Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in North Carolina (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency help first

• If you are in danger: Call 911.
• If you need mental health support now: Call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free and 24/7.
• If you need fast local referrals for diapers, rent, food, or clinics: Dial 2‑1‑1 to reach NC 211, or visit your county’s Department of Social Services directory linked below. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Quick help box

• Best first step if you have NC Medicaid: Call your health plan’s Member Services to request a covered breast pump and ask which Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier to use. Phone numbers are in the plan table below. DME (including pumps) is covered within managed care. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Best first step if you do not have insurance or are unsure: Apply for Medicaid online through ePASS or at your local DSS. Typical processing time is up to 45 days. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Best first step for WIC support and pumps: Text “wic” + your ZIP to 919‑351‑8364 or call 1‑844‑601‑6881 to reach NC WIC and get connected to your local clinic. WIC provides breastfeeding support, peer counselors, and pumps based on need. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Know your right to a pump through private/Marketplace plans: Most plans must cover breastfeeding support and a pump at no cost for the duration of breastfeeding. Start by calling the number on your insurance card and ask how to order. (healthcare.gov)
• Need workplace pumping time or a private space: You have federal protections to pump at work for one year after birth — a space that is not a bathroom and reasonable break time. (dol.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

Sources: NC Medicaid; NC WIC; Healthcare.gov; U.S. DOL. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncdhhs.gov, healthcare.gov, dol.gov)

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What the top search results often miss

• NC Medicaid’s exact pump limits and codes: NC’s official policy sets specific limits — for example, one electric pump (HCPCS E0603) per pregnancy, hospital‑grade pumps (E0604) are rental only, and milk storage bags (A4287) are covered up to 200 per month. Many retailer blogs don’t show these NC‑specific rules. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• That WIC issues pumps by assessment — not on demand: NC WIC can issue manual, single‑user electric, or loan a multi‑user (hospital‑grade) pump when appropriate after a breastfeeding assessment. Retailer sites rarely explain the assessment step. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Clear NC income figures and timelines: State pages list monthly income figures for pregnant applicants and WIC, plus response timeframes for WIC and Medicaid processing — details that many listicles skip. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncdhhs.gov)
• Your workplace rights in plain English: Federal law requires pumping time and space at work; you shouldn’t have to search legal blogs to find it. (dol.gov)

Use the verified, NC‑specific steps and numbers below to save time.

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NC Medicaid: how to get your free breast pump fast

Step 1 — Call your Medicaid health plan’s Member Services

Use the table below to reach your plan, ask about covered pumps, and get the exact DME supplier or process. DME is a covered benefit under managed care. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Health plan contacts in North Carolina

Also see the NC Medicaid Health Plan Contacts and Resources page for official plan links. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Step 2 — Know what Medicaid covers in NC (the specifics matter)

NC Medicaid’s clinical policy sets limits and conditions. Here are the highlights you’ll likely be asked about:

• Covered electric breast pump (E0603): 1 per pregnancy.
• Hospital‑grade electric pump (E0604): Rental only when medically necessary (for example, baby in NICU, congenital anomalies, or documented low milk production). Prior approval is typically month‑to‑month for rentals.
• Pump accessories: Replacement tubing, adapters, caps, shields, bottles, locking rings — 2 per year for each code (A4281–A4286).
• Milk storage bags (A4287): 200 per month.

These limits and medical‑necessity criteria are spelled out in NC Medicaid Clinical Coverage Policy 5A‑3. Bring any medical notes (for example, NICU discharge papers or a provider note about low milk supply) if you need a hospital‑grade rental. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Table — NC Medicaid pump and supply limits from 5A‑3

Source: NC Medicaid Clinical Coverage Policy 5A‑3. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Step 3 — Ask your plan how to order

Common ways to order:

• Plan sends an authorization to an in‑network DME supplier, who ships the pump to your address.
• Provider writes a prescription or order if your plan requires it. Ask your OB or midwife to include your Estimated Due Date and any medical notes (for hospital‑grade rentals).
• Timing: Many plans allow you to place the order in the third trimester; some ship after delivery. Confirm your plan’s rules. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Step 4 — Track shipment and follow up

• Save the supplier’s order number and call your plan if it has not shipped within 7–10 days.
• If you’re discharged while baby remains hospitalized, ask the hospital lactation team to fax documentation to your plan — this often speeds approval for a hospital‑grade rental.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call the NC Medicaid Contact Center: 1‑888‑245‑0179 (TTY 711) for help finding your local DSS or troubleshooting authorizations.
• Contact the Medicaid Managed Care Ombudsman: 1‑877‑201‑3750 if you cannot resolve issues with your plan. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncmedicaidombudsman.org)

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WIC in North Carolina: free breastfeeding help and pumps by assessment

Most important action

• Contact your local WIC clinic now — call 1‑844‑601‑6881 or submit the NC WIC Referral Form online. You will be contacted within 20 days, and priority groups are contacted within 10 days. (ncdhhs.gov)

What WIC can provide

• Breastfeeding support: Peer counselors, trained staff, and warmline support.
• Breast pumps: Issued based on an individual breastfeeding assessment — may include manual pumps, single‑user double electric pumps, or loan of a multi‑user (hospital‑grade) pump when needed. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Education: Help with flange sizing, assembly, use, cleaning, and follow‑up troubleshooting. (ncdhhs.gov)

Who qualifies for WIC in NC (2025 income)

• You must live in NC, be pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding (or have an eligible infant/child under five), meet a nutrition risk screen, and have income at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. (ncdhhs.gov)

Table — NC WIC maximum gross income, effective June 2, 2025

See the full chart, including weekly and biweekly figures, on the NC WIC site. (ncdhhs.gov)

How to apply

• Call or text WIC: Call 1‑844‑601‑6881 or text “wic” + your ZIP to 919‑351‑8364.
• Use the online referral: Submit the North Carolina WIC Referral Form and your local clinic will call you. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Bring documents: Proof of ID, proof of NC address, and proof of income (or proof you receive Medicaid/SNAP/TANF). (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your hospital’s lactation team or local health department if they have a short‑term pump loaner.
• Re‑submit the referral and call the WIC State Office line in your area via the WIC County Directory.

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Private or Marketplace insurance in NC: how to get your pump covered

Most important action

• Call the customer service number on your insurance card and ask: “Which breast pumps are covered at no cost and which DME suppliers should I use?” Most plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. (healthcare.gov)

What the rules say

• ACA preventive services: Plans must cover a breast pump (manual or electric, rental or purchase) and lactation support with no cost‑sharing, subject to plan guidelines (for example, timing and supplier rules). Your doctor’s recommendation typically guides what’s medically appropriate. (healthcare.gov)
• Blue Cross NC example: BCBSNC states one manual or electric pump per benefit period covered at 100% through in‑network providers, generally available in the third trimester or postpartum; hospital‑grade pumps are excluded under many commercial plans. Always confirm your own plan. (bluecrossnc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your OB/midwife to send a prescription and medical note to the insurer‑approved DME vendor.
• Appeal in writing using your plan’s appeal rights if a covered pump is denied — reference the “breastfeeding benefits” preventive service requirement.

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Maternity coverage for single mothers in North Carolina

Most important action

• Apply for NC Medicaid if you’re pregnant and under the income limits — you may qualify even if you did not qualify before pregnancy. Coverage extends through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. Apply online through ePASS or at your local DSS. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

2025 monthly income guidance for pregnant applicants (NC Medicaid)

These figures come from NC Medicaid’s eligibility page and are “about” amounts used for quick screening. If you are close, apply — caseworkers check allowable deductions. Amounts are current until April 1, 2026. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Source: NC Medicaid Eligibility. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

What’s covered

• Prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, dental, vision and hearing, prescriptions, and more; low or no copays.
• Lactation visits: Covered medical lactation services are recognized under NC Medicaid policy. Ask your OB/pediatric clinic which codes they use and whether a referral is needed. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

How to apply and timelines

• Apply online through ePASS, by phone, in person, or by mail/fax using your local DSS. Processing can take up to 45 days (up to 90 days if a disability review is involved). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Find your local DSS: Use the Local DSS Directory to get the exact phone number and address for your county office. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1‑888‑245‑0179 (TTY 711) to check application status or get help.
• If denied, you can appeal — instructions are included with your decision letter.

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Your rights to pump at work and breastfeed in public (NC‑specific)

• Federal PUMP Act protections: Most employees have the right to reasonable break time and a private space (not a bathroom) to express milk at work for one year after birth. Remote workers are covered and must be free from camera observation during pump breaks. (dol.gov)
• Job‑protected leave (FMLA): Eligible employees may take up to 12 workweeks of job‑protected leave — your employer must continue your group health coverage during FMLA leave. (dol.gov)
• Your NC public breastfeeding rights: State law says a woman may breastfeed in any public or private location she is otherwise authorized to be — you are not violating indecent exposure laws. Keep a copy of this statute handy if anyone challenges you. (law.justia.com, ncsl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your employer refuses pumping time or space, call the U.S. Department of Labor (Wage & Hour) or file a complaint online.
• If you are harassed for breastfeeding in public, ask for the manager and calmly state your right under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14‑190.9.

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Real‑world examples

• Hospital‑grade rental while baby is in NICU: A Wake County mom delivered early, baby remained in NICU, and lactation sent a note to her plan. The plan approved a hospital‑grade rental (E0604) for one month at a time. After discharge, she switched to her covered personal E0603 pump and continued to receive A4287 storage bags monthly. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Working mom with Marketplace plan: A Mecklenburg County mom ordered her pump in the third trimester through an in‑network DME vendor, paid $0, and used HR to set up a lactation space at work under the PUMP Act. She booked postpartum lactation visits covered as preventive care. (healthcare.gov, dol.gov)

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Tables you can use today

Table — Which program fits your situation

Sources: NC Medicaid, NC WIC, Healthcare.gov. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncdhhs.gov, healthcare.gov)

Table — NC Medicaid DME pump details (quick lookup)

Source: NC Medicaid 5A‑3. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Table — NC WIC income (partial, monthly, effective June 2, 2025)

Full chart at NC WIC “My WIC.” (ncdhhs.gov)

Table — Pregnant person monthly “about” income limits (NC Medicaid, current until Apr 1, 2026)

Source: NC Medicaid Eligibility. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Table — Key timelines in NC

Sources: NC Medicaid; NC WIC; plan processes vary — confirm with your plan. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncdhhs.gov)

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Application checklist

• Proof of identity: Driver’s license, birth certificate, Medicaid card, or similar.
• Proof of NC residency: Utility bill, lease, Medicaid card, or similar.
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, employer letter, recent tax return, or proof of SNAP/TANF/Medicaid participation.
• Medical documents if needed: OB note with due date; NICU paperwork; note about latch, supply, or baby’s condition (if requesting hospital‑grade rental).
• Contacts: Your plan’s Member Services, local WIC office, OB clinic, DME supplier.

See the official “How to Apply for WIC” and “How to Apply for NC Medicaid” pages for accepted documents. (ncdhhs.gov, medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until after delivery to start: Many plans let you order in the third trimester; WIC can set you up prenatally.
• Using a non‑network DME vendor: This can trigger denials or bills. Always ask your plan which supplier to use.
• Skipping the WIC assessment: Issuance is based on your specific needs — ask for a breastfeeding assessment to qualify for the right pump.
• Assuming “free” means “no paperwork”: Hospital‑grade rentals need medical documentation under NC Medicaid.
• Not asking about replacement supplies: NC Medicaid and some commercial plans limit how many replacements you can get each year.
• Overlooking workplace rights: You are entitled to pumping time and a private space for one year after birth — speak up early with your supervisor or HR. (dol.gov)

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Diverse communities: tailored pointers and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for inclusive lactation support — many WIC clinics and hospital lactation teams offer gender‑affirming care. You can use statewide directories like BreastfeedNC.com to find supportive providers. Tip: if staff use the wrong terms, it’s okay to clarify how you want to be addressed. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations at clinics and workplaces under federal law. If your baby has special needs or is in NICU, ask your Medicaid plan or WIC for a hospital‑grade pump loan or rental with documentation. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Use VA and TRICARE benefits alongside WIC; most plans cover pumps as preventive equipment similar to Marketplace plans. Pair with NC WIC peer counselors for day‑to‑day help. (healthcare.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Applying for WIC will not count against public charge and mixed‑status families can apply for Medicaid for eligible children and pregnant people. Ask for interpreter services at DSS and WIC. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If you are eligible for the EBCI Tribal Option, call 1‑800‑260‑9992 for care coordination and help connecting to services in Cherokee and surrounding counties. (ebcitribaloption.com)
• Rural single moms with limited internet: Apply by phone through your local DSS and ask your library or clinic if they have a Medicaid Ambassador who can walk you through ePASS. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Single fathers: You can get WIC for your baby if the child is eligible, and you have the same pump‑at‑work protections as any lactating employee using expressed milk for your baby’s feeding. (ncdhhs.gov, dol.gov)
• Language access: Free interpreter services are available through DSS and most Medicaid plans; tell the operator your preferred language and they will connect an interpreter. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

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Local organizations and support

• BreastfeedNC.com: Statewide directory of lactation resources. (ncdhhs.gov)
• UNC Lactation Warmline: 984‑974‑8078 or 866‑428‑5608 — phone support from lactation consultants. (mombaby.org)
• Atrium Health Lactation Services (Charlotte region): 704‑468‑0121 — hospital and outpatient support. (atriumhealth.org)
• Duke Health Lactation Services (Triangle): 919‑684‑2471 — classes and consults. (dukehealth.org)
• La Leche League of North Carolina: Free peer support groups statewide. (lllofnc.org)
• NC WIC: 1‑844‑601‑6881 — connect to your local clinic. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Ten NC‑specific FAQs

• Do NC Medicaid plans really cover a personal electric pump: Yes — HCPCS E0603 is covered at 1 per pregnancy under policy 5A‑3. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• When will Medicaid cover a hospital‑grade rental: When medically necessary, such as baby detained in hospital, certain congenital anomalies, or maternal conditions causing low milk production — with prior approval, often one month at a time. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• How many storage bags can I get with NC Medicaid: Up to 200 per month (A4287). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• I don’t have insurance — how long does a Medicaid application take: Up to 45 days in most cases (up to 90 days if disability review is needed). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Can WIC give me a hospital‑grade pump: WIC may loan a multi‑user double electric pump after a breastfeeding assessment if appropriate for your situation. Contact your clinic. (ncdhhs.gov)
• What are the WIC income limits in 2025: For a family of 3, the monthly gross income max is $4,109\ast \ast ;for4it’s\ast \ast$4,957. See the full chart on the NC WIC site. (ncdhhs.gov)
• What income qualifies a pregnant person for NC Medicaid: For a family of 3, “about” $5,252/month\ast \ast orless;for4,\ast \ast$6,150/month. If close, apply — workers check deductions. Current until April 1, 2026. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Do I have to pay for lactation visits: Under Medicaid, medical lactation services are recognized in policy; under Marketplace and most employer plans, lactation support is a $0 preventive benefit with in‑network providers. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, healthcare.gov)
• Can I be asked to pump in a bathroom at work: No — the space provided must not be a bathroom and must be private. (dol.gov)
• Is breastfeeding in public legal in NC: Yes — state law explicitly allows breastfeeding anywhere you’re otherwise allowed to be. (law.justia.com)

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Step‑by‑step: apply or order quickly

• Medicaid: Apply online with ePASS or call your local DSS from the directory; bring ID, proof of address, and income proof if you have it. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov, ncdhhs.gov)
• Order pump (Medicaid): Call your plan, confirm approved DME vendor, and ask what information is needed. If requesting a hospital‑grade rental, ask your provider to fax supporting notes.
• WIC: Call 1‑844‑601‑6881 or submit the referral form; have ID/address/income docs ready. Ask for a breastfeeding assessment if you need a pump. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Private insurance: Call your insurer, ask for covered pumps and vendors, and request an order in your third trimester if allowed. (healthcare.gov)

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Reality checks, tips, and timelines

• Plan rules vary: Even with the same brand of Medicaid, individual plans have different DME networks — always verify the supplier before you order. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Timelines: WIC should contact you within 20 days (or 10 days for priority groups). Medicaid decisions can take up to 45 days. Start both processes early in your third trimester if possible. (ncdhhs.gov, medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Workplace pumping: Start the conversation with your supervisor or HR during leave planning. Share that you will need a private, non‑bathroom space and reasonable breaks upon return within the first year. (dol.gov)

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What to do if this still doesn’t work

• Escalate with your plan: Ask for a case manager and a written decision if your request is delayed or denied.
• Get help from the NC Medicaid Ombudsman: 1‑877‑201‑3750.
• Lean on hospital lactation teams: They can document medical need for a hospital‑grade rental and often know the fastest local DME suppliers.
• Use community supports: La Leche League, BreastfeedNC.com, and WIC peer counselors can troubleshoot latch and supply while approvals are pending. (lllofnc.org, ncdhhs.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, NC Medicaid, USDA WIC, and established nonprofits, with citations throughout.

Our editorial standards: We rely on primary sources, verify links, and update quickly after policy changes — see our full Editorial Policy. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org — we review within 48–72 hours per our policy. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)

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Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, amounts, supplier networks, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with your health plan, local WIC office, or county DSS before you make decisions. This guide is informational, not legal or medical advice, and does not guarantee outcomes. We take security seriously and never ask for sensitive information — if any link looks suspicious, do not click it and email info@asinglemother.org so we can investigate.

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Clickable official sources cited above

• NC Medicaid Eligibility (monthly amounts, current until Apr 1, 2026): https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/eligibility (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• NC Medicaid — How to Apply (methods, documents, timelines): https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/apply (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Local DSS Directory (find your county office): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/local-dss-directory (ncdhhs.gov)
• NC Medicaid 5A‑3 (Nursing Equipment & Supplies; pump limits): PDF on NC Medicaid site (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• Durable Medical Equipment coverage is part of managed care: NC Medicaid blog (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
• NC WIC — My WIC (income chart, contacts): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/ncwic/mywic (ncdhhs.gov)
• NC WIC — Apply/Referral: Referral form and application steps (ncdhhs.gov)
• NC WIC — Understanding the Breast Pump Program: WIC program PDF on pump types and assessment (ncdhhs.gov)
• Healthcare.gov — Breastfeeding benefits (private/Marketplace plans): https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/breast-feeding-benefits/ (healthcare.gov)
• U.S. DOL — PUMP Act and pumping at work: Fact Sheet #73 and PUMP Act overview (dol.gov)
• U.S. DOL — FMLA Fact Sheet (March 2025): https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla (dol.gov)
• NC public breastfeeding law: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14‑190.9 (summary) (law.justia.com, ncsl.org)
• Health plan contacts: Plan pages for AmeriHealth Caritas, Healthy Blue, UHC, WellCare, Carolina Complete Health, and EBCI Tribal Option (amerihealthcaritasnc.com, healthybluenc.com, uhc.com, wellcarenc.com, carolinacompletehealth.com, ebcitribaloption.com)
• UNC Lactation Warmline: https://www.mombaby.org/unc-lactation-program/ (mombaby.org)
• Atrium Health Lactation Services: https://atriumhealth.org/medical-services/prevention-wellness/womens-health/maternity-services/lactation-services (atriumhealth.org)
• Duke Health Lactation Services: https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/obstetrics-and-gynecology/lactation-services (dukehealth.org)
• La Leche League of North Carolina: https://www.lllofnc.org/ (lllofnc.org)

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By following the steps and contacts above, you can move from searching to actually receiving your pump and support — with NC‑specific facts, numbers, and links you can trust.

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🏛️More North Carolina Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Carolina

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