Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Connecticut
Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in Colorado
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- Call 911: For any life‑threatening emergency.
- Eviction or housing crisis: Call 2‑1‑1 or Colorado Housing Connects at 1‑844‑926‑6632 for fast triage to local rent, shelter, and legal help. (doh.colorado.gov, coloradohousingconnects.org)
- Utilities shutoff or no heat: Call 1‑866‑HEAT‑HELP (1‑866‑432‑8435) for LEAP and other utility assistance. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Food tonight: Use the Food Bank locators or call Hunger Free Colorado’s Food Resource Hotline at 1‑855‑855‑4626 for nearby pantries and mobile markets. (foodbankrockies.org, careandshare.org, endhungerco.org)
- Domestic violence safety: Call the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 and ask your advocate to help you apply safely for benefits.
Quick help box
- Apply for most state benefits online: Colorado PEAK application portal – food (SNAP), cash (Colorado Works/TANF), Medicaid, CHP+, LEAP (in season). (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Find your county office: County human services directory – pick “Find my county.” (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- SNAP amounts and income limits: See current Colorado table and application steps. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- WIC 2025‑26 income limits: Check the official numbers and clinic finder. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Child care help (CCCAP): Income ceilings and waitlist status by county; apply online. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Health coverage for you and kids: Medicaid (Health First Colorado) and CHP+ income limits and what’s covered. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Paid family leave benefits: Colorado FAMLI weekly maximum now $1,381.45 for new claims after July 1, 2025. (famli.colorado.gov)
- Rental help 2025: Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance runs monthly pre‑application windows and daily selection for those with a court summons; CARE Center (303) 838‑1200. (cdola.colorado.gov)
How this guide is different
- Verified numbers: We cite official Colorado or federal sources and include exact dollar amounts, dates, and phone numbers wherever available.
- Rural‑specific routes: We include Bustang Outrider, Medicaid medical rides, regional weatherization crews, and the best hotlines for remote counties.
- Action‑first: Each section starts with the one step to take today and ends with a Plan B if it doesn’t work.
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | What it pays | Key income limit (family of 3 unless noted) | How to apply | Help line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food Assistance) | Monthly EBT for groceries; max for 3 is $768 | Gross income under table (CO uses up to 200% FPL) | Colorado SNAP page | Your county office; PEAK online. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| WIC | eWIC food package, breastfeeding help | 2025–26 annual gross for 3 is $49,303 | Colorado WIC | 1‑855‑855‑4626 hotline. (cdphe.colorado.gov) |
| Colorado Works (TANF) | Monthly cash assistance + work supports | For families with a minor child; benefit varies by county | Colorado Works | Your county office. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| Health First Colorado (Medicaid) | No/low‑cost health coverage | Adults to ~138% FPL; pregnant to ~195% FPL; kids to 142% FPL | Apply via PEAK | See HCPF info pages. (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| CHP+ | Low‑cost coverage for kids and pregnant people | Up to 260% FPL (e.g., family of 3 monthly up to $5,775 effective Apr 1, 2025) | CHP+ program page | State customer service via MCOs. (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| LEAP (heat) | One‑time winter heat payment, furnace repair | Up to 60% of state median income (e.g., 3 is $5,464 monthly for 2024‑25) | PEAK Nov 1–Apr 30 | 1‑866‑432‑8435. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| Weatherization | Free insulation, air sealing, heating fixes | Categorical if on SNAP/LEAP/TANF | Apply with your local provider | Regional phone numbers listed below. (energyoffice.colorado.gov) |
| Rental assistance | Limited 2025 emergency rent help | Prioritizes households with eviction summons | DOLA monthly pre‑applications; CARE Center | (303) 838‑1200. (cdola.colorado.gov) |
| FAMLI | Paid leave wage replacement | Weekly max $1,381.45 (new claims after Jul 1, 2025) | FAMLI benefits | 1‑866‑CO‑FAMLI. (famli.colorado.gov) |
Start here for faster approvals
- Proofs to gather: Photo ID, Social Security numbers (if you have them), proof of address, lease or mortgage, last 30 days of income (pay stubs, child support, self‑employment logs), childcare bills, utility bills, and pregnancy verification if pregnant.
- Apply online first: Use PEAK for SNAP, cash, Medicaid/CHP+, and LEAP during season. You can submit documents by phone app or upload and then call your county to flag an urgent case. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Timelines reality: SNAP standard decisions typically within about 30 days, expedited within 7 days when eligible; LEAP processing can take 10–25 days; Medicaid decisions vary but can be quick if data matches; rental assistance moves in windows and selections with 7‑day completion deadlines if chosen. Keep confirmation numbers and check status weekly. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- If you live far from the county office: Ask for phone interviews, mobile uploads, and mail‑in options. Request reasonable accommodations if you have a disability or lack transportation.
Food assistance that works in rural counties
SNAP (Food Assistance)
Action: Apply on PEAK and ask for an interview by phone. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Colorado uses broad‑based eligibility up to about 200% of FPL gross income, with standard federal rules for resources and deductions. Student, ABAWD, and work rules may apply, with exemptions for caregivers of young children. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Maximum monthly benefits (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): 1 person 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756. Add $23 per extra person. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Rural tips: If you shop in towns with only small stores, your EBT works at any authorized retailer and many farmers markets. Watch for card skimming and set a fresh PIN after each trip. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Timelines: Interview often by phone. Emergencies can be approved within 7 days if your income and cash are very low; otherwise up to 30 days. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your county and ask for an “expedited” review if you have less than 150∗∗inmonthlygrossincomeandunder∗∗150** in monthly gross income and under **100 cash on hand, or too‑high shelter costs relative to income. While waiting, call 1‑855‑855‑4626 or use the food bank locators to get food this week. (foodbankrockies.org, endhungerco.org)
WIC for pregnant/postpartum and kids under 5
Action: Call 1‑855‑855‑4626 or your nearest clinic and ask for a same‑week WIC appointment by phone if travel is hard. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- 2025–26 income limits (gross annual): Family of 1 28,953∗∗,2∗∗28,953**, 2 **39,128, 3 49,303∗∗,4∗∗49,303**, 4 **59,478; add $10,175 per extra person. Many families on Medicaid, SNAP, or Colorado Works qualify automatically. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- What you get: eWIC card with healthy foods, breastfeeding support, breast pumps, and referrals.
- Rural tips: Ask your WIC office to mail EBT cards when possible and request tele‑nutrition visits if the clinic is far.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If a local clinic is full, ask to be placed on cancellation lists and request a referral to another county that will see you by phone first. Use school meals and pantry options until your first WIC load. (foodbankrockies.org, cde.state.co.us)
Healthy School Meals for All
Action: Even though meals are free in many districts, fill out the school’s household income form to unlock extra fee waivers and resources for your kids. (cde.state.co.us)
- Eligibility note: Districts can opt in; check with your school. CDE publishes income guidelines and forms each year. (cde.state.co.us)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school’s nutrition office about community eligibility or backpack food programs and use food bank mobile distributions near you. (foodbankrockies.org)
Cash, work, and child care help
Colorado Works (TANF)
Action: Apply on PEAK, then call your county worker to schedule an intake by phone if travel is hard. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- What it pays: Monthly cash assistance to a family with a minor child, plus employment, training, and support services. Benefit levels are set by state rules and county policy and adjust over time by law; counties can extend beyond 60 months for good cause (including a single parent with a baby under age 1). (leg.colorado.gov)
- Eligibility snapshot: You must live in Colorado, have a child in your home or be pregnant, meet financial guidelines, and cooperate with program rules. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Timelines: Processing can take several weeks; if you have an eviction, utility shutoff, or DV safety issue, tell your worker and ask about diversion or emergency help while your case is pending.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about county emergency assistance, Employment First if you also get SNAP, and nonprofit rent/utility help via 2‑1‑1.
CCCAP child care assistance
Action: Apply online, then call your county CCCAP unit to verify if there is a waitlist or freeze and to estimate your parent fee. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Income rules: Counties must serve families at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and cannot serve above 85% of State Median Income; the exact entry/exit levels vary by county and budget. Cooperation with child support is no longer required to qualify. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Reality check: Many rural counties use waitlists. Plan alternate care for at least a few months if your county is frozen. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- How to find care: Use the Colorado Shines search or call 1‑877‑338‑2273 for referrals. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your worker about using a license‑exempt family, friend, or neighbor caregiver who can sign a fiscal agreement to accept CCCAP. If you can’t wait, ask providers about sliding‑scale scholarships and check Career Advance or Care Forward training if you want to upskill into higher‑paying work. (cccs.edu)
Health coverage for you and your kids
Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
Action: Apply on PEAK; if pregnant, ask about Presumptive Eligibility to start coverage right away. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Income gates: Adults without dependent children up to about 138% FPL; parents/caretakers to about 68% FPL; pregnant people to about 195% FPL; children to 142% FPL. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Cover All Coloradans: As of January 1, 2025, children and pregnant people may qualify for Medicaid/CHP+‑equivalent coverage regardless of immigration status. Same benefits, same networks. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Rural tip: Ask your clinic if they are a Presumptive Eligibility site to start visits immediately while full eligibility is decided. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If over‑income for Medicaid, check CHP+ below. If uninsured, most Federally Qualified Health Centers can see you on a sliding fee.
CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus)
Action: If your kids or you (pregnant) are over Medicaid income, check CHP+. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Income limit: Up to 260% FPL. Approximate monthly caps effective April 1, 2025: family of 1 3,391∗∗,2∗∗3,391**, 2 **4,583, 3 5,775∗∗,4∗∗5,775**, 4 **6,966. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Dental: CHP+ dental covers up to $1,000 per calendar year through DentaQuest. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Marketplace plans with tax credits and Cost‑Sharing Reductions, or clinic sliding‑scale care until open enrollment.
Heat, utilities, and home repairs
LEAP (Low‑income Energy Assistance Program)
Action: Apply starting November 1 each year; deadline April 30. Call 1‑866‑432‑8435 if you’re low on propane or facing shutoff. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Income limit (2024‑25 season): Up to 60% of State Median Income; examples monthly: 1 3,382∗∗,2∗∗3,382**, 2 **4,423, 3 5,464∗∗,4∗∗5,464**, 4 **6,505. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Typical benefit: CDHS reported 2024‑25 average awards around the mid‑hundreds with a range roughly 200–200–1,000, depending on fuel type and need; season closed April 30, 2025. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the Crisis Intervention Program for furnace repair and call Energy Outreach Colorado if you’re denied LEAP but still in crisis. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Weatherization Assistance Program (free efficiency upgrades)
Action: Contact your regional provider to get on the list for a free energy audit and improvements. (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
- Who qualifies: Categorical if you receive SNAP, LEAP, TANF, or SSI; otherwise income‑based. Expect waitlists in some areas. (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
- Regional contacts:
- Energy Resource Center Northeastern Office (Sterling): (970) 463‑7020 (Logan, Morgan, Phillips, Sedgwick, Washington, Yuma)
- Housing Resources of Western Colorado (Grand Junction): (970) 241‑2871 (Western Slope)
- Pueblo County Weatherization: (719) 583‑6110 (SE counties)
- San Luis Valley Office (Alamosa): (719) 587‑9492
- Northwest COG: 1‑800‑332‑3669 (mountain counties) (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the Colorado Home Energy Rebates (HEAR) for low‑ and moderate‑income electrification upgrades that can cover up to 100% of project costs under 80% AMI once available in your area. (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
Housing and rent help
Emergency Rental Assistance (2025)
Action: Submit a pre‑application during DOLA’s monthly window and, if you have a court summons, call the CARE Center (303) 838‑1200 for the daily random selection list. If selected, you have 7 days to finish the full application with documents. (cdola.colorado.gov)
- Who’s prioritized: Households behind on rent, at risk of eviction, meeting income and other criteria; those with an active court summons get priority via the daily selection. (cdola.colorado.gov)
- Legal help and mediation: Use Colorado Housing Connects 1‑844‑926‑6632 to connect to eviction prevention counseling and landlord‑tenant mediation statewide. (coloradohousingconnects.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1, ask for motel vouchers, rapid rehousing, or local aid; check your local housing authority for Housing Choice Voucher openings; and use court Self‑Help Centers for forms and clinics if you get a summons. (doh.colorado.gov, lawhelp.colorado.gov)
Transportation when you’re spread out
Medicaid non‑emergent medical rides (NEMT)
Action: If you’re in the nine‑county metro area, schedule through Transdev at (855) 489‑4999. Outside metro, contact the listed provider for your county; mileage reimbursement is managed by Transdev statewide. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Note: Provider availability changed in 2025; HCPF issued updates and a settlement regarding MedRide’s status. If you hit a roadblock, ask your clinic to help escalate. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
Bustang Outrider (rural bus)
Action: Use Outrider to reach bigger service hubs for work, court, or medical trips. Customer service (800) 900‑3011; text “outrider” to 833‑711‑0252 for alerts. (codot.gov)
- Routes: Alamosa–Pueblo, Lamar–Colorado Springs, Craig–Denver, Gunnison–Denver, Durango–Grand Junction; trip planning and mobile tickets on the site or app. (codot.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county for gas voucher programs, church ride ministries, or clinic‑sponsored rides for prenatal or pediatric care.
Paid leave and income boosts
Colorado Paid Family and Medical Leave (FAMLI)
Action: If you’re having a baby, need bonding time, or have a serious health condition, apply through My FAMLI+ before your leave or as soon as it starts. (famli.colorado.gov)
- How much: Benefits are a mix of 90% of the first portion of your wages and 50% of the rest, up to the weekly maximum. New max is 1,381.45/week∗∗forclaimsstarting∗∗July1,2025∗∗orlater;earlier2025claimswerecappedat∗∗1,381.45/week** for claims starting **July 1, 2025** or later; earlier 2025 claims were capped at **1,324.21. Premium share is 0.9% of wages, usually split between you and your employer. (famli.colorado.gov)
- Length: Up to 12 weeks a year, plus 4 weeks for pregnancy/childbirth complications. (famli.colorado.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about employer PTO, short‑term disability, and local diaper banks, then re‑apply when income changes.
Tax credits you can’t miss
- Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 50% of your federal EITC for tax years 2023, 2024, and 2025; fully refundable. Single moms using ITINs may still qualify for the state credit. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Child Tax Credit (CTC): For 2024, 1,200∗∗perchildunder6basedonAGItiers;incomelimits∗∗1,200** per child under 6 based on AGI tiers; income limits **75,000 single, $85,000 joint. Amounts adjust for 2025. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Family Affordability Tax Credit (new): For 2024, up to 3,200∗∗perchildunder6andupto∗∗3,200** per child under 6 and up to **2,400 per child ages 6–16, phasing down with income; 2025 amounts indexed (max 3,273∗∗/∗∗3,273**/**2,455). (tax.colorado.gov)
- What to do: File a return even with low income. Many free tax sites help rural filers.
Phone and internet
- Lifeline: Phone and broadband discounts are still available via the federal Lifeline program through participating providers.
- ACP ended: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended June 1, 2024 due to no further funding. Ask your provider about low‑income plans and keep Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
Child support services
Action: Apply online for help with setting or enforcing support orders. If you already get TANF, call your county CSS before filing online. (childsupport.state.co.us)
- Payment customer service: (800) 374‑6558 nationwide or (303) 299‑9123 in metro Denver (Family Support Registry). (childsupport.state.co.us)
- Find your county CSS office: Use the county finder for addresses and direct numbers (examples in Alamosa, Montrose, Lake, Douglas, Broomfield). (childsupport.state.co.us)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about good‑cause exemptions if there are safety risks; CSS can protect addresses and coordinate with the Address Confidentiality Program.
Food banks and local help
- Food Bank of the Rockies: Use the locator for rural mobile pantries; SNAP application help at (303) 375‑5851. (foodbankrockies.org)
- Care and Share Food Bank (Southern CO): Find pantries and mobile markets serving 29 counties. (careandshare.org)
- Hunger Free Colorado: Food Resource Hotline 1‑855‑855‑4626 with 150+ languages. (westmountainhealthalliance.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many programs are gender‑neutral. Ask your county for name and gender updates on your case file and for safe‑clinic referrals under Medicaid. Use Lifeline and FAMLI regardless of marital status.
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Ask for reasonable accommodations for interviews and deadlines. Medicaid covers home‑ and community‑based services; WAP and LEAP can include furnace repair for safety.
- Veteran single mothers: Combine VA care with Medicaid/CHP+ for kids; ask Colorado Veterans Service Offices about rent and utility help and GI Bill protections.
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: WIC and school meals are safe for eligible families; “Cover All Coloradans” now opens Medicaid‑equivalent coverage to kids and pregnant people regardless of immigration status. Use trusted clinics for enrollment help. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Tribal LIHEAP and housing options may apply; in Colorado, check with Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute social services alongside county programs.
- Single fathers: All programs here apply equally; child support services assist with custody and modifications when income changes.
- Language access: County and state hotlines offer interpreters. Hunger Free Colorado provides assistance in 150+ languages, and the state benefits systems support interpretation on request. (westmountainhealthalliance.org)
Resources by region (selected)
| Region | Key contacts |
|---|---|
| San Luis Valley | Weatherization (Alamosa): (719) 587‑9492; Outrider Alamosa–Pueblo info via CDOT; Alamosa CSS (719) 589‑4848. (energyoffice.colorado.gov, codot.gov, childsupport.state.co.us) |
| Western Slope | Housing Resources of Western Colorado (970) 241‑2871; Food Bank of the Rockies Western Slope locator; Montrose CSS (970) 252‑4200. (energyoffice.colorado.gov, foodbankrockies.org, childsupport.state.co.us) |
| Eastern Plains | Energy Resource Center NE (Sterling) (970) 463‑7020; Outrider Craig–Denver (multiple rural stops). (energyoffice.colorado.gov, codot.gov) |
| Southeast Plains | Pueblo County Weatherization (719) 583‑6110; Outrider Lamar–Colorado Springs; Baca/SE county NEMT providers via HCPF list. (energyoffice.colorado.gov, codot.gov, hcpf.colorado.gov) |
Program income and benefit snapshots
| Program | Family size | Income or benefit figure |
|---|---|---|
| WIC annual gross (2025–26) | 3 | $49,303 |
| SNAP max monthly (FY 2025) | 3 | $768 |
| LEAP monthly gross limit (2024–25) | 4 | $6,505 |
| CHP+ monthly cap (effective Apr 1, 2025) | 4 | $6,966 |
| FAMLI weekly max | After Jul 1, 2025 | $1,381.45 |
Processing times and what to expect
| Program | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | 7 days expedited, up to 30 days standard | Phone interviews common; upload docs via PEAK. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| LEAP | 10–25 days | Season Nov 1–Apr 30; ask for crisis processing if shutoff imminent. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| Rental assistance | Variable | If selected, you have 7 days to finish full application. (cdola.colorado.gov) |
| FAMLI | A few weeks | Backpay to leave start when approved. (famli.colorado.gov) |
Application checklist
- Identity and residence: Photo ID and a piece of mail or lease with your name.
- Household and children: Birth certificates, school enrollment, pregnancy verification.
- Income: Last 30 days of pay stubs, self‑employment logs, child support orders, benefit letters.
- Bills: Rent/lease, utilities, child care bills, medical bills.
- Transport limits: If distances are long, ask for phone interviews and mail‑in options.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing documents: Incomplete uploads are the top cause of delays. Use the checklist the agency provides and keep your confirmation number.
- Not reporting changes: Tell your worker within 10 days if your job or child care changes so benefits don’t pause.
- Skipping the school income form: Even with free school meals in many districts, that form can unlock fee waivers and backpack food.
- Waiting for CCCAP only: Counties may have freezes. Line up a backup caregiver and ask about license‑exempt providers.
- Ignoring an eviction summons: Call legal help and the CARE Center the same day; you often have only a few business days to respond. (doh.colorado.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet (links)
| Need | Where to click |
|---|---|
| Apply for SNAP/cash/Medicaid/LEAP | Colorado PEAK (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| SNAP amounts and eligibility | Colorado SNAP (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| WIC income limits and clinics | Colorado WIC (cdphe.colorado.gov) |
| CHP+ coverage and income table | CHP+ details (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| FAMLI benefits and rules | FAMLI rules and max benefit (famli.colorado.gov) |
| LEAP heat help | LEAP program (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| Weatherization provider map | Colorado Energy Office WAP (energyoffice.colorado.gov) |
| Rental assistance updates | DOLA rental assistance hub (cdola.colorado.gov) |
| Housing helpline | Colorado Housing Connects – 1‑844‑926‑6632 (coloradohousingconnects.org) |
| Child care assistance | CCCAP for families (cdec.colorado.gov) |
| NEMT rides | HCPF NEMT info and county list (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
Frequently asked questions
- Can I get SNAP and WIC at the same time: Yes, many families receive both; WIC does not reduce SNAP benefits. (cdhs.colorado.gov, cdphe.colorado.gov)
- What if I don’t have a car for medical appointments: Use Medicaid NEMT rides or mileage reimbursement; metro broker (855) 489‑4999, see county list for rural providers. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- How fast can I get SNAP: If your income is very low and resources minimal, ask for expedited SNAP within 7 days; otherwise up to 30 days. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Is there rent help in 2025: Yes, but limited. Watch DOLA’s monthly pre‑application windows; if you have a court summons, call the CARE Center (303) 838‑1200 for daily selection. (cdola.colorado.gov)
- How much is Colorado’s paid leave: Up to 1,381.45/week∗∗fornewclaimsafter∗∗July1,2025∗∗,basedonyourwages;earlier2025claimscappedat∗∗1,381.45/week** for new claims after **July 1, 2025**, based on your wages; earlier 2025 claims capped at **1,324.21. (famli.colorado.gov)
- Are immigrant families eligible for WIC and school meals: Yes, WIC and school meals are available regardless of immigration status; as of Jan 1, 2025, kids and pregnant people can also get coverage under “Cover All Coloradans.” (cdphe.colorado.gov, cde.state.co.us, hcpf.colorado.gov)
- What’s the income limit for CHP+: Up to 260% FPL (e.g., family of 3 monthly up to $5,775 effective Apr 1, 2025). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Can I get help paying for child care while job‑hunting: Yes—CCCAP can cover care while searching for work; rules vary by county and waitlists are common. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- What if ACP internet discounts ended: ACP ended June 1, 2024. Ask providers about low‑income plans and apply for Lifeline for phone/broadband discounts. (fcc.gov)
- How do I reach child support customer service: (800) 374‑6558 or (303) 299‑9123, or find your county CSS office online. (childsupport.state.co.us)
What to do if you’re a homeowner in a rural area
- USDA Rural Development repairs: Seniors and very low‑income homeowners can apply for low‑interest home repair loans and, for older homeowners, hazard‑removal grants. Contact your local USDA Service Center for current caps and terms. If you can’t get through online, call the statewide USDA customer line at 1‑800‑414‑1226 for direction to your nearest office. (usda.gov)
- Weatherization: If your propane costs are crushing your budget, call your regional WAP office above to get on the list; many rural homes qualify for insulation and furnace work at no cost. (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
- Plan B: If federal programs are backlogged, ask your county or local housing nonprofit about smaller rehab grants and revolving loan funds.
Realistic timelines and tips
- SNAP: If mail is slow where you live, ask for a phone interview and upload documents in the PEAK app. Change your EBT PIN often to avoid skimming. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- LEAP: Apply the first week of November—funds arrive faster at season start than in March and April. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Rental aid: Pre‑application windows have short notice—set calendar alerts and keep your documents ready. If selected, you have 7 days to submit everything. (cdola.colorado.gov)
- Child care: Apply even if there’s a waitlist so your clock starts; ask about license‑exempt caregivers who can be paid once you’re approved. (cdec.colorado.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Colorado Department of Human Services, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing, the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, USDA, and established nonprofits. 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.
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.
Disclaimer
Accuracy and updates: Program rules, income limits, and amounts can change at any time. Always confirm details with the agency links and phone numbers provided.
Privacy and security: If you are in a dangerous situation, use a safe device and consider clearing your browser history. We do not store your personal information.
Not legal advice: This guide provides general information and direct links to official resources. For legal decisions like evictions or custody, contact a licensed attorney or a court Self‑Help Center.
Sources used
- Colorado SNAP eligibility, income and maximum allotments effective Oct 1, 2024 (valid through Sept 30, 2025). (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Colorado WIC income eligibility July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Healthy School Meals for All and income applications guidance. (cde.state.co.us)
- CHP+ income thresholds effective Apr 1, 2025; CHP+ dental benefits. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Health First Colorado eligibility categories; presumptive eligibility for pregnant people and children. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- FAMLI maximum weekly benefit updates and wage replacement formula; calculator and premium rules. (famli.colorado.gov)
- LEAP season, income limits, average awards, and timelines. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Weatherization program and provider contacts. (energyoffice.colorado.gov)
- Emergency rental assistance 2025 procedures and CARE Center contact. (cdola.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Housing Connects statewide helpline. (coloradohousingconnects.org)
- NEMT broker and county provider list. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Bustang Outrider routes, alerts, and phone. (codot.gov)
- Food bank locators and hotline. (foodbankrockies.org, careandshare.org)
- Colorado EITC, CTC, and Family Affordability Tax Credit details. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Child Support Services application and customer service contacts. (childsupport.state.co.us)
If a link is down or a number changes, email us and we will update within 48 hours.
🏛️More Connecticut Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Connecticut
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- ♿ 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
- 🏥 Healthcare 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
