Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in Indiana

Last updated: September 2025

This hub puts verified, no‑fluff steps in one place so you can apply fast, avoid common mistakes, and know who to call in rural Indiana.

Emergency help first

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
• Domestic violence help: 800‑332‑7385 (Indiana statewide DV hotline) or 800‑799‑7233 (National DV Hotline). These are 24/7, confidential. (ncadv.org, hopeandhelpin.org)
• Shelter, food, or urgent bills: 2‑1‑1 or 866‑211‑9966 (Indiana 211). Text your ZIP to 898‑211. (in.gov)
• Child abuse hotline: 800‑800‑5556 (24/7). (in.gov)

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Quick Help Box

• Apply for multiple benefits in one place: Use the FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800‑403‑0864 for SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid/HIP. Office hours are Mon–Fri. (in.gov)
• Find your local DFR office: Use the DFR county office locator. (in.gov)
• Child care help and referrals: Call 800‑299‑1627 (Brighter Futures Indiana) or the OECOSL information line 877‑511‑1144. Apply at Early Ed Connect. (in.gov)
• Energy bills: Apply for Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through your local service provider; winter season runs roughly October–April each year. Start at IHCDA’s EAP page. (in.gov)
• Housing questions: Contact your local PHA via HUD’s PHA directory or call HUD PIH Resource Center 800‑955‑2232. (hud.gov)

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How this guide improves on the top search results

Many top results for “help for single moms in Indiana” are generic blogs that: show outdated dollar amounts (for example, old WIC and SNAP figures), skip waitlists and timelines, and don’t list real phone numbers or official application links. This guide corrects those gaps with current 2025 numbers from Indiana FSSA, IHCDA, USDA/FNS, HUD, USAC/FCC, and Indiana DWD—and it puts the critical steps first with direct phone numbers and state portals you can use immediately. Examples of common gaps we fixed include WIC CVB amounts updated for 2025 and current CCDF eligibility at 150% FPL with an active waitlist. (in.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Applying fast: one doorway for multiple benefits

Start on the FSSA Benefits Portal or by phone if your internet is spotty.

• Apply online: FSSA Benefits Portal (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid/HIP). (in.gov)
• Apply by phone: 800‑403‑0864 (DFR). (in.gov)
• Find your county office: Use the DFR office locator and walk in during posted hours if the portal is down. (in.gov)
• Timeline reality check: SNAP is processed within 30 days (as fast as 7 days if you qualify for expedited), TANF within 60 days. Keep copies of everything and respond to any proof requests quickly. (faqs.in.gov, in.gov)

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Food assistance

SNAP (Food Stamps): what to know now

• Why start here: Grocery money frees cash for rent, gas, and utilities.
• Key amounts: FY 2025 maximum monthly for a family of 4 is $975\ast \ast ,minimumis\ast \ast$23. Shelter deduction cap is $712\ast \ast ;standarddeduction(HH1–3)is\ast \ast$204. Asset limit is $3,000\ast \ast (general),\ast \ast$4,500 (households with elderly/disabled), but Indiana also sets a program asset limit of $5,000 for most households. (fns.usda.gov, in.gov)
• Eligibility: Most must meet gross and net income tests; some households (e.g., all members on SSI/TANF) are categorically eligible. (in.gov)
• Apply: FSSA Benefits Portal or 800‑403‑0864. (in.gov)
• When you’ll get benefits: Within 7 days if you meet expedited criteria; otherwise within 30 days. Monthly deposits are on a set schedule by last name. (secure.in.gov)
• Documents to have ready: ID, Social Security numbers (if available), proof of Indiana address, last 30 days of income, rent/utility bills, and child care/medical costs if you want those deductions counted. (in.gov)

SNAP maximum allotments (FY 2025, 48 states)

Source: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

• Common mistakes to avoid:
  • Missing expedited questions: If you have under $150\ast \ast grossmonthlyincomeand\ast \ast \le$100 in cash/bank, or your housing costs exceed income plus cash, check the expedited section so you can be approved within 7 days.
  • Not listing deductible costs: Child care, court‑ordered child support paid, and certain medical costs (for elderly/disabled) can raise your SNAP—don’t skip them. (faqs.in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Indiana 211 for nearby pantries and TEFAP sites, and contact your regional food bank (see Local Organizations below) while your case is pending. (in.gov)

WIC for pregnancy, babies, and kids under 5

• Why it matters: WIC provides healthy foods, formula options, breastfeeding help, and nutrition counseling.
• 2025 amounts (CVB for fruits/veggies): Children $26\ast \ast ,Pregnant/Postpartum\ast \ast$47, Breastfeeding $52\ast \ast ;infants6–11monthsupto\ast \ast$22 starting September 2025. (in.gov)
• Income limits: 2025 gross monthly limit for family of 3 is $4,109 (185% FPL). Receiving SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid makes you income‑eligible. (in.gov)
• Find a clinic: Use the WIC clinic map. Many rural counties have part‑time hours—call ahead. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic about formula shortages, alternate brands, or temporary substitutions, and use Indiana 211 to find pantries that stock diapers and formula. (in.gov)

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Cash and work supports

TANF (cash assistance)

• Why apply: Modest monthly cash plus work supports (IMPACT) can bridge gaps.
• Maximum monthly payment: For a 3‑person assistance group, $513\ast \ast ;amountsvarybyfamilysize(seeTANFchartonFSSAsite).Countableincomemustmeetstrictstandards;assetsgenerally\ast \ast \le$1,000 at application. (in.gov)
• Decision timeline: Up to 60 days from application. (in.gov)
• Apply: FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800‑403‑0864. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your township trustee for emergency help with rent, utilities, or basics when no other resource is available. Use the state’s officials database to find the trustee for your township. (officials.dlgf.in.gov)

Unemployment Insurance (if you recently lost work)

• Max weekly benefit: $390. First payment usually within about 3 weeks if no issues; there’s a one‑week waiting period with no pay. File through Uplink; WorkOne centers can help if you lack internet. (in.gov)
• Start: Visit DWD’s Unemployment page and your nearest WorkOne office. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 800‑743‑3333 (TTY) for accessibility help and ask your local WorkOne about job training under Next Level Jobs.

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Health coverage and rides to care

Medicaid and Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP)

• Adults 19–64 (HIP): 2025 income examples—individual up to $21,603/yr\ast \ast ,familyof4upto\ast \ast$44,376/yr. Members make small POWER Account contributions ($1–$20/mo) based on income to get HIP Plus (includes dental/vision). (in.gov)
• Children and pregnancy (Hoosier Healthwise/CHIP): 2025 income limits updated in March 2025; check the Eligibility Guide for your family size. Many pregnant members qualify at higher limits and can get presumptive coverage fast. (in.gov)
• Apply: FSSA Benefits Portal or call 800‑403‑0864. (in.gov)
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Traditional Medicaid (fee‑for‑service) members call Verida at 855‑325‑7586 at least two business days in advance. Managed care (HIP/HHW/HCC) members call the number on your health plan card for rides or gas-mileage reimbursement. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for “presumptive eligibility” if pregnant, and request help from a certified navigator via the Medicaid site if you’re stuck with paperwork or plan choices. (in.gov)

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Child care and preschool

CCDF child care vouchers

• Eligibility: Initial eligibility increased to 150% FPL (example: family of 4 about $3,900/mo). There is a waitlist; priority may go to families under 100% FPL, OMWPK applicants, and child care workers. (in.gov)
• Apply: Use Early Ed Connect to upload photos of documents from your phone. Keep an eye on emails/texts for waitlist updates. (in.gov)
• Find a provider: Call 800‑299‑1627 for a free referral and use Indiana’s Child Care Finder to check Paths to QUALITY ratings. (in.gov)

On My Way Pre‑K (age 4)

• Who qualifies: 4‑year‑olds (turning 4 by Aug 1 of the school year) in families up to 150% FPL; seats are limited by county. Apply on Early Ed Connect. (in.gov)

Child care essentials

• What to do if this doesn’t work: Check if you qualify for Head Start/Early Head Start (search the federal center locator) and ask your school district about Pre‑K or Title I options while you wait.

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Housing and utilities

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and public housing

• Reality check: Many Indiana PHAs have long or closed waitlists. Apply in multiple areas when possible. Use HUD’s PHA directory to find local agencies or contact HUD’s Indianapolis Field Office. (hud.gov)
• Statewide resource: In counties without a city PHA, IHCDA partners with Local Subcontracting Agencies (LSAs) to run vouchers; use IHCDA’s HCV provider map for county contacts. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk to your township trustee about emergency rent help and call 211 for rapid rehousing/shelter referrals. Use HUD’s “Rental Help: Indiana” page for subsidized apartments you can apply to directly. (hud.gov)

Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/EAP) and winter shutoff protections

• Season window: Program Year 2025 applications ran Oct 1, 2024–Apr 14, 2025 with moratorium protection Dec 1–Mar 15 for eligible EAP clients. Expect similar dates each winter; check IHCDA for this year’s dates as they post. (in.gov)
• Income test: Generally ≤60% of State Median Income; eligibility uses the most recent 3 months of income. Apply through your Local Service Provider (LSP). (in.gov)
• Weatherization: Free home efficiency upgrades for households ≤200% FPL or those eligible for EAP; waitlists are common. (in.gov)
• New rebates: Indiana’s Energy Saver Program (HOMES and HEAR rebates) launched in May 2025 to reduce upfront costs for upgrades; apply through the state portal. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about payment plans, medical hardship notes, and community funds. Call 211 to locate church funds and local fuel funds. (in.gov)

Phone and internet affordability

• Lifeline: Federal discount $9.25/mo\ast \ast (upto\ast \ast$34.25 on Tribal lands). Apply through a participating provider or the National Verifier. (usac.org, fcc.gov)
• ACP status: The Affordable Connectivity Program stopped new enrollments on Feb 7, 2024 and ended funding in spring 2024 unless Congress renews it. Ask your provider about low‑income plans and use Lifeline where eligible. (fcc.gov)
• If there’s no service at your address: Submit your address to the Indiana Connectivity Program (ICP)—the state may fund a build‑out to your home. Phone 833‑639‑8522 or use the Next Level Connections portal. (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school about hotspots or library Wi‑Fi lending; some local programs still offer loaners, though E‑Rate hotspot programs are changing. Check with your library system for current options. (theverge.com)

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Child support and parenting time

• Get help fast: KIDSLINE 800‑840‑8757 (automated 24/7; live M–F 7 a.m.–5 p.m.). Use the state portal to message your local office and update address/employer info so income withholding works smoothly. (in.gov)
• Parenting Time Helpline: 844‑836‑0003 (free legal info on Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines, M–F 11 a.m.–6 p.m. ET). (in.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for free legal help with Indiana Legal Services (844‑243‑8570) or submit online. (indianalegalservices.org)

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Local organizations you can call in rural counties

These regional food banks supply local pantries and mobile distributions—contact them for schedules and referrals near you:

• Community Harvest Food Bank (Northeast): 260‑447‑3696; find distributions on their site. (business.greaterfortwayneinc.com)
• Food Finders Food Bank (West‑Central/North‑Central): 765‑471‑0062. (food-finders.org)
• Hoosier Hills Food Bank (South‑Central): 812‑334‑8374; mobile pantries serve multiple rural towns monthly. (hhfoodbank.org)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana: 765‑287‑8698. (curehunger.org)
• Tri‑State Food Bank (Southwest): 812‑425‑0775; regular mobile distributions in rural counties. (tristatefoodbank.org)

If you are fleeing abuse, ask a food bank or 211 for a safe‑location pantry and discreet pickup.

For emergency township assistance (rent, utilities, burial, more), look up your Township Trustee through your county’s directory or the state officials database. Many rural trustees list direct cell numbers and hours: check your county website’s “Township Trustees” page. (officials.dlgf.in.gov, tippecanoe.in.gov)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Safety and shelter are available regardless of orientation or gender identity. For DV help, call 800‑332‑7385 (Indiana DV hotline) or 800‑799‑7233 (National DV Hotline); ask for LGBT‑affirming providers. (ncadv.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Area Agencies on Aging/INconnect Alliance can coordinate in‑home supports, respite, and transportation. Call 800‑713‑9023 to reach the AAA that serves your county. (in.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Use ILS’s veteran legal clinics (see Indiana Legal Services MAP clinics) and check with the VA for health and childcare supports. Phone ILS intake at 844‑243‑8570. (indianalegalservices.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Public charge rules generally do not count non‑cash benefits like WIC, SNAP, CHIP, energy aid, or most Medicaid for the public charge test. If you’re adjusting status, get individualized legal advice, but don’t skip needed care or food for fear. See USCIS public charge resources. (uscis.gov)
• Tribal-specific resources: If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, ask your tribe about housing and family supports; HUD also offers tribal housing contacts, and Lifeline has higher discounts on Tribal lands. (hud.gov, usac.org)
• Single fathers: All programs listed (SNAP, TANF Child‑Only, WIC for kids, Medicaid/CHIP, CCDF) may apply to custodial fathers. Check the same portals and call the same numbers to apply.
• Language access: State hotlines can connect to interpreters. DFR and child support phone lines offer multilingual assistance when you call. (in.gov)

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Tables you can use quickly

Program steps and contacts

SNAP timeline at a glance

Source: Indiana DFR. (faqs.in.gov)

Medicaid/HIP income guide (effective March 2025 examples)

See the state Eligibility Guide for full charts and details. (in.gov)

Energy help and protections

Source: IHCDA EAP and Weatherization. (in.gov)

Phone and internet options

Sources: USAC Lifeline; Indiana Broadband/ICP. (usac.org, in.gov)

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Application Checklist

• Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or school ID.
• Proof of Indiana address: Lease, utility bill, or mail with your name.
• Social Security numbers: For everyone who has one (not required for applying for someone else who has one).
• Income: Last 30 days of pay stubs, self‑employment ledger, or benefit letters.
• Child care costs: Receipts, provider statement.
• Medical costs: Out‑of‑pocket bills for elderly/disabled household members.
• Proof of pregnancy or due date: If applying for WIC or Medicaid pregnancy coverage.
• School enrollment or training schedule: For CCDF/OMW if using “service need.”

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing interviews or recertifications: If you miss a call, benefits can be denied or closed. Return calls and check portal messages often. When portals glitch, call 800‑403‑0864 or visit your county DFR office in person. (in.gov)
• Not reporting changes: Report new work hours, childcare costs, or address changes right away to keep benefits accurate.
• Under‑documenting income: For self‑employment/seasonal farm or gig work, use a simple ledger and save receipts.
• Skipping deductions: Claim child care costs and child support paid in SNAP, and medical costs for elderly/disabled members. (in.gov)
• Assuming benefits affect immigration: Most non‑cash benefits are not considered under public charge rules; check USCIS guidance or speak to a legal aid. (uscis.gov)

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What to do if systems are slow or down

Portals can be slow during maintenance or outages. If you can’t upload or see messages:

• Call DFR: 800‑403‑0864 and ask for a call‑in interview or document alternatives.
• Go in person: Use the DFR office locator and bring paper copies. (in.gov)
• Keep proof: Date‑stamped screenshots, mailed receipts, and fax confirmations can protect your filing date.

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Ten Indiana‑specific FAQs

1. How fast can I get SNAP if I just lost my job and have under $100 in the bank?
   Answer: If you meet expedited criteria, within 7 days of applying; otherwise within 30 days. (faqs.in.gov)
2. What are TANF cash amounts for a family of 3?
   Answer: Up to $513/mo (amount depends on countable income). Decisions take up to 60 days. (in.gov)
3. I live in a small town with no childcare centers. How do I find a licensed home provider?
   Answer: Call 800‑299‑1627 for referrals and use the state Child Care Finder. Apply for CCDF on Early Ed Connect. (in.gov)
4. Do I have rides to medical appointments with Medicaid?
   Answer: Yes. Traditional Medicaid uses Verida (855‑325‑7586). HIP/HHW/HCC members call your health plan for rides or gas reimbursement. (in.gov)
5. Are there winter shutoff protections for electricity and heat?
   Answer: Yes, a winter moratorium typically runs Dec 1–Mar 15 for EAP‑eligible households. Apply early in October. (in.gov)
6. Is ACP still discounting my internet?
   Answer: No new enrollments since Feb 7, 2024, and funding ended in spring 2024 unless renewed. Use Lifeline or ask about low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)
7. I can’t reach my child support worker. Who else can I call?
   Answer: KIDSLINE 800‑840‑8757 (24/7 automated; live M–F). Parenting Time Helpline 844‑836‑0003 for parenting time questions. (in.gov)
8. Will using WIC/SNAP/Medicaid hurt my immigration case?
   Answer: Generally, non‑cash benefits like WIC, SNAP, CHIP, and most Medicaid are not counted under USCIS public charge rules. Verify your situation with legal aid. (uscis.gov)
9. Who can help my elderly parent I care for at home?
   Answer: Call 800‑713‑9023 to reach your Area Agency on Aging for in‑home services, respite, and caregiver supports. (in.gov)
10. How do I report a change or check case status if the portal is confusing?
    Answer: Call 800‑403‑0864, visit your county DFR office, or ask a certified navigator for help. (in.gov)

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What to do if one option doesn’t work

• SNAP denied: Appeal quickly and ask a legal aid to review. Use food banks/TEFAP and WIC while you appeal. (curehunger.org)
• Child care waitlist: Check Head Start/Early Head Start and school‑based Pre‑K; ask your employer about flexible schedules.
• Housing waitlists closed: Apply to subsidized apartments via HUD’s rental help page; ask your township trustee about temporary aid. (hud.gov)
• Energy bill crisis: Ask your utility for a payment plan and call 211 for community funds while your EAP is processed. (in.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, HUD/IHCDA, Indiana DWD, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards for source verification, link testing, and timely updates. We are independent from state and federal agencies and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections.

Last verified: September 2025; Next review: April 2026.

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Disclaimer

Program details change: Eligibility, amounts, and dates can change mid‑year. Always confirm with the official agency or hotline before making financial decisions.

Health and safety: This guide is informational, not medical or legal advice. For your privacy, do not share personal case numbers by email or social media. We maintain secure links to official government sites and established nonprofits only.

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Sources used in this guide

• SNAP amounts/deductions and timelines: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA; Indiana DFR. (fns.usda.gov, faqs.in.gov, secure.in.gov)
• DFR contact and county office locator: Indiana FSSA. (in.gov)
• TANF amounts and timelines: Indiana FSSA TANF page. (in.gov)
• WIC CVB and income guidelines: Indiana WIC. (in.gov)
• Medicaid/HIP limits and HIP contributions: Indiana Medicaid Eligibility Guide; HIP pages. (in.gov)
• NEMT: Verida and Medicaid contacts. (in.gov)
• CCDF eligibility and application: Carefinder/CCDF pages. (in.gov)
• Energy assistance, moratorium, and Weatherization: IHCDA EAP and WAP. (in.gov)
• Lifeline and ACP status: USAC/FCC. (usac.org, fcc.gov)
• Indiana Connectivity Program: Indiana Broadband/OCRA. (in.gov)
• HUD/PHA and rental help: HUD Indiana pages. (hud.gov)
• Child support and parenting time: Indiana DCS. (in.gov)
• Area Agencies on Aging: FSSA (INconnect Alliance). (in.gov)
• Local food banks: Official food bank sites. (food-finders.org, hhfoodbank.org, curehunger.org, tristatefoodbank.org)

If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org—we investigate and correct verified issues quickly, following our editorial policy. (in.gov)

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Note on formatting in this guide

• All dollar amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers are bold for fast scanning.
• We bolded labels immediately before any colon for consistency, as requested.

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🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana

• 📋 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