Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
If you’re a single mom in West Virginia, this guide shows where to get free backpacks, school supplies, and clothing—plus how to stretch every dollar before the first bell. You’ll find step‑by‑step instructions, eligibility rules, documents to bring, real timelines, and backup plans. We link directly to offices and hotlines so you can act fast. Use the quick actions below, and then dig into the sections that fit your situation. For help 24/7, call or text 2‑1‑1 for West Virginia’s referral line through the statewide United Way network at the numbers under Quick Help. West Virginia 211 and Bureau for Family Assistance both publish current program details and contacts for your county. (wv211.org)
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Apply for West Virginia’s School Clothing Allowance (SCA) now: The benefit is $200 per eligible child for 2025; applications ran July 7–31 each year and benefits load to an EBT cash card or are issued by check for foster care placements; if you missed the window, read the Plan B below. Submit online through the state’s benefits portal. WV PATH and DoHS School Clothing Allowance news have official dates, income limits, and the state hotline 1-877-716-1212. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Stack savings during the Sales Tax Holiday: West Virginia’s tax‑free weekend runs from Friday, August 1, 2025 at 12:00 a.m. to Monday, August 4, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.; many school items, clothing up to 125peritem,andlaptopsupto125 per item, and laptops up to 500 are exempt. Combine SCA funds with this window for extra savings online or in‑store. WV Tax Division’s Sales Tax Holiday and Q&A on qualifying items list price caps, allowable items, and rules. (tax.wv.gov)
- Call your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison today if you lost housing or you’re doubled‑up: You can get immediate enrollment, transportation help, fee waivers, and school supplies through federal protections—no delay for paperwork. Find contacts and your rights through the state education office. WVDE McKinney‑Vento and McKinney‑Vento/Homeless hub publish county liaison directories and parent rights. (wvde.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call WV 211 at 1-833-848-9905, text your ZIP to 898‑211, or dial 2‑1‑1 for an urgent search of local backpack drives and clothing closets, and ask to be texted links. WV 211 contact and BFA community resources page confirm 24/7 coverage statewide. (wv211.org)
Quick Help — Numbers and Links to keep handy
- WV DoHS Customer Service Center: 1-877-716-1212 for SCA status, address changes, and paper applications; use the online benefits portal for uploads. DoHS SCA announcement and WV PATH list forms and steps. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Find your local DoHS field office: Get the address, hours, and county phone number for walk‑ins or EBT card questions. DoHS Field Offices locator and DoHS main site post office look‑up and the Client Services Hotline 1-800-642-8589. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- WV 211: Call 2‑1‑1, text ZIP to 898‑211, or use the toll‑free 1‑833‑848‑9905 for live referrals to drives, churches, and pantries. WV 211 contact page and BFA WV 211 overview explain access options. (wv211.org)
- Education help inside schools: Ask a Communities In Schools (CIS) site coordinator or your district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison for supplies and clothing. WVDE CIS hub and CIS West Virginia nonprofit list county coverage and contacts across all 55 counties. (wvde.us)
- Food for kids while you sort supplies: Check mobile pantry dates and backpack food programs; many also hand out school items at events. Mountaineer Food Bank mobile schedule and Facing Hunger Foodbank updates cover most WV counties. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
How this guide works
You’ll get two things for every major resource: exactly how to apply and a backup plan. You’ll also see timelines, county notes, and what to bring. Use the Quick Reference tables to plan and screenshot. If you need live help, start with WV 211 and your local school contact; both can point you to same‑week backpack events and clothing closets. WV 211 and WVDE McKinney‑Vento offer direct support lines and statewide contact lists. (wv211.org)
West Virginia’s School Clothing Allowance (SCA) — $200 per eligible child in 2025
The SCA is West Virginia’s main back‑to‑school cash benefit for clothing like shoes, pants, shirts, coats, and piece goods if you sew at home. The 2025 benefit is $200 per child, loaded to an EBT cash card; foster care payments arrive by check. Apply or check status online and call if your address changed. DoHS SCA news release and BFA SCA program page post benefit amounts, dates, and EBT details. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Who qualifies: Eligibility is based on July income and enrollment in a West Virginia school; some families qualify automatically if already on certain benefits. The state posts monthly income limits by household size; for example, a family of four may not exceed $3,380 gross monthly in 2025. DoHS SCA income chart and BFA announcement show the full table and the July 7–31 application window. (dhhr.wv.gov)
How to apply: File online, by mail, or at your county office. Upload July income proof, ID, and school enrollment if asked. Track your case in the portal and call if the card hasn’t arrived two weeks after approval. WV PATH and Find your local DoHS office are the fastest ways to complete and follow your application. (dhhr.wv.gov)
SCA at a glance
| Program | What you get | Who qualifies | How to apply | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| School Clothing Allowance (SCA) | $200 per eligible child for school clothing and sewing materials; purchases are tax‑exempt | Income within posted July limits; enrolled in a WV school; some categories qualify automatically | Online via WV PATH, by mail, or at county DoHS | Apply July 7–31; cards/checks typically follow approval in 7–15 business days |
Sources: DoHS SCA news and BFA SCA overview. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Required documents (bring copies or clear photos)
- Proof of July income: pay stubs or benefit notices for all adults in your home; keep EBT or benefit letters handy. BFA SCA instructions and DoHS hotline confirm July income month rules. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Child info and school enrollment: report grades and schools; ask the school office for an enrollment letter if requested. WVDE enrollment info and Your county district can print quick confirmations. (wvde.us)
- ID and address: driver’s license or state ID, lease or utility bill; update address in the portal before cards are mailed. WV PATH and DoHS customer service can make changes by phone at 1-877-716-1212. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Pro tips to stretch SCA
- Shop during the tax‑free weekend: Buy qualifying clothes and school items tax‑free Aug 1–4, 2025; SCA purchases are also tax‑exempt, so you double your savings. WV Tax Division — Sales Tax Holiday and Q&A on item caps list categories and dollar limits. (tax.wv.gov)
- Stack store promotions: Many retailers run SCA discounts; show your EBT cash card as tender if asked about SCA. DoHS SCA news and BFA SCA overview explain card use at any retailer that accepts EBT cash transactions. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Emergency Assistance at your county DoHS if you missed the SCA deadline and face a crisis; limited one‑time help can cover clothing and other basics. Call ahead and bring bills, ID, and proof of income. BFA Emergency Assistance and DoHS Field Offices post rules and locations. (bfa.wv.gov)
Use West Virginia’s Back‑to‑School Sales Tax Holiday (Aug 1–4, 2025)
The sales tax holiday reduces the cost of supplies and clothes. It starts Friday, August 1 at 12:00 a.m. and ends Monday, August 4 at 11:59 p.m. Qualifying items are tax‑free in‑store and online if the order is accepted for immediate shipment during the window. WV Tax Division Sales Tax Holiday and State Q&A with caps confirm dates and item categories. (tax.wv.gov)
What’s tax‑free — caps to remember
| Category | Price limit per item | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing and footwear | $125 | Everyday wear; accessories usually excluded |
| School supplies | $50 | Binders, paper, pencils, calculators (basic) |
| Instructional materials | $20 | Workbooks, maps, reference materials |
| Laptops/tablets | $500 | One item per transaction still qualifies if within cap |
| Sports equipment | $150 | For school sports and activities |
Sources: WV Tax Division and Sales Tax Holiday Q&A. (tax.wv.gov)
How to plan fast: Build your list from the school’s supply page, then filter by the caps above; place online carts during the holiday and keep order confirmations. WVDE Child Nutrition/SNP hub and Your county school site post supply lists and start dates you can match to deals. (wvde.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask stores to refund tax charged in error; retailers can credit it if they haven’t remitted yet. Bring your receipt and cite the state Q&A. Sales Tax Holiday Q&A and Tax Division Business page explain the refund path. (tax.wv.gov)
School‑Based Help You Can Request Today
West Virginia funds on‑campus supports that can hand you supplies, connect you to clothing closets, and fix barriers like transport or activity fees. Start with two points inside your child’s school.
Ask your Communities In Schools site coordinator: CIS operates in all 55 counties with staff who connect families to backpacks, clothing, hygiene items, and community drives right inside the school. If your school has CIS, ask at the office for the site coordinator by name. WVDE CIS hub and Governor’s statewide CIS announcement confirm statewide coverage and provide county links. (wvde.us)
Use your McKinney‑Vento rights if housing is unstable: If you are doubled‑up, in a motel or shelter, or in any unstable housing, your child can be enrolled immediately, get transportation to the school of origin, and receive supplies and fee waivers. Call the district liaison and say you are requesting supports under the McKinney‑Vento Act. WVDE McKinney‑Vento parent rights and WVDE Homeless Education post phone numbers by county. (wvde.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the WVDE Office of Federal Programs at 1-833-627-2833 or 304-558-7805 and ask for the state McKinney‑Vento coordinator; also loop in your school counselor. WVDE ESEA Programs and ESSA/IDEA contact list statewide contacts and support hotlines. (wvde.us)
Community Drives, Charities, and Churches That Give Backpacks and Supplies
Local nonprofits run pop‑up events each July–August with free backpacks, school supplies, shoes, haircuts, and help tables. Many require your child to be present, and most are first‑come, first‑served. Confirm dates every year since funding changes by county.
United Way drives (multiple regions): In Charleston and nearby counties, United Way of Central WV runs “Tools for School” with drop‑offs and distributions; in the Mid‑Ohio Valley, United Way’s Ready to Learn Resource Locker fills school requests; in the Tri‑State, United Way of the River Cities coordinates youth programs and teacher kits tied to school supply support. United Way of Central WV — Tools for School and United Way Alliance of the Mid‑Ohio Valley — Resource Locker post current drive details; United Way of the River Cities — Youth Opportunity lists funded partners that serve Cabell, Wayne, Mason, and beyond. (unitedwaycwv.org)
Faith‑based and service nonprofits: The Salvation Army’s local corps in Charleston and Morgantown run seasonal school support and partner with Walmart’s “Stuff the Bus;” call your nearest corps for event dates. Catholic Charities West Virginia maintains region offices that issue emergency basics and referrals. Salvation Army Charleston Area Command and Salvation Army Morgantown Corps list contact numbers; Catholic Charities WV locations shows a statewide map and phone contacts. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Upcoming and recent 2025 examples (check each year): Pantry Plus More’s Back‑to‑School Bash in Morgantown registered ~1,600 kids this August; Valley Health’s Summer Jam in Huntington provided free backpacks and resources; Starting Points’ Backpack Bash in Bluefield distributed 600+ backpacks; the Clarksburg Police Department collected supplies for local students; Parkersburg’s RNR Tire Express hosted a giveaway day. Dominion Post coverage of Morgantown Bash and Valley Health Summer Jam show dates and locations; WVVA Backpack Bash and WDTV Clarksburg drive list distribution rules; AllEvents Parkersburg giveaway posts event details. (dominionpost.com)
Food banks and weekend food packs: Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Foodbank partner with schools for Backpack food programs and host mobile pantries that often share school‑season info at distributions. Check your county calendar and ask your school if a weekend backpack food program is available. Mountaineer Food Bank mobile schedule and Facing Hunger Foodbank updates cover most WV counties; the statewide Hunger Free WV initiative maps partnerships. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call WV 211 and ask for “backpack events within 25 miles,” then sort by date and ask for transportation referrals if you’re rural. Also ask your school to check with its CIS site coordinator for leftover supplies. WV 211 contact and WVDE CIS hub can connect you quickly. (wv211.org)
Government Programs That Free Up Cash for School Costs
When budgets are tight, stack these supports to free up dollars for supplies, fees, and clothes. Apply online first, then follow up by phone.
WV WORKS (TANF) and SNAP: Apply through the state portal; ask your worker about supportive payments for work or school‑related costs. Even small monthly SNAP amounts reduce your food bill so you can shift funds to supplies. BFA program list and BFA home outline eligibility and the online process. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Child nutrition at school and in summer: Schools use federal programs to provide free or reduced‑price meals; many WV schools run free breakfast and lunch through CEP or district policy. In summer, the state and USDA sponsor hundreds of meal sites so kids keep eating with no paperwork. WVDE Child Nutrition and WVDE SFSP 2025 release show active programs and site finders. (wvde.us)
Energy help so you don’t buy supplies with the light bill: If you have a shutoff notice, use Emergency LIEAP; bring the notice and proof you paid the regular LIEAP if you got bulk fuel earlier in the year. Decisions happen fast in crisis cases, but you must visit the county office in person. DoHS E‑LIEAP announcement 2025 and DoHS Field Offices post dates and the in‑person rule. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Low‑cost internet after the ACP ended: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended on June 1, 2024; ask your provider about “low‑income” plans that replaced the ACP discount. If you still see ACP language, call your ISP and ask about current low‑cost tiers. FCC ACP overview and FCC notice that ACP ended explain the wind‑down and end date. (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DoHS worker about one‑time Emergency Assistance for clothing or transport if you can show a crisis; you can only use it once in a 12‑month period. BFA Emergency Assistance and DoHS office locator list rules and locations. (bfa.wv.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
If you got a termination notice, protect power before school starts so you can keep charging devices, refrigerating lunches, and washing clothes. Bring your shutoff notice to the county office and request Emergency LIEAP; if approved, payments can reach the utility quickly. Follow up with your provider to confirm receipt within 2–3 business days. DoHS E‑LIEAP 2025 and DoHS Field Offices explain documents and in‑person interviews for emergencies. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call WV 211 and ask for an appointment with a local church or charity that handles one‑time utility pledges; also ask your school counselor about a Communities In Schools referral for emergency basics. WV 211 contact and WVDE CIS hub route to partners in your county. (wv211.org)
Reality Check — What to expect this year
- Funding changes every year: Pop‑up backpack events may shift dates or scale with donations; always call to confirm before you drive. United Way MOV initiatives and United Way Central WV tools page update details as donations arrive. (uwamov.com)
- SCA runs on a tight calendar: Applications run July 7–31; EBT cards are mailed to the address in your case record, so update your address early in the portal or by phone. DoHS SCA news and WV PATH account outline deadlines. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Your school is your fastest connector: CIS staff and McKinney‑Vento liaisons can often hand you supplies the same day; always ask at the office. WVDE CIS and WVDE McKinney‑Vento publish contacts for every county. (wvde.us)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the July income rule for SCA: Upload the right month’s pay stubs; if you send June or August, your case can stall. BFA SCA page and DoHS news release both stress July verification. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Not updating your address: EBT cards and notices go to your last address on file; update online or call 1-877-716-1212 before mailing. WV PATH and DoHS Customer Service can change it. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Waiting on a call back: If you don’t hear in a week, call, then visit the county office with your documents in a folder; aim for mornings to reduce wait times. DoHS Field Offices and BFA list hours and contacts. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Quick Reference — Cheat Sheet to Screenshot
| Need | Who to contact first | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Free backpack and supplies this week | WV 211 or your school’s CIS coordinator | Local Salvation Army or Catholic Charities WV |
| Clothing money | SCA via WV PATH | BFA Emergency Assistance |
| Housing instability | McKinney‑Vento Liaison | WVDE Office of Federal Programs |
| Food this weekend | Mountaineer Food Bank | Facing Hunger Foodbank |
| Power shutoff notice | DoHS E‑LIEAP | DoHS Field Offices |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID for you: driver’s license or state ID; bring a backup if ID is expired. DoHS offices and BFA accept standard IDs. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Proof of July income: pay stubs/award letters for SCA; double‑check the month on the top line. SCA program page and SCA news details specify July verification. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Child’s info: full name, DOB, school, grade; ask your school office for an enrollment letter if needed. WVDE main site and ESEA Programs Office list district contacts. (wvde.us)
- Address verification: lease or utility bill; update it in WV PATH before card mailing. WV PATH and DoHS Customer Service can update records. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Shutoff notice (if seeking E‑LIEAP): bring the notice or fuel receipt for faster decisions. E‑LIEAP announcement and DoHS offices list requirements. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Resources by Region — Where to look first near you
Kanawha Valley (Charleston and nearby counties): Look for “Tools for School” drop‑offs and pick‑ups, plus city events at the Town Center; the Salvation Army provides case management and seasonal help. United Way of Central WV — Tools for School and Charleston Town Center Back‑to‑School event update dates; Salvation Army Charleston Area Command posts assistance info phone 1-304-343-4548. (unitedwaycwv.org)
Huntington Tri‑State (Cabell/Wayne/Mason): Valley Health’s Summer Jam distributes backpacks; United Way of the River Cities funds youth basics; Facing Hunger Foodbank supports weekend food packs. Valley Health Summer Jam and UW River Cities Youth Opportunity list partners; Facing Hunger Foodbank update notes outreach in southern counties. (valleyhealth.org)
North‑Central (Morgantown, Monongalia/Preston/Marion): Pantry Plus More’s Back‑to‑School Bash serves Mon County; Christian Help in Morgantown runs a back‑to‑school clothing giveaway. Dominion Post — Bash details and WDTV — Christian Help event post 2025 schedules. (dominionpost.com)
Mid‑Ohio Valley (Parkersburg/Wood/Wirt): United Way Alliance runs a resource locker and school support; local businesses host backpack giveaways in August. United Way Alliance MOV and Parkersburg backpack giveaway listing can help you time your visit. (uwamov.com)
Eastern Panhandle (Berkeley/Jefferson/Morgan): United Way of the Eastern Panhandle funds youth basics and partners with school drives; bed builds can help kids sleep better before school. UWayEP main site and Sleep in Heavenly Peace — Eastern Panhandle post ongoing support. (uwayep.org)
Southern Coalfields (Mercer/McDowell/Logan/Raleigh): Look for city and church‑hosted giveaways like the Backpack Bash in Bluefield; check Mountaineer Food Bank’s county calendar for mobile sites near you. WVVA — Starting Points Backpack Bash and Mountaineer Food Bank mobile schedule provide dates across southern counties. (wvva.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal for a CIS referral or McKinney‑Vento supplies, and call 2‑1‑1 for the next event date—some counties repeat distributions into September. WVDE CIS and WV 211 align local partners. (wvde.us)
Diverse Communities — Tailored Help and Access
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your school for a safe point‑of‑contact and privacy when requesting supplies; report discrimination in public services or schools if it occurs. For state civil rights help or guidance on school issues, contact the West Virginia Human Rights Commission and your district Title IX office. WV Human Rights Commission and WVDE ESEA/IDEA contacts provide complaint intake and support lines. (oig.wv.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for large‑print applications, assistance completing forms, and accessible pickup options; request IEP‑related school supplies as an accommodation if needed. Reach out to the state’s Parent Training and Information Center or WVU’s Center for Excellence in Disabilities for navigation help. WV PTI and WVU CED education resources offer free one‑on‑one support statewide. (wvpti-inc.org)
Veteran single mothers: Check Operation Homefront’s Back‑to‑School Brigade for military dependent children; registration is required and events are first‑come. Also contact your county Veterans Assistance office for local support. Operation Homefront — BTSB and Operation Homefront events list locations and eligibility (DEERS‑enrolled K–12). (operationhomefront.org)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Ask for interpreters and translated forms at your school and county office; you can still apply for school supports for your child. Catholic Charities WV provides immigration services and emergency basics statewide. Catholic Charities WV locations and WVDE McKinney‑Vento parent rights cover services and language access tips. (ccwva.org)
Tribal‑affiliated families: If your child is tribally affiliated and you moved to WV from another state, ask your school about continuing services and culturally appropriate supports; you can also check federal programs for Native families alongside local school supports. WVDE ESEA/IDEA contacts and WVDE main site can route you to district supports while you connect with national resources. (wvde.us)
Rural single moms: Ask for mobile pantry dates and library pickups that double as supply events; request mail delivery for benefits if travel is hard. WVU Extension’s Energy Express can also free up funds with free meals and take‑home books during summer. Mountaineer Food Bank mobile schedule and WVU Extension — Energy Express post county calendars and timelines. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
Single fathers: You can use every program in this guide; if anyone turns you away because you’re a dad, ask for a supervisor and call the Human Rights Commission if needed. WV Human Rights Commission and DoHS Client Services Hotline accept complaints at 1-800-642-8589 if services are denied. (oig.wv.gov)
Language access: WV 211 offers help in many languages and can conference in interpreters; schools must provide language access at no cost to families. WV 211 contact and WVDE ESEA/IDEA list access points across the state. (wv211.org)
Tables you can use right now
Program‑by‑Program Snapshot
| Program | Area served | Main benefit | How to access |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Clothing Allowance (SCA) | Statewide | $200 per eligible child for clothing | Apply on WV PATH; call 1-877-716-1212 |
| Sales Tax Holiday | Statewide | Tax‑free school items Aug 1–4, 2025 | WV Tax Holiday info Q&A, caps apply |
| CIS/School supports | All 55 counties | Backpacks, supplies, referrals | WVDE CIS; ask school office |
| WV 211 | Statewide | Live referrals 24/7 | WV 211 contact or 1-833-848-9905 |
| E‑LIEAP | Statewide | Emergency utility help | E‑LIEAP details; visit county office |
Sales Tax Holiday Category Caps
| Category | Cap | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | $125 | Jeans, shoes, shirts |
| School supplies | $50 | Binders, paper, crayons |
| Instructional materials | $20 | Workbooks, maps |
| Laptop/tablet | $500 | Chromebooks, basic tablets |
| Sports equipment | $150 | Team cleats, protective gear |
Sources: WV Tax Division and Holiday Q&A. (tax.wv.gov)
School Clothing Allowance — 2025 Income Snapshot
| Household size | Max monthly gross |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 |
| 2 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $4,456 |
Full chart and +$583 per additional person: DoHS SCA chart and BFA SCA details. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Regional First Calls
| Region | First call to make | Second call if needed |
|---|---|---|
| Kanawha Valley | United Way Central WV | Salvation Army Charleston |
| Tri‑State (Huntington) | Valley Health Summer Jam | UW River Cities |
| North‑Central | Pantry Plus More Bash | Christian Help |
| Eastern Panhandle | United Way EP | SHP Beds — EP |
| Mid‑Ohio Valley | UW Alliance MOV | Local event listings |
Where to go if you’re told “there’s no funding left”
| Situation | Try this next |
|---|---|
| SCA deadline passed | Ask BFA Emergency Assistance and call WV 211 for church and charity vouchers |
| No supplies left at drive | Ask your school CIS coordinator and the district McKinney‑Vento liaison |
| Utility shutoff blocking everything | Go in person for E‑LIEAP; ask WV 211 for non‑profit pledges |
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Read the notice: It will say why; common reasons include missing July pay stubs or mismatched household size. BFA SCA page and DoHS site explain documentation rules. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Fix and re‑submit quickly: Upload the exact document asked for and add a brief note in the portal. WV PATH and DoHS Customer Service can verify receipt. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Ask for a supervisor review: If you believe the decision is wrong, request a supervisor callback at your county office; bring your folder if you visit. DoHS Field Offices and BFA provide contact points. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get help from your school or a legal navigator; the district liaison or CIS coordinator can document need, and Legal Aid/advocacy groups can coach appeals. WVDE McKinney‑Vento and WV PTI provide family navigation on school supports. (wvde.us)
Real World Examples — What worked for WV single moms this year
- Monongalia County: A mom with three kids registered early for the Pantry Plus More Bash and picked backpacks plus hygiene kits; the CIS coordinator later filled missing items from a school closet the first week of classes. Dominion Post Bash and WVDE CIS show how events and school teams coordinate. (dominionpost.com)
- Huntington/Cabell: A single mother used Valley Health’s Summer Jam for supplies and got a referral to a backpack food program for weekends via Facing Hunger partners. Valley Health Summer Jam and Facing Hunger Foodbank update document partners and county coverage. (valleyhealth.org)
- Parkersburg/Wood: A mom missed SCA but found a business‑sponsored giveaway for backpacks; United Way MOV later delivered class‑specific supplies through the Resource Locker when teachers flagged needs. Local backpack event and United Way MOV — Resource Locker show how to bridge gaps post‑deadline. (allevents.in)
County‑Specific Notes That Matter
- All 55 counties now have Communities In Schools: Ask at your child’s building; site coordinators differ by school and county. Governor’s CIS expansion release and WVDE CIS page confirm coverage. (governor.wv.gov)
- Mobile food calendars vary by county: Check your county’s dates and times—some start at 10 a.m. and move fast; bring a photo ID. Mountaineer Food Bank 2025 schedule and Hunger Free WV share county info. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
- Back‑to‑school tax‑free weekend is the same statewide: The caps are per item; buy multiple items as long as each is under the cap. WV Tax Division and Sales Tax Holiday Q&A explain the per‑item rule. (tax.wv.gov)
FAQs — West Virginia single mom questions answered
- Do I have to already receive SNAP or cash aid to get the School Clothing Allowance: No. Many families qualify by income even if they don’t receive other benefits. Apply in July and submit July income proof for everyone in your household. BFA SCA overview and DoHS SCA news clarify eligibility. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Can I use SCA online: Yes. SCA is on an EBT cash card that works like a debit card where EBT cash is accepted, including many online retailers. Keep receipts for exchanges; cash refunds aren’t allowed. DoHS SCA announcement and BFA SCA page explain EBT changes. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- What supplies are free during the Sales Tax Holiday: Qualifying school supplies up to 50peritem,clothingupto50 per item, clothing up to 125 per item, and laptops/tablets up to $500, among others. Check the Q&A list before you buy. WV Tax Business page and Holiday Q&A detail eligible items. (tax.wv.gov)
- Who do I call at my school if we’re doubled‑up with family and need supplies: Call the district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison or ask the school office for your liaison’s email and phone; also ask if your building has a CIS coordinator. WVDE McKinney‑Vento and WVDE CIS list contacts. (wvde.us)
- Are there school supply drives in my county if I missed SCA: Yes, but dates vary. Call 2‑1‑1, ask your school, and check local United Way pages. WV 211 and United Way Central WV page are good starting points. (wv211.org)
- Can I get help with shoes or uniforms: Many drives include shoes; if not, ask about shoe vouchers through CIS or local United Ways. CIS WV and United Way MOV initiatives mention shoe funds and closets. (wvde.us)
- How long do SCA decisions take: Expect about 10–15 business days after you submit a complete file in July; mailing time varies. If it’s been longer, call 1-877-716-1212. DoHS SCA release and DoHS Customer Service provide contacts. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- What if my power is getting shut off and I need to choose bills over backpacks: Apply for E‑LIEAP immediately with your shutoff notice; ask 2‑1‑1 for emergency pledges if needed. E‑LIEAP announcement and WV 211 contact explain options. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Is the federal internet discount still available to help with online school: No. The Affordable Connectivity Program ended June 1, 2024; ask your provider about low‑income plans that replaced it. FCC ACP page and FCC ACP FAQ — ACP Has Ended explain. (fcc.gov)
- Who do I call if I face discrimination while seeking help: Contact the West Virginia Human Rights Commission to file a complaint; also notify the agency’s supervisor. WV Human Rights Commission and DoHS Client Services Hotline at 1-800-642-8589 respond to complaints. (oig.wv.gov)
“What to do if this doesn’t work” — Summary Plan B list
- Try another route at school: If a drive ran out, ask your school counselor for a CIS referral and see if McKinney‑Vento funds can cover basics. WVDE CIS and WVDE McKinney‑Vento provide next steps. (wvde.us)
- Use WV 211 to find a different giveaway: Ask for the next event within 25–50 miles, sorted by date, and request a reminder text. WV 211 contact and BFA WV 211 info outline how to connect 24/7. (wv211.org)
- Request one‑time emergency help: If you missed SCA, ask DoHS about Emergency Assistance for clothing or transport; you can also request utility help to free up money for supplies. BFA Emergency Assistance and E‑LIEAP are the two fastest programs. (bfa.wv.gov)
Spanish — Resumen rápido para madres solteras en West Virginia
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA; confirme siempre los detalles por teléfono o en los sitios oficiales. Para ropa escolar, solicite el School Clothing Allowance ($200 por niño en 2025) por el portal estatal y verifique fechas. Para mochilas y útiles, llame al 2‑1‑1 o pida ayuda en la escuela (Coordinador de Communities In Schools o Enlace McKinney‑Vento). Durante el fin de semana sin impuesto (1–4 de agosto de 2025), muchos artículos escolares no pagan impuesto. BFA — School Clothing Allowance y WV 211 dan instrucciones en línea; WVDE McKinney‑Vento y WV Tax — Sales Tax Holiday proveen contactos y fechas oficiales. (bfa.wv.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- West Virginia Department of Human Services — Bureau for Family Assistance
- WV Department of Education — McKinney‑Vento & Child Nutrition
- WV Tax Division — Sales Tax Holiday
- West Virginia 211
- Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Foodbank
- Operation Homefront — Back‑to‑School Brigade and WVDE Communities In Schools
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide 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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This information is for general guidance in West Virginia as of September 2025. Program rules, dates, and funding can change. Always confirm by phone or on the official site before you apply or travel. Use the linked agency contacts, ask for written instructions when possible, and keep copies of everything you submit. DoHS and WVDE update their pages frequently; WV 211 can help you verify live availability. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Quick Help — One more time to keep in your phone
- DoHS Customer Service (SCA/E‑LIEAP): 1-877-716-1212 — DoHS SCA details and DoHS News confirm helplines. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- WV 211 — 24/7 referrals: 1-833-848-9905 or 2‑1‑1, text ZIP to 898‑211 — WV 211 contact and BFA WV 211 info list access options. (wv211.org)
- WVDE McKinney‑Vento: 304-558-7805; liaison directory and rights — WVDE McKinney‑Vento hub and WVDE ESEA Programs. (wvde.us)
- CIS West Virginia: 304-558-3588 — county sites and coordinators — WVDE CIS and CIS WV nonprofit. (wvde.us)
- Mountaineer Food Bank Mobile Pantry: County dates — Mobile schedule and partners listed by region. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
Remember: you don’t have to do everything on this page. Start with the three emergency actions, set one calendar reminder for the Sales Tax Holiday, and ask your school office for your McKinney‑Vento liaison or CIS coordinator. Use WV 211 whenever you need a fresh list of local drives or a quick phone number. WV 211 and WVDE CIS will keep you moving when plans change. (wv211.org)
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in West Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
