Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This is your practical, keep-it-handy hub for internet, devices, classes, and the benefit programs that make digital life possible when money and time are tight. Every section starts with the first action you should take and ends with a backup plan. Keep this page open while you call, click, and apply through the links embedded throughout.
West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) and the public benefits portal WV PATH handle most applications for food, cash, childcare, and energy aid. For phone or internet savings, apply through Lifeline (USAC) and check low-cost device options from Human-I-T or low-cost surplus from WV Surplus. (dhhr.wv.gov)
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call 211 now and ask for “utility shutoff prevention, internet options, and food today.” The agent can warm-transfer you to programs in your county and text you the links you need. Use phone, text, or chat through West Virginia 211 and see DoHS’s 211 guide if lines are busy. DoHS 211 page. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Apply online for energy help and SNAP in one sitting through WV PATH to get into the queue. Ask for LIEAP crisis if you have a termination notice, and check the “20% utility discount” box if you’re eligible. Use DoHS’s Client Services if you’re stuck: 1-800-642-8589. LIEAP info (DoHS). (bfa.wv.gov)
- Pick up a library hotspot to get online this week. Kanawha County libraries loan hotspots with unlimited data; other counties offer in‑branch Wi‑Fi and sometimes hotspot kits. Start with Kanawha County Public Library hotspots and your local system such as Morgantown Public Library. (kcpls.org)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Save
- DoHS Client Services (program questions): 1-800-642-8589. Apply or check case status via WV PATH. Use the county field office finder on DoHS. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid/WVCHIP rides): Modivcare 1-844-549-8353. See member instructions and late‑pickup line on Modivcare WV and guidance from DoHS/BMS. (mymodivcare.com)
- Legal Aid for benefits, housing, debt, family law: 1-866-255-4370 and Legal Aid of WV. For complex consumer issues, contact Mountain State Justice at 1-800-319-7132. (legalaidwv.org)
- Phone/Internet discount (Lifeline): Apply through Lifeline National Verifier or ask a provider like Frontier Lifeline WV. Support line: 1-800-234-9473. (usac.org)
- Job search, training, unemployment: Use your local WorkForce West Virginia office (1-800-252-5627) and check the regional workforce board contacts on WorkForce WV. (workforcewv.org)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
Do this first: call your electric or gas company and ask for a payment plan, medical certification hold (if a household member’s health depends on service), and any charity funds. For Appalachian Power, use 1-800-982-4237 and see payment options; for Mon Power, call 1-800-686-0022. Read program pages for Appalachian Power payment assistance and FirstEnergy WV bill assist. (appalachianpower.com)
Apply the same day for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). Use WV PATH, or take your termination notice to your county office. Watch for summer Emergency LIEAP windows that open when extreme heat spikes. Track official announcements on the DoHS LIEAP page and news releases such as the July 2025 E‑LIEAP notice. (bfa.wv.gov)
Ask about the Special Reduced Residential Service Rate (20% Discount). If you receive SNAP and are 60+, SSI and 18+, or WV WORKS, you may get a 20% discount from November–March on electric and gas, and year‑round with West Virginia American Water. See DoHS’s explanation and the Public Service Commission’s program summary, then call your utility to enroll. DoHS 20% Utility Discount, WV PSC 20% Discount info. (bfa.wv.gov)
If your system is unsafe or dead, ask about the Emergency Repair/Replacement component and the summer cooling repair option. Policy details and eligibility appear on the DoHS LIEAP page and in the federal profile at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (bfa.wv.gov)
Add a backup for the next bill cycle: request “third‑party shutoff notice” and medical certification if anyone relies on life‑sustaining equipment. You’ll find how to set medical flags on Appalachian Power and assistance summaries at FirstEnergy WV. (appalachianpower.com)
What to expect: routine LIEAP decisions typically take 10–15 business days; crisis cases can move faster when a shutoff date is within days. Always ask the worker to flag it as “crisis.” Program timelines vary by funding; confirm current windows on DoHS News and program pages. WV PATH. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 for a warm handoff to local aid; request the utility’s medical certification hold; and speak to Legal Aid of WV (1-866-255-4370) if you believe a wrongful termination is pending. Use WV 211 and Legal Aid WV intake. (bfa.wv.gov)
Affordable Internet and Phone When Money Is Tight
Do this first: apply for the federal Lifeline discount. Lifeline can cut 9.25/monthfrominternetorphone(andupto9.25/month from internet or phone (and up to 34.25 on Tribal lands). Apply through the National Verifier, then choose a carrier that serves your address. Start with Lifeline (USAC) and, for provider examples, Frontier Lifeline WV. Support: 1-800-234-9473. (usac.org)
Check county library options for hotspot lending and 24/7 parking‑lot Wi‑Fi. Kanawha County lends high‑capacity hotspots; Morgantown offers all‑branch Wi‑Fi and delivery services for homebound patrons. See KCPL Hotspots and MPLS Wi‑Fi/Services. (kcpls.org)
Know what’s changing with statewide broadband builds. West Virginia submitted its final BEAD proposal in September 2025 and selected provisional awardees covering ~74,000 locations, pending NTIA approval. Track coverage maps and local buildouts via the WV Office of Broadband and see current announcements from the Governor’s Office (BEAD). (broadband.wv.gov)
Reality check on coverage and timelines: news reports note tens of thousands of addresses were removed from eligibility due to reclassification or “not serviceable” status; many projects still await federal approvals. Confirm your exact address on BEAD maps before signing long contracts. Read the AP update and the WV broadband site’s story map updates. AP coverage, WV Broadband updates. (apnews.com)
If you need a device, compare options: low‑cost refurbished laptops and hotspots from Human‑I‑T and the public sale floor or online auctions at WV Surplus (Dunbar). Nonprofits can access additional federal surplus through the eligible organization program at WV Surplus. (store.human-i-t.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask a librarian to help you file a Lifeline application and check provider options, or call the Lifeline Support Center (1-800-234-9473). If no wired service exists, ask the WV Office of Broadband about BEAD target locations and potential fixed wireless plans. Use USAC Lifeline and WV Broadband contact pages. (usac.org)
Quick Table: Internet and Phone Help (What to Try First)
| Program/Option | What it covers | How to apply | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline (USAC) | 9.25/mooffphoneorinternet(9.25/mo off phone or internet (34.25 on Tribal) | Lifeline application | Same day to 7 days |
| Library hotspots/Wi‑Fi | Short‑term home internet; branch Wi‑Fi | KCPL Hotspots (Kanawha), MPLS Wi‑Fi | Same day |
| WV Surplus + Human‑I‑T | Low‑cost computers/hotspots | WV Surplus public sales, Human‑I‑T store | Same day to 2 weeks |
| WV Broadband BEAD builds | Future wired/wireless service | WV Broadband story map | Varies by project phase |
Digital Skills Training that Fits a Tight Schedule
Do this first: look up free adult classes near you. The WV Adult Education network runs day/evening classes for GED/HiSET, basic computers, resume help, and English language learning. Find your county site, call the hotline (1-800-642-2670), and ask for “computer basics” or “digital skills.” Start at WV Adult Education (WVDE) and browse class locations. (wvde.us)
Check your library’s free platforms for homework help and digital learning. The WV Library Commission offers TutorWV (live online tutors), Libby, and WVInfoDepot statewide with a commission card. Sign up as a state library patron and use TutorWV through WV Library Commission – State Library Patrons; ask your local library about hotspots and in‑person classes. KCPL services. (librarycommission.wv.gov)
For women entering the trades or manufacturing, West Virginia Women Work runs 10–12 week pre‑apprenticeships with job placement support (OSHA‑10, CPR, basic math, interviewing). See current start dates for Step Up programs in Dunbar and Morgantown. Visit WV Women Work – Step Up Construction and Step Up Manufacturing. (westvirginiawomenwork.org)
Watch for new grants: the WV Office of Broadband is launching Digital Equity grants for device access and digital skills, supporting community groups that serve covered populations including single parents. Track openings on WV Broadband – Digital Equity and agency news pages. WV Broadband home. (broadband.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your WorkForce WV center about WIOA‑funded digital skills or short courses and check WV Women Work waitlists. Use WorkForce WV offices and WV Women Work main site. (workforcewv.org)
Table: Free or Low‑Cost Digital Skills Options
| Provider | What you get | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| WV Adult Education | GED/HiSET prep, computer basics, resumes, ESL | WVDE Adult Education, Find classes |
| WV Library Commission & local libraries | TutorWV, Libby e‑learning, WVInfoDepot databases | WVLC Patrons, your local library |
| WV Women Work (Step Up) | Short pre‑apprenticeships, certifications, job placement | Step Up Construction, Step Up Manufacturing |
| WorkForce WV | WIOA training referrals, job search workshops | WorkForce WV centers |
(wvde.us)
Child Care, Schedules, and Studying Online
Do this first: apply for the Child Care Program subsidy if you are working or in training. Resource & Referral agencies manage the subsidy and can match you with providers. Start with the state hub, then your regional CCR&R, such as Child Care Resource Center (serving eight northern counties). Use DoHS Child Care Assistance and Resource & Referral contacts. (bfa.wv.gov)
If you work unusual hours or live far from centers, ask about relative care options and sliding scale copays. CCR&Rs like CCRCWV list office numbers by county; call to review income, activity hours, and waitlist status. Check Child Care Resource Center (CCRCWV) and DoHS policy posts for 2025–2027 plan updates. Child Care Policy notices. (ccrcwv.org)
Pair child care with benefits that steady the household while you train: SNAP for groceries (apply on WV PATH) and WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and kids under 5. Eligibility and 2025 benefit details are on USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA and WV WIC apply. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask CCR&R about short‑term vouchers or backup providers, and call 211 for church‑based or YMCA programs that accept subsidy. Use Resource & Referral and WV 211. (bfa.wv.gov)
Food and Essentials While You Stabilize
Do this first: apply for SNAP on WV PATH. For FY 2025 (Oct. 2024–Sept. 2025), the maximum allotment for a family of four in WV (48‑state standard) is 975/month;theminimumbenefitstays975/month; the minimum benefit stays 23. See USDA’s official FY2025 COLA. Use USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA and program basics on DoHS SNAP. (fns.usda.gov)
If you need food this week, use Mobile Food Pantries and local distributions. Mountaineer Food Bank posts county dates and sites; in Monongalia County, community partners also host mobile giveaways. Check Mountaineer Food Bank Mobile Pantry (2025 schedule) and Pantry Plus More mobile giveaways. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
Pregnant or caring for kids under 5: enroll in WIC for monthly eWIC food benefits, nutrition counseling, and breastfeeding support. Apply online and confirm 2025 income guidelines via WV WIC and federal notices. Start at WV WIC apply and the FNS WIC 2025/26 guideline memo. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask a librarian to help submit SNAP/WIC online applications, or call Legal Aid of WV if you’re denied and need a fair hearing. Use DoHS SNAP and Legal Aid WV intake. (bfa.wv.gov)
Health Coverage and Free Rides to Appointments
Do this first: submit a combined application for Medicaid (adults, pregnancy) and WVCHIP (kids not eligible for Medicaid) using WV PATH, or call 1-877-716-1212 for help. Check WVCHIP eligibility and hotline details. See DoHS Medicaid/WVCHIP apply, and WVCHIP eligibility. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Schedule free rides to covered visits through Modivcare NEMT once you’re enrolled (Medicaid/WVCHIP). Call 1-844-549-8353 at least five business days ahead; use the ride assist line if the return pickup is late. Read the member FAQ and DoHS transportation page. Modivcare WV members, DoHS Transportation. (mymodivcare.com)
If you’re pregnant or have a new baby, ask for Right From The Start (RFTS) home visiting and case management while your coverage is active. Local community action agencies help you enroll. See an example overview via CASEWV’s RFTS page and ask your DoHS worker for a referral. RFTS (CASEWV) and DoHS contacts. (casewv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: call your managed care plan’s member services, then WV Navigator (1-844-WV-CARES) for marketplace help if Medicaid/WVCHIP is denied. Use WV Navigator hotline (DoHS) and DoHS Transportation. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Work, Training, and Tuition Support You Can Stack
Do this first: visit WorkForce WV for job leads, training funds, and resume help. Use the office locator and ask about WIOA training plus on‑ramp classes. See WorkForce WV offices and statewide profile at WV Dept. of Commerce. (workforcewv.org)
If you want a fast, in‑demand credential or associate degree, apply for WV Invests (last‑dollar tuition for community and technical colleges). File FAFSA and the WV Invests application by the priority deadline. Get details at CFWV – WV Invests and read program rules in state code. WV Code §18C‑9‑5. (cfwv.com)
If you’re studying part‑time, try HEAPS (Higher Education Adult Part‑Time Student) and HEAPS Workforce (short non‑credit programs). HEAPS Workforce can cover up to $2,000 for approved non‑credit programs, first‑come, first‑served starting July 1. See WVHEPC HEAPS and CFWV – HEAPS Workforce. (wvhepc.org)
Looking at WVU? The new WVU Guarantee (starting Fall 2025) may cover tuition and university fees for WV resident undergrads with AGI ≤ $65,000 who file FAFSA. Read the official page and program launch. WVU Guarantee (Financial Aid) and WVU Today announcement. (financialaid.wvu.edu)
If substance use is a barrier to work, Jobs & Hope WV can help you stabilize and train. Call 1-833-784-1385 and ask about short trainings tied to real jobs. Use Jobs & Hope WV and see program updates. Jobs & Hope news. (jobsandhope.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask WorkForce about other WIOA‑funded providers, and call your community college aid office to combine WV Invests with HEAPS Workforce or local scholarships. Use WorkForce WV offices and WV Invests. (workforcewv.org)
“Reality Check” — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps to Expect
- Utility aid: LIEAP/E‑LIEAP windows open and close based on funding; if you miss the window, the 20% discount and payment plans are Plan B. Confirm dates on the DoHS LIEAP page and call 211 to find charity funds in your county. WV 211. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Broadband builds: BEAD awards are provisional until NTIA approves; some “not serviceable” locations won’t be funded in early rounds. Always confirm your address on the story map. Check WV Broadband news and AP updates on coverage changes. AP broadband report. (broadband.wv.gov)
- Child care: approvals can lag during peak months. Ask your CCR&R if “authorization” or “retroactive start” is possible when you accept a job. See Resource & Referral and Child Care Assistance. (bfa.wv.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting partial applications without uploads. Use a scanner app at the library to upload pay stubs, ID, lease, and shutoff notices. Submit through WV PATH and keep a copy of the confirmation page. DoHS. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Waiting for a denial before asking for crisis help. If you have a termination notice, ask for “crisis LIEAP” and “emergency assistance” at intake. Read the LIEAP page and your utility’s assistance page (Appalachian Power). (bfa.wv.gov)
- Ignoring ride options. If you miss medical appointments, call Modivcare and schedule rides five business days ahead. See Modivcare WV and DoHS transportation guidance. (mymodivcare.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call/click | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Shutoff notice | WV PATH – LIEAP + call utility’s payment plan line (Appalachian Power) | 211 for charity aid; ask for 20% discount (DoHS 20% program) |
| No internet/device | Lifeline (USAC), KCPL Hotspots | Human‑I‑T store, WV Surplus public sales |
| Digital skills | WV Adult Education | WV Women Work Step Up, WV Broadband Digital Equity |
| Food this week | Mountaineer Food Bank mobile | WV 211 |
| Health coverage & rides | DoHS apply Medicaid/WVCHIP, Modivcare | WV Navigator 1‑844‑WV‑CARES; plan member services |
Application Checklist (printable)
- Photo ID for you and any other adult (or school ID for teen parent). DoHS office finder
- Social Security numbers (or application receipts) for everyone in the case. WV PATH
- Proof of WV residency (lease, utility bill, or mail to your name/address). DoHS Client Services
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, statement of child support). Bureau for Family Assistance
- Childcare/work/school schedule if applying for child care subsidy. Child Care Assistance
- Shutoff/termination notice or past‑due bill for energy crisis requests. LIEAP
- Pregnancy verification (for quicker Medicaid/WIC approvals). WV WIC apply
- Proof of disability or medical need (for medical certification utility holds). Appalachian Power assistance
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
Start with 211 to filter by your county and ask for “food today, diapers, and utility funds.” Then try:
- Food distribution calendars: Mountaineer Food Bank mobile pantry and local events like Pantry Plus More (Monongalia). (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
- Library systems for hotspots, job help, and tutoring: Kanawha County Public Library, Morgantown Public Library. For statewide e‑resources, use the WV Library Commission. (kcpls.org)
- Workforce and training partners: WorkForce WV centers, WV Women Work. (workforcewv.org)
- Legal help and advocacy: Legal Aid WV, Mountain State Justice. (legalaidwv.org)
- Child care navigation: CCRCWV and DoHS Resource & Referral map. (ccrcwv.org)
Resources by Region (examples)
- Kanawha Valley: borrow hotspots and use in‑branch Wi‑Fi through Kanawha County Public Library. For job services, go to the Charleston WorkForce office and ask for training referrals. WorkForce WV Charleston. (kcpls.org)
- North‑Central (Monongalia/Marion/Preston): use delivery and Wi‑Fi through the Morgantown Public Library System and check mobile food dates with Mountaineer Food Bank. (mympls.org)
- Eastern Panhandle (Berkeley/Jefferson/Morgan): check assistance programs via FirstEnergy (Potomac Edison/Mon Power) and mobile pantry dates listed for Berkeley and Morgan counties. MFB Mobile. (firstenergycorp.com)
- Southern Coalfields (Logan/Mingo/McDowell/Wyoming): ask your CCR&R (MountainHeart) about subsidy and training supports, and watch MFB mobile pantry stops. MountainHeart CCR&R, MFB Mobile. (mthtwv.com)
- Statewide Broadband updates: coverage changes, BEAD awards, and maps at the WV Office of Broadband. For complaints or construction timelines, follow official releases. WV Broadband news. (broadband.wv.gov)
Diverse Communities
LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask your library for private rooms to complete applications, and check Lifeline eligibility under SNAP/Medicaid pathways. For health coverage questions, contact WV Navigator (1-844-WV-CARES). Learn eligibility basics through Lifeline (USAC) and health plan help via WV Navigator. (usac.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: ask utilities for medical certification holds and use Modivcare’s enhanced vehicles for wheelchair transport. Read provider medical hold rules on Appalachian Power and ride details on Modivcare WV. Accessibility: ask agencies for large‑print forms or TTY/relay; DoHS hotlines list TTY. DoHS hotlines. (appalachianpower.com)
Veteran single mothers: ask about WV Surplus’s Veterans Program for tools or equipment that support self‑employment and confirm Lifeline eligibility through income or program participation. See WV Surplus programs (Veterans) and Lifeline. (administration.wv.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: use Adult Education’s ESL classes and WIC services; interpreters are available at Legal Aid of WV and 211. Find classes via WV Adult Education and get WIC appointments on WV WIC apply. (wvde.us)
Tribal‑specific resources: Lifeline offers a higher discount on Tribal lands. If that applies to you, verify documentation with the National Verifier and ask your carrier for the Tribal plan. Use USAC Lifeline and your provider’s Tribal plan page (e.g., Frontier WV Lifeline). (usac.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: mobile pantries reduce long drives for food; libraries often extend Wi‑Fi into parking lots; fixed wireless or satellite may be the only interim internet option until BEAD projects reach your road. Check MFB mobile schedule and WV Broadband updates. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
Single fathers: the same programs apply. WV Women Work accepts all genders for many trainings; confirm seat availability on the Step Up program pages. Use WV Women Work and WorkForce WV centers. (westvirginiawomenwork.org)
Language access: ask for interpreter services by phone with Legal Aid of WV and at health plans; library commissions can provide alternate formats (large print/Braille) for some resources. See Legal Aid WV intake and WV Library Commission – Special Services. (legalaidwv.org)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today — Step‑by‑Step
- Call your utility and request a payment arrangement and medical certification hold if applicable. Use Appalachian Power contacts or FirstEnergy WV numbers. (appalachianpower.com)
- Apply for LIEAP/E‑LIEAP through WV PATH and upload your termination notice. Check for emergency windows. LIEAP program page. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Ask DoHS about the 20% Utility Discount and whether you meet SNAP 60+, SSI 18+, or WV WORKS criteria. See 20% discount details. (bfa.wv.gov)
- If denied, call 211 for other aid and Legal Aid WV for appeal or hearing. WV 211, Legal Aid. (bfa.wv.gov)
SNAP & WIC: Key 2025 Figures (for quick planning)
| Program | 2025 quick facts | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Oct 2024–Sept 2025) | Max for 4 in WV: 975/mo;standarddeductionforsmallhouseholds:975/mo; standard deduction for small households: 204; asset limits 3,000(3,000 (4,500 elderly/disabled). | USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA |
| WIC (2025–2026) | WV implements federal WIC income guidelines by July 1, 2025; apply online for eWIC. | FNS WIC 2025/26 memo, WV WIC apply |
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask for a fair hearing quickly. DoHS explains hearing rights on LIEAP and other programs; you typically have 60 days from notice. See DoHS LIEAP page (hearing rights). (bfa.wv.gov)
- Get help preparing. Call Legal Aid WV (1-866-255-4370) and ask for advice on evidence and deadlines. Use Legal Aid intake. (legalaidwv.org)
- Submit new evidence. Upload missing pay stubs, leases, or medical notes through WV PATH and note the case number on every page. DoHS. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Ten West Virginia FAQs (with direct help links)
- How do I check if my address will get BEAD broadband? Use the BEAD story map on the WV Office of Broadband and read recent award announcements. WV Broadband news. (broadband.wv.gov)
- What if I lost ACP—are there any other discounts? Yes: Lifeline (federal) and occasional low‑income plans from providers. Start with USAC Lifeline and check your provider’s Lifeline page such as Frontier WV. (usac.org)
- Can I borrow a hotspot to finish schoolwork? Many libraries lend hotspots; start with KCPL and ask your local system. Statewide e‑learning tools are on WV Library Commission. (kcpls.org)
- Who can help me get a GED and basic computer skills? Call the Adult Education hotline (1-800-642-2670) and locate a class. See WV Adult Education and class locations. (wvde.us)
- Is there tuition help for short, job‑ready programs? Yes: HEAPS Workforce (up to $2,000) and WV Invests for approved programs. See CFWV – HEAPS Workforce and CFWV – WV Invests. (cfwv.com)
- How do I get rides to doctor visits? Once Medicaid/WVCHIP is active, schedule through Modivcare at 1-844-549-8353. Info is at Modivcare WV members and DoHS transportation. (mymodivcare.com)
- Can I get help if energy bills are past due? Yes: LIEAP crisis/E‑LIEAP and 20% discount if eligible. Apply via WV PATH and read DoHS LIEAP page. (bfa.wv.gov)
- I’m caring for a newborn—who can visit my home? Right From The Start offers free home visiting statewide. Ask your DoHS worker and read details via RFTS overview (CASEWV). (casewv.org)
- Where can I find food distributions in my county? Check the Mountaineer Food Bank mobile calendar or dial 211. WV 211. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
- How long will SNAP take? Non‑crisis applications often take 10–15 business days; ask DoHS for expedited service if income is near zero. See DoHS SNAP and call DoHS Client Services (1‑800‑642‑8589). (bfa.wv.gov)
Tables You Can Screenshot
Child Care & School‑Time Support
| Need | Where to go | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Child care subsidy | DoHS Child Care Assistance | Managed locally by CCR&R agencies |
| Find CCR&R | Resource & Referral map | Get provider lists and subsidy paperwork |
| After‑school food | WV 211 | Ask for CACFP/after‑school meal sites |
Broadband & Devices
| Option | Cost help | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | 9.25/mo(9.25/mo (34.25 Tribal) | USAC Lifeline |
| Device purchase | Low‑cost refurbished | Human‑I‑T |
| State surplus | Public sales/auctions | WV Surplus |
(usac.org)
Health & Rides
| Coverage | Apply | Rides |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid/WVCHIP | DoHS apply | Modivcare |
Utility Help
| Program | Who qualifies | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| LIEAP (heating) | Income‑eligible; crisis component available | WV PATH, DoHS LIEAP info |
| 20% Discount | SNAP 60+, SSI 18+, or WV WORKS | Call your utility; read DoHS 20% program |
Training & Tuition
| Program | What it covers | Link |
|---|---|---|
| WV Invests | Last‑dollar tuition at CTCs | CFWV – WV Invests |
| HEAPS Workforce | Up to $2,000 for non‑credit | CFWV – HEAPS Workforce |
| Adult Education | GED/HiSET, digital basics | WVDE Adult Education |
(cfwv.com)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
- Monongalia: library system keeps robust Wi‑Fi and delivery (BookDash). Use Morgantown Public Library services and check Mountaineer Food Bank’s county dates. MFB mobile. (mympls.org)
- Kanawha: hotspot lending and a tool‑lending library can save time and money while you job hunt. Start with KCPL. For state surplus deals, drive to Dunbar’s warehouse. WV Surplus public sales. (kcpls.org)
- Eastern Panhandle (Berkeley/Jefferson): utility assistance flows through FirstEnergy companies; review options and set third‑party notifications if needed. FirstEnergy bill assist. (firstenergycorp.com)
Always call to confirm rules in your county before you take off work or pay for childcare.
Descriptive, Real‑World Examples
- You lost internet after ACP ended. You apply for Lifeline, then pick up a KCPL hotspot to finish the WV Invests application this week. Next month you buy a $150 refurbished Chromebook via Human‑I‑T, then use TutorWV for algebra practice. USAC Lifeline, KCPL hotspots. (usac.org)
- Your power is due for shutoff Friday. On Monday you call Appalachian Power, set a payment plan, and file E‑LIEAP in WV PATH. You also ask for the 20% Discount. A librarian scans your termination notice and uploads it the same day. Appalachian Power assistance, DoHS LIEAP. (appalachianpower.com)
- You need to work while finishing a short credential. You call CCRCWV for subsidy, enroll in HEAPS Workforce for a non‑credit course, and line up Modivcare rides for a prenatal visit. CCRCWV, CFWV HEAPS Workforce. (ccrcwv.org)
What to Do If This Doesn’t Work (Plan B Every Time)
- Benefits blocked online: go in person to your county DoHS office (use finder) and ask for help from the front desk to finish your WV PATH application. DoHS, WV PATH. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- No internet while applying: borrow a device and hotspot from your library and ask staff to help you upload documents. KCPL hotspots, WVLC patrons. (kcpls.org)
- Denied or delayed: request a fair hearing, then call Legal Aid WV to prep. DoHS LIEAP hearing info, Legal Aid WV intake. (bfa.wv.gov)
Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para internet, dispositivos, clases y beneficios en West Virginia. Para ayuda inmediata marque 211 o solicite beneficios en línea por WV PATH. Para teléfono o internet de bajo costo solicite Lifeline por USAC Lifeline. Para evitar el corte de energía, aplique a LIEAP y pida el descuento del 20%: LIEAP DoHS. Medicaid/WVCHIP: solicite cobertura en DoHS y pida transporte gratis con Modivcare 1‑844‑549‑8353. Si su solicitud es negada, contacte a Legal Aid WV. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique detalles con las agencias oficiales. (dhhr.wv.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS)
- WV PATH – public benefits portal
- WV Office of Broadband
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service (SNAP & WIC)
- WorkForce West Virginia
- Legal Aid of West Virginia
- Modivcare (WV Medicaid Rides)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This information is for general guidance, not legal advice. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm with the agency or provider before spending money, taking time off, or making decisions that affect your family. Use the links embedded above to reach the official sources directly.
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in West Virginia
- 📋 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
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
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- 🏡 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
