Menu
california

Grants and Financial Assistance for Single Mothers in California (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box

Need immediate help? Call these emergency lines:


  • Crisis Support: 211 (dial from any phone)
  • CalWORKs Application: 1-800-560-0976
  • CalFresh Application: 1-877-847-3663
  • Emergency Housing: 1-800-799-7233
  • Legal Aid: 1-916-551-2150

If You Need Help Today

  • Food: Apply for CalFresh (food stamps) online at BenefitsCal.com – approval can happen in 24-72 hours for emergency cases
  • Cash: CalWORKs emergency aid available within 3 days – call your county welfare office
  • Housing: Contact 211 for emergency shelter referrals
  • Utilities: LIHEAP energy assistance – apply through your local community action agency
  • Medical: Walk into any county health center for same-day Medi-Cal enrollment
  • Childcare: Emergency childcare vouchers available through Alternative Payment Programs

Main Points

California offers multiple assistance programs specifically designed to support single mothers and their children. As of January 2025, resource limits increased significantly making more families eligible for help.

Top 5 Programs Every Single Mother Should Know:

  1. CalWORKs – Monthly cash assistance up to $781 for family of 2
  2. CalFresh – Food assistance up to $535 monthly for family of 2
  3. Medi-Cal – Free healthcare coverage
  4. Housing Choice Voucher – Rental assistance covering 70% of rent
  5. CalGrants – College tuition assistance up to $12,970 yearly

Reality Check: Getting approved takes time. Most programs require 2-4 weeks for processing. Have backup plans ready and apply to multiple programs simultaneously.

CalWORKs (Cash Assistance)

CalWORKs provides monthly cash payments to families with children who meet income and resource requirements. This program serves as California’s primary safety net for families in crisis.

Who Qualifies

Income Limits (as of August 2025):

  • 1 parent + 1 child: $1,157 monthly gross income
  • 1 parent + 2 children: $1,472 monthly gross income
  • 1 parent + 3 children: $1,787 monthly gross income

Resource Limits:

  • $12,137 for most families, $18,206 if anyone is 60+ or disabled

Work Requirements:

  • Must participate in welfare-to-work activities after 24 months
  • 60-month lifetime limit for adults (children continue receiving aid)

Monthly Benefits

Family Size Maximum Monthly Benefit
2 people $781
3 people $967
4 people $1,093
5 people $1,224

How to Apply

  1. Online: BenefitsCal.com
  2. Phone: 1-800-560-0976
  3. In person: Find your county welfare office

Required Documents:

  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, unemployment papers)
  • Bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Rent receipt or mortgage statement

Timeline: Emergency aid available within 3 business days, full benefits within 30 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not reporting all income sources
  • Missing appointments (automatic denial)
  • Not updating address changes
  • Forgetting to recertify on time

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, you have 90 days to appeal. Contact Legal Aid Society at 1-800-399-4529 for free help.

CalFresh (Food Assistance)

CalFresh (formerly food stamps) provides monthly benefits to buy groceries. In 2023-24, about 5.3 million Californians received CalFresh benefits, making it one of the most utilized programs.

Who Qualifies

Gross Income Limits (130% of Federal Poverty Level):

  • 1 person: $1,580 monthly
  • 2 people: $2,137 monthly
  • 3 people: $2,694 monthly
  • 4 people: $3,250 monthly

Asset Limits:

  • Most households: $2,750
  • Households with elderly/disabled: $4,250

Monthly Benefits

Maximum monthly allotments as of October 2024:

Household Size Maximum Monthly Benefit
1 person $292
2 people $535
3 people $766
4 people $973
5 people $1,155

How to Apply

  1. Online: BenefitsCal.com
  2. Phone: 1-877-847-3663
  3. By mail: Download application from CDSS website

Required Documents:

  • ID for all household members
  • Proof of income (last 30 days)
  • Bank statements
  • Rent/mortgage receipts
  • Utility bills

Timeline: Emergency benefits within 3 days for qualified households, regular processing within 30 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not reporting part-time or gig work
  • Missing interview appointment
  • Not providing all requested documents
  • Confusing gross vs. net income

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a fair hearing within 90 days. Get help from California Food Policy Advocates at 1-213-482-8200.

Medi-Cal (Healthcare Coverage)

Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health coverage for low-income individuals and families. Single mothers can get immediate coverage for themselves and their children.

Who Qualifies

Income Limits (138% of Federal Poverty Level):

  • 1 parent + 1 child: $2,829 monthly
  • 1 parent + 2 children: $3,572 monthly
  • 1 parent + 3 children: $4,315 monthly

No asset limits for most Medi-Cal programs.

What’s Covered

  • Doctor visits and specialists
  • Hospital care
  • Prescription drugs
  • Mental health services
  • Dental care for children (limited adult dental)
  • Vision care
  • Pregnancy and childbirth care

How to Apply

  1. Online: CoveredCA.com
  2. Phone: 1-800-300-1506
  3. In person: County health departments offer same-day enrollment

Timeline: Coverage can start immediately for emergency cases, typically within 45 days for routine applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not understanding emergency Medi-Cal (available regardless of immigration status)
  • Missing annual renewals
  • Not updating income changes
  • Choosing wrong managed care plan

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Health Consumer Alliance at 1-888-804-3536 for enrollment help.

Housing Assistance Programs

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

This federal program helps pay rent in private housing. Participants typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the rest.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income must be below 50% of area median income
  • Los Angeles area: $47,000 for family of 3
  • San Francisco area: $65,500 for family of 3
  • Sacramento area: $38,500 for family of 3

How to Apply: Most housing authorities have closed waiting lists. Check with your local housing authority for opening dates.

Reality Check: Waiting lists often take 5-10 years. Apply to multiple housing authorities and consider other options while waiting.

Emergency Rental Assistance

California still has COVID-related rental assistance available through various county programs:

CalHFA First-Time Homebuyer Programs

California Housing Finance Agency offers down payment assistance:

  • MyHome Assistance Program: Up to $110,000 in down payment help
  • Income limits: Up to $191,250 for family of 3 in high-cost areas
  • Apply through: CalHFA approved lenders

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not maintaining housing voucher requirements
  • Missing recertification deadlines
  • Not reporting income changes promptly
  • Choosing housing in areas with poor schools without research

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Housing Rights Center at 1-800-477-5977 for tenant rights assistance.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps pay heating and cooling bills plus energy crisis assistance.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income at or below 60% of state median income
  • Family of 3: $62,000 annually maximum

Benefits:

  • $1,000-$1,500 annually toward energy bills
  • Emergency assistance up to $600
  • Weatherization services

How to Apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 1-866-675-6623.

Discount Utility Programs

Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E):

  • CARE Program: 20% discount on gas/electric bills
  • FERA Program: 18% discount for moderate-income families
  • Apply: pge.com/care or 1-800-743-5000

Southern California Edison (SCE):

  • CARE Program: 30% discount on electric bills
  • Apply: sce.com/care or 1-800-798-5723

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not applying for all available utility discounts
  • Missing seasonal application deadlines
  • Not updating income when it decreases
  • Paying deposits instead of asking for waiver

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact The Utility Reform Network at 1-415-929-8876 for advocacy help.

Childcare Assistance

California’s childcare system serves families through multiple programs designed to support working parents and those in school or training.

CalWORKs Child Care (Stage 1, 2, 3)

Stage 1: While receiving CalWORKs cash aid Stage 2: Transition off CalWORKs for up to 24 months
Stage 3: Long-term subsidized care

Who Qualifies:

  • Current or former CalWORKs recipients
  • Working or in approved education/training
  • Income limits vary by stage and family size

How to Apply:

  1. Contact your CalWORKs worker for Stage 1
  2. Apply through Alternative Payment Program for Stage 2/3
  3. Phone: 1-800-KIDS-793

Alternative Payment Programs (APPs)

Provide childcare vouchers for working families not on CalWORKs.

Income Limits (75% of State Median Income):

  • Family of 2: $6,075 monthly
  • Family of 3: $7,250 monthly
  • Family of 4: $8,425 monthly

Covers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • License-exempt providers (relatives, neighbors)

Head Start/Early Head Start

Free early childhood programs for low-income families.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income at or below 100% Federal Poverty Level
  • Family of 3: $24,860 annually
  • Children ages 0-5
  • Pregnant women

Find Programs: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not getting on multiple childcare waiting lists
  • Assuming license-exempt care doesn’t qualify for subsidies
  • Missing recertification appointments
  • Not reporting schedule changes promptly

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Child Care Resource and Referral at 1-800-KIDS-793 for alternative options.

Education and Training Grants

Cal Grants

California’s premier college financial aid program provides grants that don’t need to be repaid.

Cal Grant A (Tuition/Fees):

  • UC schools: $12,970 annually
  • CSU schools: $5,742 annually
  • Private colleges: $9,084 annually

Cal Grant B (Living Expenses):

  • First year: $1,648
  • Subsequent years: $1,648 plus tuition amounts above

Who Qualifies:

  • GPA requirements: 3.0 for Cal Grant A, 2.0 for Cal Grant B
  • Income limits for family of 3: $89,400 (Cal Grant A), $54,100 (Cal Grant B)
  • Must apply by March 2 for fall enrollment

How to Apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA
  2. Submit Cal Grant GPA Verification Form
  3. Apply online at WebGrants4Students

Career and Technical Education Programs

Strong Workforce Program:

  • Free job training in high-demand fields
  • Covers costs of training programs
  • Available at community colleges statewide
  • Find programs: doingwhatmatters.cccco.edu

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Farmer’s Market Program:

  • $30 monthly for fresh produce
  • Available to WIC participants
  • Use at authorized farmer’s markets
  • Apply: mywic.ca.gov

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Missing Cal Grant application deadline (March 2)
  • Not completing FAFSA renewal each year
  • Assuming community college is automatically free
  • Not exploring work-study opportunities

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your college’s financial aid office or Student Aid Commission at 1-888-224-7268.

Healthcare Support Programs

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

WIC provides nutrition education, healthy foods, and healthcare referrals for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income at or below 185% Federal Poverty Level
  • Family of 3: $4,594 monthly
  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5
  • Must be at nutritional risk (determined at appointment)

What You Get:

  • $30-50 monthly for specific healthy foods
  • $30 monthly for fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Health screenings
  • Breastfeeding support

How to Apply:

  1. Online: mywic.ca.gov
  2. Phone: 1-888-942-9675
  3. In person: Find your local WIC office

Family Planning, Access, Care, and Treatment (Family PACT)

Free family planning services for low-income men and women.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income at or below 200% Federal Poverty Level
  • Family of 1: $2,430 monthly
  • No insurance coverage for family planning services

Services Include:

  • Birth control (all FDA-approved methods)
  • STI testing and treatment
  • Cancer screenings
  • Pregnancy testing and counseling

How to Access: Visit any Family PACT provider – no appointment needed at many locations. Find providers at familypact.org.

Covered California Premium Assistance

For families with income too high for Medi-Cal but still needing help with health insurance costs.

Who Qualifies:

  • Income between 138%-600% Federal Poverty Level
  • Family of 3: $2,830-$14,580 monthly
  • Not eligible for employer health insurance

Assistance Available:

  • Premium tax credits
  • Cost-sharing reductions
  • Special enrollment periods for life changes

How to Apply: CoveredCA.com or 1-800-300-1506

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Not renewing WIC benefits when children age out of categories
  • Missing WIC appointments (benefits stop)
  • Not understanding Family PACT covers men too
  • Assuming you don’t qualify for premium assistance with moderate income

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Health Consumer Alliance at 1-888-804-3536 for help navigating health programs.

Emergency and Crisis Support

California Emergency Food Assistance Program (CEFAP)

Provides emergency food through food banks and pantries statewide.

Who Can Get Help:

  • No income requirements
  • No paperwork required
  • Available to all Californians in need

How to Find Food:

  • Call 211 for nearest food pantry
  • Visit: cafoodbanks.org
  • Text: Your zip code to 876-876

Salvation Army Emergency Services

Provides immediate help with basic needs including food, shelter, and utilities.

Services Available:

  • Emergency food boxes
  • Utility assistance
  • Rental assistance (limited funds)
  • Temporary shelter referrals
  • Clothing assistance

How to Get Help: Find your local Salvation Army at salvationarmyusa.org or call 211.

Catholic Charities

Offers comprehensive emergency assistance regardless of religious affiliation.

Services Include:

  • Emergency food
  • Rental and utility assistance
  • Immigration legal services
  • Senior services
  • Mental health counseling

Contact: Find local office at catholiccharitiesusa.org or call 211.

United Way 211

24/7 helpline connecting people to local resources.

How It Works:

  • Dial 2-1-1 from any phone
  • Text: Your zip code to 898-211
  • Online: 211.org
  • Available in multiple languages

What They Help With:

  • Food assistance
  • Housing and utilities
  • Healthcare
  • Employment
  • Crisis support

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Waiting too long to ask for help
  • Not calling 211 first to learn all available options
  • Assuming emergency aid is one-time only
  • Not following up on referrals promptly

What to do if this doesn’t work: If one agency can’t help, ask for referrals to similar organizations. Keep calling until you find assistance.

Diverse Communities Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Los Angeles LGBT Center

  • Services: Housing, healthcare, mental health, legal support
  • Phone: 1-323-993-7400
  • Website: lalgbtcenter.org

San Francisco LGBT Community Center

  • Services: Support groups, family programs, crisis support
  • Phone: 1-415-865-5555
  • Website: sfcenter.org

GLAAD Resource Center

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)

  • Services: Vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, independent living
  • Phone: 1-916-558-5300
  • Website: dor.ca.gov

Regional Centers (for Developmental Disabilities)

Disability Rights California

  • Services: Legal advocacy, rights protection, systems change
  • Phone: 1-800-776-5746
  • Website: disabilityrightsca.org

Veteran Single Mothers

CalVet Home Loans

  • Benefits: Low-interest home loans for veterans
  • Income limits: Higher than conventional programs
  • Phone: 1-800-952-5626
  • Website: calvet.ca.gov

Women Veterans Alliance

VA Work-Life Programs

  • Services: Childcare assistance, flexible work arrangements
  • Phone: 1-800-827-1000

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

California Immigrant Legal Services

  • Services: Legal aid, citizenship classes, know-your-rights workshops
  • Phone: 1-916-551-2150
  • Website: Find local office through ilrc.org

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

  • Services: Resettlement services, employment help, English classes
  • Locations: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose
  • Website: rescue.org

Mixed-Status Family Resources

  • MY15: Immigration legal hotline 1-800-321-4995
  • Services available regardless of status: Emergency Medi-Cal, WIC, school enrollment

Tribal-Specific Resources

California Tribal TANF Program

Indian Health Service

  • Services: Healthcare for Native Americans and Alaska Natives
  • Phone: 1-301-443-3593
  • Find clinic: ihs.gov/california

California Indian Legal Services

  • Services: Legal aid for tribal members
  • Phone: 1-510-835-0284
  • Website: calindian.org

Rural Single Mother Families with Limited Access

Rural Health Network

  • Services: Healthcare access in rural areas, telemedicine
  • Phone: 1-916-343-9332
  • Website: crhc.org

USDA Rural Development

  • Services: Housing loans, utility assistance, business development
  • Phone: 1-916-341-4200
  • Website: rd.usda.gov/ca

California Rural Legal Assistance

  • Services: Legal aid for rural low-income families
  • Phone: 1-415-777-2752
  • Website: crla.org

Single Fathers (Inclusivity and Diversity)

Single fathers face many of the same challenges and qualify for most programs listed in this guide:

Dad’s Adventure

  • Services: Support groups, parenting resources, networking
  • Website: dadsadventure.com

At-Home Dad Network

  • Services: Online community, local meetups, resources
  • Website: athomedad.org

National At-Home Dad Network

  • Services: Convention, online forums, local chapters
  • Phone: 1-407-788-0304
  • Website: athomedad.org

Note: All programs in this guide are available to single fathers who meet the same eligibility criteria as single mothers.

Resources by Region

Los Angeles County

Main Offices:

  • DPSS (CalWORKs/CalFresh): 1-866-613-3777
  • Workforce Development: 1-818-552-3500
  • Housing Authority: 1-213-252-1826

Special Programs:

  • Stay Housed LA: Rental assistance – 1-833-223-7368
  • LA DOOR: Employment services – 1-844-804-5977
  • Healthy LA: Healthcare enrollment – 1-888-839-5909

Orange County

Main Offices:

  • Social Services: 1-714-541-7785
  • Housing and Community Services: 1-714-480-2900
  • Workforce Development: 1-714-480-6500

Special Programs:

San Francisco County

Main Offices:

  • Human Services: 1-415-558-4700
  • Housing Authority: 1-415-715-5200
  • WorkforceOne: 1-415-701-4848

Special Programs:

  • SF-Marin Food Bank: 1-415-282-1900
  • Rent Board: 1-415-252-4600

Riverside County

Main Offices:

  • Public Social Services: 1-877-410-8827
  • Housing Authority: 1-951-351-0700
  • Workforce Development: 1-951-955-3100

San Bernardino County

Main Offices:

  • Human Services: 1-877-410-8827
  • Housing Authority: 1-909-890-0644
  • Workforce Development: 1-800-451-5627

Sacramento County

Main Offices:

  • Human Assistance: 1-916-874-2072
  • Housing Authority: 1-916-440-1300
  • Employment & Training: 1-916-263-3800

Santa Clara County

Main Offices:

  • Social Services: 1-408-792-1600
  • Housing Authority: 1-408-275-1400
  • Office of Workforce Development: 1-408-534-2900

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to get approved for CalWORKs in California?

Emergency aid: Within 3 business days if you qualify Regular processing: Up to 30 days from complete application Common delays: Missing documents, missed interviews Speed up process: Submit all documents with initial application and attend scheduled interview

2. Can I get CalFresh if I’m working in California?

Yes. CalWORKs has income disregards – they don’t count your first $450 of earned income, then only count 50% of the rest. Working families often still qualify. Many working families receive $200-400 monthly in CalFresh benefits.

3. What happens if I make slightly too much money for CalWORKs in California?

Options include:

  • CalFresh (food stamps) – higher income limits
  • Medi-Cal – covers up to $2,829 monthly for family of 2
  • Subsidized childcare – covers up to $6,075 monthly for family of 2
  • WIC – covers up to $4,594 monthly for family of 3

4. Do I have to pay back CalWORKs benefits in California?

No, CalWORKs is a grant, not a loan. However:

  • Benefits may be reduced if you don’t follow program rules
  • Overpayments due to unreported income must be repaid
  • 60-month lifetime limit applies to adults (not children)

5. Can undocumented immigrants get assistance in California?

Limited programs available:

  • Emergency Medi-Cal for medical emergencies
  • WIC for pregnant women and children under 5
  • School meal programs for children
  • Emergency food assistance through food banks
  • Children who are US citizens can receive full benefits

6. How does California’s minimum wage affect benefit eligibility in 2025?

California minimum wage: $18.00 per hour as of January 2025 Full-time work (40 hours): $3,120 monthly gross Impact: May disqualify from some programs but others have higher limits Key: Many programs use net income after deductions, not gross

7. What childcare assistance is available while I look for work in California?

CalWORKs recipients: Immediate Stage 1 childcare while job searching Non-CalWORKs families: Alternative Payment Programs (APPs) Job training: Care available during approved training programs Emergency care: Some counties offer short-term emergency vouchers

8. Can I own a car and still get CalWORKs in California?

Yes. One car per adult household member is excluded from resource calculations. Car value limits:

  • $25,000 for one car if used for work/medical appointments
  • $4,650 if not used for work (rarely enforced)
  • No limit on cars over 20 years old

9. What housing help is available for single mothers facing eviction in California?

Immediate help:

  • Tenant protections: 5-day notice required, right to legal representation
  • Rental assistance: Emergency programs still available in most counties
  • Legal aid: Free eviction defense through Statewide Tenant Protection
  • Phone: 1-800-477-5977 for tenant rights hotline

10. How do California community colleges help single mothers financially?

Free tuition: Through California College Promise Grant (formerly BOG fee waiver) Additional help:

  • Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS): Book vouchers, counseling, emergency grants
  • CalWORKs College Program: Allows college attendance while receiving cash aid
  • Childcare centers: On-campus childcare at reduced rates
  • Food pantries: Many campuses have free food programs
  • Emergency grants: $200-1,500 for crisis situations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Application Mistakes

  • Not reporting all income sources – Include gig work, child support, gifts over $30
  • Missing interview appointments – Automatic denial, must reapply
  • Incomplete document submission – Delays processing by weeks
  • Not keeping copies – Always photocopy everything you submit

Ongoing Mistakes

  • Not reporting changes within 10 days – Income changes, address moves, household changes
  • Missing recertification deadlines – Benefits stop immediately
  • Not attending required appointments – CalWORKs welfare-to-work meetings
  • Assuming you don’t qualify – Income limits change, always apply

System Navigation Mistakes

  • Going to wrong office – Each county runs programs differently
  • Not appealing denials – You have rights, use them
  • Not asking for supervisors – First-level workers make mistakes
  • Giving up after one “no” – Try multiple programs and agencies

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 para Madres Solteras en California

CalWORKs (Asistencia en Efectivo):

  • Hasta $781 mensuales para familia de 2 personas
  • Límite de ingresos: $1,157 mensuales para madre e hijo
  • Solicitar en: BenefitsCal.com o 1-800-560-0976

CalFresh (Cupones de Alimentos):

  • Hasta $535 mensuales para familia de 2 personas
  • Límite de ingresos: $2,137 mensuales para 2 personas
  • Beneficios de emergencia en 3 días

Medi-Cal (Seguro Médico Gratuito):

  • Cobertura médica completa gratuita
  • Sin límite de recursos/bienes
  • Inscripción inmediata disponible

Asistencia de Vivienda:

  • Programa de Vouchers (Section 8)
  • Asistencia de emergencia para renta
  • Programas para compradores de primera vivienda

Cuidado Infantil:

  • CalWORKs Child Care (Etapas 1, 2, 3)
  • Programas de Pago Alternativo (APPs)
  • Head Start/Early Head Start

Ayuda de Emergencia:

  • Marque 211 para ayuda inmediata
  • Bancos de alimentos (sin requisitos)
  • Asistencia con servicios públicos

Educación:

  • Cal Grants: Hasta $12,970 anuales
  • Colegios comunitarios gratuitos
  • Programas de capacitación laboral

Programas Especiales:

  • WIC: $30-50 mensuales para alimentos
  • Descuentos en servicios públicos
  • Asistencia legal gratuita

Para Emergencias:

  • Alimentos: Marque 211
  • Efectivo: 1-800-560-0976
  • Vivienda: 1-800-799-7233
  • Legal: 1-916-551-2150

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 California Department of Social Services, USDA, HUD, California Housing Finance Agency, and established nonprofits including Legal Aid Society, Catholic Charities, and Salvation Army.

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.

Disclaimer

Program details, benefit amounts, and eligibility requirements can change without notice. Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions. This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice.

Contact the specific program offices listed in this guide for the most current application procedures, benefit amounts, and eligibility criteria. Some programs have waiting lists or limited funding that may affect availability.

Individual circumstances vary greatly. What works for one family may not work for another. Consider consulting with a social worker, legal aid attorney, or certified benefits counselor for personalized guidance.

The organizations and programs listed here are not endorsed by ASingleMother.org beyond their inclusion as potential resources. Users should research and evaluate services independently.

Emergency situations require immediate professional help. If you are in crisis, call 211, contact local emergency services, or visit your nearest county social services office.

🏛️More California Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in California

Related Posts