Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Resources for Single Mothers in New York

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help Box

• Emergency mental health now: Call or text 988 for free 24/7 crisis support. (samhsa.gov, fcc.gov)
• Need a breast pump today: Call the NYS DOH Growing Up Healthy Hotline 1-800-522-5006 to find the nearest WIC office or lactation help. (health.ny.gov)
• Uninsured and pregnant: Call NY State of Health 1-855-355-5777 for free enrollment help; ask about Medicaid for pregnancy and postpartum coverage. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
• Medicaid member pump coverage: Have your provider send a prescription; then call the Medicaid Helpline 1-800-541-2831 for pharmacy/DME locations that accept NY Medicaid. (health.ny.gov)
• Work pumping rights: Paid 30‑minute breaks and a private space for up to 3 years after birth are required in NY. Guidance and complaints: NYS DOL. (dol.ny.gov)
• Safety from violence: NYS Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline 1-800-942-6906 (text 844-997-2121). 24/7, most languages. (opdv.ny.gov)

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Why this guide

Who this is for: Single mothers in New York who need a breast pump quickly, plus clear steps and real numbers for maternity leave, Medicaid, WIC, and workplace rights.

What you’ll get: Exactly how to get a free breast pump through Medicaid, Marketplace plans, or WIC; how to use New York’s Paid Family Leave and Short‑Term Disability; the new Paid Prenatal Leave; your job rights to pump at work; and practical backup plans.

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Emergency section

• Health or safety emergency: Call 911.
• Mental health or substance crisis: Call/text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for 24/7 support. Veterans press 1. ASL video calling is available. (fcc.gov)
• Domestic or sexual violence help: Call 1-800-942-6906, text 844-997-2121, or chat via the NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence. If in NYC, you can also call 311 and ask for domestic violence support. (opdv.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)

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The fastest ways to get a free breast pump in New York

• Medicaid/Managed Care: With a provider prescription, New York Medicaid covers manual and personal electric pumps via pharmacies/DME under NYRx; hospital‑grade pumps are covered as rentals when medically necessary. Coverage applies during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. (health.ny.gov)
• Marketplace or employer plan (non‑grandfathered): Under federal law, most plans must cover breast pumps and lactation support with no cost‑sharing for the duration of breastfeeding. Plans may set whether you get a rental or purchase, manual or electric—follow your plan’s rules. (healthcare.gov)
• WIC: NY WIC provides breast pumps based on individual need (for example, returning to work/school or medical situations) and breastfeeding support from peer counselors and lactation staff. Income eligibility applies. (health.ny.gov)
• Veterans/active‑duty families: VA maternity care and TRICARE both cover pumps and supplies; TRICARE also lists item limits for replacement supplies. (womenshealth.va.gov, tricare.mil)

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Table: Quick reference cheat sheet

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Who qualifies for a free pump in New York

• Medicaid members: With a provider prescription, NY Medicaid covers personal manual or double‑electric pumps through the pharmacy program (NYRx) and hospital‑grade rentals when medically necessary. Coverage is available during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. Call 1-800-541-2831 for help finding a participating pharmacy/DME. (health.ny.gov)
• Pregnant people with Medicaid eligibility: In 2025, Medicaid for pregnant adults covers up to 223% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) with 12 months postpartum coverage regardless of immigration status or pregnancy outcome. Monthly income at 223% FPL effective January 1, 2025 is: 1 person $2,909\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$3,931, 3 $4,953\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$5,975 (add $1,023 for each additional person). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• Marketplace/employer plans: Most non‑grandfathered plans must cover breastfeeding support and pumps with no copays for the duration of breastfeeding; your doctor’s recommendation guides type, but plans can set reasonable rules on rental vs. purchase and timing. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)
• WIC participants: WIC issues pumps based on individual assessments (work/school or medical need). 2025–2026 WIC income limits (effective through June 30, 2026) include: household of 2 weekly income $753\ast \ast ;3\ast \ast$949; 4 $1,144 (unborn baby counts in household size). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

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Step‑by‑step: Get your breast pump fast

Medicaid (including Medicaid Managed Care)

Do this first: Ask your prenatal or postpartum provider for a prescription for a manual or double‑electric pump (or for a hospital‑grade rental if medically needed).

• Where to go: Contact a Medicaid‑participating pharmacy or DME that accepts NYRx, or call the Medicaid Helpline 1-800-541-2831. Use the official locator to find a pharmacy/DME that accepts NY Medicaid. (health.ny.gov)
• What’s covered: Manual and personal double‑electric pumps (purchase) and hospital‑grade pumps (rental) when criteria are met; you may be eligible for a new personal pump each pregnancy. Coverage during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. (health.ny.gov)
• Common documents: Prescription, Medicaid ID (CIN), and your contact info.
• Reality check: Hospital‑grade rentals require medical criteria and stock availability. If your plan delegates rentals, you may need to work through your plan’s durable medical equipment (DME) process. (health.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider to reference NYS DOH’s “Minimum Breast Pump Specifications” and re‑submit a clear order; escalate to your plan’s Member Services and, if needed, file a complaint. Medicaid members can call 1-800-541-2831 for help. (health.ny.gov)

Marketplace or employer plan

Do this first: Call Member Services (number on your card) and ask:

• In‑network DME vendors for breast pumps.
• Type covered (manual vs. electric; rental vs. purchase) and whether pre‑authorization is needed.
• When you can receive it (some plans require a certain gestational week or delivery). (healthcare.gov)

Key policy: Federal rules require no‑cost coverage of breastfeeding equipment and counseling for the duration of breastfeeding, but plans can set reasonable logistics and timing. Your provider’s recommendation should guide the type. (hrsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your plan wrongly denies a medically appropriate pump, ask for a written denial and file an appeal. For fully insured plans in NY, you may seek an external appeal via the Department of Financial Services (1-800-400-8882). (health.ny.gov)

WIC breast pump program

Do this first: Call your local WIC office or the Growing Up Healthy Hotline 1-800-522-5006. Ask for a breastfeeding assessment and pump options (personal or loaner). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

• Eligibility: Pregnant or postpartum and income‑eligible (or adjunct eligibility through Medicaid/SNAP/TANF). 2025–2026 income limits are posted by NYS DOH. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• What you get: Breastfeeding support, peer counselors, and pumps based on need (return to work/school, medical reasons). (health.ny.gov)
• Documents: ID, proof of address, proof of income or proof of adjunct program, and proof of pregnancy or baby’s birth. (health.state.ny.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the WIC office about placing you on a pump waitlist, temporary manual pumps, or referral to community Baby Café/La Leche League for immediate help. (health.ny.gov)

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Table: Your main pump options in NY (what it is, and who covers it)

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Your rights to pump, breastfeed, and take time in New York

• Paid pumping breaks and space: NYS law requires paid 30‑minute breaks as often as reasonably needed and a private, non‑bathroom space for up to 3 years after birth. Employers must notify workers of these rights annually and upon return from birth. Complaints go to the NYS Department of Labor. (dol.ny.gov)
• Breastfeeding in public: New York Civil Rights Law §79‑e protects your right to breastfeed your baby in any place you’re authorized to be, regardless of nipple coverage. (newyork.public.law)
• NYC additional rules: NYC employers must have a written lactation policy and a compliant lactation room with access to running water and refrigeration; 30‑minute paid breaks apply in NYC as well and cannot be reduced. (nyc.gov)

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Table: Work rights and leave you can use around birth

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Step‑by‑step: Take Paid Family Leave (bonding)

Do this first: Tell your employer at least 30 days before if foreseeable. Then complete forms PFL‑1 (you + employer) and PFL‑2 (bonding) with supporting docs (birth certificate or provider cert). Submit to the carrier within 30 days after your leave starts. Carriers must pay or deny within 18 days of a complete request or the first leave day, whichever is later. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Paid Family Leave Helpline 844-337-6303; you can request arbitration for denials or late payments. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

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Medicaid, Marketplace, and WIC numbers you can use today

• Medicaid Helpline: 1-800-541-2831. For pump coverage, NYRx, and provider/DME help. (health.state.ny.us)
• New York Medicaid Choice (managed care enrollment help): 1-800-505-5678. (health.state.ny.us)
• NY State of Health enrollment: 1-855-355-5777; TTY 1-800-662-1220; Navigator directory updated August 2025. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
• WIC local office finder and help: Growing Up Healthy Hotline 1-800-522-5006; WIC office directory online. (health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

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Table: Major NY Medicaid Managed Care plans – quick contacts

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Income limits you asked for (2025)

• Medicaid for pregnant adults: Up to 223% FPL monthly (e.g., 2‑person household $3,931/month). 12‑month postpartum coverage applies regardless of immigration status or pregnancy outcome. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• WIC: 2025–2026 weekly limits include 2‑person $753\ast \ast ,3‑person\ast \ast$949, 4‑person $1,144 (effective through June 30, 2026). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

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Helpful maternity supports you may be missing

• Doula coverage under Medicaid: Statewide coverage began March 1, 2024. Medicaid covers up to 8 doula visits (prenatal/postpartum) plus support during labor; covered through 12 months after the end of pregnancy. In 2024, billing was fee‑for‑service; Managed Care coverage takes effect January 1, 2025. Ask your plan for enrolled doulas. (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• Baby‑Friendly hospitals: Searching BFUSA shows many NY facilities (all NYC Health + Hospitals sites are designated). Use the BFUSA tool to find one near you. (babyfriendlyusa.org)
• NYC support: NYC DOH links to community lactation rooms, Baby Cafés, the Breastfeeding Warmline, and Nurse‑Family Partnership (free nurses for first‑time, Medicaid/WIC‑eligible parents). Call 311 and ask for “Nurse‑Family Partnership.” (nyc.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Working mom returning at 6 weeks: She called her plan, confirmed a personal double‑electric pump through an in‑network DME, and had her provider e‑fax a prescription. She took DBL for 6 weeks at $170/week, then switched to PFL at 67% pay for bonding, protected up to 12 weeks. (wcb.ny.gov, paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• Baby in NICU: Her provider ordered a hospital‑grade rental for medical separation; Medicaid covered the rental via DME, and the WIC office arranged ongoing lactation support. (health.ny.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the prescription: Plans and Medicaid need a provider order—even for “OTC” pumps under federal rules.
• Calling the wrong vendor: Many plans require in‑network DME; out‑of‑network orders can be denied or unpaid.
• Waiting too long to file PFL: You must submit a complete request within 30 days after leave starts. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• Assuming DBL equals job protection: DBL pays a small cash benefit ($170/week) but does not guarantee job protection. Pair it with employer/union policies or PFL when ready. (wcb.ny.gov)
• Not using your pumping rights: In NY, pumping breaks are paid (30 minutes each as needed) and the space cannot be a bathroom. Keep a paper trail with HR if there’s pushback. (dol.ny.gov)

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Plan B options if you hit a wall

• Plan denies an electric pump: Ask your provider to cite the federal preventive services guideline and HRSA language prioritizing double‑electric pumps when clinically indicated; request internal appeal and, if eligible, DFS external appeal. (hrsa.gov, health.ny.gov)
• No DME has stock: Ask for a temporary manual pump from WIC or a loaner via your hospital lactation team while your order is filled. (health.ny.gov)
• Employer won’t allow pumping: File a confidential complaint with NYS DOL; NYC workers also have City‑specific protections and policy requirements. (dol.ny.gov, nyc.gov)

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Application checklist

• For a Medicaid‑covered pump: Medicaid ID (CIN), provider prescription, preferred DME/pharmacy contact, and your shipping address/phone. (health.ny.gov)
• For WIC pump/support: Photo ID, proof of address, proof of income or adjunct eligibility, proof of pregnancy or birth; bring baby if asked and any medical forms your provider gave you. (health.state.ny.us)
• For PFL (bonding): Forms PFL‑1 and PFL‑2, birth certificate or provider certification, employer’s insurance carrier info, and submit within 30 days of leave start. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)

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Tables: Key numbers and links at a glance

Table: Pump coverage pathways and what to say on the phone

Table: New York leave benefits around birth (2025)

Table: Where to get live help

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Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: NY recognizes your right to pump and breastfeed at work and in public. La Leche League offers resources for transgender and non‑binary parents; NYC has inclusive lactation spaces and Baby Cafés. Action: Ask WIC or your plan for peer counselors who match your needs; use NYC’s community lactation room locator and LLLNY’s leader finder. (health.ny.gov, lllny.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If your infant may need early therapies or special feeding support, the Early Intervention Program can evaluate and provide services from birth to age 3, regardless of income. Contact your county Early Intervention Official or the state at (518) 473‑7016; referrals can be made as soon as a concern arises. (health.ny.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: VA maternity coverage includes lactation support, and VA may supply pumps, nursing bras, and storage bags; TRICARE covers pumps and defined supply limits at no cost. Action: Contact your VA Maternity Care Coordinator early, and if covered by TRICARE, follow the prescription + claim steps. (womenshealth.va.gov, tricare.mil)
• Immigrant/refugee single mothers: New York provides 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage regardless of immigration status for those enrolled during pregnancy. WIC is open to eligible NY residents regardless of immigration status. Action: Call NY State of Health 1-855-355-5777 for language assistance and enrollment help. (health.ny.gov, nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you receive care through Indian Health Services or tribal clinics in NY, ask about lactation support and WIC coordination. You can also use state WIC and Medicaid resources listed here.
• Rural single mothers: If distance is a barrier, ask for tele‑lactation or phone support through WIC, Baby Café virtual groups, or your plan’s lactation benefits. Many WIC offices offer virtual services and phone appointments. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• Single fathers: If you are the custodial parent, you can apply for WIC for eligible children under 5. PFL bonding is available to non‑birth parents with proper documentation (e.g., birth certificate with your name or acknowledgment of parentage). (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• Language access: NY State of Health provides free help in many languages; WIC hotlines and offices can connect you with interpreters. Action: Call 1-855-355-5777 and ask for language support. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

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Regional resources

• Statewide WIC: Use the NYS DOH directory to find your county’s main WIC line or call 1-800-522-5006. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• NYC: NYC Breastfeeding resources, Baby‑Friendly facility locator, community lactation rooms, and Nurse‑Family Partnership (call 311). (nyc.gov)
• Upstate counties: Many county health departments host WIC and can connect you to pump loans (example pages list program criteria and contacts). Start with the state WIC directory to get your local phone. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

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Reality checks and timelines

• Pump timing: Plans and pharmacies typically fulfill personal pumps within days of a complete order; rentals depend on medical criteria and available units. Medicaid allows coverage during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum—don’t wait until the last week. (health.ny.gov)
• Paid leave timing: PFL decisions/payments come within 18 days after your complete request or the first day of leave; file within 30 days of starting leave. DBL has a short waiting period before payments begin. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov, ww3.nysif.com)
• Work pumping: You’re entitled to paid 30‑minute pumping breaks as often as needed and a private space—not a bathroom. Put your request in writing and keep copies. (dol.ny.gov)

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10 state‑specific FAQs

• Do I need a prescription for a Medicaid‑covered pump: Yes. NY Medicaid requires a provider order for pumps to ensure the right type; without it, coverage can be denied. (health.ny.gov)
• Can I get another personal pump for a new pregnancy: Yes, often—NYS Medicaid notes you may be eligible for a new pump with each pregnancy. (health.ny.gov)
• Does Medicaid cover hospital‑grade rentals: Yes, when medically necessary; your provider documents the need, and rentals are arranged via DME. (health.ny.gov)
• When can I get my pump: Medicaid covers during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. Marketplace plans may set timing rules; check with your plan. (health.ny.gov, healthcare.gov)
• What if my employer says pumping time is unpaid or there’s no room: NY law requires a private space (not a bathroom) and paid 30‑minute breaks. File a complaint with NYS DOL if needed. (dol.ny.gov)
• How much will PFL pay in 2025: Up to $1,177.32/week\ast \ast (67$1,757.19). Employee contributions in 2025 are 0.388% of wages, max $354.53/year. (wcb.ny.gov)
• What does DBL pay for recovery after birth: Up to $170/week; common medical durations are 6 weeks (vaginal) or 8 weeks (C‑section), with extensions for complications. (wcb.ny.gov)
• Is there paid time for prenatal appointments: Yes. As of January 1, 2025, NY requires 20 hours of separate paid prenatal leave in addition to other leave. (governor.ny.gov)
• What are WIC income limits right now: 2025–2026 examples—weekly income up to $753\ast \ast (2people),\ast \ast$949 (3), $1,144 (4); unborn child counts. Effective through June 30, 2026. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• Do veterans or military families get pump coverage: Yes. VA maternity benefits may provide pumps and supplies; TRICARE covers pumps/supplies and counseling at no cost with defined limits. (womenshealth.va.gov, tricare.mil)

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Quick reference: Breastfeeding‑friendly hospitals and support

• Find a Baby‑Friendly hospital or birth center: Use BFUSA’s search tool. (babyfriendlyusa.org)
• La Leche League of New York: Find a local Leader or virtual group for peer support. (lllny.org)
• Baby Café USA: Free, drop‑in lactation support; many NY locations and virtual groups. (babycafeusa.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the New York State Department of Health, NY State of Health, NYS Department of Labor, NYS Workers’ Compensation Board, USDA/FNS, HRSA/HHS, and established nonprofits like Baby‑Friendly USA and La Leche League. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards and follows a primary‑sources approach, link archiving, and prompt corrections. E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL safeguards are applied: verified eligibility rules are linked to official pages, benefit amounts point to current calculators or statutes, and contact links are maintained. This site is independent and not a government agency; individual outcomes can vary. Our editorial standards page was last updated August 2025.

Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
Spot an error or update? Email info@asinglemother.org; we aim to respond within 48–72 hours per our corrections policy.

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Disclaimer

Health and benefits change often: Program rules, dollar amounts, phone numbers, and links can change after publication. Always verify with the relevant agency or your health plan before making decisions.

No legal or medical advice: This guide offers general information, not legal or medical advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your situation.

Security note: For your privacy and safety, don’t share personal IDs or medical records over public Wi‑Fi. Access official sites directly by typing the address or using the links here, and keep your device updated.

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Sources

• Medicaid pump coverage and NYRx: NYS DOH – Medicaid Coverage of Breast Pumps; Minimum Pump Specs. (health.ny.gov)
• Paid pumping rights: NYS Department of Labor – Breast Milk Expression at Work. (dol.ny.gov)
• Breastfeeding in public: NY Civil Rights Law §79‑e. (newyork.public.law)
• WIC program and income limits: NYS DOH WIC overview and 2025–2026 income chart. (health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
• Pregnancy Medicaid eligibility (223% FPL) and postpartum 12 months: NYS DOH income table and postpartum coverage announcement. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• PFL 2025 benefits and timelines: NY Paid Family Leave Benefits/Calculator; Bonding Leave – apply within 30 days; 18‑day processing. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
• DBL amounts and durations: NYS Workers’ Compensation Board – Disability Benefits. (wcb.ny.gov)
• Paid Prenatal Leave (20 hours): Governor’s Office and employer guidance. (governor.ny.gov, ny.gov)
• Doula services: NYS DOH Medicaid updates (statewide standing order; managed care coverage timing). (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
• Marketplace coverage of pumps & counseling: HealthCare.gov; HRSA/WPSI guidelines. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)
• Hotlines: 988 (SAMHSA key messages); NYS Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline. (samhsa.gov, opdv.ny.gov)
• Baby‑Friendly facilities: BFUSA search tool and NYC H+H system designation. (babyfriendlyusa.org)
• NY State of Health contact and Navigator directory: Official site and August 2025 directory. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

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What to do next

• Call your provider today: Ask for a prescription specifying the pump type.
• Contact your coverage: Medicaid Helpline 1-800-541-2831 or your plan’s Member Services for in‑network DME.
• Line up support: Call your WIC office or 1-800-522-5006 for breastfeeding help; find a Baby‑Friendly hospital and local LLL group.
• Protect your time: Put PFL paperwork on your calendar; request paid pumping breaks and a private room in writing before you return to work.

If one route stalls, use the Plan B steps above—there’s always another path to the pump and support you need.

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🏛️More New York Resources for Single Mothers

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• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
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• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
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• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery