version of the federal cash assistance program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Families with children can get cash from FIP for up to 60 months. 

For a family of three, FIP pays out $426 monthly. See the full payout totals. 

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen
  • Iowa resident
  • Minor child in the home
  • Cooperate with child support enforcement, if applicable
  • Participate in a work training program
  • Have no more than $2,000 in resources when applying and stay under $5,000 of resources while in the program
  • Iowa determines income eligibility by calculating your gross and net income with two tests (more details on the FIP website).

How to get help:

Apply through the Department of Human Services online portal.

More emergency cash help in Iowa: 

Single moms in Iowa can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Iowa

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Iowa

There are multiple programs in Iowa to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Iowa Rent Subsidy Program

This program helps Iowa renters pay their rent with monthly cash assistance. Recipients can get paid up to the full cost of their rent minus 30% of their gross income.

Qualifications:

  • 18 or older
  • Live in a qualifying rental unit
  • Ineligible or on a waiting list for other rental assistance
  • Participate in an eligible community financial program
  • Pay more than 30% of their income toward rent
  • Complete reapproval every 12 months

How to get help: 

  • Email an application to HCBSifa@IowaFinance.com
  • Mail an application to Iowa Finance Authority, HCBS Rent Subsidy Program, 1963 Bell Ave., Suite 200, Des Moines, Iowa 50315

Iowa Rent Reimbursement

This program from the Department of Health and Human Services helps low-income disabled adults and seniors pay their rent, up to $1,000 in rent reimbursement annually.

Qualifications:

  • Live in Iowa
  • Disabled adult or over the age of 65
  • Annual income less than $25,328 
  • Pay rent for an Iowa property with Iowa property tax

How to get help: 

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) in Iowa

The Section 8 program helps low-income renters pay for affordable housing. Iowa has several Section 8-approved rental communities for eligible families.

Qualifications:

Families must meet income requirements for their area based on household size.

How to get help: 

Mortgage assistance in Iowa

If you need help buying a home in Iowa, these programs can help: 

Iowa Homeowner Assistance Fund

The Iowa Homeowner Assistance Fund gives homeowners up to $25,000 to pay for overdue:

  • Mortgage payments
  • Property taxes
  • Homeowner’s insurance
  • Homeowner association fees
  • Lot rent payments
  • Land contract payments

The program pays for single-family homes, mobile homes, condos, manufactured homes, and small multi-family properties with one unit occupied by the homeowner. 

Qualifications:

  • Iowa homeowner and occupy their Iowa home
  • Financial hardship due to the pandemic
  • Behind on home-related payments
  • Income lower than 150% of AMI                                     

How to get help: 

Fill out an online pre-application. If approved, you can move on to the full online application.

FirstHome Program

First-time homebuyers in Iowa can get low-interest loans with affordable down payments and closing costs through this program. 

Down payment assistance is available as a:

  • $2,500 grant, or
  • Loan for up to 5% or $5,000 of the home’s sale price (whichever is less) that’s repayable at the time of sale, upon refinance, or upon full repayment of the first mortgage

Homeowners can choose which program makes more sense for their financial situation.

Qualifications:

  • Buying an Iowa home as a primary residence
  • Meet income guidelines for your county, between $86,900 and $109,000
  • Buying a home under the maximum limit for your area   
  • Debt-to-income ratio of 45% or less
  • Willing to complete a homebuyer education program                        

How to get help: 

Find a participating lender through the Iowa Finance Authority.

Homes for Iowans

Homes for Iowans is another program for both first-time and repeat homebuyers that helps Iowa homebuyers get more affordable mortgages. The program offers low-interest loans and down payments of 3% or less.

Qualifications:

  • Purchasing a home in Iowa as your primary residence, up to $427,000
  • Household income up to $152,600
  • At least a 640 credit score
  • No higher than a 45% debt-to-income ratio
  • Willing to participate in a homebuyer education program    

How to get help: 

Find a participating lender through the Iowa Finance Authority.

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Down payment and closing cost assistance for Iowa Homeowners

Iowa has a few programs to help homeowners pay their down payments and closing costs, including Homes for Iowans and the FirstHome Program. These additional programs can also help:

  • Military Homeownership Assistance Program: Single moms who are or were service members can get a $5,000 grant for a down payment or closing costs
  • Combined Down Payment Assistant: The Iowa Finance Authority allows homebuyers to combine assistance for some of its programs, like the Military Homeownership Assistance Program and the FirstHome Program, to get extra money toward their down payment or closing costs

Qualifications: 

Homebuyers must qualify for the specific homeownership assistance program to get down payment assistance. 

How to get help: 

  • Find a participating lender through the Iowa Finance Authority
  • Contact the agency for more information at 515-452-0400 or 800-432-7230

Homeless assistance in Iowa

Iowa Housing Help

Iowa’s Coordinated Entry program helps Iowans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless find resources in their communities, including:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Housing assistance
  • Domestic violence support

How to get help: 

House Iowa

The House Iowa website is a database of housing resources for families in need. 

How to get help: 

Find your county on the website map to locate emergency shelters, Habitat for Humanity offices, and more housing resources. 

More housing help: 

Electric bill assistance in Iowa

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Iowa, check out the following programs:

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Iowa

LIHEAP helps low-income families pay their energy bills by making a direct payment to their utility company. Applications are accepted beginning on November 1st each year, but households with someone who is disabled or 60 years or older can apply beginning October 1st.

Qualifications:       

  • Iowa resident who rents or owns a home
  • At or below 200% of FPL

How to get help:

Find your local LIHEAP office. 

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Iowa

Low-income families in Iowa can get help weatherizing their homes to reduce energy costs through WAP. The program pays for:

  • Heating and cooling system safety checks
  • Heating and cooling system audits
  • Upgrades and repairs to heating and cooling systems
  • Ductwork installation
  • Water tank insulation
  • Efficient lighting source installation
  • Air sealing
  • Installing programmable thermostats

Applicants can apply at any time during the year.

Qualifications:

  • Live in Iowa
  • At or below 200% of the FPL — $46,060/year for a family of three

How to get help:

Contact your local Iowa Department of Human Rights.

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Iowa

Iowa families can get health or dental insurance and assistance through these Iowa programs:.

Dental Lifeline in Iowa

Dental Lifeline’s participating dental clinics provide free or discounted dental care to people who need it. 

Qualifications: 

Must have no means to afford dental care and meet one of the following criteria: 

  • Over 65 years of age
  • Permanently disabled
  • Need medically necessary dental care

How to get help: 

Fill out the online application.

Iowa Mission of Mercy

The Iowa Mission of Mercy hosts events for adults and children to receive free dental services, including exams, fillings, and root canals. 

Qualifications: 

Anyone who is able to make it to an IMOM event is allowed to come and wait in line to be seen.

How to get help:

Visit the IMOM website for details about upcoming events.

Iowa Medicaid 

Pregnant women and women with children may qualify for Iowa Medicaid, which is a statewide health insurance program that covers many medical services, like:

  • Doctor visits
  • Vision exams and glasses
  • Dental services
  • Physical therapy
  • Hospital care
  • X-rays and lab tests
  • Emergency room and urgent care services
  • Birth control and family planning

Qualifications:

  • Iowa resident
  • U.S. citizen
  • Income below 133% of FPL

How to get help:

Apply online through the Iowa Department of Human Services portal.

Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki)

Hawki is a Medicaid program for children whose parents do not qualify for Medicaid based on income. It is Iowa’s version of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

The program covers:

  • Doctor visits
  • Eye exams and glasses
  • Dental care
  • Prescriptions
  • Immunizations
  • Diagnostics
  • Lab services
  • Counseling and mental health services
  • Surgeries and emergencies

Some families may receive free Hawki coverage based on income, while others with higher incomes pay between $10 and $40 per month, per child.

Hawki also has a dental-only program for children who have other health coverage but do not have dental coverage and are eligible based on their family’s income. 

Qualifications: 

  • Live in Iowa
  • U.S. citizen or qualified resident
  • Not eligible for Medicaid
  • Child under 19 years old
  • No other health insurance
  • Meet income guidelines

How to get help: 

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Iowa

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

Iowa Food Assistance Program (SNAP)

Iowa SNAP benefits help low-income parents buy food for their families by giving them a monthly payment for eligible foods. Some retailers, like Amazon, Sam’s Club, and Walmart, also participate in SNAP, allowing Iowa residents to buy eligible food online, like:

  • Breads and cereals
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Meats, fish and poultry
  • Dairy products

Qualifications:

  • Iowa resident 
  • U.S. citizen or qualified citizen
  • Meet income requirements (check eligibility here)

How to get help: 

Apply using the online benefits portal or visit your local Department of Health and Human Services office. You can learn whether your income meets Iowa’s guidelines for SNAP by completing the pre-screening survey on the online portal. 

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Iowa

WIC serves mothers and babies across the United States with: 

  • Checks to buy healthy foods, baby formula, and baby food
  • Information about nutrition and health
  • Support and information about breastfeeding

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help: 

Contact your local WIC clinic to set up an appointment.

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program in Iowa

Iowa’s public school students meeting income requirements can get free or reduced-price lunch and breakfast meals in participating schools.

Qualifications: 

Eligible households have income within the federal income eligibility guidelines.

How to get help: 

  • Contact your child’s school for more information
  • Call the program director for the breakfast program at 515-868-1956
  • Call the program director for the lunch program at 515-975-8103

Iowa Seamless Summer Option

Eligible Iowa students can get free meals during the summer when school is on break from participating school sites.

Qualifications: 

Children must be 18 or younger. Participating sites can have their own requirements, such as only providing meals to children who participate in specific programs or activities.

How to get help: 

Call 515-868-1956 or 515-326-5358.

Food Bank of Iowa

The Food Bank of Iowa brings food to counties across Iowa for families in need. 

Qualifications: 

Each program or food bank the Food Bank of Iowa works with sets its own eligibility requirements. 

How to get help: 

Use the site’s interactive map to find food bank locations near you.

Food Banks in Iowa

The Iowa Food Bank Association hosts a database of food banks in the state that can help you get food for your family. 

Qualifications: 

Each food bank sets its own eligibility requirements.

How to get help: 

Visit The Iowa Food Bank Association to find a local food bank.

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Iowa

Child care assistance can help single moms in Iowa go to school or work by providing affordable child care.

Child Care Assistance in Iowa

Low-income single moms who work or attend school or vocational training can get help paying for child care. Some families may qualify for full-cost coverage.

Qualifications: 

  • Have a child under 13 or under 19 if they have special needs
  • Participate in the FIP program or be in an approved work, training, or education program
  • Income no higher than 145% of FPL

How to apply: 

  • Apply on the online portal
  • Apply at your local Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
  • Mail an application to: DHS CCA Eligibility, Human Services River Place Office, 2309 Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50310-5703

Iowa Head Start and Early Head Start

Iowa’s Early Head Start program serves children from birth to age 3. Eligible children can attend developmentally appropriate learning programs, and families can get connected to community resources, like parenting classes or social play groups.

Head Start programs are for children ages 3-5. They focus on preparing kids academically and socially for kindergarten.

Qualifications: 

Families must have a child aged 0-5. If the family already participates in other Iowa programs, like Medicaid or SNAP, they may automatically qualify. Otherwise, Head Start programs may evaluate household income to determine eligibility.

How to apply: 

Use the maps to find a Head Start or Early Head Start program near you.

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Iowa

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education in Iowa, here are some helpful resources: 

High School Equivalency Diploma in Iowa

Iowa offers the High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) to people in the state who did not complete high school. This program is similar to a GED, creating an alternative pathway to graduation. 

Single moms must be at least 17 years old to enroll in an eligible program and take the test. The HSED test has five content areas and costs $53.75 (or $10.75 for a single test).

Find an eligible program at Your Future Starts Here.

Grants and scholarships in Iowa

Single moms looking for help with their college expenses can use the Iowa College Aid website to find statewide scholarships and grants. 

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Iowa

Workforce programs in Iowa provide training and assist with employment:

Iowa Unemployment Benefits

Iowa’s unemployment program pays money to individuals who have lost their job, been laid off, or had hours reduced at their jobs. 

Single moms can file a new claim to begin receiving unemployment checks while they look for a new job or wait to return to work.

Qualifications: 

  • Live in Iowa
  • Unemployed, laid off, or had a reduction of hours
  • Willing to actively search for a new job

How to get help: 

Apply through the Iowa Workforce Development website.

IowaWORKS

IowaWORKS helps people find suitable work in the state. Single moms who are currently getting unemployment benefits or those who would like to find a new job can use the website. 

How to get help: 

Register for an IowaWORKS account to begin searching for jobs.

More employment help: 

Charity organizations in Iowa

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Iowa that offer support to single moms:

Children and Families of Iowa

Children and Families of Iowa offers several services to children and their families in Iowa, including:

  • Resources and support for domestic violence situations
  • Early childhood development programs
  • Mental health and substance abuse support
  • Financial management help
  • Adoption assistance
  • Family interventions

Qualifications: 

Requirements vary by program.

How to get help: 

Visit the CFIOWA website to find your nearest location. 

The Salvation Army of Iowa

Salvation Army locations help people across the state access resources they need to stay safe and healthy. Some of the services The Salvation Army provides include:

  • Gifts for holidays
  • Domestic violence support
  • LGBTQ+ support
  • Job training
  • Food donations
  • Financial assistance
  • Emergency shelter
  • Housing assistance
  • Life skill building
  • After-school programs

Qualifications: 

Each Salvation Army location in Iowa has its own services and determines eligibility for each of its services and programs. 

How to get help: 

Visit the Salvation Army website to find your local chapter. 

United Way in Iowa

The United Way has numerous locations across Iowa, including Clinton, Mason City, and Burlington. This charity helps families in need find food, shelter, financial resources, and community support.

How to get help: 

Contact your nearest United Way in Iowa or dial 2-1-1.

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




Not your state? Select yours here:

If you’re a single mom in Kansas struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Kansas

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Kansas Successful Families Program

The Kansas Successful Families Program includes cash assistance to help low-income families with children cover the costs of: 

  • Food
  • Rent
  • Clothing
  • Bills

The amount of cash benefit you’ll receive depends on your income, family size, and county. For example, a family of three living in a rural county can get $386/month. The same family living in a high-cost and highly populated county can receive $429/month.

Families can get cash benefits for a maximum of 24 months in a lifetime. Families who receive benefits may also get medical benefits and child care, as well as support for education and employment.

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
  • Kansas resident
  • Unemployed or underemployed
  • Very low or low income (determined by county)
  • Looking for work while cooperating with Kansas’s Department for Children and Families (DCF) Child Support Services Division
  • Participate in work-related activities, unless needed to do one of the following:
    • Take care of a child under two months of age
    • Take care of a disabled household member

How to get help:

More emergency cash help in Kansas: 

Single moms in Kansas can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Kansas

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Kansas

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent, these programs can help: 

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers affordable housing and vouchers to help low-income households pay their rent. The voucher covers a portion of the rent. The tenant pays 30-40% of their monthly adjusted gross income for rent and utilities. 

Qualifications:

  • Kansas resident
  • Income cannot exceed 50% of median income for the county in which you live

How to get help: 

Contact your local public housing agency (PHA) and ask how to apply for assistance.

KHRC Tenant Based Rental Assistance

KHRC’s Tenant Based Rental Assistance is a program designed to help income-eligible households pay their rent, security deposits, and/or utility deposits. 

How to get help: 

  • Contact KHRC at 785-217-2001
  • Contact Cynthia Howerton, Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program Manager, at 785-217-2025
  • Contact the grantee for your county

Mortgage assistance in Kansas

If you need help getting or paying for a mortgage in Kansas, these programs can help: 

KHRC First Time Home Buyer

KHRC’s First Time Home Buyer program helps income-eligible households purchase their first home by providing down payment assistance. 

Assistance is given in the form of a 0% interest loan for 15% or 20% of the purchase price, which can be forgiven if the buyer remains in the home for at least 10 years.

Qualifications:

  • First-time homebuyers (can not have owned a home for three years)
  • Income at or below 80% of AMI
  • Homebuyer must make an investment of 2% but no more than 10% of the sale price from their own funds

How to get help: 

  • Locate a KHRC First Time Home Buyer lender serving your area
  • Contact KHRC at 785-217-2001
  • Contact Cynthia Howerton, First Time Home Buyer Program Manager, at 785-217-2025

Habitat for Humanity 

Habitat for Humanity builds and rehabilitates houses for needy families and offers homeownership assistance through volunteer labor. 

How to get help:

Contact Habitat for Humanity for more information.

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Homeless housing assistance in Kansas

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, check out these programs: 

Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV)

The EHV program helps families and individuals experiencing homelessness by helping them find affordable housing in the short term and establishing housing stability in the long term.

Qualifications:

  • Homeless or at risk of homelessness
  • Fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking
  • Recently homeless
  • Rental assistance will prevent family’s homelessness 
  • High risk of housing instability

How to get help: 

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation Emergency Solutions Grant

The KHRC Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) helps those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by partnering with service providers to provide the following services in Kansas:

  • Rapid rehousing
  • Emergency shelter provisions
  • Homelessness prevention
  • Street outreach

How to get help:

More housing help: 

Electric bill assistance in Kansas

If you’re struggling to pay your utility bills in Kansas, check out the following programs:

Low-Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) in Kansas

LIEAP helps eligible households with their home heating and cooling bills through energy bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, and long-term weatherization assistance. LIEAP provides a one-time-per-year benefit; the application period is within the first three months of the year. 

Qualifications:     

  • U.S. citizen or legally admitted immigrant
  • Kansas resident
  • Adult living at the address must be personally responsible for paying the heating costs incurred at the residence, payable to landlord or fuel vendor
  • Applicants must demonstrate a recent history of payments toward purchase of the primary heating energy
  • Household income may not exceed 150% of FPL — $32,318/year maximum for a family of three

How to get help:

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP helps qualifying households lower their monthly energy bills by making their homes safer, healthier, and more energy efficient. Types of assistance include:

  • Air and duct sealing
  • Wall, floor, attic insulation
  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system improvements
  • Lighting efficiency 
  • Hot water tank insulation
  • Water conservation devices

Qualifications:

Low-income homeowners and renters (at or below 200% of FPL), with priority given to higher-risk residents such as: 

  • Elderly
  • Disabled individuals
  • Families with children
  • High energy users

Households that receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), TANF, or LIEAP are automatically income-eligible for WAP. In Kansas, the maximum income for weatherization assistance is $49,720 for a family of three.

How to get help:

Emergency Water Assistance Program (EWAP) in Kansas

EWAP is a federally funded program created in response to COVID-19 and helps eligible households in Kansas pay for drinking and wastewater. Funds are paid directly to the vendor. 

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
  • Resident of Kansas
  • Receive water through public pipelines from participating vendor
  • Households earning less than 150% of the FPL — $2,879/month for a family of three
  • Responsible for paying the cost of water

How to get help:

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance & dental help for single moms in Kansas

The following medical and dental services are available to qualifying individuals and families in Kansas:

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) in Kansas

HRSA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, funds health centers that provide free or subsidized health and dental care to low-income people and those otherwise unable to access quality health care, like people living in rural areas.

Kansas is part of the HRSA Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs (IEA) Region 7 Office, based in Kansas City, and serves Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas.

HRSA also offers a 24/7 free and confidential mental health hotline for pregnant and new moms. Dial 833-943-5746 (833-9-HELP4MOMS) if you’re struggling.

Qualifications: 

Each health center sets its own eligibility criteria for free or reduced-cost care. 

How to get help:

Find an HRSA health center in Kansas by typing in your address on HRSA’s search tool.

Kansas Medicaid

KanCare is the Medicaid program in the state of Kansas. KanCare helps lower-income families pay for some or all of their medical bills.

Qualifications:

  • Kansas resident
  • U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant
  • Has a Social Security Number or applying for one
  • Under the income limits (examples below are for a household of three):
    • Children under 19: Up to $5,283/month
    • Pregnant: Up to $3,543/month
    • Parents and caregivers: Up to$787/month
  • KanCare is also available to the elderly, disabled, and refugees during the first eight months of arriving in the U.S.

How to get help:

KanCare Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

KanCare CHIP provides no-cost or low-cost health coverage to Kansas children whose families do not qualify for Medicaid. 

Benefits under CHIP include:

  • No deductibles
  • No co-pays
  • No co-insurance
  • Monthly household premiums from $0 to $50
  • Free annual checkups and screenings, including dental 
  • Choice of three (3) Medical Carriers each offering different benefits
  • Coverage is accepted by most doctors

Qualifications:

  • Kansas resident
  • Under age 19
  • U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant
  • Has a Social Security Number or applying for one
  • Not currently covered by other health insurance
  • Under the income limits — $5,283/month for a family of three

How to get help:

Kansas Dental Services

Medicaid and CHIP offer free or low-cost dental care for children up to age 19. Dental services include: 

  • Check-ups
  • X-rays
  • Fluoride treatments
  • Dental sealants
  • Fillings

Qualifications:

Household must be eligible for Medicaid and/or CHIP.

How to get help:

Kansas Mission of Mercy (KMOM)

The Kansas Mission of Mercy (KMOM), a project of the Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation, is a large-scale dental clinic providing free oral health care to Kansas residents who can’t afford or access care. 

Services include cleanings, fillings, and extractions. KMOM offers regular two-day free dental care clinics to the public, serving children, adults, and sometimes entire families. 

Qualifications:

  • First-come, first-served basis during KMOM events
  • No dental records required
  • No proof of income required

How to get help:

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Kansas

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

Nutrition Assistance in Kansas

The Food Assistance Program is the State of Kansas’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly the Food Stamp Program, a federally funded program that provides emergency and monthly food-related benefits to eligible low-income households. 

SNAP recipients are issued an EBT card that can be used like an ATM card in retail food stores to purchase food, including:

  • Breads
  • Cereals
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Meats
  • Fish
  • Poultry
  • Dairy
  • Plants and seeds to grow food 

Click here for a list of what you can and cannot buy. 

Qualifications:

  • Resident of Kansas
  • Meet income limits — $2,495/month for a family of three (maximum benefit is $740)

How to get help:

The Emergency Food Assistance Program

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that provides emergency nutrition at no cost through local food banks in Kansas.

Qualifications: 

  • Each food bank sets its own eligibility and proof of need requirements
  • People receiving Food Assistance in Kansas automatically qualify for TEFAP

How to get help: 

Kansas Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is a nutrition program that provides free baby formula and nutritional food items to low-income mothers and their babies. 

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help:

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) & School Breakfast Program (SBP)

NSLP serves healthy, well-balanced, reduced-price, or free meals to children in school. An extension of the NSLP, the SBP provides free or low-cost breakfast to eligible students. 

Qualifications: 

Household income must fall at or below the limits of the federal poverty guidelines.

How to get help: 

Contact your child’s school directly to enroll.

Kansas Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

The Kansas SFSP, funded by the USDA, serves healthy meals to youth ages 18 and under at no cost during summer break. Food is distributed at local schools, nonprofits, parks, and libraries and other central sites in low-income areas. 

Qualifications: 

  • Must meet current income guidelines for the federal SFSP: $42,606/year for a family of three; please see the SFSP Income Eligibility Guidelines chart for full qualifications and eligibility 
  • Children must be present to receive the “grab & go” food bundles

How to get help: 

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Kansas

There are several federally funded education programs and resources in Kansas:

Kansas Head Start and Early Head Start

Head Start is a free federal preschool program for children aged three to five from low-income families. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children under age three. The programs focus on cognitive, social, and emotional development and prepare children for school. 

Qualifications: 

  • Have children from birth to age five
  • Meet federal poverty guidelines 
  • Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, etc.) are eligible, regardless of income
  • Pregnant women can also receive prenatal and postpartum information, education, and services

How to get help:

Kansas Child Care Assistance Program

The Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF) helps low-income households and single-parent families access safe, affordable, and quality child care assistance. DCF partners with several agencies to help parents afford and access child care. 

For example, Kansas Quality Network helps parents find child care providers in their area and access subsidies.

Qualifications for subsidy:

  • Families who receive TANF
  • Low-income working families
  • Eligible families engaged in educational / training activities
  • Teen parents completing high school or GED
  • Income eligibility —$4,798/month for a family of three for first-time applications

How to get help:

More child care help:

Education help for single moms in Kansas

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education in Kansas, here are some helpful resources: 

Get a GED in Kansas

In Kansas, GED testing is delivered through the Kansas Board of Regents. Students looking to earn their GED can take four separate GED subtests at one of Kansas’ testing centers or online in English or Spanish:

  • Literacy (Reasoning through Language Arts)
  • Math (Mathematical Reasoning)
  • Science
  • Social Studies

Adults 18 years of age or older can take the test in Kansas, plus 16 or 17-year-olds with parent or guardian permission. The test costs $33 per subject. 

How to get help:

  • Visit the Kansas Board of Regents website for GED Information to set up an online account, take practice tests, and find a testing center near you
  • Contact the Kansas GED State Administrator at 785-430-4289 or sgrosdidier@ksbor.org
  • GED Testing Center Student Support Helpline: 877-392-6433

Grants and scholarships in Kansas

If you are a single mom currently enrolled in or going to school, check out the options for financial aid: 

State of Kansas Student Aid

You can apply for State of Kansas Aid either online or by printing and mailing the State of Kansas Student Aid Application. You can find more information about specific scholarships and grants at Kansas Scholarships and Grants.

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Kansas

Workforce programs in Kansas provide training and assist with employment and education:

Kansas WorkforceONE

Kansas WorkforceONE Centers provide workforce-related services and assistance for job seekers in Kansas. Services and assistance include:

  • Career assessments
  • Job search and placement services
  • Workforce preparation activities
  • Work-based learning
  • Occupational skills training
  • On-the-job training

How to get help:

American Job Centers

American Job Centers offer employment and training services, career counseling, and job search assistance. 

How to get help: 

More employment help: 

Charity organizations in Kansas

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Kansas that offer support to single moms:

The Salvation Army of Kansas

The Salvation Army assists with:

  • Food, shelter, and clothing
  • Medication costs
  • Education and job training
  • Rent and utility bills
  • Emergency disaster response
  • Substance abuse rehabilitation
  • Youth services
  • Christmas gifts

Qualifications: 

Each Salvation Army branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs

How to get help: 

Visit Kansas & Western Missouri Salvation Army or Kansas City, Kansas Salvation Army to find your nearest location.

Catholic Charities of Kansas

There are four chapters of Catholic Charities across Kansas: 

  • Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas
  • Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas
  • Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas
  • Catholic Charities of Wichita

They assist with:

  • Housing
  • Utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Health care assistance

Qualifications: 

Each Catholic Charities branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs. 

How to get help: 

United Way of Kansas

The United Way of Kansas connects people in need with local resources like: 

  • Food
  • Shelter
  • Child care services
  • Housing
  • Health care
  • Support groups

How to get help: 

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




Not your state? Select yours here:

If you’re a single mom in Kentucky struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Kentucky

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program

KTAP is a cash assistance program that helps families with children get the money they need to afford necessities, like food, shelter, and clothing. Families can receive up to 60 months of KTAP benefits, and those months don’t need to be continuous. 

A family of three can get up to $262 per month from KTAP. 

Qualifications:

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Be a Kentucky resident
  • Be unemployed or under-employed
  • Be a parent or caregiver with a child under 18 or under 19 if still in school
  • Meet the income requirements — $974 for a family of three

How to get help:

Apply at your local Department for Community Based Services office. Find your branch by calling 800-372-2973.

More emergency cash help in Kentucky: 

Single moms in Kentucky can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Find a Department of Human Services office near you:

google-maps-usa-image

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Kentucky

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Kentucky

There are multiple programs in Kentucky to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund

This program gives eligible Kentucky families cash assistance to pay their rent if they fall behind because of a financial hardship. It can also pay utilities. Families may receive up to 12 months of payments equal to their past-due rent or utilities and up to three months of future rent and utility payments.

Jefferson and Fayette counties have their own separate programs. The Jefferson County program has stopped accepting new applications, but Fayette County residents can apply through the CommunityAction Council.

Qualifications:

  • Kentucky resident not in Jefferson or Fayette counties
  • At risk of eviction
  • Request assistance for a primary residence
  • Experiencing a financial hardship as a result of the pandemic
  • Meet income guidelines, which vary by county and are capped at 80% of AMI

How to get help: 

  • Email Evict.eligible@kyhousing.org or call 833-597-3687 with any questions about the program or your eligibility
  • Apply online

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) in Kentucky

Low-income families in Kentucky may apply for Section 8 vouchers. This assistance program helps eligible families pay their rent for qualified housing. If you’re interested in applying for Section 8, you can learn more about rental limits here.        

Qualifications:

Families must meet income requirements for their area based on their household size.

How to get help: 

Mortgage assistance in Kentucky

If you need help buying a home in Kentucky, these programs can help: 

Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund

This program pays homeowners up to $60,000 to help them keep their homes after experiencing a pandemic-related financial hardship. Homeowners can get help paying their mortgage for up to six months of current or past-due payments or put the money toward utilities, homeowner’s association dues, or escrow payments.

Qualifications:

  • Kentucky homeowner
  • Seek assistance for a primary residence only
  • Financial hardship affecting your ability to pay your housing-related costs
  • Income lower than 150% of AMI

How to get help: 

Create an account with the Kentucky Homeownership Protection Center to apply online.

Kentucky Housing Corporation Down Payment Assistance

First-time homebuyers can get up to $10,000 in down payment assistance, paid as a loan in $100 monthly payments. Homebuyers must repay the loan, with interest, over 10 years.

Qualifications:

  • Purchase price up to $349,525
  • Meet all underwriting requirements from a lender
  • Work with a Kentucky Housing Corporation lender                       

How to get help: 

Contact a KHC-approved lender to apply.

Kentucky Housing Corporation Home Loans for Low-Income Buyers

KHC offers its Conventional Preferred Program to help homebuyers with low incomes purchase a home. The loan is reserved for homebuyers with incomes not exceeding 80% of the AMI.

Applicants can also use a KHC down payment assistance loan to purchase their homes.

Qualifications:

  • Purchase price up to $349,525
  • Use the loan for a primary residence only
  • Minimum credit score of 660
  • Pay a 3% down payment
  • Meet all underwriting requirements from a lender
  • Work with a Kentucky Housing Corporation lender          

How to get help: 

Contact a KHC-approved lender to apply.

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Homeless assistance in Kentucky

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, these programs can help: 

Kentucky Emergency Solutions Grant

ESG gives money to emergency shelters and community programs that help people who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless. The funds go toward providing emergency housing, maintaining emergency shelters, and getting families off the streets.

How to get help: 

Call KHC at 502-564-7630 for information.

Continuum of Care in Kentucky

The CoC program provides services for homeless individuals and families. The program addresses immediate food and shelter needs and connects homeless people to community and state resources. The goal of the program is to prevent people from becoming homeless again.

How to get help: 

Call KHC at 502-564-7630 for information.

More housing help: 

Electric bill assistance in Kentucky

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Kentucky, check out the following programs:

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Kentucky

This program gives direct payments to energy companies on behalf of families with low incomes who need help paying their energy bills. LIHEAP in Kentucky is available in three types of programs:

  • Subsidy: This program pays a lump payment to the energy company to reduce a family’s bill
  • Crisis: This is an emergency assistance program for families in immediate need of help paying for their heat
  • Summer Program: When enough funds are leftover, some families can get help paying for cooling in the summer

Qualifications:       

  • Kentucky resident
  • Income lower than 130% of FPL for subsidy or less than 75% of the FPL for the crisis program
  • For the summer program, eligible households must have a household member younger than 6, 65 and older, or who has a disability

How to get help:

Call 800-456-3452 for information on applying.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Kentucky

The WAP program pays for necessary weatherization upgrades to Kentucky homes for families with lower incomes. Eligible households can get heating system repairs, insulation installations, and other services to help them lower their energy bills.

Qualifications:

  • Kentucky resident
  • Valid Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Meet income guidelines — $37,290 for a family of three
  • Own the home getting help or have permission from your landlord if renting

How to get help:

Contact your local Kentucky Community Action agency.

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Kentucky

Kentucky families who need help paying for medical or dental services can see if they’re eligible for the following programs:

Dental Lifeline in Kentucky

Participating dental clinics in Kentucky give free or low-cost dental care to people who qualify for the Dental Lifeline program based on a medically necessary dental need. Currently, the program is only accepting applications for people who live in Jefferson or Warren counties. 

Qualifications: 

You must meet ONE of the following criteria:

  • Over 65 years of age
  • Permanently disabled
  • Need medically necessary dental care

You must have no other means to afford or receive dental care. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, so there are no set income limits for this program. 

How to get help: 

Kentucky Free and Affordable Dental Clinics

Several dental clinics in Kentucky offer free or low-fee dental services to families who need care and may not otherwise be able to afford it. 

Qualifications: 

Each dental clinic sets its own rules and qualifications for patients.

How to get help: 

Contact a nearby dental clinic for more information about receiving services.

Kentucky Oral Health Program

Kentucky offers a few different programs to help Kentucky families get the care they need for healthy teeth:

  • Kentucky Public Health Dental Hygiene Program: Offers professional dental care to school-aged children in participating districts.
  • Fluoride Programs: The Kids Smile program gives fluoride treatments to children who may be at risk of tooth decay. Other fluoride programs supply fluoridated water and supplements to needy areas of the state.
  • Kentucky Sealant Program: This is a community-based program that provides sealants to children in schools with a high percentage of students at risk for dental problems. 

Qualifications: 

Each program sets its own rules and qualifications for patients.

How to get help: 

  • Call 502-564-8966, ext 4417
  • Email juliew.mckee@ky.gov 

Kentucky Medicaid 

Medicaid is a federal program that provides coverage to low-income families for health services like:

  • Wellness checkups
  • Prescriptions
  • Lab or radiological exams
  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Specialist visits

Some Medicaid recipients with very low incomes can get free services, while others pay a spend down amount before Medicaid begins covering the costs of care.

Qualifications:

  • Kentucky resident
  • U.S. citizen
  • Income up to 133% of FPL for an adult or up to 195% of FPL if pregnant

How to get help:

Apply online using Kentucky’s kynect portal or in person at your local Department for Community Based Services. 

Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP)

The KCHIP program provides health coverage for kids whose families don’t qualify for Medicaid. The program pays for:

  • Lab tests
  • Mental health services
  • Doctor visits
  • Dental care
  • Immunizations 
  • Physical and speech therapies
  • Hearing and vision services
  • Prescriptions

Qualifications: 

  • Live in Kentucky
  • U.S. citizen
  • Child under 19
  • Ineligible for other health insurance
  • Have income up to 213% of FPL — $4,413 for a family of three

How to get help: 

Apply online using kynect or in person at your local Department for Community Based Services. 

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Kentucky

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

Kentucky Food Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP is a federal program that gives families money to buy food. Single moms in Kentucky can use SNAP benefits for fresh produce, meat, snacks, and other food at participating stores. Generally, the maximum benefit amount a three-person household can receive per month is $740. 

Qualifications:

  • Be a Kentucky resident
  • Be a U.S. citizen or qualified citizen
  • Have no more than $2,250 in cash and resources or no more than $3,500 if one of your household members is 60 or older
  • Participate in a work registration program if you’re between 18 and 59 years old
  • Have income at or below 130% of FPL — $2,495 for a family of three

How to get help: 

  • Apply online using kynect
  • Call 855-306-8959
  • Apply at your local DCBS office

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Kentucky

WIC gives pregnant women and their children up to age 5 money to pay for nutritious food, like infant formula, baby food, milk, and cheese. The program also offers nutrition guidance and connects moms to community resources that help with child development and nutrition.

Kentucky residents can use the WIC Shopper app to register their WIC card and scan products at the store to make sure they’re eligible for WIC.

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help: 

Apply at your local health department.

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program in Kentucky

These USDA programs help children in families with low incomes get free or reduced-price school lunches and breakfasts. Some schools, camps, and daycares may also be eligible for free fruits and vegetables, milk, and after-school snacks.

Qualifications: 

Eligible households have income within the federal income eligibility guidelines. 

How to get help: 

  • Contact your child’s school for more information
  • Call 502-564-5625

Kentucky Seamless Summer Option

This program allows eligible schools in Kentucky to provide fresh meals to their students over the summer when school is on break. 

Qualifications: 

Children must be 18 or younger. Participating sites can determine their own requirements for meals.

How to get help: 

  • Contact your child’s school for more information
  • Call 502-564-5625

Feeding Kentucky

Feeding Kentucky helps people across the state access food they need for themselves and their families. The organization’s program, KY Kids Eat, is specifically for children in need aged 18 and younger to get free food.

How to get help: 

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Kentucky

Moms in Kentucky can get help from the following programs with child care costs and services.

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in Kentucky

Kentucky moms who are working or in school can get help paying for child care expenses through the CCAP program. CCAP pays all or some costs of child care for children attending participating programs.

You can find the maximum full-day and partial-day rates CCAP pays per county in this chart.

Qualifications: 

  • Have a child under 13 or older than 13 if they have special needs
  • Be working, participating in a job search program, or be enrolled in school
  • Meet income within 160% of FPL — $2,723 for a family of three. 

How to apply: 

  • Apply online with kynect
  • Call 855-306-8959

Kentucky Head Start and Early Head Start

Kentucky Head Start programs provide preschool education to children ages 3-5. Early Head Start programs are for children from birth to age 3. They include family support, parental resources, and help with accessing community resources for families.

Qualifications: 

Families must have a child aged 0-5. The programs typically accept families with income below federal poverty limits.

How to apply: 

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Kentucky

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education in Kentucky, here are some helpful resources: 

Kentucky GED

Adults who did not finish high school can get a GED in Kentucky, which measures important academic areas, like math and language arts. Kentucky offers free GED testing for both online and in-person GED tests. To qualify, test-takers must pass the free GED Ready Official Practice Test at a Kentucky Adult Education Prep Center (KYAE).

Find a KYAE center to take the practice test and schedule your GED exam. 

Grants and scholarships in Kentucky

The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) offers several grants and scholarships for people entering college or technical programs. Many of these programs are funded with help from the Kentucky Lottery. 

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Kentucky

Workforce programs in Kentucky provide training and assist with employment:

Kentucky Career Center

Kentucky single moms can find several helpful resources through the Kentucky Career Center to find and keep a job. Internship opportunities, vocational rehabilitation, and career counseling are available services.

How to get help: 

Find your local Kentucky Career Center.

Kentucky Works

Kentucky Works helps people find full-time and part-time jobs in Kentucky. 

How to get help: 

Register for a Kentucky Works account to apply for jobs.

Kentucky Unemployment Benefits

If you’re unemployed in Kentucky, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits to help you pay bills as you look for another job. 

Qualifications: 

  • Live in Kentucky
  • Unemployed for no fault of your own
  • Earned enough money to qualify
  • Willing to look for another job

How to get help: 

Apply for benefits through the Team Kentucky portal.

More employment help: 

Charity organizations in Kentucky

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Kentucky that offer support to single moms:

Family Scholar House

Family Scholar House helps Kentucky families reach their goals and meet their immediate and future needs through:

  • Affordable housing
  • Health and wellness coaching
  • Academic and career coaching
  • Apprenticeship programs
  • Advocacy support

How to get help: 

  • Call 502-584-8090 or 877-677-9177
  • Fill out the online form

The Salvation Army of Kentucky

The Salvation Army gives back to Kentucky communities in numerous ways, including:

  • Food donations
  • Financial assistance
  • Housing support
  • Job training
  • Domestic violence assistance
  • After-school programs
  • Community recreation
  • Holiday gifts for kids

Qualifications: 

Eligibility for Salvation Army programs varies by location and program.

How to get help: 

Visit the Salvation Army website to find your local chapter. 

Catholic Charities of Kentucky

There are four Catholic Charities chapters in Kentucky that may provide:

  • Rent and mortgage assistance
  • Utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Budget counseling
  • Job readiness

How to get help: 

Contact your nearest Catholic Charities office:

United Way of Kentucky

The United Way of Kentucky helps families in need become financially stable. The organization connects Kentuckians to community resources and provides immediate help, like food, clothing, shelter, and educational assistance.

How to get help: 

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




Not your state? Select yours here:

If you’re a single mom in Louisiana struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Louisiana

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)-Louisiana

Louisiana’s TANF programs provide financial assistance, education, job preparation, and other services through two separate programs:  

Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP): Provides financial aid for children whose parents cannot provide sufficient financial support.

  • $484 per month for a family of three

Kinship Care Subsidy Program (KCSP): Provides cash assistance for children who reside with a qualified relative other than a parent.

  • $450 per month for each eligible child 
  • Child cannot make more than $450 per month

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
  • Louisiana resident
  • Financially needy family 
  • Must have Social Security numbers for all families members
  • Children must be 18 years old or younger or be 18 years old and enrolled in full-time secondary school/technical training
  • Individual receiving FITAP for child must be related by blood, marriage, or adoption
  • Children must live in the same home as applying relative
  • Applicant must assign child support/medical support rights to the state 
  • Applicant must cooperate with Child Support Enforcement Services
  • Monthly income cannot exceed the flat grant amount
    • Total countable income is subtracted from flat grant amount
    • Allowable income deductions:
      • Earned income deduction of $120 for each employed family member
      • Time limited deduction of $900 for six months for each employed family member
  • Work eligible applicants and recipients must participate in Strategies to Empower People (STEP) program
  • Children’s immunizations must be up to date
  • Each applicant/recipient who is pregnant or has a child under one years old must attend parenting skills training
  • Ineligible if parent or two parents have received benefits for 24 of the prior 60 months
  • Recipients have a lifetime limit of 60 months
  • Minor unmarried parents and children must reside in the home of parent, legal guardian, other adult relatives, or in an adult supervised arrangement
  • Applicants/recipients 18 years and older must cooperate in screening for use of illegal drugs, drug testing, and education/rehabilitation if needed

How to get help:

More emergency cash help in Louisiana: 

Single moms in Louisiana can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Louisiana

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Louisiana

There are multiple programs in Louisiana to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Emergency Rental Assistance

The Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program was established to help those experiencing housing instability as a result of COVID-19. The statewide application closed on 12/21/2022. However, the following parishes may still be accepting applicants for individual programs: 

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers affordable housing and vouchers to help low-income households pay their rent. The voucher covers a portion of the rent. The tenant pays 30-40% of their monthly adjusted gross income for rent and utilities. 

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • Income cannot exceed 50% of median income for the county in which you live

How to get help: 

Mortgage assistance in Louisiana

If you need help with your mortgage in Louisiana, these programs can help: 

Hope Credit Union Home Loans

Hope Credit Union Enterprise Corporation offers loan options for first-time homebuyers, those looking to refinance, and those denied lending due to low credit scores. Hope has specific loan products that cater to low- to moderate-income families:

  • FHA loan – Ideal for families with low to moderate income who cannot afford a large down payment
  • Hope loan – An affordable housing loan from Hope Credit Union you can apply for even if your credit score is as low as 580

Hope has loan options for any income level and credit standing.

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident

How to get help:

Market Rate GNMA Program

This program from the Louisiana Housing Corporation offers a 30-year fixed rate FHA, VA, or USDA Rural Development mortgage at low interest rates. It also helps homebuyers with down payment assistance or closing costs, up to 4% of the home’s purchase price.

Qualifications:

  • Available for purchase of a single home in Louisiana
  • Household must have income up to 115% of AMI
  • Minimum credit score of 640
  • First-time and repeat home buyers are able to apply

How to get help:

Market Rate Conventional Program

Conventional loan applicants can receive up to 4% assistance for down payments, closing costs, or prepaid items through the Louisiana Housing Corporation.

Qualifications:

  • Available for purchase of single-family home in Louisiana
  • Maximum loan amount of $453,100
  • Maximum allowed 80% AMI by parish and household size
  • Minimum credit score of 640
  • 97% LTV 1-unit
  • Homebuyer education required for first-time homebuyers

How to get help:

  • Contact a Louisiana Housing approved lender
  • Call 225-763-8700

MRB Home and Assisted Program

This program helps potential homebuyers who are at 80% AMI or less get a mortgage with interest rates below market level. 

Qualifications:

  • Must be a first-time homebuyer
  • Property must be in Louisiana
  • Purchase price cannot exceed $349,525
  • Minimum Credit score of 640
  • Must meet local income requirements:
    • $63,900 for a family of three in Baton Rouge area
    • $56,450 for a family of three in New Orleans area

How to get help:

  • Contact a Louisiana Housing approved lender
  • Call 225-763-8700

Resilience Soft Second Program

This program offers up to $55,000 for a down payment and up to $5,000 for closing costs on 30-year fixed-rate FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan products. 

Qualifications:

  • Must be a first-time homebuyer
  • Annual household income at or below 80% of AMI
  • Properties cannot be located in a flood zone
  • Available only in parishes affected by the Great Floods of 2016

How to get help:

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Homeless and special needs housing assistance in Louisiana 

If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, you may be able to get help from the following program: 

Coordinated Entry Access Points

If you are about to lose your home or apartment, are living on the street or in your car, and/or are fleeing domestic violence, contact your local Coordinated Entry Access Point for assistance. 

Other homeless programs

There are programs across the state for homeless assistance: 

More housing help: 

Electric bill assistance in Louisiana

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Louisiana, check out the following programs:

Energy Assistance Program (EAP) in Louisiana

The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) provides a one-time annual benefit to help cover home energy bills if you are disconnected or about to be disconnected. EAP will not cover all energy costs.

Qualifications:       

  • U.S. citizen or legally admitted immigrant
  • Louisiana resident
  • Applicants must be responsible for the household energy bill
  • Applicant must have an active heating/cooling utility account
  • Applicants may only receive one LIHEAP benefit each season:
    • Heating: November 15-March 15
    • Cooling: April 1-September 30
    • Crisis: October 1-September 30
  • Income is at 60% of estimated state median income — $3,505 for a family of three

How to get help:

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP helps qualifying households lower their monthly energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. 

Qualifying projects may include: 

  • Air and duct sealing
  • Wall, floor, attic insulation
  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system improvements
  • Lighting efficiency 
  • Hot water tank insulation
  • Water conservation devices

Qualifications:

  • Income at or below 200% of FPL
  • Louisiana resident
  • Based on household income:

How to get help:

To apply for weatherization services, contact your local WAP providers.

Low-Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) in Louisiana

LIHWAP helps eligible households pay for drinking and wastewater. It provides a one-time payment to low-income eligible households. 

Qualifications:

  • U.S. Citizen or legal immigrant
  • Louisiana resident
  • Responsible for paying the water bill
  • Income at or below 300% of FPL

How to get help:

  • VIsit the LIHWAP website for more information
  • Call 202-401-9351 or email lhartley@lhc.la.gov

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Louisiana

The following medical and dental services are available to qualifying individuals and families in the state of Louisiana.

Louisiana Donated Dental Services

The Louisiana Donated Dental Services is part of Dental Lifeline Network. This program provides dental care to disabled, elderly, or medically at-risk patients. 

Qualifications: 

  • Lack adequate income to afford dental services
  • Permanently disabled, medically at risk, or 65 years or older

How to get help: 

Low or no-cost dental care in Louisiana

These local clinics provide low or no-cost dental services in Louisiana.

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) in Louisiana

HRSA, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, funds health centers that provide free or subsidized health and dental care to low-income people and those otherwise unable to access quality health care, like people living in rural areas.

HRSA also offers a 24/7 free and confidential mental health hotline for pregnant and new moms. Dial 833-943-5746 (833-9-HELP4MOMS) if you are struggling.

Qualifications: 

Each health center sets its own eligibility criteria for free or reduced-cost care. 

How to get help:

Find an HRSA health center in Louisiana by typing in your address on HRSA’s search tool.

Louisiana Medicaid Options

Medicaid provides medical benefits to lower-income families.

Qualifications:

  • Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration
  • Receive financial assistance from the Office of Family Support (OFS) through the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP)

You may qualify if you are:

  • Disabled
  • Have corrected vision no better than 20/200
  • Low-income parent of children under 19
  • Child under the age of 19
  • Pregnant
  • Have no insurance and need treatment for breast and/or cervical cancer
  • Receive Medicare coverage and are low-income 
  • Aged 19-64, have a household income less than 138% of the FPL — $2,859/month for a family of three

How to get help:

ACT 421 Children’s Medicaid Option/TEFRA

This program allows certain children with disabilities to receive Medicaid coverage even if their household income is too high.

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • U.S. Citizen or qualified non-citizen
  • Under the age of 19
  • Have a disability recognized by the Supplemental Security Income program
  • Child does not have total assets over $2,000
  • Child’s income is less than three times the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR)
  • Child meets the institutional level of care provided in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or intermediate care facility

How to get help:

Medicaid Application Office

PO Box 91278

Baton Rouge, LA 70821

The Louisiana Children’s Health Insurance Program (LaCHIP)

LaCHIP provides health coverage to uninsured children who are up to 19 years old.

Qualifications:

  • Child under the age of 19
  • Child may not have current health insurance
  • Household meets income limits — $4,496/month for a family of three

How to get help:

  • Apply online
  • Call 877-252-2447 to have an application mailed to you
  • Apply in person at a local office
  • Visit the Medicaid LaCHIP website

LaCHIP Affordable Plan

This plan helps to cover uninsured children whose families have an income too high to qualify for regular LaCHIP. The premium is $50/month per household.

Services covered by LaCHIP and/or LaCHIP Affordable Plan:

  • Doctor Visits
  • Hospital Visits
  • Dental Care
  • Vision Care
  • Hearing Care
  • Lab Work & Tests
  • Immunizations (Shots)
  • Prescription Medicines
  • Medical Equipment & Supplies
  • Medically Necessary Transportation
  • Speech & Language Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Mental Health Clinic Services
  • Psychological Tests & Therapy
  • Help Scheduling Appointments

Qualifications:

  • Child under the age of 19
  • Child may not have current health insurance
  • Household meets income limits — $4,894/month for a family of three

How to get help:

  • Apply online
  • Call 877-252-2447 to have an application mailed to you
  • Apply in person at a local office
  • Visit the Medicaid LaCHIP website

The Louisiana Health Insurance Premium Payment Program (LaHIPP)

LaHIPP may pay for your individual or employer-sponsored insurance if you or a family member qualifies for Medicaid. 

How to get help:

  • Download and complete the application. Submit form in one of the below ways:
    • Email completed form to La.HIPP@la.gov 
    • Fax form to 855-618-5486
    • Mail form to:
      • ATTN LaHIPP

P.O. Box 91030

Baton Rouge, LA 70821

LaMOMS

The LaMOMS program will pay for pregnancy-related services and may provide coverage for up to 12 months following the end of your pregnancy. 

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • Any pregnant woman may apply for coverage
  • Meet income limits — $3,450 for a family of three

How to get help:

Partners for Healthy Babies (PHB)

PHB was implemented by the Bureau of Family Health and connects Louisiana moms/families to pregnancy resources, services, and information. 

How to get help:

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Louisiana

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) provides food benefits and nutrition education to low-income households. 

SNAP recipients are issued an EBT card that can be used like an ATM card to purchase food in retail food stores, including:

  • Breads
  • Cereals
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Meats
  • Fish
  • Poultry
  • Dairy
  • Plants and seeds to grow food 

Click here for a list of what you can and cannot buy. 

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
  • Show proof of identity
  • Households must provide or apply for Social Security numbers for each member
  • All able-bodied adults must register for work and accept suitable employment
  • Asset/resource limit of $5,000
  • Meet income limits within 200% of FPL — $3,052/month for a family of three, who can receive up to $740/month in SNAP benefits

How to get help: 

DCFS Economic Stability
P.O. Box 260031
Baton Rouge, LA 70826

  • Call 888-524-3578 to apply on the phone
  • Mail your completed application to or apply in person at any DFCS office
  • Once your application is filed a DFCS case manager will interview you
  • View the SNAP website for more information

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)/Feeding Louisiana

TEFAP is a federal program that helps low-income individuals in Louisiana supplement their diet by providing emergency nutrition at no cost. 

Qualifications: 

  • Each food bank sets its own eligibility and proof of need requirements 

How to get help: 

Louisiana’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is a nutrition program that provides free baby formula and nutritional food items to low-income mothers and their babies. 

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help:

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP)

NSLP serves healthy, well-balanced, reduced-price or free meals to children in school. An extension of the NSLP, the School Breakfast Program provides free or low-cost breakfast to eligible students. 

Qualifications: 

How to get help: 

Contact your child’s school to enroll.

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

SFSP provides nutritious meals/snacks to children in low-income areas during summer months and long vacation periods during the school year. 

The program provides up to two meals or one meal and one snack per day per child. They are typically available at schools, churches, recreation centers, camps, playgrounds, parks, etc. 

Qualifications:

  • Children 18 years old and younger
  • Children 19 years and over who have a mental/physical disability

How to get help:

  • Call the National Hunger Hotline at 866-2-HUNGRY
  • Searchable Meal Site Locator
  • Call 866-348-6479 to find nearest site to you
  • Text “Summer Meals” to 97779

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Louisiana

There are multiple federally funded education programs and resources in Louisiana.

Louisiana Head Start and Early Head Start 

Head Start is a free federal preschool program for children aged 3 to 5 from low-income families. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children under age 3. The programs focus on cognitive, social, and emotional development and prepare children for school. 

Qualifications: 

  • Children from birth to 5 
  • Meet federal poverty guidelines 
  • Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, etc.) are eligible regardless of income
  • Some programs accept kids with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines
  • Pregnant women can also receive prenatal and postpartum information, education, and services through Early Head Start

How to apply: 

Contact your local Head Start or Early Head Start to apply.

Child Care Assistance Program for Families (CCAP)

The CCAP provides financial assistance to low-income families while they are working or attending school. 

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • Child/children are U.S. citizens or eligible aliens
  • Parents or legal guardians must:
    • Work at least 20 hours a week OR:
      • Attend school or a training program on a full-time basis 
      • Attend school or a training program for at least 20 hours a week
      • Attend a combination of school and work
      • Are actively seeking work
      • Participate in a transitional living program
      • Receive disability income
      • Are experiencing homelessness
  • Within income limits — $4,866 for a family of three

How to get help:

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Louisiana

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education, here are some helpful resources: 

Louisiana High School Equivalency Test (HiSET)

The HiSET is a five-part test that helps you earn a state-issued high school equivalency credential. 

Costs:

  • State administration fee: $10.00
  • Paper-Based test fee: $15.00
  • Computer-based fee: $10.75
  • Test center fee: $6.00
  • Test-at-home fee: $17.50

Qualifications:

  • You do not have to be a Louisiana resident
  • Students who are 16 to 18 years of age can take the test if you provide the following:
    • Enrollment in or authorization by an approved WorkReady U literacy program
    • Enrollment in state-recognized LA Options program
    • The HiSET Official Practice Test (OPT) is required 
  • If you are at least 19 years old you can take the exam without any other documentation
  • All applicants must present state/government issued identification

How to get help:

Grants and scholarships in Louisiana

The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) contains information on all scholarships and grants. There are no application fees when applying for scholarships or grants with LOSFA. 

Qualifications:

Each scholarship has its own list of qualifications. Visit the individual site for further review. 

How to get help:

Louisiana Believes Scholarship Program

The Louisiana Scholarship Program (LSP) is designed to provide additional financial support to lower-income families. 

Qualifications:

  • Louisiana resident
  • Family income must not exceed 250% of the FPL
  • Children must be entering kindergarten or enrolled in public school with a C, D, F, or T letter grade

How to get help:

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Programs

There are certain programs that forgive some or all of your federal student loans if you choose a career in government, military, education, or other public services. Visit the ECMC website for more information about each program and to see if you qualify. 

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Louisiana

Workforce programs in Louisiana provide training and assist with employment:

Unemployment Insurance/HiRE

This program provides temporary unemployment compensation to eligible Louisiana workers who are out of work through no fault of their own.

Helping Individuals Reach Employment (HiRE) also helps you search for job openings, post a resume online, find career guidance, search for training/education programs, find local employers, or file for unemployment. 

Qualifications: 

  • Louisiana resident
  • Unemployed through no fault of your own
  • Previously employed for the first four quarters of the last five calendar quarters
  • Able to work, available to work, actively seeking work 

How to get help: 

American Job Centers

American Job Centers offer employment and training services, career counseling, and job search assistance. 

How to get help: 

More employment help: 

Charity organizations in Louisiana

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Louisiana that offer support to single moms:

The Salvation Army of Louisiana

The Salvation Army wears many hats. Chapters assist with:

  • Food, shelter and clothing
  • Medication costs
  • Education and job training
  • Christmas presents
  • Rent and utility bills
  • Substance abuse rehabilitation
  • Youth services
  • Emergency disaster response

Qualifications: 

Each Salvation Army branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs.

How to get help: 

VIsit Louisiana’s branch to find out more information. 

Catholic Charities of Louisiana

Catholic Charities assist with:

  • Housing
  • Utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Health care assistance

Qualifications: 

Each Catholic Charities branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs. 

How to get help: 

United Way of Louisiana

The United Way of Louisiana connects people in need with local resources like: 

  • Food
  • Shelter
  • Child care services
  • Housing
  • Health care
  • Support groups

How to get help: 

More charities for single moms: 

Learn about more nonprofit programs and other charities in Louisiana.

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




Not your state? Select yours here:

If you’re a single mom in Maryland struggling to make ends meet, keep reading for resources that help with: 

Statistically, families benefit most with cash assistance (vs through benefits programs).1 Here is our guide to single mom grant programs, including our own.

Every month, I give out $500 cash to one single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached. 

Qualifications are simple:

1. You’re a single mom.

2. You need the money right now.

Fill out this form to apply:

(Note that the figures and information in this post are current as of publication date.)

Number of people in family/householdAnnual income
1$15,960
2$21,640
3$27,320
4$33,000
5$38,680
6$44,360
7$50,040
8$55,720

For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,680 for each additional person.each additional person.

You can also look up your area median income (AMI) here.

Emergency cash for low-income families in Maryland

If you need cash to pay bills, buy gas, feed your family, or for any other reason, these resources can help:

Emergency Assistance to Families with Children

Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC) provides cash assistance to families dealing with: 

  • Eviction notices
  • Mortgage foreclosures
  • Gas and electric turn-off notices
  • Delinquent water bills 

Families must agree to use their available income, contributions, and other resources like bank accounts to help resolve the emergency.

Qualifications:

  • Must have one or more children under 21 in the household 
  • Present proof of an emergency that was not caused by a family member quitting a job
  • Present eviction notice from utility company that services have been or will be cut off or other proof of an emergency

How to get help:

You must apply in person at your local Department and Human Services office. 

Temporary Cash Assistance in Maryland

TCA — Maryland’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program — provides cash assistance for qualifying families with children or to relatives who have court-ordered custody of a child placed in their home. 

The amount paid out varies depending on household income and family size. For example, a family of three can receive a maximum benefit of $624/month. Cash assistance is available for a lifetime total of 48 months for adults.

Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
  • Permanent Maryland resident
  • Have children under 18 or under 19 if still enrolled in high school
  • Children and mother must have social security number
  • Cooperate with child support 
  • Participate in work activities
  • Meet financial requirements — $624/month for a family of three

How to get help:

More emergency cash help in Maryland: 

Single moms in Maryland can visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 to ask for assistance.

Check out these posts for more ways to get emergency cash: 

These are some more tips for getting cash quickly: 

Housing help for single moms in Maryland

If you need help finding a place to live or paying your rent/mortgage, these programs can help: 

Rental assistance in Maryland

There are multiple programs in Maryland to help renters find housing and pay their rent:

Emergency Rental Assistance Program 

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development helps low-income renters who were affected by COVID-19 pay their rent. 

They also offer a number of affordable housing options. 

Qualifications:

Local jurisdictions determine eligibility. 

How to get help: 

Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers affordable housing and vouchers to help low-income households pay their rent.

Qualifications:

Vouchers and housing are based on household income and family size. You can find your county’s income limits on the HUD website. 

How to get help: 

Mortgage assistance in Maryland

If you need help buying a home or paying a mortgage in Maryland, these programs can help: 

Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund

The Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund helps homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage or other housing costs after COVID-19. 

There are two types of assistance available: 

  • Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund Grant (HAF Grant)
    • Maximum assistance of $20,000 to help residents avoid imminent displacement due to property tax delinquency, homeowner or condominium association fee delinquency, mortgage delinquency, and more 
  • Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund Loan (HAF Loan)
    • Offers one-time payment of a delinquent mortgage amount, OR 
    • Additional funds to reduce monthly payments to an affordable level for the homeowner, ideally less than 50% of the household gross monthly income
    • Provides a maximum loan of $40,000 with 0% interest rate
    • Payment is due in full when the first mortgage ends, though the department may offer payment plans or allow full or partial forgiveness depending on the homeowner’s equity in the property
    • Loan requires a recorded lien on the property 

Qualifications:

  • Maryland resident 
  • Eligible COVID-19 financial hardship after January 21, 2020
  • 90 days in arrears 
  • Household income must not exceed limits

How to get help: 

Maryland Mortgage Program

The Department of Housing and Community Development’s Maryland Mortgage Program offers several down payment assistance programs: 

​​1st Time Advantage

  • $6,000 loan for down payment and closing costs
  • Fixed year interest rate as low as 0%

Maryland Mortgage Program Flex 

  • Flex Direct offers no down payment assistance but the most competitive interest rates for repeat homebuyers
  • Flex 5000 offers a $5,000 loan for down payment and closing costs with 0% interest, and no payments are due for the life of the first mortgage
  • Flex 3% offers a loan equal to 3% of the first mortgage with 0% interest

Partner Match 

Partner Match helps homeowners find organizations that can help with down payment and closing cost assistance. 

Qualifications for all three programs: 

  • Must meet income and purchase price limits 
  • First time homebuyer or must not have owned residential property for three years (does not apply for homebuyers purchasing in Targeted Areas)
  • Home must be in Maryland 
  • Home must be primary residence 
  • Lenders may have additional requirements 

How to get help: 

Check today’s mortgage loan rates >>





Homeless assistance in Maryland 

The main goal of the Bureau of Homeless Services is to prevent Maryland residents from becoming homeless — or from having to return to homelessness. The office oversees services including:

  • Emergency shelters
  • Transitional housing
  • Permanent housing
  • Counseling to acquire the necessary life skills to maintain permanent housing

The Department of Human Services also offers a Homeless Prevention Program (HPP) to assist families facing a housing crisis. Funding is available for small one-time crisis grants to keep those facing eviction.

Qualifications: 

Requirements are set by individual Continuums of Care agencies. 

How to get help: 

More housing help: 

Utility bill assistance in Maryland

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Maryland, check out the following programs:

Fuel Fund of Maryland

The Fuel Fund of Maryland helps Marylanders who cannot pay their energy bills in full, even with help from the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs. The nonprofit provides a one-time energy assistance payment for low-income Maryland households with past due accounts.

Recipients pay a portion of the outstanding bill and the Fuel Fund provides the funds required for a zero balance. This financial help is available once every 365 days. 

Qualifications:

  • Maryland resident
  • Your energy service is cut off
  • Completed a state energy assistance application by July 1, 2021
  • BGE or bulk fuel customer in BGE service area
  • You have not received help from the Fuel Fund in 365 days
  • If you are a bulk fuel customer, you are almost out of fuel, it is between November and March, and you meet income requirements

How to get help:

Office of Home Energy Programs in Maryland

Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Programs helps low-income residents pay their utility bills to prevent shut offs through several programs: 

  • The Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) helps qualifying households with home heating and cooling costs. 
  • The Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) provides cash assistance with electric bills. Eligible customers receive help that pays a portion of their current electric bills. 
  • The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) is designed to protect low-income families from utility turn-offs during the heating season. All MEAP eligible customers may participate in USPP. 
  • The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a water assistance program  to help families pay their water bills. LIHWAP will assist Maryland families who are behind on their drinking water and wastewater bills focusing on accounts that are 30 days or more past due.

You can find more utility and energy bill assistance programs in Maryland here. 

Qualifications:       

How to get help:

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP helps low-income families lower their monthly energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Types of assistance include:

  • Installing carbon monoxide detectors
  • Removing mold
  • Replacing inefficient or unsafe heating units 
  • Insulating a single family home for energy efficiency

Qualifications:

  • U.S citizen or qualified non-citizen 
  • Maryland resident 
  • Meet annual household income guidelines
  • Automatically eligible if you are receiving SSI, TANF or Aid to Families with Dependent Children benefits

How to get help:

Applications are not available online, so you have to visit your county’s Weatherization provider.

More electric bill help: 

Free money to help pay bills

Medical insurance and dental help for single moms in Maryland

The following medical and dental services are available to qualifying individuals and families:         

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) in Maryland

HRSA, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, funds health centers that provide free or subsidized health and dental care to low-income people and those otherwise unable to access quality health care, like people living in rural areas.

HRSA also offers a 24/7 free and confidential mental health hotline for pregnant and new moms. Dial 833-943-5746 (833-9-HELP4MOMS) if you are struggling.

Qualifications: 

Each health center sets its own eligibility criteria for free or reduced cost care. 

How to get help:

Find an HRSA health center in Maryland by typing in your address on HRSA’s search tool.

Maryland Medicaid

Medicaid provides medical coverage for low-income individuals and families. In Maryland, most Medicaid recipients are enrolled in the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care program, which includes:

  • Managed Medical Assistance (MMA): Covers medical services like doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health care, and transportation for medical needs
  • Long-term Care (LTC): Covers care in a nursing facility, assisted living, or at home (must be at least 18 years old and require nursing home-level care or hospital-level care if you have cystic fibrosis)
  • Dental: Covers all dental services for children and adults

Qualifications:

  • Maryland resident 
  • U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen 
  • Must provide a social security number for all applicants 
  • Income limits vary for different groups of individuals and household sizes:

How to get help:

Maryland Children’s Health Program  

The Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) offers free or low-cost health coverage to uninsured children under the age of 19 whose household incomes are too high to qualify for Medicaid.

Uninsured children in higher income households may qualify for MCHP Premium, which 

requires a monthly fee per family of either $61 or $76 depending on your household income.

MCHP provides health and dental services with a choice of local doctors, dentists, hospitals, and pharmacies. Benefits include:

  • Doctor visits
  • Surgeries
  • Vaccines
  • Vision and hearing 
  • Hospital stays

You can find a full list of benefits here. 

Qualifications: 

  • Maryland resident 

How to get help: 

Maryland Maternal and Child Health Bureau 

The Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) offers: 

  • Prenatal care and parenting help
  • Family planning and reproductive health 
  • Stress management
  • Home visits 
  • Local resources and assistance

Qualifications: 

Each program sets its own eligibility requirements. 

How to get help: 

More medical/dental help: 

Food help for low-income families in Maryland

A number of federal and state food and nutrition programs are available across the state:

Maryland Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) provides food benefits and nutrition education to low-income households. 

SNAP recipients are issued an EBT card that can be used like an ATM card in retail food stores to purchase food, including:

  • Breads
  • Cereals
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Meats
  • Fish
  • Poultry
  • Dairy
  • Plants and seeds to grow food 

Qualifications:

  • Maryland resident
  • Must provide a social security number for all applicants 
  • Able-bodied adults between 16 and 60 years of age must register for work, accept an offer of suitable work, and take part in an employment and training program when referred to one by the local department of social services
  • Meet income requirements

How to get help: 

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is a nutrition program that provides free baby formula and nutritional food items to low-income mothers and their babies. 

Qualifications:

  • Low-income, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, for up to one year postpartum
  • Women up to six months postpartum who are not breastfeeding
  • Infants and children under 5 years old, including foster children
  • Low-income sole provider parents of children under age of 5 who are at nutritional risk and who are below 185% of FPL
  • If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Assistance, or Food Assistance help, you are also eligible for WIC

How to get help: 

Call your local WIC office or 877-463-3464 and say you want to apply for WIC. 

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program

NSLP serves healthy, well-balanced, reduced-price or free meals to children in school. 

An extension of the NSLP, the School Breakfast Program provides free or low-cost breakfast to eligible students. Schools with at least 80% of the students eligible for free or reduced-price meals must provide breakfast at no cost to all students. 

Qualifications: 

Household income must fall at or below the limits of the federal income eligibility guidelines.

How to get help: 

Apply online or contact your child’s school to enroll. 

Maryland’s Summer Food Service Program

The Maryland Department of Education serves nutritious meals at no cost to children during summer break. Food is distributed at local schools, nonprofits, parks, and libraries. 

Qualifications: 

These are the current income and eligibility guidelines for the Summer Food Service Program: 

How to get help: 

Find a location near you at the USDA Summer Food Service Program website.

Maryland food banks


Food banks in Maryland provide meals for individuals and families who are struggling to put food on the table. 

Qualifications: 

Each food bank sets its own eligibility and proof of need requirements. 

How to get help: 

To find a food bank near you and for additional information, visit the Maryland Food Bank website.

More food help: 

Child care help for low-income families in Maryland

There are multiple federally funded education programs and resources in Maryland:

Jeremiah Program

Jeremiah Program operates in several states including out of Baltimore to offer grants and other support to low-income single mothers committed to earning a college degree.

Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS)

The Maryland CCS (formerly known as the Child Care Subsidy) provides funds to help pay for child care in working families with low-to-moderate income. You must use a child care provider in the Maryland EXCELS program. 

There are two types of scholarship:

  • Formal: Helps pay for care at registered Maryland family home or a state-licensed child care provider
  • Informal: Helps pay for child care from a relative at the child’s home or at the relative’s home or for a non-relative in the child’s home

The scholarship is valid for one year from the date of issue. 

Qualifications:

  • Maryland resident with a valid photo I.D. and able to provide identification proof for all household members
  • Employed, in an approved training program, or going to school
  • A family with children younger than 13 years old (younger than 19 with a disability)
  • Meet income guidelines or receives Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits
  • You can show proof of your child’s immunization or you have a plan to get immunizations that meet Maryland requirements
  • If raising children in a single-parent home, must have or pursue child support or have good cause for not doing so
  • Children must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens (U.S. citizenship is not required for parents)

Families have a co-payment and the amount decreases when you have multiple children using the CCS benefit. Families with TCA and SSI benefits do not have a co-payment.

How to get help:

  • Call 877-227-0125
  • Email CCSCentral2@maryland.gov

Maryland Head Start and Early Head Start

Head Start is a free federal preschool program for children aged 3 to 5 from low-income families. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children under age 3. The programs focus on cognitive, social, and emotional development and prepare children for school.

Qualifications: 

  • Children from birth to 5 
  • Meet federal poverty guidelines 
  • Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, etc.) are eligible regardless of income
  • Some programs accept kids with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines
  • Pregnant women can also receive prenatal and postpartum information, education, and services through Early Head Start

How to apply: 

More child care help

Education help for single moms in Maryland

If you’re a single mom who wants to further her education, here are some helpful resources: 

Get a GED in Maryland

If you are at least 19 years old in Maryland, you can take the GED test. All applicants under age 19 must provide proof of official school withdrawal or verification of home instruction. 

The GED test is broken into four exams on different subjects, which can be spaced out and taken at your own pace (though each individual exam has a time limit): 

  • Mathematical reasoning – 115 minutes
  • Reasoning through language arts – 150 minutes
  • Social studies – 70 minutes
  • Science – 90 minutes

You have two options for taking the test in Maryland: 

  • Online at-home test – $17.25 per subject
  • In person at a test center – $11.25 per subject

Grants and scholarships in Maryland

The Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) connects students and prospective students with grants and scholarships available in Maryland. To find out which scholarships and grants you may be eligible for, create a student profile on the OSFA website. 

Individual schools also offer need-based and academic scholarships for their students. If you’ve been accepted to a higher education institution, contact their office of financial aid to learn how to apply. 

More education help: 

Employment help for single moms in Maryland

Workforce programs in Maryland provide training and assist with employment:

Maryland Reemployment Assistance (Insurance) Program

This program provides unemployment compensation to eligible Maryland workers who are out of work through no fault of their own.

Qualifications: 

  • Maryland resident 
  • Unemployed
  • Previously employed for the past 12 months
  • Earned a certain amount of wages
  • Actively looking for another job

How to get help: 

American Job Centers

American Job Centers offer employment and training services, career counseling, and job search assistance. 

How to get help: 

More employment help: 

Maryland Legal Aid

Maryland Legal Aid provides free legal help for civil issues such as matters of child custody, housing, and consumer law to low-income residents in Maryland.

Qualifications:

  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or qualified non-citizen
  • Must meet income and asset guidelines for your household based on the federal poverty guidelines
  • Needs legal help for a civil matter

How to get help:

Charity organizations in Maryland

There are a number of charitable organizations throughout Maryland that offer support to single moms:

The Salvation Army of Maryland

The Salvation Army wears many hats. Chapters assist with:

  • Food, shelter and clothing
  • Medication costs
  • Education and job training
  • Christmas presents
  • Rent and utility bills
  • Substance abuse rehabilitation
  • Youth services
  • Emergency disaster response

Qualifications: 

Each Salvation Army branch determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs. 

How to get help: 

Visit the Salvation Army website to find your local chapter. 

Catholic Charities of Maryland

Catholic Charities offers 80 programs to assist those in need. Services include:

  • Housing
  • Utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Health care assistance

Qualifications: 

Each Catholic Charities program determines its own eligibility criteria for different programs. 

How to get help: 

United Way of Maryland

The United Way of Maryland connects people in need with local resources like: 

  • Food
  • Shelter
  • Child care services
  • Housing
  • Health care
  • Support groups

How to get help: 

SOURCES

  1. “The Long-Term Impacts of Cash Assistance to Families,” by Kevin Werner, The Urban Institute, Jan. 31, 2024 https://www.urban.org/research/publication/the-long-term-impacts-of-cash-assistance-to-families




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