Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Oklahoma
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Oklahoma
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- If you’re in immediate danger: Call 911 now.
- Oklahoma SafeLine (24/7, confidential): Call or text 1‑800‑522‑SAFE (7233) for safety planning, shelter access, and crisis support statewide. Oklahoma Human Services Purple Ribbon resources. (oklahoma.gov)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7): Call 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or use live chat. Get help from The Hotline. (thehotline.org)
- StrongHearts Native Helpline (24/7 for AI/AN): Call or text 1‑844‑7NATIVE (762‑8483) or chat online. StrongHearts Native Helpline. (strongheartshelpline.org)
- Family Justice Centers (walk‑in support): Palomar OKC (405‑552‑1010); Family Safety Center Tulsa (918‑742‑7480); Cardinal Point Canadian County (see contact on site). Palomar “Get Help Now”, Family Safety Center Tulsa, Cardinal Point. (palomarokc.org, tulsapolice.org, cardinalpointok.org)
- Dial 211 for local help: Call 211, text 211OK to 898‑211, or text your ZIP to 898‑211 for shelter, food, and rental aid referrals. OSDH 2‑1‑1 info, 211 Contact page. (oklahoma.gov, navigateresources.net)
Emergency First Steps
- Secure immediate safety: If you or your children are at risk right now, call 911. Ask for a “lethality screen” and request connection to an advocate.
- Use a safer device if possible: A library computer or a friend’s phone reduces digital tracking risk. The Hotline has a quick exit button and digital safety tips. The Hotline. (thehotline.org)
- Get same‑day help: Call 1‑800‑522‑7233 (Oklahoma SafeLine) for shelter placement, safety planning, and help filing an emergency protective order after hours. OKDHS Purple Ribbon. (oklahoma.gov)
- Document safely: Save photos of injuries, threatening texts, and property damage in an email you can access later. This can help with protective orders, victim compensation, and benefits.
- Plan for kids and pets: Ask shelters about child and pet accommodations before you go. Some Oklahoma shelters (for example, New Directions in Lawton) offer limited pet-friendly housing. Call 580‑357‑2500. Marie Detty New Directions. (marie-detty.org)
Why Oklahoma‑Specific Help Matters Now
Oklahoma recorded a record high 122 domestic violence homicides in 2023—a 16% increase from 2022—and has remained among the top states for women killed by men. The state averaged 115 domestic violence homicide victims annually between 2019 and 2023, and about 59 children on average witness a domestic‑violence homicide each year. OAG Fatality Review Board release. (oklahoma.gov)
This guide cuts through the noise with verified contacts, step‑by‑step actions, real timelines, and concrete dollar amounts for programs you’re likely to need in the first 72 hours and the next 90 days.
Key 24/7 Hotlines and Services (Quick Table)
| Service | What it does | Phone / Text | How to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma SafeLine | Statewide DV/SA/stalking crisis line with safety planning, shelter linkage | 1‑800‑522‑SAFE (7233); text accepted | Call/text, ask for shelter or protective order support. (oklahoma.gov) |
| National Domestic Violence Hotline | National 24/7 advocacy, safety planning, chat/text | 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233); text START to 88788 | Use if lines are busy locally; chat for discreet help. (thehotline.org) |
| StrongHearts Native Helpline | 24/7 culturally specific support for AI/AN survivors | 1‑844‑7NATIVE (762‑8483); text or chat | Ask for tribal program referrals and safety planning. (strongheartshelpline.org) |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Mental health crisis | 988 (call or text) | Ask for DV‑informed support, request warm transfer to local resources. (oklahoma.gov) |
| 211 Oklahoma | Referrals for shelter, food, rent, utilities | 211; text 211OK to 898‑211 | If lines are busy, text your ZIP to 898‑211. (oklahoma.gov, navigateresources.net) |
Protective Orders in Oklahoma: Fast, Practical Steps
- File as soon as it’s safe: Courts must set a full hearing within 14 days of your filing (sooner in limited cases). You can obtain an emergency temporary or ex parte order the same day. 22 O.S. § 60.4. (law.justia.com)
- Where to start today: Download and fill out court‑approved forms from the Oklahoma Supreme Court Network, available in multiple languages. OSCN Protective Order Forms. (oscn.net)
- No filing fee up front: You don’t pay to file; judges may assign court costs later (often to the defendant when the order is granted). 22 O.S. § 60.2; county guidance, OKDHS VPO page. (law.justia.com, oklahoma.gov)
- How to file after hours: Call 911 and ask for an emergency protective order or go to a Family Justice Center during open hours: Palomar OKC (405‑552‑1010); Family Safety Center Tulsa (918‑742‑7480). (palomarokc.org, tulsapolice.org)
- Service of process: The sheriff serves the respondent; lack of service is not grounds to dismiss—your temporary order can be renewed with new hearing dates until service is made. [22 O.S. § 60.4(B)(3)‑(5)]. (law.justia.com)
- Firearms reality check: Oklahoma does not automatically require firearm surrender under state law, but your order can include firearm restrictions and federal law may prohibit possession. Ask the judge to include firearm terms. 22 O.S. § 60.11; Giffords summary, Giffords Law Center. (law.justia.com, giffords.org)
Protective Order Process at a Glance
| Step | What to do | Cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete forms | Use OSCN forms; list incidents and include kids/pets if needed | $0 to file | Same day ex parte possible. (oscn.net) |
| File in district court | File in county where you or respondent lives, or where abuse occurred | $0 to file; costs decided later | Clerk sets hearing within 14 days. (law.justia.com) |
| Service of order | Sheriff serves respondent | Usually $0 to you | If not served, court issues new date/order until served. (law.justia.com) |
| Hearing | Bring evidence, witnesses, safety plan | Possible costs assigned | Final order typically up to 5 years; can be continuous in some cases. (law.justia.com) |
Need in‑person help:
- Oklahoma City area—YWCA OKC shelter/legal help (405‑917‑9922); walk‑in assistance at Palomar OKC. YWCA OKC Get Help. (ywcaokc.org)
- Tulsa area—DVIS Legal at the Family Safety Center (918‑742‑7480); DVIS hotline (918‑743‑5763). DVIS Legal, DVIS Contact. (dvis.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma for representation; intake 1‑888‑534‑5243 (Mon‑Thu). LASO apply for help. (legalaidok.org)
Keep Your Location Private: Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
- What it is: The Oklahoma Attorney General’s ACP gives you a substitute address for interactions with state and local agencies and forwards your mail at no cost. Strong option if you’ve moved and want your new address hidden. OAG ACP. (oklahoma.gov)
- Eligibility: Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or child abduction who are Oklahoma residents and have relocated or plan to move. (oklahoma.gov)
- How to apply: You apply in person through a designated victim service program with trained ACP staff; you’ll receive an authorization card to use with agencies and schools. Phone: 1‑866‑227‑7784; Email: oag.acp@oag.ok.gov. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local shelter advocate to help you re‑apply or consider P.O. Box arrangements and password protection on school/medical records as a backup.
Covering Costs Caused by Abuse: Oklahoma Crime Victims Compensation (OCVC)
- What it pays: Medical/dental, counseling, funeral/burial, crime scene cleanup, work loss, loss of support, mileage, and more—after other sources pay. Maximum award up to $20,000 per claim (higher only for certain inpatient mental health). Typical payments to providers are 80% of allowable costs, with the remaining 20% written off by providers; out‑of‑pocket costs can be reimbursed at 100%. Oklahoma DAC Victims Compensation Program. (oklahoma.gov)
- Caps you can use: Counseling up to 3,000∗∗pervictim(waivableinextremecases);∗∗griefcounselingupto3,000** per victim (waivable in extreme cases); **grief counseling up to 3,000 per family member after homicide; funeral/burial up to 7,500∗∗;∗∗crime‑scenecleanupupto7,500**; **crime‑scene cleanup up to 2,000; caregiver work loss up to $3,000. Statute and OCVC pages, OCVC “Fund Eligibility”. (law.justia.com, okvictimscomp.com)
- Timelines: Report the crime within 72 hours (good‑cause exceptions exist; children are always excepted). File within 1 year (possible extension to 2 years for good cause; longer for child sexual assault). Claims under $10,000 are decided administratively; larger claims go to the Board. Once complete documentation is received, cases are typically docketed within about 30 days; payments generally issue within three weeks after approval. Hotline: 1‑800‑745‑6098. DAC OCVC, OK Victims Comp site. (oklahoma.gov, okvictimscomp.com)
OCVC Cheatsheet: Eligible Expenses and Caps
| Expense | Typical limit |
|---|---|
| Counseling for victims | $3,000 (waivable) (oklahoma.gov) |
| Grief counseling per family member (homicide) | $3,000 (law.justia.com) |
| Funeral/burial | $7,500 (law.justia.com) |
| Crime scene cleanup | $2,000 (law.justia.com) |
| Caregiver work loss | $3,000 (law.justia.com) |
| Total claim cap | $20,000 (standard) (oklahoma.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local DA Victim‑Witness Coordinator to help you appeal. You can appeal to the Board; if denied again, you may petition in District Court. (oklahoma.gov)
Safe Housing and Shelter: Oklahoma Options That Work
- Go where multiple services are under one roof first: Family Justice Centers coordinate law enforcement, prosecutors, Legal Aid, DHS, and shelter partners in one place—fewer trips, faster results. Palomar OKC (405‑552‑1010), Family Safety Center Tulsa (918‑742‑7480), Cardinal Point in Canadian County. (palomarokc.org, tulsapolice.org, cardinalpointok.org)
- Certified shelters and regional hotlines:
- YWCA Oklahoma City emergency shelter and DV hotline (405‑917‑9922). YWCA OKC Get Help. (ywcaokc.org)
- DVIS Tulsa 24‑hour hotline (918‑743‑5763). DVIS contact. (dvis.org)
- YWCA Enid crisis line (580‑234‑7644). YWCA Enid. (ywcaenid.com)
- Wings of Hope (Stillwater/Payne & area) crisis line (405‑624‑3020). United Way listing. (unitedwaypaynecounty.org)
- New Directions (Lawton/Comanche) crisis line (580‑357‑2500). Marie Detty New Directions. (marie-detty.org)
- Safenet Services (Rogers/Mayes) crisis line (918‑341‑9400); toll‑free 1‑888‑372‑9400. Safenet Services. (safenetservices.org)
- Know your housing rights under VAWA: If you’re in HUD‑assisted housing (public housing, vouchers, CoC/ESG shelters, etc.), VAWA protects you from being denied housing or evicted because of abuse, allows emergency transfers, and permits portability moves with your voucher for safety. Ask your PHA for HUD Forms 5380/5382/5383 and their Emergency Transfer Plan. HUD VAWA rights, HUD VAWA page. (hud.gov)
- State voucher admin contact: If you have an OHFA voucher and must relocate for safety, call 405‑419‑8170 (Portability Specialist) to request a move. OHFA Portability. (ohfa.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a landlord or housing authority ignores VAWA, file a complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing. You can request a safety transfer even if there’s no police report; your certification is valid. HUD VAWA. (hud.gov)
Food, Cash, Health Care, and Child Care While You Stabilize
Below are Oklahoma programs single mothers use most in a crisis, with real numbers and fast application routes.
SNAP (Food Benefits)
- Maximum monthly benefit amounts (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025) for the 48 states including Oklahoma: household of 1 292∗∗,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; each additional person $220. USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- Gross income limits (130% FPL, Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): 1 1,632∗∗,2∗∗1,632**, 2 **2,215, 3 2,798∗∗,4∗∗2,798**, 4 **3,380, 5 3,963∗∗,6∗∗3,963**, 6 **4,546, 7 5,129∗∗,8∗∗5,129**, 8 **5,712; +$583 each additional. USDA SNAP Eligibility. (fns.usda.gov)
- Apply online: OKDHSLive.org or call 405‑522‑5050 for help; you can submit an incomplete application to lock in your filing date. OKDHS Contact, OKDHSLive portal. (oklahoma.gov, okdhslive.org)
- Tip: If you had to quit a job because of abuse or lost work hours to flee, tell DHS—“good cause” rules can prevent sanctions. OKDHS policy reference. (oklahoma.gov)
SNAP Quick Tables
| Household size | Max monthly SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | $220 |
| Household size | 130% FPL gross monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 |
| 2 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $4,546 |
| 7 | $5,129 |
| 8 | $5,712 |
| Each add’l | +$583 |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to locate food pantries and congregate meals while your case processes, or ask SafeLine to warm‑transfer you to a local pantry. (oklahoma.gov)
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- Monthly fruit & vegetable benefit (CVB) amounts for FY2025: children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 per person, per month. USDA WIC FY2025 CVB memo. (fns.usda.gov)
- Apply: Call 1‑888‑655‑2942 or your local clinic; online pre‑screening and locations available. Oklahoma WIC. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for “VOC” transfer if you must flee to another county/state; WIC can transfer benefits. VOC line (405‑426‑8504). (oklahoma.gov)
TANF Cash Assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Monthly payment standards (adult plus children) show what a family can receive if eligible. Examples: 1 person 180∗∗,2∗∗180**, 2 **225, 3 292∗∗,4∗∗292**, 4 **361, 5 422∗∗,6∗∗422**, 6 **483, 7 544∗∗,8∗∗544**, 8 **598 (children‑only cases have different amounts). Income and need standards apply. OKDHSLive TANF standards. (okdhslive.org)
- Apply: OKDHSLive.org or 405‑522‑5050. If abuse caused job loss or noncompliance, request a “good cause” determination. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid (1‑888‑534‑5243) about appeals or over‑sanction issues. (legalaidok.org)
SoonerCare (Medicaid) and Health Coverage
- Adult expansion (ages 19–64): Monthly income up to 1,813∗∗for1,∗∗1,813** for 1, **3,087 for 3, $3,725 for 4. Children and pregnant people have higher limits. OHCA Income Guidelines 2025. (oklahoma.gov)
- Apply: Use the SoonerCare application or renew via OKDHSLive.org; for pregnancy, counting your expected baby increases household size. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: For urgent care, ask your local Family Justice Center to connect you with a trauma‑informed clinic or request hospital charity care.
Child Care Subsidy
- Who qualifies: Families up to 85% of the State Median Income at application (OKDHS removed a proposal to lower this). Copays depend on income and family size. OKDHS update on rules. (oklahoma.gov)
- Examples of monthly copays (family size ≤5): at 1,200∗∗income,copayabout∗∗1,200** income, copay about **54 (1 child) to 135∗∗(4children);at∗∗135** (4 children); at **1,650, about 132∗∗to∗∗132** to **222. See the full chart. Child Care Eligibility/Copayment Chart. (okdhslive.org)
- Apply: OKDHSLive.org or call 405‑522‑5050. If abuse or CPS safety planning is involved, ask about protective‑services child care. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your shelter advocate to write a support letter documenting safety needs; this can help with approvals or expedited start dates.
Unemployment Insurance if You Left Work Due to Abuse
- You may qualify even if you quit: Oklahoma allows unemployment when a separation is due to domestic violence or abuse, with reasonable documentation. Claims are typically decided within about 21 days after monetary eligibility is confirmed. OESC Service Center (405‑525‑1500). OESC Unemployment page. (oklahoma.gov)
- Benefit amounts: Oklahoma calculates your weekly benefit from prior wages; the precise weekly maximum changes with state formulas. Check with OESC for the current weekly maximum and total weeks when you apply. OESC benefits overview, statutory cap formula. (oklahoma.gov, casetext.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Legal Aid advocate to help you request a redetermination or appeal and to ensure your documentation protects your privacy.
Regional and Community Support (Selected)
- Oklahoma City metro: YWCA OKC DV hotline (405‑917‑9922); Palomar OKC (405‑552‑1010). (ywcaokc.org, palomarokc.org)
- Tulsa metro: DVIS hotline (918‑743‑5763); Family Safety Center (918‑742‑7480). (dvis.org, tulsapolice.org)
- North‑central: YWCA Enid hotline (580‑234‑7644). (ywcaenid.com)
- Payne/Logan counties: Wings of Hope crisis line (405‑624‑3020). (unitedwaypaynecounty.org)
- Southwest: New Directions Lawton (580‑357‑2500). (marie-detty.org)
- Rogers/Mayes: Safenet Services (918‑341‑9400); toll‑free 1‑888‑372‑9400. (safenetservices.org)
If none of these match your county, ask the Oklahoma SafeLine at 1‑800‑522‑7233 to route you to the nearest certified shelter. (oklahoma.gov)
Your Rights and Options Without Moving
- Keep your lease: Under VAWA, you cannot be evicted or denied for abuse you experienced. You can request an emergency transfer for safety. HUD VAWA rights. (hud.gov)
- Change locks: Ask your landlord (or request via your advocate/attorney) about lock changes for safety after a protective order.
- Notify school discreetly: Use your ACP card or update emergency pick‑up lists without revealing your address. (oklahoma.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a landlord refuses VAWA protections, file with HUD Fair Housing and ask Legal Aid to assist with a complaint. (hud.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for affirming services and safety planning that addresses outing threats. The National Hotline and Palomar both offer inclusive services. Phones: 1‑800‑799‑7233; (405‑552‑1010). (thehotline.org, palomarokc.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When fleeing, request shelter accessibility and ask OCVC for mileage and counseling reimbursement. If your child’s therapies are interrupted, ask SoonerCare for help finding providers near your new location. Phones: 1‑800‑745‑6098 (OCVC), OKDHS 405‑522‑5050. (okvictimscomp.com, oklahoma.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA facility about the Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program and for documentation to support safety transfers and leave from work.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may qualify for many services regardless of status; WIC is not based on immigration status, and SoonerCare may cover pregnancy. Ask Legal Aid about immigration relief options tied to abuse. Phone: 1‑888‑534‑5243. (legalaidok.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Many Nations run DV programs. Use StrongHearts (1‑844‑762‑8483) and the Native Alliance Against Violence directory to find your Tribe’s services (for example, Cherokee Nation ONE FIRE after‑hours hotline 1‑866‑458‑5399; Chickasaw Nation 24/7 1‑855‑405‑7645). NAAV Tribal Programs directory. (oknaav.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Call 211 and ask for mobile advocacy or transportation help; Wings of Hope and WRC Norman offer mobile or satellite services. Phones: 211, 405‑624‑3020. (business.cushingchamberofcommerce.org)
- Single fathers: All hotlines and shelters listed can aid men and fathers; ask for placement in appropriate facilities.
- Language access: The SafeLine and National Hotline have interpreter services in 170+ languages; ask for your language when you call. Phones: 1‑800‑522‑7233, 1‑800‑799‑7233. (oklahoma.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
Reality Check: What Oklahoma’s Numbers Mean for Your Safety
- The Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board reported 122 domestic‑violence homicides in 2023—the highest on record—with 50 intimate‑partner homicides and 30 murder‑suicides statewide. Plan for safety during “flashpoints” like filing a protective order, leaving, or serving court papers. OAG release. (oklahoma.gov)
- OSDH notes that about 40% of Oklahoma women experience intimate partner violence, rape, and/or stalking in their lifetimes—this is widespread, and services are set up to help you navigate the system. OSDH IPV page. (oklahoma.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to file because you lack a police report: For family/household cases you don’t need one to file. For stalking/harassment by someone outside that circle, a police complaint is required before filing. (law.justia.com)
- Not listing all incidents or children/pets on the petition: Add every relevant detail up front to avoid delays.
- Assuming firearm surrender will “just happen”: Ask the judge to include specific firearm restrictions in your order. (giffords.org)
- Missing your hearing: The case can be dismissed and costs can be assessed. If you can’t safely attend, ask in advance for a continuance or remote option.
- Applying for benefits without noting domestic violence: Telling DHS can activate “good cause” and prevent penalties. (oklahoma.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Protective order forms: OSCN multilingual packets. (oscn.net)
- Family Justice Centers: Palomar (405‑552‑1010), Family Safety Center (918‑742‑7480). (palomarokc.org, tulsapolice.org)
- Legal Aid intake: 1‑888‑534‑5243. (legalaidok.org)
- Victims compensation: 1‑800‑745‑6098; aim to report within 72 hours, file within 1 year. (oklahoma.gov)
- SNAP/TANF/Child Care: Apply at OKDHSLive.org or 405‑522‑5050. (oklahoma.gov)
- SoonerCare: See 2025 income limits; expansion adults up to $1,813 (1‑person household). (oklahoma.gov)
Application Checklist
- Identity and safety: ID for you and kids, any protective orders, ACP card (if applicable).
- Evidence: Photos, texts, medical notes, police or incident numbers, witness names.
- Benefits: Pay stubs or income info, rent/utility bills, childcare or school papers, EBT card if you have one.
- Contacts: Write down shelter, advocate, and caseworker phone numbers in case you lose your phone.
What This Guide Adds Beyond Other “Top 10” Results
- Verified numbers and exact 2025 benefit amounts (SNAP, WIC, TANF, SoonerCare) with official sources you can click. (fns.usda.gov, okdhslive.org, oklahoma.gov)
- Action‑first layout with Family Justice Center walk‑ins and protective order steps up front.
- Tribal and rural pathways using StrongHearts and NAAV so you’re not left with generic advice. (strongheartshelpline.org, oknaav.org)
- Plan B guidance at the end of every section.
FAQs (Oklahoma‑Specific)
- How fast can I get protection: Same‑day emergency orders are possible; a full hearing is set within 14 days after filing. (law.justia.com)
- Do I pay to file a protective order: You don’t pay to file; judges can assign costs later—often to the defendant when granted. (law.justia.com)
- Is a police report required: Only when the abuser is not a family/household member or dating partner (for stalking/harassment cases). (law.justia.com)
- Can the court make the abuser surrender guns: Oklahoma law doesn’t automatically do this; ask the judge for firearm restrictions and remember federal law may apply. (law.justia.com, giffords.org)
- Can I keep my address off records: Yes, the ACP provides a substitute address and mail forwarding. Phone 1‑866‑227‑7784. (oklahoma.gov)
- What if the sheriff can’t serve my ex: The court can issue new temporary orders and dates until service is made; your case isn’t dismissed for lack of service unless you request it or don’t appear. (law.justia.com)
- How much food help can I get on SNAP: A family of three can receive up to $768 per month in FY2025 if income‑eligible. (fns.usda.gov)
- What does WIC provide monthly: Fruit/vegetable benefits are 26∗∗perchild,∗∗26** per child, **47 for pregnant/postpartum, and $52 for fully/mostly breastfeeding participants. (fns.usda.gov)
- Is there child care help while I work or attend school: Yes—Child Care Subsidy up to 85% SMI eligibility at application with income‑based copays (see chart). (oklahoma.gov, okdhslive.org)
- Can I get unemployment if I quit for safety: Yes, if abuse caused the separation and you have reasonable documentation; OESC aims to issue decisions within about 21 days after monetary eligibility is set. Phone 405‑525‑1500. (oklahoma.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Oklahoma Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, 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
- Information changes: Policies, amounts, and phone numbers can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or rely on a benefit.
- Safety and health: The resources listed are for general information. For medical or mental health emergencies, call 911 or 988. For legal advice, speak with an attorney (see Legal Aid). We take security seriously, but you should use a safe device, clear your browser history when possible, and use hotlines’ quick‑exit features.
Sources and Verification Notes
- Domestic violence statistics and board recommendations: Oklahoma Attorney General’s Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board releases (Feb 2024 and Feb 2025). (oklahoma.gov)
- Protective order law and timelines: 22 O.S. § 60.2 and § 60.4; state and county guidance. (law.justia.com, oklahomacounty.org)
- OSCN protective order forms: Oklahoma Supreme Court Network. (oscn.net)
- Address Confidentiality Program: Oklahoma Attorney General. (oklahoma.gov)
- Victims Compensation caps and processes: Oklahoma DAC/OCVC and statute. (oklahoma.gov, law.justia.com)
- Family Justice Centers and shelter contacts: Palomar OKC, Family Safety Center Tulsa, DVIS, YWCA OKC/Enid, Wings of Hope, New Directions, Safenet. (palomarokc.org, tulsapolice.org, dvis.org, ywcaokc.org, ywcaenid.com, unitedwaypaynecounty.org, marie-detty.org, safenetservices.org)
- SNAP and WIC amounts and income standards: USDA FNS FY2025 memoranda. (fns.usda.gov)
- SoonerCare 2025 income guidelines: OHCA. (oklahoma.gov)
- TANF and Child Care Subsidy: OKDHS income/payment standards and copay chart; child care rule update confirming 85% SMI remains. (okdhslive.org, oklahoma.gov)
- Unemployment due to domestic violence: OESC guidance and timelines. (oklahoma.gov)
What to Do Next
- Pick one: call 1‑800‑522‑7233 to locate the closest shelter or Family Justice Center and set up a same‑day safety plan.
- Pick one: file an emergency protective order today using the OSCN packet; bring any documentation you have.
- Pick one: apply for SNAP and SoonerCare via OKDHSLive.org; if you need help, call 405‑522‑5050 and ask for a phone application.
You do not have to do everything at once. Choose the step that feels doable today. We’re rooting for your safety and stability.
🏛️More Oklahoma Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Oklahoma
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- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
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- 📊 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
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- 🤝 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
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
