Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, screen‑by‑screen hub for Arkansas single moms who need internet, devices, skills, and fast access to benefits. Every program and phone number below links out to the official agency or a trusted local provider so you can act right away.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Stop a shutoff today: Ask your electric or gas company for a “payment extension” or “deferred payment arrangement,” then file a same‑day Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application with your local agency to place a “pledge” on the account. Use the Entergy Arkansas Bill Toolkit and the SWEPCO payment assistance page to request an extension, and find your county’s LIHEAP office through the Arkansas Energy Office. Entergy payment options, LIHEAP county finder (Arkansas Energy Office), SWEPCO assistance. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
• Apply for food and health coverage online now: Submit one combined application for SNAP (food stamps) and ARHOME/Medicaid in Access Arkansas, then call the Access Arkansas Call Center if you get stuck. Use the USDA SNAP page to review 2025 benefit levels and check EBT help numbers. Access Arkansas, USDA SNAP FY2025 amounts, EBT Help Desk (1‑800‑997‑9999) & DHS hotlines. (access.arkansas.gov)
• Get online tonight: Borrow a free hotspot from the Central Arkansas Library System, and ask a librarian to help you log in to LinkedIn Learning for job‑ready tech classes. If you need a device, check low‑cost refurbished options at PCs for People or Free Geek of Arkansas. CALS hotspot lending, LinkedIn Learning with a CALS card, PCs for People eligibility, Free Geek of Arkansas low‑income desktop kit. (cals.org)

Quick help — keep these on your phone

• Access Arkansas benefits support: Apply/renew or get case help for SNAP/TEA/Medicaid at Access Arkansas and by phone at 1‑855‑372‑1084. Access Arkansas, DHS hotlines & numbers. (access.arkansas.gov)
• Arkansas Public Service Commission (PSC) consumer help: File a utility complaint or ask about shutoff protections at 1‑800‑482‑1164; TDD 1‑800‑682‑2698. PSC consumer contacts, Suspension of service protections. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
• Non‑Emergency Medicaid Transportation (NET) rides: Call 1‑888‑987‑1200 to arrange rides to covered medical visits; review scheduling timelines and rules. AFMC NET info, DHS NET program. (afmc.org)
• Domestic violence & safety: Find your nearest Arkansas shelter via ACADV; 24/7 National DV Hotline is 1‑800‑799‑7233. ACADV shelter map, National DV Hotline. (domesticpeace.com)
• Mental health now: UAMS AR ConnectNow is 24/7 at 1‑800‑482‑9921 or 501‑526‑3563; they can schedule tele‑mental‑health within business hours. AR ConnectNow virtual clinic, Find help & resources. (uamshealth.com)

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How to get online fast in Arkansas

Start with benefits that lower your monthly bill and give you device options. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended on June 1, 2024, so your best bet now is the federal Lifeline program paired with a provider’s own low‑income plan. Use the Arkansas Broadband Office map to check service at your address and ask providers about low‑income tiers. FCC ACP update, USAC Lifeline (up to $9.25/month;$34.25 on Tribal lands), Arkansas State Broadband Office map. (fcc.gov)

Apply for Lifeline online through the National Verifier, then contact your chosen phone or internet provider to activate the discount on service you already use or on a new low‑cost plan. If you live in a coverage gap, call the Arkansas State Broadband Office to report issues and submit a public comment on the map so your area is prioritized for buildout. National Verifier (Lifeline eligibility), Arkansas State Broadband Office contact, Arkansas BEAD program status & timelines. (usac.org)

If you need internet today, borrow a mobile hotspot for two weeks (renewable if no holds) from the Central Arkansas Library System and sit down with a Digital Literacy Guide at CALS for one‑on‑one help. If you’re outside central Arkansas, use the Arkansas State Library’s Traveler resources and directory to find your local library’s Wi‑Fi and classes. CALS hotspot lending, CALS digital literacy help, Arkansas Library Directory & Traveler resources. (cals.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider about their in‑house low‑income plans and fee waivers, then apply for Lifeline again if your first documents were rejected. Also, email the Arkansas Broadband Office with your exact address and speed test results from the state tool so your location is captured. USAC Lifeline program basics, Speedtest & map correction portal (AR Broadband Office). (usac.org)

Low‑cost devices and repairs

Stretch your budget with reliable refurbished computers and free library access.

• PCs for People sells discounted desktops and laptops to families under 200% of the federal poverty level; upload proof to order online, or ask about shipping timelines. PCs for People eligibility, USAC Lifeline overview for pairing phone/internet. (pcsforpeople.org)
• Free Geek of Arkansas offers a $30 desktop kit (tower, monitor, keyboard, mouse, cables), with pickup in central Arkansas; bring an ID plus proof of a qualifying benefit like SNAP or TEA. Free Geek AR low‑income desktop kit, DHS SNAP page for proof of participation. (freegeekarkansas.org)
• If you can’t afford a device, consider Human‑I‑T’s refurbished laptops starting around $129, or ask your library about in‑library laptop use or loaner programs. Human‑I‑T devices initiative, CALS laptop checkout policy & options. (prnewswire.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a case manager at your local Workforce Center if WIOA training funds can cover a basic device for approved courses, or call Arkansas Adult Education to see if your center offers loaners for GED or ESL classes. Arkansas Workforce Centers locations, Arkansas Adult Education — find a center. (dws.arkansas.gov)

Build digital skills quickly (so the job search pays off)

Use free, short trainings that fit into your week.

• The Central Arkansas Library System gives cardholders free access to LinkedIn Learning, with beginner‑friendly classes in Excel, Zoom, resume building, and more. The CALS Digital Literacy Guides also offer one‑on‑one help by appointment. LinkedIn Learning via CALS, CALS Digital Literacy. (cals.org)
• Goodwill of Arkansas runs the Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator and Google Career Certificates (IT Support, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity). Many cohorts are free; ask about schedules in Little Rock and Springdale. Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator, Goodwill Academy courses & contacts. (goodwillar.org)
• Arkansas Adult Education offers free GED, ESL, and basic computer skills at 30+ locations statewide; call 1‑877‑963‑4GED for your closest class and testing info. Adult Education — find a center, GED testing centers & contact. (dws.arkansas.gov)
• Job search support is free at Arkansas Workforce Centers, including resume labs, VR career try‑outs, and virtual workshops; many job fairs require an Arkansas JobLink account. Jobseekers — Workforce Connections, Career fair listing (AJL required). (dws.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If attendance is hard, ask about Zoom or hybrid options from your library or Workforce Center, and request a “digital navigator” session to set up email, learn file uploads, and practice interviews. CALS technology classes (hybrid), Workforce virtual workshops. (cals.org)

Quick program comparison

Food, cash, health, and child care — fast path for moms

How to get SNAP and WIC together without delays

Apply for SNAP online and choose text/email notifications so you don’t miss an interview call. For 2025, a family of four’s maximum SNAP allotment in the contiguous U.S. is $975; benefits load to your EBT card on a set Arkansas day each month. Then call your county health unit to book WIC, or leave a message on the state WIC line if phones are busy. USDA SNAP 2025 COLA (updated Aug 2, 2024), Arkansas DHS SNAP page & forms, WIC program at ADH. (fns.usda.gov)

If you need help filling the SNAP form, call the Arkansas Foodbank’s SNAP Help Center or talk with a community partner listed on DHS’s SNAP E&T provider page. WIC offers breast pumps and breastfeeding peer counselors, plus a 24/7 helpline at 1‑800‑445‑6175. Arkansas Foodbank — SNAP help, WIC breastfeeding & pumps. (arkansasfoodbank.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your SNAP is delayed past 30 days, contact DHS DCO through “Access Anywhere” or call 1‑855‑372‑1084, then escalate to the USDA Southwest Regional Office if needed. For WIC scheduling bottlenecks, ask for a “work‑in” at any county health unit and keep your voicemail clear. DCO contact & Access Anywhere, USDA Arkansas contact. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Cash and work supports: TEA and Career Pathways

Arkansas’s TANF cash aid is Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA). The lifetime limit was reduced by law to 12 months effective April 1, 2024, so plan to combine TEA with job training quickly. If you’re enrolled, ask about Work Pays bonuses for steady employment and supportive services like gas cards. TEA/Work Pays policy (DHS), TEA time‑limit notice. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Pair TEA with the Arkansas Career Pathways Initiative at your community college for child care, books, and fuel vouchers while you complete a short‑term certificate. Call the program office on your campus to confirm supports this term. Career Pathways Initiative (ADHE portal), UACCB Career Pathways eligibility & contacts. (portal.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If TEA says you’re at the time limit, ask about exemptions or short extensions in writing, and immediately apply for a Single Parent Scholarship to stabilize school costs next term. ASPSF scholarship eligibility & dates, ASPSF application windows. (aspsf.org)

Health coverage and rides

Most moms who qualify for ARHOME get coverage through Ambetter or Arkansas Blue Cross plans; use the plan app to pick a PCP and schedule preventive visits. If transportation is a barrier, book a free Non‑Emergency Medicaid Transportation (NET) ride at least 48 hours ahead; call 1‑888‑987‑1200 if a ride is late. ARHOME overview, NET scheduling & helpline. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

If your child needs coverage, apply for ARKids First along with your own application in Access Arkansas, and keep the ConnectCare line handy for help finding a doctor. Access Arkansas, ConnectCare PCP help (1‑800‑275‑1131). (access.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you get a denial letter, appeal by the date on the notice and keep seeing your current doctor if you have an open appeal; call DCO via “Access Anywhere” to check the status. DCO contact, Apply/Renew portal. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Reliable, affordable child care

Apply for child care assistance with the Arkansas Office of Early Childhood; you’ll pay a sliding‑fee co‑pay and the state pays the rest directly to your provider. Use Better Beginnings resources to find a licensed center and confirm they accept vouchers. Help Paying for Child Care — Office of Early Childhood, Apply through the state portal. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

Keep documents ready: proof of income, class/work schedule, IDs, and each child’s birth certificate. Ask your college’s Career Pathways office whether they can add bridge child care while your state voucher is pending. Career Pathways campus contact (example), Adult Education centers (for activity verification). (uaccb.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re waitlisted, ask for Early Head Start or Arkansas Better Chance referrals and request a written denial that you can share with your advisor to unlock campus supports. Office of Early Childhood info, DWS jobseeker support for scheduling. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Arkansas today

First, request a payment extension or plan with your utility so they pause disconnection while you apply for help. Entergy and SWEPCO both offer extensions or arrangements; get the confirmation number. Then have your Community Action Agency “pledge” LIHEAP funds to your account (this often blocks shutoff until payment posts). Entergy Bill Toolkit, SWEPCO payment options, Arkansas LIHEAP info & county list. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)

Know your rights: Arkansas’ Cold Weather Rule prohibits shutoffs when the forecast is 32°F or below within 24 hours, and there’s a hot‑weather protection at 95°F+ for elderly and disabled customers. A physician’s medical‑need certificate can postpone disconnection up to 30 days. Call the PSC Consumer Services at 1‑800‑482‑1164 if a regulated utility won’t honor protections. PSC suspension protections, Rule 6.15 Cold Weather Rule (Admin Code). (apsc.arkansas.gov)

If you get water shutoff notices in Little Rock or North Little Rock, enroll in a CAW payment plan powered by Promise to prevent disconnection while you catch up; call 1‑855‑742‑0309 for billing help. Central Arkansas Water payment options & protection program, CAW customer service contacts. (carkw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Arkansas 211 website resources if your county’s LIHEAP is out of funds, and ask your utility’s charity program (e.g., Entergy “Power to Care” or SWEPCO “Neighbor to Neighbor”) for a one‑time grant. Dollar Energy Fund — SWEPCO Arkansas, United Way/Arkansas 211 website notice. (dollarenergy.org)

Internet and device options — snapshot

Child support: open a case and track it online

If you need help establishing or enforcing child support, apply with the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE). Use the OCSE MyCase portal to message your worker, review payments, and print records for housing or school. Call 1‑877‑731‑3071 if you need help choosing the right case type. OCSE apply for support (DFA), OCSE MyCase portal. (dfa.arkansas.gov)

If you already have a court order but only need payment processing, you can set up a “payment processing only” case at the Clearinghouse. Expect contact within 30 days after your completed application and fee (if any) are received. Apply online (OCSE), OCSE FAQs & contacts. (dfa.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach your local office, register for MyCase to message staff and call the Clearinghouse numbers for portal support (1‑866‑428‑8382 outside Little Rock). OCSE MyCase sign‑up & Clearinghouse contacts, Find a local office (federal directory). (ssl-dfa.ark.org)

Digital skills and jobs — Arkansas options that fit parenting

Find no‑cost resume labs, job fairs with childcare support, and basic tech training at Workforce Centers. Many centers host virtual workshops you can join from your phone, and some have VR headsets to explore careers before you enroll. Jobseeker services (Workforce Connections), VR career exploration. (dws.arkansas.gov)

If storms or layoffs hit your area, check whether Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is open for your county and ask staff to help you register for Arkansas JobLink before the next career fair. Workforce Centers — locations, Career fair example (AJL required). (dws.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email the Goodwill Academy to join the next free Google Certificate cohort and ask Adult Education about distance learning if childcare keeps you home. Goodwill Academy contacts, Adult Education — distance resources. (goodwilltec.org)

Little Rock water bill help — Central Arkansas Water

If you’re in Little Rock/North Little Rock, enroll in CAW’s Promise payment plan to avoid shutoff while paying down a balance; call 1‑855‑742‑0309 for billing. Check the current 2025 water rate schedule and ask about leak adjustments. CAW payment options (Promise plan), CAW 2025 water rates. (carkw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the PSC if a regulated utility denies protections, or ask a local church or community fund listed on Arkansas 211’s site for a one‑time pledge. PSC complaint contacts, Arkansas 211 resources. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Application checklist you can screenshot

• Photo ID: Driver’s license or other government ID for you and any adult in the home. DHS apply overview, Access Arkansas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Proof of Arkansas address: Current utility bill, lease, or official mail with your name and address. WIC eligibility examples, LIHEAP required docs. (healthy.arkansas.gov)
• Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, child support printouts, or award letters for SNAP/Medicaid/TEA. TEA/Work Pays info, SNAP forms & EBT info. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Bills you need help with: Full utility statements (electric, gas, water) showing name, address, and account number. Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP, PSC consumer services page. (arkansasenergy.org)
• Activity verification: Work schedule, class schedule, or training enrollment for childcare or transportation help. Office of Early Childhood — child care help, AFMC NET program. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Turning in partial applications without all proof documents — that usually resets the clock and delays benefits; upload documents in Access Arkansas and keep confirmation screenshots. Access Arkansas manage/upload, DHS apply overview. (access.arkansas.gov)
• Missing the interview call for SNAP — if you don’t answer unknown numbers, add the county office to your contacts and call back the same day to reschedule. USDA Arkansas SNAP contacts, Find your DHS county office. (fns.usda.gov)
• Waiting too long to request a utility extension — once you’re in disconnection status, options shrink. Ask for an extension, then have your LIHEAP agency issue a pledge. Entergy Bill Toolkit, LIHEAP county list. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)

Reality check — what to expect

• Funding windows matter: LIHEAP regular and crisis windows are usually January–April and July–September; amounts and dates depend on funding by county. Always call to confirm before you go. Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP, LIHEAP Clearinghouse (updated Mar 18, 2025). (arkansasenergy.org)
• ACP is over for now: Most households lost the ACP discount June 1, 2024; switch to Lifeline and ask your ISP about their own low‑income plans. FCC ACP wind‑down, USAC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
• SNAP EBT theft replacement ended: Federal authority to replace stolen benefits ended December 20, 2024; protect your PIN and check balances often. USDA Arkansas SNAP info (updated Mar 26, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Diverse Communities — focused help

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Name change procedures and court forms are summarized by Legal Aid of Arkansas, and you can track ID policy updates via the Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration and the ACLU of Arkansas. Call CALS for private tech help if you’re worried about online safety, and use AR ConnectNow for counseling. Legal Aid — name change guides, DFA driver’s license policy news, ACLU AR updates, AR ConnectNow. (a.arlawhelp.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call Arkansas Rehabilitation Services for assistive technology and workplace accommodations, and use Lifeline for discounted phone/internet if income‑eligible. NET can also transport a parent/attendant when a child is the patient. ARS contacts, USAC Lifeline, NET program details. (dws.arkansas.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Register with the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs Women Veterans Program for networking and events, and call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1‑855‑260‑3274 if you provide care to a veteran in your household. Local VA caregiver teams in Fayetteville and Little Rock can help you apply. ADVA Women Veterans, VA Caregiver Support, VA Fayetteville caregiver page. (veterans.arkansas.gov)
• Immigrant & refugee single moms: Catholic Immigration Services in Little Rock and Springdale offers low‑cost legal help; since Jan 1, 2025, Canopy NWA handles refugee cash/medical assistance transitions. Use language access at DHS and WIC — ask for interpreters. Catholic Charities — immigration services, DHS Refugee Resettlement update (Jan 2025), ADH WIC language/accommodations. (dolr.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: The American Indian Center of Arkansas provides WIOA job training, youth education support, and referrals; check the IHS Oklahoma City Area for clinics and urban Indian programs. If you’re a citizen of a tribe headquartered in another state, ask your tribe’s human services office about nationwide assistance. American Indian Center of Arkansas, AICA WIOA/WORC, IHS Oklahoma City Area. (aicago.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use the Arkansas State Broadband Map to confirm service, submit a correction if speeds are wrong, and borrow hotspots from your nearest library system. You can also attend virtual job workshops by phone. Arkansas Broadband Map, Traveler statewide library resources, Workforce virtual workshops. (register.broadband.arkansas.gov)
• Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral if you have a minor child in your home; apply for SNAP, ARHOME, child care, and OCSE services the same way. Ask WIC if you are the primary caregiver of an infant or child under 5. USDA Arkansas SNAP portal, OCSE apply for support, ADH WIC eligibility. (fns.usda.gov)
• Language access & accessibility: DHS has TTY lines for English, Spanish, and Marshallese in Access Arkansas, and the PSC offers TDD for complaints. Ask for large‑print letters or interpreter services at WIC and Medicaid. Access Arkansas contact/TTY lines, PSC contact page (TDD listed), WIC interpreter services. (access.arkansas.gov)

Resources by region (use these starting points)

Troubleshooting — if your application gets denied

• Ask for the reason in writing: For SNAP/Medicaid, use your Access Arkansas account to view the denial reason and the appeal deadline; for LIHEAP, ask the CAA for a written denial letter. Access Arkansas manage account, Energy Office LIHEAP info. (access.arkansas.gov)
• Fix and resubmit: Upload missing documents, then message DCO using the Access Anywhere form to alert staff the file is complete. DCO contact — Access Anywhere, Apply for services overview. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Appeal quickly: Appeals often let benefits continue during review if filed by the date on the notice; call Legal Aid for advice if housing or healthcare is at stake. Legal Aid of Arkansas — apply, HUD Arkansas field office (housing rights). (arlegalaid.org)

County differences that affect you

Electric assistance programs and fees differ by utility — Entergy vs. SWEPCO, plus municipal co‑ops may not be PSC‑regulated. Water policy also varies (e.g., Central Arkansas Water’s Promise plan for LR/NLR), so always check your utility’s payment‑arrangement rules and local assistance partners. PSC consumer services overview, CAW payment options. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support networks

• The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund gives flexible awards (often up to $1,600 per term) for parents in school; apply during open cycles and ask about mentoring. ASPSF eligibility, ASPSF application dates. (aspsf.org)
• The CALL mobilizes church communities to support foster families and children; ask about support closets and parent groups in your county. The CALL statewide, The CALL county pages. (thecallinarkansas.org)
• Catholic Charities’ family assistance and immigration services can help with utility pledges or referrals and low‑cost immigration consultations. Catholic Charities of Arkansas contacts, Immigration services. (dolr.org)
• Arkansas Foodbank and partner networks can connect you to SNAP assistance, pantries, and mobile distributions near you. Arkansas Foodbank programs, SNAP help center. (arkansasfoodbank.org)
• For free crisis counseling or safety planning, use ACADV’s shelter map and the National Domestic Violence Hotline; ask shelters about cell‑phone safety and private browsing. ACADV shelters, Survivor resources & hotline. (domesticpeace.com)

FAQs (Arkansas‑specific)

1. How long will my SNAP take: Regular SNAP can take up to 30 days, with expedited in 7 days if you qualify. Apply online and answer unknown numbers — interviews are by phone. USDA Arkansas SNAP, Access Arkansas. (fns.usda.gov)
2. What are the SNAP amounts for 2025: The USDA set FY2025 maximums; for a family of four it’s $975 in the contiguous U.S. Confirm your household size and deductions in your DHS notice. USDA FY2025 COLA, DHS SNAP info. (fns.usda.gov)
3. Did the ACP internet discount end: Yes; ACP ended June 1, 2024. Switch to Lifeline and ask your provider about their own low‑income plan. FCC ACP notice, USAC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
4. How does Medicaid transportation work: If you have Medicaid/ARKids A, call NET at 1‑888‑987‑1200 at least 48 hours ahead; they can also reimburse mileage. AFMC NET program, NET rules (DHS). (afmc.org)
5. What are LIHEAP dates and amounts in 2025: Heating is usually Jan–Mar with crisis through April; cooling is Jul–Aug with crisis through September. Benefits ranged up to $475forheatingand$500 for crisis this year — always call your county CAA to confirm. LIHEAP Clearinghouse (3/18/2025), Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP page. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
6. How do I find free computer classes: Start with your library’s tech classes and LinkedIn Learning, then check Goodwill’s Google Career Certificates and Adult Education centers for beginner courses. CALS tech classes, Goodwill Academy courses. (cals.org)
7. Who can help with child support: Apply online with OCSE; use MyCase to message your worker and track payments. Apply for support, OCSE MyCase. (dfa.arkansas.gov)
8. I don’t have a car — can I still get to appointments: Yes. NET provides rides to covered medical visits; some Workforce Centers are near bus lines, and libraries can help with remote telehealth. NET rides, Workforce Centers — locations. (afmc.org)
9. Where can I report a utility problem: File with the Arkansas PSC Consumer Services (toll‑free), and ask about hot/cold weather and medical protections. PSC contacts, Suspension of service rules. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
10. Is there help for veterans who are caregivers: Call the VA Caregiver Support Line and connect with your local VA caregiver team; ADVA Women Veterans Program hosts events and a registry. VA Caregiver Support, ADVA Women Veterans. (caregiver.va.gov)

“What to do if this doesn’t work” — quick templates

• SNAP/Medicaid appeal: Upload missing docs, message DCO, and call 1‑855‑372‑1084. If benefits lapse and you have a child’s medical appointment, request a same‑day case check. DCO contact, DHS hotlines. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
• Utility shutoff: Ask for a medical certificate (if applicable), get a payment extension, then have your agency issue a LIHEAP pledge. If refused, call PSC. PSC suspension page, LIHEAP info. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
• Child care waitlist: Request Early Head Start/ABC referrals, and ask your college’s Career Pathways office for temporary child care aid. Office of Early Childhood, Career Pathways contacts. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)

Tables you can scan and save

Required documents by program

Utility shutoff timeline — what to do and when

Internet access options at a glance

Training options you can do from home

Who to call — quick list

Spanish summary — Resumen en español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de inteligencia artificial. Verifique siempre con las oficinas oficiales.

• Beneficios de comida y salud: Solicite SNAP y Medicaid/ARHOME en Access Arkansas; llame al 1‑855‑372‑1084 si necesita ayuda. Access Arkansas, USDA SNAP Arkansas. (access.arkansas.gov)
• Internet y teléfono: ACP terminó; pida Lifeline de USAC y pregunte a su compañía sobre planes de bajo costo. USAC Lifeline, Aviso de ACP (FCC). (usac.org)
• Ayuda para servicios públicos: Solicite un “payment extension” con su compañía y pida LIHEAP en su condado; use la PSC si no respetan protecciones por clima o salud. LIHEAP Arkansas, PSC de Arkansas. (arkansasenergy.org)
• Cuidado infantil: La Oficina de Primera Infancia ofrece ayuda con guardería (co‑pago). Ayuda para pagar cuidado infantil, Portal estatal de solicitud. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
• Apoyo y seguridad: AR ConnectNow 1‑800‑482‑9921 para salud mental; ACADV para refugios de violencia doméstica. AR ConnectNow, Mapa de refugios ACADV. (uamshealth.com)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Arkansas Department of Human Services (Access Arkansas, SNAP, ARHOME, TEA)
• Arkansas Department of Health — WIC & public health programs
• Arkansas State Broadband Office — BEAD & broadband map
• Arkansas Public Service Commission — consumer protections
• U.S. Department of Agriculture — SNAP FY2025 COLA
• Arkansas Energy Office — LIHEAP
• AFMC — Medicaid NET rides
• USAC — Lifeline
• UAMS AR ConnectNow
• Legal Aid of Arkansas

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: Information changes with funding, policy, and utility rules. Always confirm with the agency before you apply or travel. If you are in danger or facing a shutoff or eviction, call the appropriate hotline or the Arkansas Public Service Commission/Legal Aid first for immediate guidance. This guide links to official state and federal resources to reduce misinformation and help you act fast.

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🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 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
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery