Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Missouri

Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Missouri (2025 Edition)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, Missouri‑specific hub for veteran single moms. It focuses on veteran‑only programs and organizations. It skips general programs open to everyone. Use the direct hotlines and application links inside the paragraphs. When in doubt, call to confirm availability and amounts before you spend time on forms.

— Keep these two statewide doors in your phone now: the veteran‑focused portal run by the state, Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC), and VA’s women‑specific help line, the Women Veterans Call Center at 1‑855‑829‑6636 (text or call). These two can route you anywhere you need. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Call a Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) provider now: SSVF pays past‑due rent and utilities and can move you into housing quickly. In St. Louis, call St. Patrick Center SSVF at 1‑314‑356‑0657; in Kansas City and western counties (Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte, Ray, etc.), call The Salvation Army SSVF at 1‑816‑756‑2799. Ask for “prevention or rapid rehousing.” (stpatrickcenter.org)
Ask VA for immediate help with homelessness risk: Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1‑877‑424‑3838 and request a same‑day connection to HUD‑VASH or local VA homeless staff. Tell them you’re a single mother veteran and mention any minor children. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Use veteran‑specific utility relief today: If you have Ameren Missouri power and a shutoff notice, ask for Veterans Energy Assistance (up to $600, apply by dialing 2‑1‑1). If you’re in Kansas City, go to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) Outreach Center for same‑day utility and rent help. Bring DD‑214 or VA ID. (ameren.com)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Women Veterans help line: Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑829‑6636 (text or call). Ask for your local Women Veterans Program Manager. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Local Missouri VSOs for claims support: Use the MVC Service Officer Locator or call 1‑314‑253‑4455 to reach a claims expert near you. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
Kansas City Vet Center counseling: Kansas City Vet Center 1‑816‑922‑5300 (peer‑led counseling for you and your family). (va.gov)
St. Louis veteran family housing and case management: Missouri Veterans Endeavor (MOVE) 1‑314‑449‑0200 (family units, case management, long‑term support). (search.211illinois.org)
Free legal help for VA claims/discharge upgrades: Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic 1‑573‑882‑7630 (statewide). (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)

What this guide covers

Each section starts with the single most important action. You’ll get exact eligibility rules, how to apply, documents to bring, realistic timelines, and Plan B options. If a link or phone changes, verify on MVC’s portal or with VA.gov before you go. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

How to Stop Eviction or Homelessness in Missouri Fast

Start here if you’re behind on rent, facing lockout, or couch‑surfing with kids.

Action first: Call a local SSVF provider and ask for “screening for prevention/rapid rehousing.” In St. Louis, call St. Patrick Center SSVF at 1‑314‑356‑0657; in Kansas City and neighboring counties, call Salvation Army SSVF (Kansas & Western MO) at 1‑816‑756‑2799; in Springfield/southwest Missouri, ask The Kitchen, Inc. for veteran housing slot info and a referral to SSVF or HUD‑VASH. (stpatrickcenter.org)
Who qualifies: You must be a veteran or in a veteran family, have income under area‑median limits, and be literally homeless or at imminent risk (e.g., eviction within 14 days). Providers can pay move‑in costs, deposit, and arrears, and offer case management. VA SSVF standards and provider pages explain details; income thresholds vary (some use 50%–80% of AMI). (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Documents to bring: DD‑214 or VA ID, photo ID, lease, landlord letter or notice, last 30–60 days income, and utility bills. Bring kids’ birth certificates if you’ll request family‑specific help from St. Michael’s Veterans Center or MOVE. (smvets.org)
Timelines and wait times: SSVF can often screen you the same day and issue help within 3–10 business days if documents are ready. HUD‑VASH vouchers take longer; start immediately with VA Homeless Services (KC) for a warm handoff to case management. Expect 2–6 weeks for a unit with voucher in tight markets. Call to confirm local capacity. (va.gov)
Plan B options: If SSVF is full, go in person to Veterans Community Project (KC) for emergency rent/utility funds and case management, or contact MOVE (St. Louis) which houses veteran families and provides long‑term support on site. You can also call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1‑877‑424‑3838 and ask for a same‑day connection to the nearest VA homeless coordinator. (veteranscommunityproject.org)

Reality Check — Housing Help

Funding can pause without notice: Ask your case manager if your payment will go to the landlord or utility directly and when. Hold off on signing a new lease until SSVF confirms payment. See SSVF descriptions from MVC for what costs they can cover. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
KC and STL have extra veteran options: Besides SSVF, VCP runs emergency assistance in KC; MOVE supports veteran families in St. Louis with units and case management. Apply early; units are limited. (veteranscommunityproject.org)

Table — Missouri Veteran‑Focused Housing Resources

Area	Program	What they do	How to contact
St. Louis metro	St. Patrick Center SSVF	Prevention, rapid rehousing, bridge housing	1‑314‑356‑0657 (SSVF line) (stpatrickcenter.org)
Kansas City region	Salvation Army SSVF (KS & Western MO)	SSVF for MO counties incl. Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass, Ray	1‑816‑756‑2799 (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
Statewide via VA	HUD‑VASH	Voucher + VA case management	Ask your VA homeless team / call 1‑877‑424‑3838 (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
St. Louis	MOVE	Long‑term supportive housing for veterans and families	1‑314‑449‑0200 (search.211illinois.org)
Kansas City	Veterans Community Project	Emergency funds, tiny‑home village, navigation	1‑816‑599‑6503 (veteranscommunityproject.org)
Kansas City	St. Michael’s Veterans Center	Permanent affordable housing + onsite services	1‑816‑921‑0201 (smvets.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask MVC’s Resource & Outreach Coordinator at 1‑573‑751‑3779 to escalate a housing referral. Request direct contact with a HUD‑VASH social worker, like the KC HUD‑VASH supervisor listed on VA’s site, and ask to be added to the next voucher slot. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Missouri Today

Action first: If you have Ameren Missouri power and a disconnect notice, ask for Veterans Energy Assistance (up to $600 t o w a r d p a s t ‑ d u e bi ll s; a ppl y v ia 2‑1‑1) . I f yo u ’ v e b ee n u nh o u se d in t h e l a s t ye a r an d a rereco nn ec t in g, a s kab o u t * [N e wSt a r tE n er g y R e l i e f] (h ttp s : // www . am ere n . co m / mi sso u r i / res i d e n t ia l / e n er g y - a ss i s t an ce / n e w - s t a r t - e n er g y - re l i e f) * (u pt o$ 1,000). (ameren.com)
KC metro tip: Walk in at VCP’s Outreach Center for one‑time utility or rent assistance. They pay the vendor directly after screening and can help obtain your DD‑214 if you’re missing it. Bring your bill and ID. (veteranscommunityproject.org)
Documentation: DD‑214 or veteran ID, picture ID, full bill with account number, and proof of hardship (disconnect notice). Keep copies for your SSVF file so the same proof can cover rent and utilities together through one case manager. See MVC’s utility and transportation pages for other veteran‑only options. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

Location‑specific subheads

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: St. Louis Ameren veteran power help
Use Ameren’s Veterans Energy Assistance and ask United Way 2‑1‑1 to screen for the Ameren Missouri Veterans Fund (still $600 max per household per current public notices). Ask to bundle with Dollar More if allowed. Verify current amounts with 2‑1‑1. (ameren.mediaroom.com)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Kansas City Spire gas help
No veteran‑specific Spire fund is posted, but you can combine VCP emergency assistance with SSVF prevention funds toward the gas bill. Ask your SSVF worker to pay the utility direct. If the shutoff is imminent, request a same‑day letter to stop disconnection while payment processes. (veteranscommunityproject.org)

Table — Veteran‑Specific Utility Aids in MO

Utility area	Veteran program	Max noted	How to apply
Ameren Missouri	Veterans Energy Assistance	Up to $600 (verify)	Dial 2‑1‑1; ask for Ameren Veterans Fund
Ameren Missouri (restarting service)	New Start Energy Relief	Up to $1,000	Apply through listed partner agencies
Kansas City metro	Veterans Community Project emergency aid	One request per household	Walk‑in M‑F with ID, bill, and DD‑214

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SSVF case manager to cover the balance directly, or call MVC to locate another veteran charity (e.g., Elks or local foundations) that pays vendors directly. Always verify program caps and dates because utility funds change monthly. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

Women’s VA Health, Maternity, and Postpartum Care (Missouri)

Action first: Call the Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑829‑6636. Ask for your facility’s Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) and a maternity care coordinator if pregnant or postpartum. Missouri VA sites list services like maternity coordination, lactation support, and gender‑specific primary care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
What’s covered: VA pays for pregnancy care through community OB partners, covers labor/delivery, and covers newborn care on the birth date plus 7 days. VA also supplies breast pumps and nursing bras through your coordinator. Confirm coverage of doulas or specialized services before appointments. See the VA maternity page and Missouri VA women’s pages for details. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Where to go locally: Women’s care pages exist for Kansas City VA, St. Louis VA, and Columbia VA (Truman). If you can’t see a phone number online, call the main VA number and ask for the Women’s Health clinic. (va.gov)
Breastfeeding and postpartum: Ask your coordinator for lactation consults, supplies, and support groups; VA provides pumps, bras, storage bags, and more. Call WVCC if you hit a wall getting equipment or a consult. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Reality Check — Reproductive Health Policy

There are active policy proposals that could change VA’s limited abortion coverage in 2025; final rules were not settled as of early September. If pregnancy is complicated or life‑threatening, call your Women’s Health team and ask for urgent guidance, and keep the WVCC number handy for real‑time updates. Verify any policy change with your VA clinician before assuming coverage. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the WVPM Locator to email you the local WVPM name and direct line, or call your facility operator and request “Women’s Health.” Use the Vet Center if you need counseling while you wait; KC 1‑816‑922‑5300, STL 1‑314‑894‑5739. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Mental Health, MST, and Family Counseling

Action first: If you need to talk now, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then press 1; for women‑specific navigation, contact the Women Veterans Call Center. For confidential counseling that does not share notes with your VA medical record, use your closest Vet Center (KC 1‑816‑922‑5300; STL 1‑314‑894‑5739). (va.gov)
MST and postpartum support: Tell the Vet Center or Women’s Health team if military sexual trauma affects your care. They can arrange trauma‑informed therapy and safe, private settings. Both VA Women’s Health and local Vet Centers support couples and children when appropriate. (womenshealth.va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask MVC to refer you to veteran‑savvy community therapists (The Kaufman Fund in STL or Elks partners often sponsor sessions). If safety is an issue, call 911 and tell responders you’re a veteran, then ask the ER social worker to page VA’s on‑call mental health coordinator. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

VA Disability Compensation, Survivors, and Pension — What a Missouri Veteran Mom Should Know

Action first: Get a free claims appointment with a local MVC Veterans Service Officer (VSO). VSOs can submit evidence through VA systems and track your case. You can also call VA at 1‑800‑827‑1000, but a local VSO often speeds things up. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
2025 benefit levels: Disability pay rates increased with the 2024 COLA. Example: at 100% with one child and spouse, the monthly base is $4, 201.35; e a c ha dd i t i o na l c hi l d u n d er 18 a dd s$ 106.14. See VA’s 2025 tables for your exact status. (va.gov)
Timelines: VA reports average disability claim decisions around 132 days mid‑2025, with backlog trending down. Complex claims and appeals take longer. Ask your VSO to file a Fully Developed Claim to shorten processing. (news.va.gov)
Survivor grant for spouses/children (state): Missouri’s Wartime Veteran’s Survivors Grant can pay up to University of Missouri–Columbia in‑state tuition plus $2, 000/ se m es t er f orroo m / b o a r d an d$ 500 for books; limited to 25 students per year and prioritized for renewals. Apply early through the state portal. (dhewd.mo.gov)

Table — VA and State Pay/Grant Reference (Selected 2025 figures)

Topic	2025 notes	Where to verify
Disability compensation	100% with spouse + 1 child: $4, 201.35/ m o; a dd$ 106.14 per extra minor child	VA 2025 rates (va.gov)
VA pension MAx (veteran w/ 1 dependent)	$22,216 annual; higher for A&A/housebound	Federal Register COLA notice (federalregister.gov)
MO Survivors Grant	Tuition up to MU‑Columbia rate + $2, 000/ se m es t erroo m / b o a r d +$ 500 books	DHEWD (dhewd.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic to review denials, discharge upgrades, or complex appeals (free representation, statewide). You can also request an MVC “Veterans Will Clinic” referral if you need estate docs while benefits are pending. (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)

Education and Training (Veteran‑Only, Missouri‑Specific)

Action first: If you had combat service after 9/11, ask your college about Missouri’s Returning Heroes Act — it caps in‑state undergraduate tuition at $50/credit for 10 years after discharge (and caps eligible graduate tuition at 30% of normal rates for 20 years). Apply through your campus veterans office. (dhewd.mo.gov)
Survivor students: If you’re a surviving spouse or child of a Missouri combat veteran (post‑9/11), apply for the Wartime Veteran’s Survivors Grant. Funding is limited to 25 recipients per year and is prioritized by renewal, so submit ASAP in the state portal. (dhewd.mo.gov)
Job training and veteran priority: Missouri Job Centers must give veterans priority for services. If you need a new credential fast, ask about veteran priority and DVOP services, then combine that with your GI Bill or VR&E plan. See the state’s 2025 veteran priority policy on JobsMoGov. (jobs.mo.gov)

Table — College and Training Shortcuts for Missouri Veterans

Benefit	What it does	How to use it
Returning Heroes Act	$50/credit for undergrad; 30% cap for graduate tuition	Apply with DD‑214 at your public college veterans office (10‑year/20‑year windows) (dhewd.mo.gov)
Wartime Veteran’s Survivors Grant	State grant for post‑9/11 combat casualties or ≥80% disabled in combat	Apply through the State Financial Aid Portal; limited to 25 per year (dhewd.mo.gov)
VR&E (Chapter 31)	Retraining and support if service‑connected disabilities affect work	Ask for a VR&E consult through VA or via MVC VSO (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your campus veterans office (e.g., MU Student Veterans Center or UMKC Student Veteran Support). If you hit a snag, bring your DD‑214 and ask MVC to confirm your combat zone for Returning Heroes. (veterans.missouri.edu)

Small Business and Self‑Employment (Service‑Disabled Veterans)

Action first: If you own a business, get certified as a Service‑Disabled Veteran Enterprise (SDVE). Missouri gives SDVEs bonus points and a 3% participation goal on state contracts. Certification is free; renew every three years. (oeo.mo.gov)
Where to find bids & help: After SDVE certification, monitor OEO’s supplier directories and MissouriBuys for solicitations, and ask MU Extension’s PTAC/SBDC about bid‑prep trainings. Expect application review to take several weeks; set reminders for recertification. (oeo.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email OEO to escalate; if you’re pending a bid deadline, ask for a provisional letter showing your SDVE status in process. For local work, coordinate with city/county supplier diversity programs and show your SDVE certificate. (oeo.mo.gov)

Transportation for VA Care

Action first: If travel costs are blocking appointments, apply for VA travel reimbursement in BTSSS (VA’s online travel pay). VA currently pays $0.415/mile with a monthly deductible cap; submit within 30 days of each visit. If you can’t file online, use VA Form 10‑3542 at your VA. (va.gov)
Need a ride in KC or STL: Ask your VA clinic about Beneficiary Travel staff, or call your facility operator for the travel office extension (e.g., KC main 1‑816‑861‑4700). If you must relocate for specialty care, ask about Fisher House lodging in Mid‑Missouri. (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the BTSSS help line at 1‑855‑574‑7292 and ask for a claim review; if denied for lateness, request a waiver and explain childcare or emergency barriers. (news.va.gov)

Legal Help for VA Benefits and Discharge Upgrades

Action first: Call the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic at 1‑573‑882‑7630 for free VA claims/discharge upgrade help (statewide). They run “Tigers for Troops” clinics around Missouri and partner with VA facilities. (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)
St. Louis options: St. Francis Community Services Veterans Advocacy Project hosts legal clinics and can triage traffic, licensing, and records issues that block work and housing. For will preparation, ask MVC about the Veterans Will Clinic Project. (sfcsstl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your VSO to refer you to The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program for appeals to the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, or to a law school clinic in STL or KC. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

Emergency Cash and Family Stabilization (Veteran‑Only Charities)

Action first: If you have minor children and an urgent need, ask your local American Legion post to file a Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) request (up to $2, 500 p er t h e na t i o na lp ro g r am p a g e; so m e p a g ess t i ll s h o w$ 1,500 — confirm the current limit when you apply). Funds cover shelter, food, utilities, and health expenses for your kids. (legion.org)
Post‑9/11 injury/illness: Operation Homefront Critical Financial Assistance helps with rent, utilities, car repair, baby items, and childcare for eligible veterans and families. The typical review timeline is ~3 weeks (up to 30 days) from application to decision. USA Cares also assists with housing/utilities; ask about the Missouri chapter. (operationhomefront.org)
Wounded veteran families: The Semper Fi & America’s Fund provides targeted financial help for families of injured service members and veterans. In St. Louis, The Kaufman Fund connects veterans to mental health, legal, and emergency aid partners. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask MVC’s portal for local veteran charities in your county (Elks, Knights, faith‑based groups) that pay landlords and utilities directly. Keep your bills and lease handy to speed checks. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)

Local Veteran Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

St. Louis region: Missouri Veterans Endeavor (MOVE) houses veteran families and offers counseling and case management; St. Patrick Center runs Project HERO and SSVF; St. Louis Vet Center provides confidential counseling for you and your children. (move-stl.org)
Kansas City metro: Veterans Community Project provides emergency funds and navigation; St. Michael’s Veterans Center offers permanent housing and on‑site services; Kansas City Vet Center provides family and MST‑informed counseling. (veteranscommunityproject.org)
Ozarks/Southwest MO: The Kitchen, Inc. adds veteran‑priority units at Maplewood Villas; Veterans & Military Coalition of the Ozarks (VMCO) connects veterans to benefits, service dogs, and local partners. (thekitcheninc.org)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Guidance

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: LGBTQ+ single mothers
Ask your Women’s Health team for LGBTQ+‑affirming care and safe rooming during inpatient stays. Use the Women Veterans Call Center to locate an LGBTQ+ welcoming clinician, and consider Vet Centers if you want fully confidential counseling. If you’re navigating discrimination or name/gender marker issues in records, your VSO and Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic can help align benefits files with your legal documents. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
If your disability affects work, ask VR&E about training or accommodations. For travel burdens to medical care, file VA travel pay in BTSSS (mileage at $0.415/mile) and ask about lodging if medically needed. Ask your Women’s Health team for large‑print materials or an interpreter; VA facilities provide language and accessibility support on request. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Veteran single mothers (women‑specific care)
You can get maternity coordination, lactation supplies, contraception, and gender‑specific primary care through VA Women’s Health. Call WVCC to connect to your local WVPM if online pages don’t show numbers. Use Vet Centers for family counseling without affecting your medical chart. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Immigrant or refugee single moms
VA benefits hinge on your service and discharge, not citizenship status, and Vet Centers are open regardless of enrollment. Use your local VSO via MVC’s locator to confirm eligibility and to avoid paperwork mistakes that can delay claims. For language access, tell VA staff you need an interpreter at scheduling. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Tribal citizens living in Missouri
Many Native veterans live in Missouri even without in‑state tribal lands. Ask your VSO to coordinate with VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations and check if HUD‑VASH vouchers are transferable if you move closer to your tribe’s service area. Vet Centers offer culturally informed counseling and can involve family when appropriate. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Rural single moms with limited access
Use VA Video Connect for visits and file for travel reimbursement when you must drive. The MO DHSS Rural Veterans Toolkit lists ways local clinics can coordinate care for rural veterans; ask your clinic to coordinate with VA. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Single fathers
If you’re a father primary caregiver, all programs in this guide apply the same way. Call WVCC if you prefer a woman‑veteran‑savvy navigator, or your VSO via MVC if you prefer a general claims route. Vet Centers welcome fathers with kids in counseling. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Language access and accessibility
Tell schedulers “I need an interpreter” or “large‑print paperwork” — VA provides these at no cost. If you use TTY, dial 711 to access relay services for VA and MVC numbers. Confirm any special accommodation in your appointment reminder messages. (va.gov)

Resources by Region (Missouri)

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: St. Louis Metro
Use MOVE for family housing and St. Patrick Center SSVF for rent/utility help. For counseling, call the St. Louis Vet Center at 1‑314‑894‑5739 for same‑day support. (move-stl.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Kansas City Metro
Walk in at Veterans Community Project for emergency funds; consider St. Michael’s Veterans Center for permanent housing with wraparound services; use the Kansas City Vet Center at 1‑816‑922‑5300 for family counseling. (veteranscommunityproject.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Mid‑Missouri (Columbia/Jefferson City)
Ask Truman VA’s Women’s Health for maternity and lactation supports; use the Columbia Vet Center (groups for women veterans) and MVC’s VSO office list to find a VSO open near you. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Southwest (Springfield/Branson)
Check The Kitchen, Inc. for veteran‑set‑aside senior units and referrals, and contact SSVF via providers partnered locally. Use VMCO to connect with service dog partners or benefit events. (thekitcheninc.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Southeast/Bootheel (Cape Girardeau/Poplar Bluff)
Use Poplar Bluff VA for women’s health navigation and ask local community action agencies for Ameren partner access to New Start if you’re rehousing. For Vet Center‑style support, call the 877‑WAR‑VETS line to locate the nearest site. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Northwest (St. Joseph/Northern counties)
Ask Salvation Army SSVF (Western MO) about coverage in Andrew, Buchanan, Holt, Nodaway, and Platte; request a phone screening and email your documents to fast‑track. If you need legal help with a denial, contact Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Waiting to call SSVF until after eviction court
Call as soon as you get a pay‑or‑quit or shutoff notice. SSVF can often stop court or disconnection if they can verify you and issue a vendor pledge. See MVC’s SSVF overview for what they can pay. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Filing a VA claim without a VSO
A MVC VSO can help pick the right lane, gather evidence, and avoid avoidable delays. Average processing is months, so don’t give VA a reason to defer. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Not asking for veteran‑specific utility funds
Ameren’s Veterans Energy Assistance exists — ask 2‑1‑1 and bundle with SSVF if allowed. Hold a copy of the vendor pledge. (ameren.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Save/Print)

Need	First call	Backup
Rent/utility shutoff	SSVF — STL: St. Patrick Center / KC/Western MO: Salvation Army SSVF	VCP (KC) / MOVE (STL) (stpatrickcenter.org)
Women’s health/maternity	WVCC 1‑855‑829‑6636	Facility Women’s Health page (KC/STL/Columbia) (womenshealth.va.gov)
Utility bill help	Ameren Veterans Energy Assistance	SSVF case manager pay‑out (ameren.com)
VA claims	MVC VSO Locator	Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
Counseling now	Vet Center (KC) / Vet Center (STL)	Crisis Line 988, press 1 (va.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Identity and service
Photo ID; DD‑214/VA ID; discharge status; any VA decision letters. Use MVC or VCP to help retrieve your DD‑214 if missing. MVC portal and VCP can assist. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Housing and utilities
Lease, landlord letter, eviction/shutoff notices, utility bills (showing account), proof of any payment plan attempts. SSVF providers and Salvation Army SSVF need these to issue pledges. (stpatrickcenter.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Income and dependents
Last 30–60 days of income, child support orders, SNAP/TANF award letters if any, kids’ birth certificates or school letters (to verify household). This speeds grants like American Legion TFA. (legion.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Health and travel
Appointment letters, mileage records for VA travel pay, and any medical letters documenting pregnancy, disability, or urgent needs. (va.gov)

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: SSVF or HUD‑VASH denial
Ask for the eligibility reason in writing. If “over income,” ask for a supervisor review using updated income or custody changes. If “not literally homeless,” request prevention funds screening or a letter of intent for a unit to qualify. Use the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans to escalate across providers. (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: VA claim denial
Book a VSO appointment via the MVC locator and ask whether to file Supplemental Claim, HLR, or a Board appeal. For complex cases, contact the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic for free legal help. (mvc.dps.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Utility aid denial
Ask 2‑1‑1 which agency holds Ameren veteran funds and reapply with corrected documents. Pair a new application with an SSVF pledge to cover the remainder. See Ameren’s assistance page for current programs. (ameren.com)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Western MO counties
SSVF coverage by Salvation Army MOKAN includes Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass, Ray, and several rural counties — ask if your county is included. Pair that with VCP emergency aid if you live near KC. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: St. Louis County and City
Beyond SSVF, MOVE houses veteran families on a dedicated campus; St. Patrick Center can bridge to permanent housing with HERO programs. (move-stl.org)

FAQs (Missouri‑Specific, Veteran‑Only)

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: How fast can SSVF stop my eviction?
If documents are ready, SSVF can often issue a vendor pledge within 3–10 business days; ask for a landlord letter to pause court while funds process. Start with St. Patrick Center (STL) or Salvation Army SSVF (KC/west). (stpatrickcenter.org)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Where do I get women‑specific VA care in Missouri?
Call the Women Veterans Call Center to reach your Women Veterans Program Manager. See local pages for KC, STL, and Columbia. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Does VA cover my newborn?
VA covers newborn care on the day of birth plus 7 days; coordinate early with your maternity care coordinator. Ask for your breast pump and nursing bras at least two weeks before your due date. See VA Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: What are 2025 disability pay amounts for a parent veteran?
Amounts vary by rating and dependents; e.g., 100% with spouse and one child is $4,201.35/month, with add‑ons per extra child. Check VA’s 2025 rates. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: How long do claims take in 2025?
Mid‑2025 averages were about 132 days, with the backlog trending down. File a Fully Developed Claim with an MVC VSO to reduce delays. (news.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Can I get state tuition help as a combat veteran?
Yes — Missouri’s Returning Heroes Act caps public undergrad tuition at $50/credit for eligible combat vets; graduate tuition is capped at 30%. Apply through your campus veterans office. (dhewd.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: I’m a surviving spouse with kids — is there a Missouri grant?
Yes — the Wartime Veteran’s Survivors Grant pays up to MU‑Columbia tuition plus room/board and books; limited to 25 per year, so apply early. (dhewd.mo.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Is there a veteran‑specific utility fund?
Ameren Missouri runs Veterans Energy Assistance (up to $600 via 2‑1‑1). If you were unhoused, ask for New Start Energy Relief. (ameren.com)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Where can I get free legal help with my VA case?
The Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic offers free representation for VA claims and discharge upgrades; ask MVC about the Veterans Will Clinic Project for basic estate needs. (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Are there property tax breaks for Missouri veterans?
Full homestead exemptions currently apply to former POWs who are 100% service‑connected disabled. Broader disabled‑veteran exemptions have been proposed but are not in effect statewide. Verify with your county assessor and the Missouri State Tax Commission FAQ. (stc.mo.gov)

Tables You Can Use With Staff

Table — Who to Call First, by Situation

Situation	First call	What to say
72‑hour utility shutoff	2‑1‑1 for Ameren Veterans Aid	“Veteran household. Shutoff within 72 hours. Request Veterans Fund + New Start check.”
Eviction court this week	SSVF in your city / MOKAN SSVF	“Veteran single parent. Prevention funds to stop eviction. Need vendor pledge.”
Pregnancy/newborn	WVCC 1‑855‑829‑6636	“Connect me to my Maternity Care Coordinator and Women’s Health clinic.”
VA claim issue	MVC VSO	“Schedule claims help. I want an FDC and dependents added.”

Table — Missouri Vet Centers (selected)

Location	Direct line	Notes
Kansas City Vet Center	1‑816‑922‑5300	Counseling for veterans/families; MST‑informed groups (va.gov)
St. Louis Vet Center	1‑314‑894‑5739	Confidential; connects to HUD‑VASH partners (va.gov)
Columbia Vet Center	1‑573‑814‑6206	Women’s groups; satellite hours in Jeff City/Moberly (va.gov)

Table — Missouri Women’s Health (facility pages)

VA facility	Women’s page	Tip
Kansas City VA	Women’s Health & Maternity page	If phone is hidden online, call main and ask for Women’s Health (va.gov)
St. Louis VA	Women’s Health page	Ask for lactation supplies via WVPM (va.gov)
Columbia (Truman) VA	Women’s Health page	Request maternity coordinator early in pregnancy (va.gov)

Table — Fast Links for Veteran Moms

Need	Link
MVC benefits portal (state)	Missouri Veterans Commission portal (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Homelessness hotline (VA)	Call 1‑877‑424‑3838 (veteranbenefits.mo.gov)
Women Veterans help line	WVCC 1‑855‑829‑6636 (womenshealth.va.gov)
Ameren veteran utility aid	Veterans Energy Assistance (ameren.com)
Free VA claims legal help	Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)

“Reality Check” — Delays, Denials, and Shortages

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Claims backlogs
Average processing is still measured in months, though VA reports speed gains in 2025. File a clean FDC with a VSO to avoid defers. Track your claim on VA.gov weekly. (news.va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Housing pipeline
SSVF and HUD‑VASH units are tight in STL and KC. Ask about short‑term hotel/motel placements or bridge housing if you have children, and keep a backup county list of landlords that accept vouchers. (va.gov)
Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Utility funds come and go
Ameren veterans funds are finite and routed through agencies. Apply early in the month and keep your documents ready to re‑apply if needed. (ameren.com)

Spanish — Resumen rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Bold the entire text immediately before the colon: Vivienda y facturas
Llame a SSVF en St. Louis: St. Patrick Center o SSVF en Kansas City: Salvation Army para ayuda con renta y servicios. Para luz con Ameren, pida Veterans Energy Assistance (marque 2‑1‑1). (stpatrickcenter.org)
Bold the entire text inmediatamente antes de los dos puntos: Salud de mujeres veteranas
Llame a Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑829‑6636 para conectarse con la clínica de mujeres de su VA (embarazo, lactancia, posparto). (womenshealth.va.gov)
Bold the entire text inmediatamente antes de los dos puntos: Asuntos legales y beneficios
Para ayuda gratuita con apelaciones o mejoras de baja, contacte el Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic. Para un oficial de beneficios local use el MVC portal. (veteransclinic.missouri.edu)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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.

Disclaimer

This guide is informational and not legal, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm current amounts, rules, and deadlines with the official agency or provider listed. Use VA.gov, MVC’s portal, and your local providers to verify funding and eligibility before applying. (va.gov)

What we didn’t include and why: statewide programs open to all Missourians (SNAP, TANF, general LIHEAP, etc.) are covered in other guides. This page focused only on veteran‑specific benefits for single mothers. Always ask your case manager whether combining a veteran fund with a general program is allowed in your county.

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