Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in South Carolina: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help (save this section)

• Apply for South Carolina Medicaid (Healthy Connections) online: Start your application at apply.scdhhs.gov or call Member Contact Center at 888‑549‑0820 (TTY 888‑842‑3620), Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
• Pregnant? You can qualify at higher incomes and keep full coverage for 12 months after delivery. Apply now and ask about “presumptive eligibility.” (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.sc.gov)
• Free/low‑cost children’s coverage (Medicaid/CHIP) up to 208% FPL with 12‑month continuous coverage. Apply the same way as Medicaid. (scdhhs.gov, medicaid.gov)
• Need a ride to the doctor? Call Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Modivcare): Region 1 866‑910‑7688; Region 2 866‑445‑6860; Region 3 866‑445‑9954. Call at least 3 business days before your appointment. (mymodivcare.com)
• WIC nutrition help (fruits/veggies monthly benefit: kids $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52 in FY2025): Call 855‑472‑3432 or use the WIC pre‑application. (fns.usda.gov, dph.sc.gov)
• Can’t get Medicaid? Check ACA Marketplace plans (HealthCare.gov). 2025 open enrollment ran Nov 1, 2024 – Jan 15, 2025; special enrollments year‑round for life events. HealthCare.gov help: 800‑318‑2596. (cms.gov, healthcare.gov)
• Choose or change your Medicaid health plan (MCO): Healthy Connections Choices (SCChoices.com) or call 877‑552‑4642 (TTY 877‑552‑4670). (scchoices.com, scchoices.com)
• Breast/cervical cancer screening and fast‑track to Medicaid treatment: Best Chance Network. Call 800‑450‑4611 or connect through DPH. (dph.sc.gov)
• HIV care/medications if uninsured: SC AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) 800‑856‑9954; HIV/STD Hotline 800‑322‑AIDS (2437). (dph.sc.gov)

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At‑a‑Glance Program & Contact Cheat Sheet

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What’s different about this guide (and why it’s better)

Most search results list programs but skip the hard parts—exact 2025 income limits, real phone numbers, how to get a ride, and what to do when you’re denied. Below you get verified numbers, up‑to‑date eligibility (effective March 1, 2025 where applicable), realistic timelines, and Plan B options for when things don’t work the first time. All figures link to official state or federal sources.

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Key 2025 Income Limits (Monthly) in South Carolina

Effective dates are shown by SCDHHS; these are the rules agencies use to decide eligibility.

Tip: Children on Medicaid/CHIP get 12 months of continuous coverage; they can’t be cut off mid‑year due to income fluctuations. This is federal law since Jan 1, 2024. (medicaid.gov)

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Healthy Connections Medicaid for single mothers

Start here: apply today

• Apply online (fastest): Healthy Connections – Apply
• Or call 888‑549‑0820 (TTY 888‑842‑3620) to request a mailed application or get help. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)

Expected timeline: SCDHHS says eligibility decisions generally take up to 45 days (pregnancy can be faster if you qualify for presumptive coverage). (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Required documents (you can upload safely through the SCDHHS portal):

• IDs and SSNs (or proof you applied for one)
• Proof of South Carolina residency (lease, bill)
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, child support, unemployment)
• Pregnancy verification if applying as pregnant
• Any current insurance info

Upload documents or check status here: SCDHHS Quick Tools (upload, status, review date). (tools.apply.scdhhs.gov)

Who qualifies as a parent/caretaker?

To qualify as a Parent/Caretaker Relative you must live with a dependent child and meet the income limits in the table above (e.g., family of 3 limit $1,376.91/month). Benefits are full‑scope Medicaid. (scdhhs.gov)

Reality check: South Carolina has not adopted Medicaid expansion for all low‑income adults. If your income is above the parent limit but below the poverty line, you could land in the “coverage gap.” We include Plan B options below. (kff.org)

Pick your Medicaid health plan (MCO)

Most members enroll in a managed care plan. You can choose a plan online at SCChoices.com or call 877‑552‑4642 (TTY 877‑552‑4670), Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Plans available in 2025: Absolute Total Care, BlueChoice (Healthy Blue), Humana Healthy Horizons, Molina, Select Health (First Choice). (scdhhs.gov, scchoices.com)

Tip: You have at least 30 days after you get the Welcome Packet to pick a plan; you can switch once within the first 90 days. (scchoices.com)

What’s covered

• Primary & specialty care, hospital, prescriptions, maternity care, mental health, and for kids, the EPSDT benefit (robust dental/vision/therapies). (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.gov)
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation to covered visits and the pharmacy—see numbers below. (mymodivcare.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you’re over the parent/caretaker income limit, check HealthCare.gov for a subsidized plan. Many single‑parent households qualify for very low premiums after tax credits. Call 800‑318‑2596. (cms.gov)
• If a big hospital bill is looming, ask about hospital Financial Assistance Policies (charity care). For example: MUSC (843‑792‑2311 or 800‑598‑0624) and Roper St. Francis (888‑472‑0043). Apply early. (muschealth.org, rsfh.com)

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Pregnant Women & 12‑Month Postpartum Coverage

Do this first

• Apply as soon as you know you’re pregnant—even if your income varies. Pregnancy Medicaid covers prenatal care, delivery, and extends full benefits for 12 months after the pregnancy ends. (scdhhs.gov)
• 2025 income limits for pregnant members (by household size) are listed in the table above (e.g., family of 2: $3,419.25/month). (scdhhs.gov)
• If you need to be seen before your application finishes, ask your clinic/hospital about presumptive eligibility for pregnant women. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Postpartum extension details: South Carolina made 12‑month postpartum coverage effective April 22, 2022 and continues it in 2025 for Medicaid/CHIP pregnancies—no extra paperwork required. (scdhhs.gov)

Mental health support: Use your plan’s behavioral health benefit or call DPH’s Care Line 855‑472‑3432 for referrals. (dph.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If income is just above the pregnancy limit, you may still qualify for Family Planning Medicaid (limited services up to 194% FPL). See the Family Planning section. (scdhhs.gov)
• If you’re uninsured and need cancer screening, call the Best Chance Network (800‑450‑4611). If screening finds breast/cervical cancer or certain pre‑cancers, you can be enrolled into Medicaid for treatment. (scdhhs.gov)

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Babies & Kids (Partners for Healthy Children – Medicaid/CHIP)

Start here

• Apply through SCDHHS (same application). Children qualify up to 208% of the Federal Poverty Level (e.g., family of 4 up to $5,572.66/month). Coverage is free/low‑cost and robust. (scdhhs.gov)
• Federal rule: kids on Medicaid/CHIP keep 12 months of coverage even if income changes mid‑year. Don’t forget to complete your annual renewal. (medicaid.gov)

What kids get: Well‑child checkups, vaccines, dental, vision, hearing, therapies, mental health—the EPSDT guarantee requires medically necessary services to correct or improve conditions. Find a Medicaid/CHIP dentist via InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator. (scdhhs.gov, insurekidsnow.gov)

If coverage lapses

• Call 888‑549‑0820 to update your address and return any renewal forms quickly. You can also check your eligibility/annual review date online via SCDHHS Quick Tools. (tools.apply.scdhhs.gov)

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Children with Disabilities: TEFRA (Katie Beckett)

If your child has a significant disability but your household income is too high for regular Medicaid, TEFRA may cover your child by counting only the child’s income/resources.

• Income limit for the child (300% of the SSI Federal Benefit Rate): $2,901/month\ast \ast in2025;resourcelimit\ast \ast$2,000. The child must meet an institutional level of care but can remain at home. (scdhhs.gov)
• Apply through SCDHHS; see TEFRA forms on the Program Eligibility page. Family Connection of SC can help: 800‑578‑8750. (scdhhs.gov)

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Family Planning Medicaid (limited benefits)

If you don’t qualify for full Medicaid, the Family Planning program covers birth control, family‑planning visits, and related services up to 194% FPL.

• 2025 monthly income examples: 1 person $2,230.08\ast \ast ;2people\ast \ast$3,419.25; 3 people $4,308.41\ast \ast ;4people\ast \ast$5,197.58. Apply online or submit the Family Planning application by fax/email/mail. (scdhhs.gov)

Note: This is not full Medicaid and does not meet ACA “minimum essential coverage.” You may still qualify for Marketplace subsidies. (scdhhs.gov)

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Breast & Cervical Cancer – Fast Path to Treatment

Uninsured women screened through the Best Chance Network (DPH’s NBCCEDP program) and found to need treatment can qualify for full Medicaid through SCDHHS’ Breast and Cervical Cancer program. BCN typically uses 200% FPL income guidelines for screening. Apply or get screened via BCN; SCDHHS handles Medicaid enrollment if treatment is needed. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

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Need a ride? Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

• Call at least 3 business days before the appointment. Urgent trips may be accepted with provider confirmation.
• Modivcare reservations by region:
  • Region 1 (Upstate): 866‑910‑7688
  • Region 2 (Midlands): 866‑445‑6860
  • Region 3 (Lowcountry/Pee Dee): 866‑445‑9954 (mymodivcare.com)

If your ride is more than 15 minutes late, call the “Where’s My Ride” line for your region (listed on Modivcare’s page). (mymodivcare.com)

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Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP)

If you or your child has Medicaid and access to an employer plan, SCDHHS may pay your job‑based premium if it’s cost‑effective. Contact HIPP:

• Mail: SCDHHS Attn: HIPP, P.O. Box 100127, Columbia, SC 29202‑3127
• Fax: 803‑462‑2580
• Phone: 888‑289‑0709, Option 5 then Option 4 (Mon–Fri 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.) (scdhhs.gov)

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ACA Marketplace Coverage (HealthCare.gov)

If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, compare subsidized plans on HealthCare.gov. Open Enrollment for 2025 ran Nov 1, 2024 – Jan 15, 2025; special enrollment is available for life events (loss of coverage, move, birth, etc.). Call 800‑318‑2596 for free help. (cms.gov, healthcare.gov)

South Carolina carriers for 2025 (by county) are listed by the SC Department of Insurance; check which companies serve your county before you shop. (doi.sc.gov)

Tip: If your estimated annual income is between 100%–250% FPL, look at Silver plans to get extra cost‑sharing reductions (lower deductibles/co‑pays).

What to do if premiums still feel too high:

• Ask your hospital about charity care (see numbers below).
• Use community health centers (sliding‑fee).
• Re‑screen for Family Planning Medicaid or WIC as a bridge.

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WIC: Nutrition help for moms and young children

WIC provides healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals. FY2025 monthly fruit/vegetable benefit (CVB/CVV) amounts (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025):

How to apply in South Carolina: Call 855‑472‑3432 or use the WIC pre‑application; clinics are listed on the SC Department of Public Health site. Language assistance is free. (dph.sc.gov)

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Community Care When Money is Tight

• Public Health Clinics (DPH): Family planning, vaccines, STI/HIV/Hep C, WIC at many county clinics. Use the county finder or call 855‑472‑3432. (dph.sc.gov)
• Community Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding‑fee primary care statewide; find a center via the SC Primary Health Care Association. (scphca.org)
• Free Clinics: If you’re uninsured, see the statewide directory from the SC Free Clinic Association or SCDHHS’ free‑clinic list. (scfreeclinics.org, scdhhs.gov)
• Hospital Financial Assistance (charity care): Ask billing for a financial‑assistance application as soon as possible after services.
  • MUSC Health Patient Financial Assistance: 843‑792‑2311 or 800‑598‑0624. (muschealth.org)
  • Roper St. Francis Billing/Financial Assistance: 888‑472‑0043. (rsfh.com)
  • McLeod Health Financial Counselors: 843‑777‑8550 (renewal help and charity care info). (mcleodhealth.org)

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Quick Table: Medicaid Rides (NEMT) by Region

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply. If you’re pregnant, apply now—postpartum coverage extends 12 months, but only if you were on Medicaid during pregnancy. (scdhhs.gov)
• Missing mail. Keep your address/email/phone updated with SCDHHS and your MCO or you can lose coverage at renewal. Update through SCDHHS Quick Tools. (tools.apply.scdhhs.gov)
• Not choosing a plan. If you don’t choose an MCO within your window, one may be assigned. Choosing yourself lets you keep your doctor. Call 877‑552‑4642 for help. (scchoices.com)
• Forgetting transportation. If rides are a barrier, book with Modivcare at least 3 business days before. Keep the confirmation number. (mymodivcare.com)
• Assuming kids can be cut off mid‑year. Children get continuous coverage for 12 months even if income changes. Still, complete your annual review. (medicaid.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• A Columbia mom with two kids earning $1,350/month\ast \ast (justundertheparent/caretakerlimitof\ast \ast$1,376.91 for 3) is eligible for full Medicaid for herself and children. If her hours increase to $1,500/month, she’ll likely lose parent coverage but her children keep coverage for the remainder of their 12‑month period. She can pivot to HealthCare.gov for a subsidized plan mid‑year due to loss of Medicaid. (scdhhs.gov, medicaid.gov)
• A Greenville mom at $3,500/month\ast \ast whilepregnant(2‑personhouseholdcountedas2forpregnancy)stillqualifiesbecausethepregnancylimitfor2is\ast \ast$3,419.25—she’s slightly over. Her clinic can screen for presumptive eligibility and help her re‑document income (e.g., pre‑tax deductions) to meet the limit. Even if approved later, she’ll get 12 months postpartum coverage. (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.sc.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Getting the right door

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Medicaid plans cover gender‑neutral preventive care; DPH clinics offer confidential STI testing. Use the Care Line 855‑472‑3432 for respectful referrals. (dph.sc.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities/disabled children: Apply for TEFRA to cover a child regardless of parent income; ask your provider to assess level‑of‑care. Family Connection 800‑578‑8750 can walk you through it. (scdhhs.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Get VA care navigation and women’s health support via SCDVA (803‑734‑0200) and the VA Women Veterans hotline 855‑829‑6636; Vet Centers provide counseling (Columbia 803‑765‑9944; Greenville 864‑271‑2711). (scdva.sc.gov, va.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Some lawfully present immigrants qualify for Medicaid/CHIP; all eligible kids can enroll. WIC is available regardless of immigration status for eligible residents with nutrition risk. Call 855‑472‑3432 for language assistance. (dph.sc.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Check local Indian health/tribal clinics plus Medicaid/CHIP options; many FQHCs coordinate with tribal resources. Use the FQHC finder via the state association. (scphca.org)
• Rural single moms: Use Modivcare for rides; consider telehealth through your MCO; DPH mobile screening units (Best Chance Network) visit rural counties regularly. (dph.sc.gov)
• Single fathers raising children: All programs above apply to single fathers as caretakers; use the same income limits and application steps. (scdhhs.gov)
• Language access: SCDHHS and DPH provide interpreter services; tell the call center if you need another language or ASL. WIC advertises free language help. (dph.sc.gov)

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Resources by Region (selected, not exhaustive)

• Upstate: Greenville Free Medical Clinic 864‑232‑1470; SCChoices (plan help) 877‑552‑4642; Modivcare Region 1 866‑910‑7688. (scfreeclinics.org, scchoices.com, mymodivcare.com)
• Midlands: The Free Medical Clinic (Columbia) 803‑765‑1503; MUSC Health billing help 843‑792‑2311; Modivcare Region 2 866‑445‑6860. (scfreeclinics.org, muschealth.org, mymodivcare.com)
• Lowcountry: Roper St. Francis billing 888‑472‑0043; Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic 843‑266‑9800; Modivcare Region 3 866‑445‑9954. (rsfh.com, scfreeclinics.org, mymodivcare.com)
• Pee Dee & Grand Strand: McLeod Health Financial Counselors 843‑777‑8550; Friendship Medical Clinic (Conway) 843‑347‑7178. (mcleodhealth.org, scdhhs.gov)

Use DPH’s county clinic finder for addresses and hours. (dph.sc.gov)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• IDs/SSNs for everyone applying (or proof applied)
• Proof of South Carolina address (lease, bill, letter)
• Last 30 days of income (pay stubs, award letters, child support)
• Pregnancy proof (if applicable)
• Current insurance info (if any)
• Bank/resource info only if applying for disability/long‑term care categories (TEFRA, ABD) (scdhhs.sc.gov)

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Quick Reference: Important Dates & Dollars

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If You’re Denied or Stuck

• Ask for a written denial and file an appeal within 30 days if you think it’s wrong: Division of Appeals and Hearings 800‑763‑9087. (scdhhs.gov)
• Re‑apply if income drops or family size changes.
• Use MIAP (Medically Indigent Assistance Program) for inpatient hospital care up to 200% FPL with resource limits (home equity and personal property limits apply). Ask the hospital financial counselor about MIAP screening. (scdhhs.sc.gov)
• Visit a free clinic or FQHC while you sort it out. (scfreeclinics.org, scphca.org)

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Frequently Asked Questions (South Carolina‑specific)

1. How do I talk to a real person at Medicaid?

Call 888‑549‑0820 (TTY 888‑842‑3620), Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (scdhhs.gov)

2. How long does Medicaid take to approve?

Generally up to 45 days. It can take longer for disability‑based categories. Pregnancy can be covered sooner under presumptive eligibility. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

3. I’m working and pregnant. What income counts?

Medicaid uses MAGI rules (your tax household’s income). See the pregnancy income table; for a household of 2 the monthly limit is $3,419.25 (effective 3/1/2025). (scdhhs.gov)

4. My child lost coverage mid‑year after I got a raise—what now?

Kids get 12 months continuous coverage in Medicaid/CHIP. Call 888‑549‑0820 to fix it if a cut‑off happened by mistake. (medicaid.gov)

5. I don’t have a car. How do I get to appointments?

Book a Medicaid ride through Modivcare (R1 866‑910‑7688, R2 866‑445‑6860, R3 866‑445‑9954) at least 3 business days ahead; urgent rides allowed with provider confirmation. (mymodivcare.com)

6. Are dental and vision covered?

Children get dental and vision under EPSDT. Adult coverage is limited; check your MCO’s handbook and ask your dentist if they accept Healthy Connections. (scdhhs.gov)

7. Can I pick my Medicaid health plan?

Yes. Choose at SCChoices.com or call 877‑552‑4642 (TTY 877‑552‑4670). You can change once in the first 90 days. (scchoices.com)

8. Is South Carolina expanding Medicaid for adults?

Not as of August/September 2025. Bills have been filed but not adopted. Use the Marketplace if your income is above parent limits. (kff.org, scstatehouse.gov)

9. Can Medicaid help pay my job‑based insurance?

Maybe. The HIPP program can reimburse premiums if it saves costs. Call 888‑289‑0709 (Option 5, then 4). (scdhhs.gov)

10. Where can I get help filling out forms?

Call SCDHHS (888‑549‑0820) or SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774) for application assistance. (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, South Carolina Department of Public Health, USDA/FNS, CMS/HHS, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change at any time. Always confirm with the agency or hospital financial office linked in this guide.
• Health information is for general guidance only and not medical or legal advice.
• For your privacy and security: use only the official SCDHHS and DPH websites and phone numbers provided here. Never share SSNs or bank info with unsolicited callers. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call Medicaid directly at 888‑549‑0820. (scdhhs.gov)

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Sources (selected)

• South Carolina SCDHHS: Program eligibility & 2025 income limits, application, contacts, MCOs, TEFRA, Family Planning, MIAP, dental/EPSDT, NEMT policies. (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.sc.gov, scchoices.com, scchoices.com)
• Postpartum 12‑month coverage (state bulletins). (scdhhs.gov)
• Children’s 12‑month continuous coverage (Medicaid.gov). (medicaid.gov)
• WIC FY2025 fruit/vegetable amounts (USDA FNS). (fns.usda.gov)
• DPH (WIC program; public health clinics; Best Chance Network). (dph.sc.gov, dph.sc.gov)
• HealthCare.gov/CMS – 2025 Open Enrollment dates. (cms.gov, healthcare.gov)
• SC DOI – Marketplace plan availability (carriers by county). (doi.sc.gov)
• ADAP/Ryan White resources. (dph.sc.gov)
• Free clinics (SCFCA; SCDHHS list). (scfreeclinics.org, scdhhs.gov)
• Hospital financial assistance (MUSC; Roper St. Francis; McLeod Health). (muschealth.org, rsfh.com, mcleodhealth.org)

If any link is broken or information seems outdated, let us know at info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it within 48–72 hours.

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🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Carolina

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery