Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box
Need Help RIGHT NOW?
- Food today: Call 2-1-1 or visit your nearest food pantry – Find Food Banks
- Cash assistance: Apply online at myDSS.mo.gov or call 855-373-4636
- Utility shutoff: Apply for LIHEAP crisis help at mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance/liheap or call 855-373-4636
- Health coverage: Apply for MO HealthNet at mydss.mo.gov/healthcare or call 800-392-2161
- Housing crisis: Call 2-1-1 for emergency shelters or visit HUD Resource Locator
- Unemployment benefits: File at uinteract.labor.mo.gov or call 800-320-2519
- Domestic violence help: Call 800-799-7233 (National Domestic Violence Hotline)
If You Need Help Today
No food tonight:
- Visit your nearest food pantry immediately with just your name and address
- Apply for expedited SNAP at myDSS.mo.gov – benefits can arrive in 7 days if you qualify
- Call 855-373-4636 and specifically request “expedited SNAP”
Power/gas shutoff or already disconnected:
- Apply for LIHEAP Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) immediately at mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance/liheap
- Winter ECIP: up to $800 (November-May)
- Summer ECIP: up to $300 (June-September)
- Call your utility company and request a payment plan while waiting for assistance
Facing eviction or homeless:
- Call 2-1-1 for immediate shelter placement
- Contact your local Continuum of Care for rapid rehousing assessment
- Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance through your city or county
Need cash for diapers, gas, urgent bills:
- Apply for Missouri Temporary Assistance (TANF) at myDSS.mo.gov
- Ask about “Diversion” payments – one-time cash instead of monthly benefits
- Maximum family of 3: $292/month (ongoing) or $584-876 (one-time diversion)
Main Points
Critical Numbers to Remember:
- All benefits applications: myDSS.mo.gov or 855-373-4636
- Emergency help hotline: 2-1-1
- MO HealthNet: 800-392-2161
- Unemployment: 800-320-2519
Timeline Expectations:
- Expedited SNAP: 7 days if you qualify
- Regular SNAP: 2-4 weeks after interview
- TANF cash: 30-45 days for approval
- LIHEAP crisis: 2-10 days if funding available
- MO HealthNet: 2-4 weeks (faster if pregnant)
Reality Check: Missouri has some of the lowest benefit amounts in the nation. TANF payments haven’t increased since 1991. You’ll likely need to combine multiple programs to make ends meet.
Emergency Cash Assistance
Missouri Temporary Assistance (TANF)
What it is: Monthly cash payments to help cover children’s basic needs – clothing, utilities, and other services. Missouri calls this “Temporary Assistance” (TA).
Maximum monthly amounts (as of August 2025):
| Family Size | Maximum Monthly Cash |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $121 |
| 2 people | $234 |
| 3 people | $292 |
| 4 people | $346 |
| 5 people | $405 |
Hard Reality: These amounts haven’t changed since 1991, making Missouri’s TANF the 43rd lowest in the nation. A family of three gets only $292/month – barely enough for one week of groceries.
How to Apply:
- Online: mydss.mo.gov
- Phone: 855-373-4636
- In person: Find your local FSD office
Timeline: 30-45 days for approval, then monthly payments start
Work Requirements: You must participate in Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) program unless exempt
Lifetime Limit: 45 months total – use strategically
Diversion Option: Instead of monthly payments, you can get a one-time lump sum equal to 2-3 months of benefits. Good for short-term crises if you’re working or about to start work.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about hardship exemptions if you can’t meet work requirements. Consider the diversion option if monthly amounts are too small to help.
Unemployment Insurance
Maximum weekly benefit: $320/week for up to 20 weeks Minimum weekly benefit: $35/week
How to Apply:
- Online: uinteract.labor.mo.gov
- Phone: 800-320-2519
Eligibility: Must have worked in Missouri in the past 12-18 months and lost job through no fault of your own.
Timeline: First payment typically within 2-3 weeks after filing
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal denials quickly – deadlines are strict. Ask about extended benefits during high unemployment periods.
Food Assistance Programs
SNAP (Food Stamps)
What it provides: Electronic benefits to buy groceries, loaded monthly to your EBT card.
Maximum monthly benefits (FY 2025):
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $291 |
| 2 people | $535 |
| 3 people | $768 |
| 4 people | $975 |
| 5 people | $1,155 |
| 6 people | $1,386 |
Income Limits (Monthly Gross):
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,510 |
| 2 people | $3,408 |
| 3 people | $4,304 |
| 4 people | $5,201 |
Special Rule: No income limit for households with someone over 60 or disabled
How to Apply:
- Online: mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance
- Phone: 855-373-4636
Expedited SNAP: If your household has less than $150 monthly income and less than $100 cash, OR housing costs exceed your income, you can get benefits in 7 days.
Timeline: Regular applications take 2-4 weeks after interview
What increases your benefit: Child care costs, medical expenses (if elderly/disabled), utility costs, rent/mortgage
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request “interview on demand” if your interview is delayed. Visit an FSD office for same-day help.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children)
Who qualifies: Pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5
What you get:
- Monthly food benefits for healthy foods
- Nutrition education and counseling
- Breastfeeding support
Cash Value Benefit amounts:
- Children: $25-26/month for fruits/vegetables
- Pregnant/postpartum women: $44-47/month
- Fully breastfeeding mothers: $49-52/month
Income limit: Up to 185% of Federal Poverty Level
How to Apply:
- Phone: 800-835-5465 (TEL-LINK) to find nearest clinic
- Website: Missouri WIC
Timeline: Benefits often available within 1-7 days after appointment
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for same-week appointment. If clinic is full, request referral to nearby location with openings.
Emergency Food Resources
Food Banks by Region:
- St. Louis: St. Louis Area Foodbank – 314-292-6262
- Kansas City/West-Central: Harvesters – 877-653-9519
- Southwest: Ozarks Food Harvest – 417-865-3411
- Northwest: Second Harvest – 816-364-3663
- Southeast: SEMO Food Bank – 573-471-1818
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks): $120 per child for summer 2025 for school-aged children who qualify for free/reduced lunch.
Utility Assistance
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
What it covers: Heating and cooling costs, crisis intervention for disconnections
Energy Assistance (EA) – Regular Help:
- Minimum: $153
- Maximum: $495
- One-time annual payment applied directly to your utility bill
Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) – Emergency Help:
- Winter ECIP: Up to $800 (November-May)
- Summer ECIP: Up to $300 (June-September)
Eligibility:
- At or below 60% State Median Income
- Less than $3,000 in bank/retirement accounts
- Responsible for home utility bills
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
How to Apply:
- Online: mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance/liheap
- Phone: 855-373-4636
Crisis Processing Time: 2-10 business days if funding available
Required Documents:
- Recent utility bill or disconnect notice
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income for past month
- Photo ID
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your utility for medical hardship extensions and payment plans. Call 2-1-1 for local charity utility funds (Salvation Army, Catholic Charities).
Health Coverage
MO HealthNet (Medicaid)
What it covers: Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health services, dental for children, transportation to medical appointments
Income Eligibility (as of April 2025):
| Category | Income Limit (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Adults 19-64 | Up to 138% FPL ($21,597 for individual) |
| Pregnant women | Up to 196% FPL |
| Children | Up to 300% FPL (with possible premiums) |
Monthly Income Examples:
- Individual: Up to $1,800/month
- Family of 4: Up to $3,697/month
How to Apply:
- Online: mydss.mo.gov/healthcare
- Phone: 800-392-2161
- Through HealthCare.gov
Timeline: 2-4 weeks (faster processing for pregnant applicants)
Special Services:
- Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Free rides to medical appointments
- Managed Care Plans: You’ll choose from several health plan options
What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for sliding-scale fees while your application processes. Find centers at HRSA Find a Health Center.
MO HealthNet for Kids (CHIP)
Income Limits:
- Non-SCHIP: Up to 148% FPL (no premium)
- SCHIP: Up to 300% FPL (with premium if income over 150% FPL)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for both adult and children’s coverage simultaneously. Children often qualify even if parents don’t.
Housing Assistance
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
What it provides: Rental vouchers to help pay for housing in participating properties
Income Limits: Generally up to 50% of Area Median Income, with priority for extremely low income (30% AMI)
Reality Check: Waiting lists are often months to years long. Apply to multiple housing authorities when lists open.
Major Housing Authorities:
St. Louis Region:
- St. Louis Housing Authority: 314-531-4770 – slha.org
Kansas City Region:
- Housing Authority of Kansas City: 816-968-4100 – hakc.org
Springfield:
- Springfield Housing Authority: 417-866-4329 – hasproperties.org
Columbia:
- Columbia Housing Authority: 573-443-2556 – columbiahousingauthority.org
Emergency Housing Help
Coordinated Entry System: Rapid assessment for homeless families to access:
- Emergency shelter placement
- Rapid rehousing (rental assistance + services)
- Prevention services (help before eviction)
Find your local Coordinated Entry: HUD CoC Contacts
Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC):
- Phone: 816-759-6600
- Website: mhdc.com
- Administers affordable housing programs statewide
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply to multiple housing authorities and LIHTC properties simultaneously. Consider temporary shared housing while waiting for assistance.
Work Support Programs
Child Care Subsidy
What it provides: State pays portion of child care costs to approved providers
How it works: You pay a co-pay based on income; state covers the rest
Eligibility: Working or in training/education programs
How to Apply:
- Online: mydss.mo.gov
- Phone: 855-373-4636
Transitional Child Care: Continued assistance when income increases but you still need help
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Child Care Aware of Missouri at 866-892-3228 for help finding providers and understanding options.
Missouri Work Assistance (MWA)
What it provides: Job training, work readiness, and employment support for TANF recipients
Services include:
- Individual employment planning
- Skills assessment and training
- Job search assistance
- Work-related expense help
Contact: Through your TANF caseworker or 855-373-4636
Job Centers
What they offer: Free job search help, resume assistance, training programs
Find locations: Jobs.Mo.Gov or 888-728-5627
What to do if this doesn’t work: Look into community college workforce programs and local nonprofit training organizations.
Benefit Amounts Summary Table
| Program | Maximum Monthly Benefit | Income Limit Example (Family of 3) |
|---|---|---|
| TANF Cash | $292 | Very low – varies by county |
| SNAP | $768 | $4,304 gross monthly |
| MO HealthNet | Full coverage | $2,798 monthly |
| LIHEAP (Annual) | $495 + $800 crisis | 60% State Median Income |
| Unemployment | $320/week | Must have work history |
Timeline Expectations Table
| Program | Application to Approval | First Payment/Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Expedited SNAP | 7 days | 7 days |
| Regular SNAP | 2-4 weeks | After approval |
| TANF | 30-45 days | Next month after approval |
| MO HealthNet | 2-4 weeks | Retroactive to application |
| LIHEAP Crisis | 2-10 days | Direct to utility |
| Unemployment | 2-3 weeks | After filing |
Income Eligibility Quick Reference
| Household Size | SNAP (130% FPL) | MO HealthNet (138% FPL) | WIC (185% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,510 | $1,800 | $2,430 |
| 2 people | $3,408 | $2,430 | $3,288 |
| 3 people | $4,304 | $3,061 | $4,146 |
| 4 people | $5,201 | $3,697 | $5,004 |
Monthly gross income limits as of August 2025
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Application Errors:
- Missing the interview call: Keep your phone on and answer unknown numbers from 855-373-4636
- Not reporting changes: Report income, address, or household changes within 10 days
- Forgetting deductions: List all child care costs, medical expenses, and shelter costs for SNAP
- Applying to only one housing program: Apply to multiple housing authorities and properties
Timeline Mistakes:
- Waiting to apply: Apply immediately when you lose income or get shutoff/eviction notices
- Not following up: Call if your case exceeds normal processing times
- Missing deadlines: Appeal denials within 90 days for most programs
Documentation Problems:
- Incomplete applications: Submit ALL requested documents to avoid delays
- Wrong income information: Use gross (before taxes) income for most programs
- Not keeping copies: Photo or scan everything you submit
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep detailed records of all contacts, reference numbers, and dates. Contact legal aid if you suspect errors: Legal Services of Eastern Missouri 314-534-4200, Legal Aid of Western Missouri 816-474-6750.
Diverse Communities Resources
LGBTQ+ Single Mothers
PROMO (Missouri LGBTQ+ advocacy):
- Phone: 314-862-4900
- Website: promoonline.org
- Provides referrals to inclusive healthcare providers and support services
Anti-discrimination help: Missouri Commission on Human Rights 877-781-4236 for housing/employment discrimination complaints
Healthcare: Request LGBTQ+-friendly providers through your MO HealthNet plan directory
What to do if this doesn’t work: File discrimination complaints with both state and federal agencies. Contact national LGBTQ+ legal organizations for additional support.
Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children
MO HealthNet for People with Disabilities:
- Higher income limits and special services
- Information: MO HealthNet Disability Programs
SSI/SSDI Application Help:
- Social Security: 800-772-1213
- Contact legal aid for application assistance
SNAP Medical Deduction: Report medical expenses over $35/month to increase food benefits
Reasonable Accommodations: Request telephone appointments, extended deadlines, or other accommodations for disabilities
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Disability Rights Missouri 800-392-8667 for advocacy support.
Veteran Single Mothers
Missouri Veterans Commission:
- Phone: 573-751-3779
- Website: mvc.dps.mo.gov
VA Health Care:
- VA St. Louis: 314-652-4100
- VA Kansas City: 816-861-4700
SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Rapid rehousing and prevention services – ask 2-1-1 for local SSVF programs
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your County Veterans Service Officer for help with VA claims and emergency grants.
Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers
Eligibility Restrictions: Most programs require legal status. Undocumented immigrants only qualify for:
- Emergency Medicaid
- WIC in some cases
- Local charity programs
Lawful Permanent Residents: Generally eligible after 5 years in U.S., or immediately for some programs if meet other criteria
Emergency Help: Contact local Catholic Charities and refugee resettlement agencies regardless of status
What to do if this doesn’t work: Seek assistance from immigration legal aid and ethnic community organizations that may have emergency funds.
Tribal-Specific Resources
Indian Health Service (Oklahoma City Area):
- Covers parts of Missouri
- Phone: 405-951-3820
Tribal Services: If enrolled in federally recognized tribe, contact your tribe’s social services department for additional housing and assistance programs
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use state programs while pursuing federal Indian benefits. Contact other tribal nations in the region for reciprocal services.
Rural Single Mothers
Community Action Agencies: Provide transportation, weatherization, and emergency assistance
- Find yours: Missouri Association for Community Action
Mobile Services:
- WIC mobile clinics in rural areas
- Online SNAP interviews available
Transportation Challenges: Ask about:
- Gas vouchers from Job Centers
- Medical transportation through MO HealthNet
- Rural transit systems
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact local churches and civic groups for emergency assistance. Consider carpooling networks for medical appointments.
Single Fathers
Program Eligibility: Single fathers are eligible for all the same programs as single mothers
Child Support Services:
- Phone: 866-313-9960
- Website: Missouri Child Support
Custody Documentation: May need legal custody papers to establish eligibility and benefit amounts
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact legal aid for custody assistance, which can affect benefit eligibility.
Resources by Region
St. Louis Region
Family Support Division Offices: Find FSD Offices
Housing Authority: St. Louis Housing Authority – 314-531-4770 – slha.org
Food Bank: St. Louis Area Foodbank – 314-292-6262 – stlfoodbank.org
Emergency Help: Catholic Charities of St. Louis – 314-367-5500
Legal Aid: Legal Services of Eastern Missouri – 314-534-4200 – lsem.org
Kansas City Region
Housing Authority: Housing Authority of Kansas City – 816-968-4100 – hakc.org
Food Bank: Harvesters – 877-653-9519 – harvesters.org
Emergency Help: Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph – 816-221-4377
Legal Aid: Legal Aid of Western Missouri – 816-474-6750 – lawmo.org
Springfield and Southwest Missouri
Housing Authority: Springfield Housing Authority – 417-866-4329 – hasproperties.org
Food Bank: Ozarks Food Harvest – 417-865-3411 – ozarksfoodharvest.org
Emergency Help: Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri – 417-720-4213
Legal Aid: Legal Services of Southern Missouri – 417-881-1397 – lsosm.org
Columbia/Jefferson City/Mid-Missouri
Housing Authority: Columbia Housing Authority – 573-443-2556 – columbiahousingauthority.org
Food Bank: The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri – 573-474-1020 – sharefoodbringhope.org
Legal Aid: Mid-Missouri Legal Services – 573-442-0116
St. Joseph/Northwest Missouri
Housing Authority: St. Joseph Housing Authority – 816-233-4422 – housingsj.org
Food Bank: Second Harvest Community Food Bank – 816-364-3663 – ourcommunityfoodbank.org
Legal Aid: Legal Aid of Western Missouri (St. Joseph office) – 816-364-2325
Southeast Missouri/Bootheel
Food Bank: SEMO Food Bank – 573-471-1818 – semofoodbank.org
Community Action: Bootheel Community Action Partnership – 573-334-7315 – bootheelcap.org
Legal Aid: Legal Services of Southern Missouri (Cape Girardeau) – 573-651-0050
Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)
1. How fast can I get food stamps in Missouri if I have no money?
If you have less than $150 monthly income and less than $100 cash, or your housing costs exceed your income, you may qualify for expedited SNAP. Benefits arrive within 7 days after your interview. Call 855-373-4636 and specifically request “expedited SNAP.”
2. What’s the maximum cash assistance for a family of 3 in Missouri?
$292 per month for regular TANF, or $584-876 for a one-time diversion payment. These amounts haven’t increased since 1991, making Missouri one of the lowest-paying states in the nation.
3. How long can I receive TANF in Missouri?
45 months lifetime limit, unless you qualify for hardship exemptions. Use this time strategically while building job skills and seeking other support.
4. What are the food stamp maximums for 2025?
For FY 2025 (October 2024-September 2025): 1 person $291, 2 people $535, 3 people $768, 4 people $975. These are the maximum amounts – your actual benefit depends on your income and expenses.
5. What are Missouri’s Medicaid income limits?
Adults 19-64: up to $21,597 annually ($1,800/month) for individuals. Pregnant women: up to $31,650 annually. Children have higher limits with some requiring premiums at higher incomes.
6. Can LIHEAP stop my power from being shut off?
Yes, if Emergency Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) has funding. Winter ECIP pays up to $800 (November-May), Summer ECIP up to $300 (June-September). Apply immediately at mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance/liheap.
7. How much unemployment can I get in Missouri?
Between $35-320 per week for up to 20 weeks. Amount depends on your previous earnings. File immediately at uinteract.labor.mo.gov.
8. Where do I apply for housing vouchers?
Contact your local housing authority directly. Lists open and close unpredictably. Apply to multiple authorities and check HUD Resource Locator for properties accepting applications now.
9. Can I get child care help while working or going to school?
Yes, Missouri’s Child Care Subsidy helps with costs. You pay a co-pay based on income. Apply at mydss.mo.gov or call 855-373-4636.
10. Is there a way to get a big cash payment instead of monthly TANF?
Ask about TANF “Diversion” – a one-time payment equal to 2-3 months of benefits for short-term crises. You can only get this once per 12 months and must have a qualifying reason (job loss, medical emergency, domestic violence, etc.).
Real-World Examples
Example 1: Sarah – Single mom, 2 kids, lost job, facing eviction
Situation: Recently unemployed, $1,200 behind on rent, disconnection notice for electricity
Immediate Actions:
- File for unemployment benefits immediately at uinteract.labor.mo.gov
- Apply for expedited SNAP (likely qualifies with no income)
- Apply for LIHEAP ECIP for electricity crisis
- Contact local Coordinated Entry for eviction prevention
- Apply for TANF and consider diversion option for immediate help
Expected Timeline:
- Unemployment: 2-3 weeks for first payment
- SNAP: 7 days if expedited
- LIHEAP: 2-10 days if funding available
- Eviction prevention: Varies by program availability
Example 2: Maria – Working part-time, 1 infant, struggling with bills
Situation: Earns $1,400/month, paying $800 rent, behind on utilities
Programs to Apply For:
- SNAP (likely qualifies for partial benefits)
- WIC for infant nutrition support
- MO HealthNet for child and possibly herself
- LIHEAP for utility assistance
- Child care subsidy when ready to increase work hours
Expected Benefits:
- SNAP: Approximately $300-400/month (depends on rent/utilities)
- WIC: $25-26/month food benefits plus education
- LIHEAP: Up to $495 annual plus crisis help if needed
Example 3: Jennifer – Fleeing domestic violence with 3 children
Situation: Left home with children, staying in shelter, no income
Priority Actions:
- Contact National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 for safety planning
- Apply for expedited SNAP immediately (qualifies with no income)
- Request “good cause” exemption for TANF child support cooperation requirements
- Apply for MO HealthNet for family (pregnant women get priority processing)
- Contact Coordinated Entry for rapid rehousing assistance
Special Considerations:
- Can request confidential address for all benefits
- May qualify for priority housing assistance
- Child support cooperation can be waived for safety reasons
What to Do If Plans Fail (Plan B Options)
When benefits are denied or delayed:
- SNAP denial: Request fair hearing within 90 days. Contact legal aid for help with appeals.
- TANF work requirements: Ask about hardship exemptions for domestic violence, disability, or caring for disabled family member.
- LIHEAP funds exhausted: Contact utility for medical hardship extensions, ask 2-1-1 for local charity funds.
- Housing waitlists full: Apply to multiple authorities, consider temporary shared housing, contact churches for emergency housing funds.
Emergency cash while waiting for benefits:
- Ask local Community Action Agency for emergency assistance
- Contact Salvation Army, Catholic Charities for one-time help
- Check if child support office can advance pending payments
- Sell items online through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist
Medical care without insurance:
- Visit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with sliding fees: Find a Health Center
- Ask hospital billing department for “charity care” applications
- Contact pharmaceutical companies for prescription assistance programs
Transportation for job interviews/appointments:
- Ask Job Center for gas vouchers or bus passes
- Request medical transportation through MO HealthNet if enrolled
- Contact local churches for volunteer driver programs
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep detailed records of all denials and delays. Contact your state representative’s office for help with state agencies. Consider filing complaints with Missouri Department of Social Services.
Resumen en Español
Esta sección en español fue traducida por inteligencia artificial. Para información oficial, consulte las fuentes en inglés listadas en esta guía.
Programas Principales de Asistencia en Missouri:
SNAP (Cupones de Alimentos):
- Beneficios máximos: 1 persona $291/mes, 3 personas $768/mes, 4 personas $975/mes
- Solicite en: mydss.mo.gov o llame 855-373-4636
- SNAP de emergencia: 7 días si califica
Asistencia Temporal (TANF) – Dinero en Efectivo:
- Máximo para familia de 3: $292/mes
- Límite de por vida: 45 meses
- Opción de pago único: $584-876 una vez cada 12 meses
MO HealthNet (Medicaid):
- Adultos 19-64: hasta $21,597 anuales ($1,800/mes)
- Mujeres embarazadas: hasta $31,650 anuales
- Solicite: mydss.mo.gov/healthcare o 800-392-2161
LIHEAP (Asistencia con Servicios Públicos):
- Crisis de invierno: hasta $800 (noviembre-mayo)
- Crisis de verano: hasta $300 (junio-septiembre)
- Solicite: mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance/liheap
WIC (Mujeres, Bebés y Niños):
- Para mujeres embarazadas, madres lactantes, niños menores de 5 años
- Llame 800-835-5465 para encontrar clínica
Números de Emergencia:
- Ayuda general: 2-1-1
- Violencia doméstica: 800-799-7233
- Todas las solicitudes: 855-373-4636
This Spanish section was translated by artificial intelligence. For official information, consult the English sources listed in this guide.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Missouri Department of Social 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: August 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 48 hours.
Sources verified include:
- Missouri Department of Social Services
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service
- HUD Resource Locator
- Missouri Housing Development Commission
- National Center for Children in Poverty
- Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Disclaimer
Program details, benefit amounts, and eligibility requirements change frequently. While we strive for accuracy, this guide is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee eligibility or benefit amounts. Always verify current information directly with the relevant Missouri agencies using the official links and phone numbers provided throughout this guide.
Individual circumstances vary, and actual benefits may differ from the amounts shown. For official eligibility determinations and current program details, contact Missouri Family Support Division at 855-373-4636 or visit mydss.mo.gov.
This guide does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance related to your situation.
🏛️More Missouri Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Missouri
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
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- 🎖️ 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
- 🤝 Community Support
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- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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- 🏡 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
