Grants for Single Mothers
Grants are funds or any other form of assistance that comes from an individual, group, foundation, institution, or organization that you do not need to reimburse. For single mothers, grants may be the support that helps achieve their dreams. Many mothers have been able to find shelter, nutritious meals, quality healthcare, and more, which they were could afford due to lack of money. Others obtained college degrees, which gave them the ability to get good jobs and even build businesses of their own.
It is important to note that are several eligibility requirements before you can receive a grant. This is because there are not many available, and competition is always stiff as in the case of scholarships. Once you qualify for a grant, you can then go ahead to apply. There are different types of grants, such as Government Grants, College Grants, Financial Assistance, Housing Grants, Business Grants, Minority Grants, Daycare Grants, and many more. To find the best program suited for you, you should use search engines to assist in your search. Some grants for single moms have been listed below.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Formerly known as food stamps, this program helps low-income families pay for nutritious meals to maintain good health. Benefits can be accessed through a debit card known as an Electronic Benefits Card (EBT), which is loaded monthly and can only be used for grocery shopping at select stores. Eligibility for SNAP is based mainly on the income level of the family. You can find out more about SNAP at http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is a federal initiative that aims to support pregnant, nursing, and women under the ages of five with affordable healthcare, nutritional education, healthy foods, counseling, and referrals. All WIC participants must have been at risk of malnutrition. Get more information at http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/women-infants-and-children-wic
Medicaid
Medicaid is one of the most popular and widely used healthcare options used by those who cannot afford comprehensive health insurance. More than 65 million children, families, and pregnant women utilize this program. The great part about Medicaid is the fact that every one that is qualified can get Medicaid coverage. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers children explicitly. You can get area-specific information by dialing (800)-318-2596 or visit the official Medicaid website at https://www.medicaid.gov
Education Grants
For single mothers seeking help with paying college funds, the following government program can pay a sizeable chunk of your tuition.
FSEOG Grant (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is awarded to students that require financial assistance to pay for their education. Like most grants, it is given to undergraduates in college and does not need to be repaid. The funds could be provided directly by the school or paid as checks. http://www2.ed.gov/programs/fseog/index.html
FAFSA Grants
FAFSA grants are given after applicants have filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students could either receive the Federal Pell Grants or The FSEOG grant. The Pell Grant gives students money while the FSEOG is administered by the attending college and is paid to the recipient’s account. https://fafsa.ed.gov/
Pell Grants
The federal government usually awards this grant. The funds are used to cover various college-related costs, such as tuition, books, and other educational materials. Once given, students receive the funds each year until they graduate. All applicants for the Pell grants must file a FAFSA and must prove that they require financial assistance.
Housing Programs
Finding an affordable home as a single mother could be hard to accomplish. Rental costs could be higher than the amount you may be able to afford. The government has identified this problem and has put in place various measures to ensure that everyone has access to affordable and quality housing.
HUD Grants (Housing and Urban Development)
Every state receives a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the government yearly. The CDBG has been running since 1974 and has helped communities meet their developmental needs. To qualify to receive HUD grants, you must fall between the income level set by the HUD. Grant awards are not fixed and vary from community to community. Find out more at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD
Section 8 Housing Program
The government provides money to families, the disabled, and the elderly find an affordable place to live. Housing must be part of the recipient’s problems, and they can choose where they want to live. Homes could be townhouses, apartments, single-family homes, and much more. Various local public housing authority administers this program. Get More details at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
Help with paying Utility Bills
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
LIHEAP is a federally funded initiative that helps families with energy costs. Single moms can take advantage of any of these services
- Home energy bills
- Energy crises
- Weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs
Visit https://liheapch.acf.hhs.gov/help for application details.