Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Wyoming

Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by Rachel

Last updated: August 2025 | Contact information verified: August 24, 2025
Sources: Wyoming Department of Family Services, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Wyoming Department of Health, Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

⚠️ Important: Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. SNAP benefits update in October each year, and HUD income limits change annually. State programs may change with budget cycles. Always verify current information with the specific agency before making decisions based on this guide.

Quick Help – Need Assistance Today?

Life-threatening emergency: Call 911
Need shelter tonight: Call 211 or text your location to 211
Out of food: Apply for SNAP at MyWyo.gov – emergency benefits in 7 days
Power being shut off: Call LIEAP at 800-246-4221 immediately for crisis assistance
Eviction notice: Call Legal Aid of Wyoming at 307-777-7956 right now
Lost your job: File unemployment at wyui.wyo.gov or 307-235-3200
Need health coverage: Apply at wesystem.wyo.gov or call 855-294-2127
Pregnant or have kids under 5: Call WIC at 888-996-9378 for food help
Domestic violence: Call 1-800-799-7233 (24/7 confidential hotline)

If nothing above works: Call 211 and ask for a “warm handoff” to another agency that can help today.

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Within 24 Hours

Apply for SNAP benefits online at MyWyo.gov. If your income is under $150 this month and you have less than $100 in cash, ask for “expedited SNAP” – you can get benefits within 7 days.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5, call WIC at 888-996-9378. You can often get a same-day appointment and immediate food benefits if you qualify.

Stop a Utility Shutoff Right Now

Call your power company and ask for a “hardship extension” – many give you 10-30 days
Call LIEAP crisis assistance at 800-246-4221 immediately and mention “disconnect notice”
Bring your shutoff notice to the appointment or email a photo

Keep Your Housing

Call 211 for emergency shelter and rental assistance programs
If you received an eviction notice, call Legal Aid of Wyoming at 307-777-7956 for emergency legal help
Ask about local Community Action Programs that provide one-time rental assistance

Get Cash Quickly

Apply for TANF (POWER) at MyWyo.gov. Wyoming’s POWER program provides monthly cash while you work on becoming self-sufficient.

If you lost your job, file for unemployment benefits immediately at wyui.wyo.gov. Wyoming pays $45-$624 per week for up to 26 weeks.

Reality Check: Getting help isn’t instant. SNAP takes 7-30 days. POWER takes 2-4 weeks. Unemployment takes 2-3 weeks. Plan for this delay and ask every agency about emergency funds while you wait.

Main Points You Need to Know

Apply the same day for multiple programs – SNAP, WIC, POWER, and Medicaid use overlapping income rules
Ask specifically for expedited processing when your situation is urgent
Keep copies of everything – take photos of documents with your phone as backup
Report changes immediately – income, address, or household changes within 10 days to avoid problems
Most programs have work requirements – understand them before you apply
Wyoming didn’t expand Medicaid – most adults without children don’t qualify for health coverage unless pregnant
Housing voucher waiting lists are extremely long – apply to multiple programs and areas

Don’t expect miracles: Wyoming has limited funding for many programs, and rural distances can make accessing services difficult. Plan for delays and apply to everything you might qualify for.

Emergency Cash and Food Programs

SNAP (Food Assistance) (Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services, October 2024)

What it is: Monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT card to buy groceries. Wyoming follows federal SNAP rules with some state-specific policies.

How much you can get: Maximum benefits as of October 2024: $291/month for one person, $535/month for two people, $766/month for three people, and $975/month for four people. Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services SNAP Income Limits

Income limits (Wyoming DFS, effective October 2024 through September 2025):

Household Size	Max Monthly Income	Max SNAP Benefit
1 person	$1,580	$291
2 people	$2,137	$535
3 people	$2,694	$766
4 people	$3,250	$975

How to apply:

Go to MyWyo.gov
Complete application online (takes 20-30 minutes)
Upload photos of your ID, pay stubs, rent receipt, and utility bills
Answer the phone when they call for your interview (usually within 1-2 weeks)

Timeline: Regular SNAP takes up to 30 days. Emergency SNAP takes 7 days if you qualify.

Documents needed:

Photo ID for adults
Social Security cards for everyone
Last 30 days of pay stubs (if working)
Rent receipt or lease
Recent utility bills

Reality check: Most families don’t get the maximum amount. SNAP reduces gradually as your income increases. If you work, expect roughly $200-400/month for a family of three.

TANF/POWER (Cash Help) (Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services, 2025)

What it is: Personal Opportunities with Employment Responsibilities (POWER) provides temporary cash assistance for families in need. You must participate in work activities once approved.

How much you can get: For example, a family of three with no income and little resources could receive monthly cash assistance in the amount of $869. Note: Benefit amounts are calculated based on family size, income, and other factors.

POWER Payment Schedule (Wyoming Department of Family Services, 2025)

Family Size	Monthly Cash Estimate
1 person	$400-500
2 people	$550-650
3 people	$700-869
4 people	$800-1,000

Income limits: Your countable income must be less than $1,469 a month for a single-parent family of three. Resource limit is $5,000 for most families.

How to apply:

Apply at MyWyo.gov (same application as SNAP)
Attend required interview
Agree to participate in work activities (up to 40 hours/week of work or training)

Timeline: Interview within 1-2 weeks, decision within 2-4 weeks, first payment the following month if approved.

Reality check: All eligible families in Wyoming receive at least 24 months of assistance through Wyoming POWER but no more than 60 months in a lifetime.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

What it is: Special food packages for pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5. Includes formula, fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and cereal.

How much you can get: Cash value benefits for fresh produce vary by category, with benefit cards that participants can take to local stores to save money as they buy nutritious foods.

Income limits: Up to 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines. For a family of three, that’s approximately $4,255/month as of 2025.

WIC Income Limits (2025):

Household Size	Max Monthly Income
1 person	$2,298
2 people	$3,102
3 people	$3,905
4 people	$4,709

How to apply: Call 888-996-9378 or contact your county health department. You’ll need an appointment for a health screening.

Timeline: Often same week if appointments are available.

Automatic qualification: Families already using SNAP, TANF or Wyoming Medicaid benefits also qualify for WIC.

Health Coverage Options

Medicaid for Different Groups (Wyoming Department of Health, 2025)

Pregnant Women: Income eligible at or below 154% of the Federal Poverty Level. Wyoming Medicaid’s Pregnant Women programs provide health coverage for eligible pregnant women for up to 12 months post-partum.

Children: The Medicaid income limit for children up to 18 years old is 205% of the federal poverty level. Children may qualify for ALL Kids (CHIP) with household incomes up to 200% of poverty level.

Parents: Parents with dependent children are eligible with household incomes up to 56% of poverty. This is about $1,135/month for a family of three as of 2025.

Adults without children: Wyoming is one of only ten states where Medicaid still has not been expanded as of 2025. Most adults without children cannot get Medicaid unless they’re elderly, disabled, or pregnant.

How to apply: Apply at wesystem.wyo.gov or call 855-294-2127.

Reality check: An estimated 9,000 individuals are in the coverage gap, meaning they essentially have no access to coverage. They don’t qualify for Medicaid because the state hasn’t implemented Medicaid expansion, but they also don’t qualify for Marketplace subsidies because their income is too low.

Housing Assistance Programs

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

What it is: Federal rental assistance where you pay 30% of your income toward rent and the program covers the rest, up to local payment standards.

Income limits: Must be “very low income” – typically 50% of area median income. In Laramie County (Cheyenne), that’s about $31,000/year for a family of three as of 2025.

How much help: You typically pay 30% of your income toward rent. For example, if you earn $1,500/month, you’d pay about $450 and the program covers the rest.

Reality check: Due to high demand, many housing authorities maintain waiting lists for Section 8 vouchers. Wait times vary by county and local demand, ranging from 6 months to over 2 years.

How to apply:

Contact your local Public Housing Authority using HUD’s directory
Apply when waiting lists open (they announce this on their websites)
Apply to multiple PHAs to improve your chances

Major Wyoming Housing Resources:

Cheyenne: Housing Authority of the City of Cheyenne – 307-635-8303
Casper: Casper Housing Authority – 307-577-1206
Laramie: Laramie Housing Authority – 307-721-5155
Rock Springs: Housing Authority of Sweetwater County – 307-352-1477

Emergency Housing Assistance

Call 211 for:

Emergency shelter placement
Rapid rehousing (short-term rent assistance)
Deposit and utility connection assistance
Homeless prevention programs

Work and Training Support

Unemployment Benefits (Source: Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, 2025)

How much you can get: As of July 7, 2024, the weekly benefit can range from a minimum of $45 to a maximum of $624. These amounts can change each year because they’re calculated using a formula based on Wyoming’s average weekly wage.

How long: You can receive full unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks during your benefit year.

How to apply:

File online at wyui.wyo.gov
Call 307-235-3200 if you can’t apply online
You must contact at least 2 employers per week to maintain benefits

Timeline: First payment typically comes 2-3 weeks after filing.

Job Training and Support

If you’re on POWER, you must participate in work activities – up to 40 hours per week of work activities, job training, or education.

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Career Centers:

Free job search assistance
Skills training programs
Help with resumes and interviews
Find locations at dws.wyo.gov

Utility Assistance

LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program) (Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services, 2025)

What it is: LIEAP is a federally funded program that helps eligible, hard-working Wyoming families, seniors and individuals pay a portion of their winter home heating costs.

How much you can get: LIHEAP FY 2025 Benefit Heating: $49 minimum, $2,176 maximum Winter Crisis: $550 maximum

Application period: Oct. 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026

Crisis assistance: LIEAP is able to respond to emergencies and act proactively to avoid serious problems. Crisis assistance includes utility deposits, disconnect/shutoff notices, broken heating systems, propane tank sets, and tank fills.

Income limits: Household income not exceeding 60% of the state’s median income.

How to apply:

Apply online at LIEAP Portal
Call 800-246-4221 for assistance
Email lieapinfo@wyo.gov

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Single Mom, Two Kids, Earning $2,000/Month

What she could qualify for:

SNAP: About $300-400/month (reduced due to income)
WIC: If kids under 5, benefits for nutritious foods
Medicaid for children: Yes
Medicaid for mom: No (income too high)
POWER: No (income too high)
LIEAP: Possibly for heating assistance

Reality: She’d get some food and heating help but struggle with rent and her own healthcare.

Example 2: Pregnant Woman, No Job, Living Alone

What she could qualify for:

SNAP: Expedited processing, up to $291/month
WIC: Benefits for nutritious foods during pregnancy
Medicaid pregnancy coverage: Yes
POWER: Likely eligible for cash assistance
LIEAP: Yes for heating costs

Timeline: SNAP in 7 days, WIC same week, Medicaid in 2-3 weeks.

Example 3: Recently Lost Job, One Child, Was Earning $2,400/Month

What she could qualify for:

Unemployment: $300-500/week for 26 weeks
SNAP: About $400-500/month initially
Medicaid for child: Yes
Medicaid for mom: No
Emergency rent assistance: Maybe through local programs

Key: File for unemployment immediately – it’s based on when you file, not when you lost the job.

Specific Resources for Different Situations

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Apply for all programs normally – sexual orientation and gender identity don’t affect eligibility
If you face discrimination, document it (worker name, date, time) and request a supervisor
Contact Wyoming Equality at 307-778-7645 for support if needed

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

If you receive SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid
SNAP has special rules for households with disabled members – higher income limits possible
Ask about “child-only” POWER if your child gets SSI
Priority for housing assistance may be available

Veteran Single Mothers

Ask about HUD-VASH vouchers (housing for homeless veterans) through VA and local housing authorities
Contact Cheyenne VA at 307-778-7550 for veteran-specific programs
May qualify for expedited services through some programs

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

Qualified immigrants may be eligible after 5-year waiting period
Refugees, asylees, and trafficking victims often qualify immediately
Emergency services (like emergency Medicaid) may be available regardless of status
Contact local refugee resettlement agencies for guidance

Tribal Members

Can use both state programs and tribal-specific resources
Contact your tribal housing office in addition to applying to state housing authorities
Indian Health Service facilities may be available for healthcare
Wind River Reservation residents have additional resources

Rural Single Mothers

Use 211 to find mobile services that visit rural areas
Some programs have telehealth or phone appointment options
Transportation may be provided for required appointments
Internet access required for many applications – check public libraries

Single Fathers

All programs listed here are available to single fathers with custody
“Caretaker relative” includes fathers, grandparents, guardians
Don’t be discouraged if staff seem surprised – you have the same rights

Wyoming Assistance by Region

Cheyenne/Laramie County

DFS Office: 2300 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne – 307-777-7747
Housing Authority: Housing Authority of the City of Cheyenne – 307-635-8303
WIC: Laramie County Health Department – 307-633-4000
Legal Services: Legal Aid of Wyoming – 307-777-7956

Casper/Natrona County

DFS Office: 220 West 2nd Street, Casper – 307-473-3900
Housing Authority: Casper Housing Authority – 307-577-1206
WIC: Natrona County Health Department – 307-235-9340

Laramie/Albany County

DFS Office: 1361 North 15th Street, Laramie – 307-721-6962
Housing Authority: Laramie Housing Authority – 307-721-5155
WIC: Albany County Health Department – 307-721-1804

Rock Springs/Sweetwater County

DFS Office: 79 Winston Drive, Rock Springs – 307-352-6183
Housing Authority: Housing Authority of Sweetwater County – 307-352-1477
WIC: Sweetwater County Health Department – 307-352-6775

Gillette/Campbell County

DFS Office: 146 S. Bent, Gillette – 307-687-1430
WIC: Campbell County Health Department – 307-688-1164

Program Comparison Table

Program	Max Monthly Benefit	Income Limit (Family of 3)	How Long to Get Help
SNAP	$766	$2,694/month	7-30 days
POWER	$700-869	$1,469/month	2-4 weeks
WIC	Varies by need	$3,905/month	Same week
Unemployment	$2,496/month ($624/week)	Based on past wages	2-3 weeks
LIEAP	$2,176 heating/$550 crisis	60% state median income	Same day-2 weeks

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Benefits

SNAP/POWER Mistakes

Not answering unknown calls: DFS often calls from blocked numbers for interviews
Missing the interview: Reschedule immediately if you can’t make it
Not reporting expedited need: Specifically ask for “expedited SNAP” if you qualify
Incomplete documents: Take photos of everything as backup

Housing Mistakes

Applying to only one housing authority: Apply everywhere you’re willing to live
Not updating contact information: You’ll lose your place if they can’t reach you
Waiting for “perfect” timing: Apply even if lists are closed – they’ll put you on the next opening

General Mistakes

Not keeping copies: Always save confirmation numbers and emails
Not reporting changes: Income or address changes must be reported within 10 days
Giving up too quickly: If denied, you can often appeal or reapply with more documentation

What to Do If You’re Denied

Request written reason for denial
File appeal within deadline (usually 30 days) if you disagree
Ask for “aid pending” to continue benefits during appeal when allowed
Get help from Legal Aid of Wyoming: 307-777-7956

When Programs Don’t Work – Plan B Options

If SNAP is denied or delayed:

Contact Food Bank of Wyoming at 307-265-2172 for local food pantries
Ask churches about emergency food assistance
Look into Salvation Army and local soup kitchens

If housing assistance isn’t available:

Negotiate payment plan with landlord in writing
Ask family/friends about temporary housing
Contact domestic violence shelters if that applies (they help all women in crisis)
Look into transitional housing programs through 211

If utilities are being shut off:

Ask utility company for budget billing plan
Get doctor’s note for medical necessity extension if anyone has health conditions
Contact churches and local charities for one-time bill assistance

If you can’t find work:

Consider seasonal work (tourism, agriculture, mining support)
Ask current/former employers about temporary or part-time positions
Check with temp agencies for same-week work
Look into online remote work opportunities

Emergency mindset: When you’re in crisis, accept help that gets you through today. You can make longer-term plans once you’re stable.

Timeline Expectations – Be Realistic

Week 1

Apply for SNAP, POWER, Medicaid online
Call WIC for appointment
File unemployment if applicable
Contact 211 for emergency assistance

Week 2-3

Attend SNAP/POWER interview
WIC appointment and first benefits
First unemployment payment (if approved)
Emergency assistance decisions

Month 2-3

Regular SNAP benefits begin
POWER decision and first payment
Medicaid coverage starts
Begin required work activities

Month 6+

Review and recertify for ongoing programs
Housing assistance applications may start moving
Job training programs may be available

Managing expectations: Getting stable takes months, not days. Focus on immediate needs first (food, shelter, utilities) then work on longer-term stability.

Common Questions Single Moms Ask

“Can I get help if I work?”

Yes, but income limits vary by program. SNAP and WIC have higher income limits than POWER. Working actually helps you qualify for child care assistance and some housing programs.

“What if I don’t have all the documents?”

Apply anyway with what you have. Upload or bring additional documents later. Ask about “good cause” exceptions if you’re fleeing domestic violence or other crisis situations.

“How much can I earn and keep benefits?”

Each program is different. SNAP reduces gradually as income increases. POWER has strict limits. WIC income limits are more generous. Report all changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments.

“Can I get help if I live in a rural area?”

Yes, but services may be harder to access. Some programs offer phone appointments, mobile services, or mileage reimbursement. Call 211 for transportation assistance.

“What if I have a car payment or debt?”

Car payments don’t usually count as allowable deductions for SNAP. Student loans in deferment don’t count. Child support payments you make DO count as deductions.

“How long can I get help?”

SNAP: As long as you meet requirements (recertify every 6-12 months) POWER: 60-month lifetime limit
WIC: Until child turns 5, or 1 year postpartum Unemployment: 26 weeks maximum Section 8: No time limit if you follow program rules

“What if I’m denied?”

You can appeal most decisions within 30 days. Get help from Legal Aid of Wyoming (307-777-7956). Sometimes it’s just missing paperwork or a misunderstanding.

“Can I apply if I’m undocumented?”

Emergency services are available regardless of immigration status. Your U.S. citizen children can get benefits even if you can’t. For SNAP and POWER, only qualified immigrants and U.S. citizens can apply, but emergency Medicaid covers childbirth and emergency medical care.

Language assistance: Wyoming DFS provides interpreters and translated documents for major programs. Call the main DFS number (307-777-7564) and ask for language assistance in your preferred language.

Resources Directory

Statewide Helplines

211 Wyoming: Dial 211 or text your location to 211
Wyoming DFS: 307-777-7564 / 800-457-3659
Wyoming Medicaid: 855-294-2127
Kid Care CHIP: 855-294-2127
WIC: 888-996-9378
Unemployment: 307-235-3200
Legal Aid of Wyoming: 307-777-7956

Crisis Support

Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Wyoming Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Online Applications

SNAP/POWER/Medicaid: MyWyo.gov
Health Coverage: wesystem.wyo.gov
Unemployment: wyui.wyo.gov
LIEAP: LIEAP Portal

Document Help

Vital Records (Birth Certificates): health.wyo.gov
Social Security Cards: ssa.gov or 1-800-772-1213
Wyoming ID/Driver’s License: dot.state.wy.us

Important Warnings and Reality Checks

About Benefit Amounts

Wyoming provides modest assistance compared to some states, but every bit helps. Don’t expect these programs alone to solve your financial problems – think of them as a foundation while you build stability.

About Waiting Times

Rural distances and limited staff can mean longer wait times. Section 8 waiting lists are years long. Even SNAP can take the full 30 days. Plan accordingly and don’t rely on just one program.

About Work Requirements

Most programs require you to work or participate in job training. Wyoming takes these requirements seriously and will cut benefits if you don’t comply. Understand what’s expected before you apply.

About Weather and Seasonal Work

Wyoming’s harsh winters can make accessing services difficult, but they also increase eligibility for heating assistance. Summer seasonal work in tourism can help bridge income gaps.

About Income Reporting

Report ALL income – cash jobs, child support, help from family, unemployment benefits. Programs share information with each other. What looks like unreported income to one program can get you in trouble with all of them.

Detailed Benefit Tables

SNAP Benefit Amounts and Income Limits (FY2025)

Source: Wyoming Department of Family Services, October 2024

Household Size	Max Monthly SNAP	Gross Income Limit (130% FPL)	Net Income Limit (100% FPL)
1 person	$291	$1,580	$1,215
2 people	$535	$2,137	$1,644
3 people	$766	$2,694	$2,072
4 people	$975	$3,250	$2,500
5 people	$1,158	$3,807	$2,929
6 people	$1,390	$4,364	$3,357

LIEAP (Energy Assistance) Benefits

Source: The LIHEAP Clearinghouse, FY 2025

Assistance Type	Minimum Benefit	Maximum Benefit	Availability
Heating Assistance	$49	$2,176	October 1 – May 31
Winter Crisis	N/A	$550	October 1 – April 15
Weatherization	N/A	$12,000	Year-round

Unemployment Benefits

Source: Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, 2024

Weekly Benefit Range	Duration	Total Potential
$45 – $624	Up to 26 weeks	$1,170 – $16,224

WIC Income Guidelines (2025-2026)

Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, March 2025

Household Size	Max Annual Income	Max Monthly Income
1 person	$27,576	$2,298
2 people	$37,224	$3,102
3 people	$46,872	$3,906
4 people	$56,508	$4,709
5 people	$66,156	$5,513

Medicaid Income Limits by Category

Source: Wyoming Department of Health, 2025

Category	Income Limit (% of FPL)	Family of 3 Monthly
Pregnant Women	154% FPL	~$3,192
Children	205% FPL	~$4,248
Parents/Caretakers	56% FPL	~$1,161
Adults without children	Not expanded	N/A

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for SNAP and POWER (Same Application)

Step 1: Go to MyWyo.gov

Step 2: Create account with email and password

Step 3: Complete application (20-30 minutes)

Step 4: Upload documents:

Photo ID for all adults
Social Security cards for everyone
Proof of income (pay stubs, unemployment, child support)
Rent receipt or lease agreement
Utility bills from last 30 days

Step 5: Submit application

Step 6: Answer phone for interview (1-2 weeks)

Step 7: Provide any additional documents requested

Step 8: Receive decision by mail/email

Timeline: SNAP expedited (7 days) or regular (30 days), POWER (2-4 weeks)

Applying for Medicaid and Kid Care CHIP

Step 1: Go to wesystem.wyo.gov

Step 2: Complete health coverage application

Step 3: Provide income and household information

Step 4: Submit and wait for decision

Timeline: 15-45 days for most cases, faster for pregnancy-related coverage

Applying for WIC

Step 1: Call 888-996-9378 or contact local health department

Step 2: Schedule appointment for health screening

Step 3: Bring required documents to appointment

Step 4: Meet with nutritionist for assessment

Step 5: Receive benefits same day if approved

Timeline: Often same week

Applying for Unemployment

Step 1: Go to wyui.wyo.gov immediately after job loss

Step 2: Create account and file initial claim

Step 3: Provide employer information for last 18 months

Step 4: Complete weekly certifications

Timeline: First payment 2-3 weeks after filing

Applying for LIEAP (Energy Assistance)

Step 1: Go to LIEAP Portal

Step 2: Complete online application (October 1 – April 30)

Step 3: Upload utility bills and shutoff notices

Step 4: For crisis assistance, call 800-246-4221 immediately

Timeline: Regular benefits processed within 2 weeks, crisis assistance within 18 hours

What Documents You’ll Need

Keep these documents organized and make copies:

For All Programs:

Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID)
Social Security cards for all household members
Birth certificates for children
Proof of Wyoming residency (utility bill, lease)

For Income Verification:

Pay stubs from last 30 days
Unemployment benefit statement
Self-employment records
Child support documentation
Social Security/SSI award letters
Bank statements

For Housing/Utilities:

Rent receipt or lease agreement
Mortgage statement
Utility bills (electric, gas, water, trash)
Property tax statements
Homeowner’s/renter’s insurance

For Expenses:

Child care receipts
Medical bills and receipts
Prescription costs
Transportation expenses for work/school

Pro Tip: Take photos of all documents with your smartphone as backup. Keep physical copies in a folder you can grab quickly.

Appeals Process – Know Your Rights

If You’re Denied Benefits:

Step 1: Read the denial letter carefully

Note the specific reason for denial
Check the appeal deadline (usually 30 days)
Look for what additional information might help

Step 2: Gather additional evidence

Get missing documents
Obtain verification letters from employers/landlords
Collect medical records if relevant

Step 3: File your appeal in writing

State that you disagree with the decision
Include your case number and contact information
Attach any new supporting documents
Mail or deliver by the deadline

Step 4: Prepare for your hearing

Contact Legal Aid of Wyoming (307-777-7956) for help
Organize your documents
Bring witnesses if helpful
Arrive on time and dress appropriately

Important: For SNAP and Medicaid, you may be able to continue receiving benefits while your appeal is pending. Ask about “aid pending” when you file your appeal.

Emergency Resources by County

Albany County (Laramie)

DFS Office: 1361 North 15th Street, Laramie, WY 82072 – 307-721-6962
Food Bank: Interfaith Good Samaritan – 307-721-5244
Shelter: Interfaith Good Samaritan – 307-721-5244
Legal Aid: Legal Aid of Wyoming – 307-777-7956

Campbell County (Gillette)

DFS Office: 146 South Bent Street, Gillette, WY 82716 – 307-687-1430
Community Action: Action for Rural Wyoming – 307-674-4444
Food Assistance: Gillette Area Food Bank – 307-682-5447

Carbon County (Rawlins)

DFS Office: 808 Higley Boulevard, Rawlins, WY 82301 – 307-324-2142
Emergency Services: Carbon County Resource Center – 307-324-3176

Fremont County (Riverton/Lander)

DFS Office Riverton: 412 Lincoln Avenue, Riverton, WY 82501 – 307-856-6766
DFS Office Lander: 1811 Main Street, Lander, WY 82520 – 307-332-1100
Tribal Services: Eastern Shoshone Family Services – 307-332-3532

Laramie County (Cheyenne)

DFS Office: 2300 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82002 – 307-777-7747
Food Bank: Food Bank of Laramie County – 307-635-3432
Shelter: Comea House (domestic violence) – 307-637-7233
Emergency Assistance: Community Action of Laramie County – 307-635-9291

Natrona County (Casper)

DFS Office: 220 West 2nd Street, Casper, WY 82601 – 307-473-3900
Food Bank: Food Bank of Wyoming – 307-265-2172
Emergency Shelter: Salvation Army – 307-235-8550
Domestic Violence: SAFE Project – 307-235-2814

Sweetwater County (Rock Springs/Green River)

DFS Office: 79 Winston Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901 – 307-352-6183
Emergency Assistance: Community Action of Sweetwater County – 307-352-6682
Food Bank: Sweetwater County Food Bank – 307-382-1040

Teton County (Jackson)

DFS Office: 420 West Pearl Avenue, Jackson, WY 83001 – 307-733-3960
Emergency Assistance: Community Resource Center – 307-733-0801
Food Bank: Jackson Hole Community Food Pantry – 307-733-1971

Special Circumstances

If You’re Homeless

Apply for programs using a shelter address or general delivery
Ask about expedited processing for all programs
Medicaid has special provisions for homeless individuals
Contact 211 for immediate shelter placement

If You’re Fleeing Domestic Violence

You can claim “good cause” to avoid cooperating with child support enforcement
Ask DFS to mark your case confidential
Emergency Medicaid may be available immediately
Domestic violence shelters can help with benefit applications
Contact Wyoming’s domestic violence hotline: 1-800-799-7233

If You Have No Transportation

Ask about phone interviews instead of in-person appointments
Some programs provide mileage reimbursement for required visits
Check if mobile services visit your area
211 may have transportation assistance programs

If You Don’t Speak English

All major programs provide interpreter services
Ask for language assistance when you call
Documents can be translated
Bring a trusted friend or family member if needed

If You’re Under 18

Minors can apply for benefits on their own behalf and for their children
You may need different documentation
Emancipated minors have the same rights as adults
School liaisons may be able to help with applications

Final Tips for Success

Building Your Support Network

Connect with other single mothers through local groups
Attend community meetings and resource fairs
Build relationships with caseworkers by being respectful and prepared
Consider volunteering when you’re stable – it builds connections and job skills

Managing Multiple Programs

Keep a calendar of recertification dates
Set phone reminders for reporting requirements
Keep all paperwork organized in one place
Report changes to ALL programs at once

Planning for the Future

Use benefit time to gain job skills through training programs
Save small amounts when possible for emergencies
Build credit slowly and carefully
Consider long-term goals like homeownership or higher education

Staying Motivated

Remember that receiving help shows strength, not weakness
These programs are investments in your family’s future
Many successful people have used these same programs
Your situation is temporary – keep working toward your goals

Remember: Getting help is not just about surviving today – it’s about building a foundation for a better tomorrow for you and your children.

Disclaimer

Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. This guide provides general information as of August 2025, but you should always verify current requirements with the specific agency before applying. Contact information and program availability can change without notice.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For legal questions about benefits, appeals, or eligibility, contact Legal Aid of Wyoming at 307-777-7956.

The information in this guide comes from official government sources, but errors can occur. Always check with the agency directly for the most current and accurate information about your specific situation.

When in doubt, apply anyway. It’s better to try and be denied than to assume you don’t qualify and miss out on help you need.

Resumen en Español – Ayuda de Emergencia para Madres Solteras en Wyoming

Ayuda Inmediata (Llame Hoy)

Emergencia: Llame 911
Necesita refugio: Llame 211 o envíe mensaje de texto con su ubicación al 211
Sin comida: Solicite SNAP en MyWyo.gov – beneficios en 7 días
Van a cortar la luz: Llame LIEAP al 800-246-4221
Perdió su trabajo: Solicite desempleo en wyui.wyo.gov o 307-235-3200
Embarazada o niños menores de 5 años: Llame WIC al 888-996-9378

Programas Principales

SNAP (Cupones de Comida): Hasta $975/mes para familia de 4. Solicite en MyWyo.gov

POWER (Ayuda en Efectivo): Hasta $869/mes para familia de 3. Bajos ingresos requeridos.

WIC (Mujeres, Bebés, Niños): Comida especial para embarazadas y niños menores de 5.

Medicaid: Cobertura médica para embarazadas, niños, y padres de muy bajos ingresos.

LIEAP: Ayuda con facturas de calefacción hasta $2,176/año.

Números Importantes

DFS Wyoming: 307-777-7564 (servicios de traducción disponibles)
Medicaid: 855-294-2127
WIC: 888-996-9378
Desempleo: 307-235-3200
Servicios Legales: 307-777-7956

Nota: Todos estos programas requieren documentos. Los niños ciudadanos estadounidenses pueden calificar aunque los padres sean indocumentados.

About This Guide

Compiled by ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Wyoming Department of Family Services, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Wyoming Department of Health, and Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.

This comprehensive resource is produced following our editorial standards using only official government sources and established nonprofit organizations. While carefully researched and regularly updated, this guide is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed as program rules and funding availability change frequently.

Last verified: August 2025
Next review: February 2026

Despite our careful verification process, errors may occur. Email corrections to info@asinglemother.org and we respond within 48 hours to serve Wyoming families better.

Official Sources

This guide references current policies and benefit amounts from:

Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) – dfs.wyo.gov
USDA Food and Nutrition Service – fns.usda.gov
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – hud.gov
Wyoming Department of Health – health.wyo.gov
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – dws.wyo.gov
Legal Aid of Wyoming – lawyoming.org
Wyoming 211 – wyoming211.org

This guide represents the most current information available as of August 2025. Always verify program details with official sources before making important decisions. Wyoming families deserve accurate, helpful information during difficult times.

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