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Grants for Single Mothers in Maryland

Maryland Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:


  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 helpline for emergency assistance with housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at Maryland Benefits – you can get expedited benefits within 7 days if you qualify
  3. Contact Maryland Food Bank at (410) 635-1234 for emergency food assistance locations

Crisis Numbers:

  • Emergency Services: 911
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

Main Points

Maryland provides extensive assistance for single mothers through 20+ state and federal programs. Emergency help is available within days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $4,661/month, cash assistance up to $624/month, and educational grants that can cover full tuition costs.

Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $975/month for family of 4
  • Emergency Cash: TCA up to $624/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Housing: Rental assistance and emergency shelter programs
  • Healthcare: Free Medicaid for families earning under $4,661/month
  • Education: Jeremiah Program covers full college costs plus living support

What you need to know:

  • Maryland expanded Medicaid – more families now qualify for free healthcare
  • Real educational grants exist – Programs like Jeremiah Program provide comprehensive support including housing, childcare, and college tuition
  • Emergency help is available quickly – SNAP benefits can start within 7 days, and many food banks provide same-day assistance
  • The system requires persistence – Many programs have waiting lists, but multiple options exist

Reality Check: According to the Maryland Department of Human Services, many programs have specific work requirements and time limits. TCA (cash assistance) has a 60-month lifetime limit, and most assistance programs require active participation in work or educational activities.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

When you need immediate help paying bills or buying food, these programs can provide fast relief.

Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) – Maryland’s Main Cash Program

According to the Maryland Department of Human Services, TCA provides cash assistance to families with dependent children when available resources don’t fully address family needs.

Current benefit amounts (per Maryland People’s Law Library):

  • Maximum $624 per month for eligible families of three
  • Amount depends on household size, income, and expenses
  • Benefits calculated by subtracting countable income from allowable payment amount

Income limits: Must have income below the allowable payment amount for your household size. The exact limits vary, but generally families must have very low income to qualify.

Important time limit warning: TCA benefits are limited to 60 months (5 years) over a lifetime. Extensions are very limited.

Requirements:

  • Must have dependent children under 18 (or under 19 if full-time student)
  • Must cooperate with child support enforcement
  • Must participate in work activities unless exempt
  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
  • Must live in Maryland

How to apply:

  1. Online: Maryland Benefits
  2. Phone: Call your local Department of Social Services
  3. In person: Visit your local DSS office

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

Family Size Example Maximum Monthly TCA
1 parent, 1 child Around $400
1 parent, 2 children Around $500
1 parent, 3 children Up to $624

SNAP (Food Assistance)

Maryland’s SNAP program helps low-income households buy food. Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card that works like a debit card at authorized stores.

Maximum benefit amounts for 2025:

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits (200% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual Gross Income Limit
1 person $2,510 $30,120
2 people $3,407 $40,880
3 people $4,303 $51,640
4 people $5,200 $62,400

How to apply:

  • Online: Maryland Benefits
  • Phone: 1-800-332-6347
  • In person: Local Department of Social Services

Emergency SNAP: If you have very little income and resources, you may qualify for expedited SNAP benefits within 7 days.

Reality Check: Most families receive less than the maximum amount based on their income and expenses. According to Maryland DHS, SNAP benefits are designed to supplement your food budget, not cover all food costs.

Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP)

MEAP helps low-income households pay heating and cooling costs.

Benefits available:

  • Up to $750 per year in regular assistance
  • Emergency assistance for energy crises
  • Assistance with broken heating equipment (limited)

Income guidelines (60% of State Median Income):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit
1 person $4,206
2 people $5,501
3 people $6,796
4 people $8,091

Priority given to households with:

  • Elderly members (60+)
  • Disabled members
  • Children under age 5

How to apply:

  • Contact local energy assistance office
  • Call (800) 352-1446
  • Applications accepted year-round, but funding is limited

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

Maryland expanded Medicaid, which means more single mothers can get comprehensive health coverage.

Maryland Medicaid (Medical Assistance)

According to Maryland Health Connection, Medicaid provides free healthcare to eligible families.

Who qualifies:

  • Adults: Income up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Children: Income up to 211% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Pregnant women: Income up to 250% of Federal Poverty Level

Income limits for families:

Family Size Adults (138% FPL) Children (211% FPL) Pregnant Women (250% FPL)
1 person $20,783 Not applicable $37,650
2 people $28,207 $43,056 $51,000
3 people $35,631 $54,412 $64,350
4 people $43,056 $65,768 $77,700

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Dental care (expanded for adults in 2023)
  • Vision care

How to apply:

Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)

MCHP provides health coverage for children who don’t qualify for regular Medicaid.

Who qualifies:

  • MCHP: Children under 19 with household income at or below 211% of Federal Poverty Level
  • MCHP Premium: Children with income between 211% and 322% of FPL (small premium required)

Services covered:

  • All medical and dental care
  • Prescription medications
  • Vision care
  • Mental health services
  • Preventive care and immunizations

Educational Grants That Change Lives

These are true grants – money you never have to pay back. They can completely transform your family’s future.

Jeremiah Program Baltimore – Comprehensive Support

According to Jeremiah Program, this program serves single mothers and their children experiencing poverty in Baltimore.

What they provide:

  • Full college tuition support for associate’s or bachelor’s degrees
  • Affordable housing during the program
  • Quality early childhood education for children
  • Family coaching and support services
  • Career preparation and job placement assistance
  • Childcare assistance including backup care through Helpr app (33 hours per semester)
  • College savings: $100 per semester deposited in children’s 529 accounts

Programs available:

  • Healthcare fields: Nursing, medical assisting, healthcare administration
  • Early childhood education: With fellowship opportunities for credentialing
  • Business and entrepreneurship
  • Social work and human services

Requirements:

  • Must be single mother with at least one child under 10
  • Must be experiencing poverty
  • Must commit to completing 12-week Empowerment and Leadership Training
  • Must be willing to pursue degree and participate in all program components

How to apply:

  • Address: 1900 N. Howard Street, Suite 202, Baltimore, MD 21218
  • Phone: Contact for current application process
  • Note: Currently serving 51 women with a waiting list

Reality Check: This is a comprehensive program that requires significant commitment. According to Baltimore Sun reporting, the program has strict requirements but provides unprecedented support for participants who complete it.

Maryland State Educational Grants

Guaranteed Access Grant (GA)

According to Maryland Higher Education Commission, this grant can cover up to $22,100 of full-time college tuition at Maryland colleges.

Requirements:

  • Annual family income at 130% or less of Federal Poverty Level
  • Must complete FAFSA by June 1 (March 15 for priority consideration)
  • Must be Maryland resident
  • Must attend Maryland college or university

For 2025-2026 academic year:

  • Based on 2023 tax year income
  • Maximum award: $22,100 per year
  • Covers tuition at public and private Maryland institutions

Educational Assistance (EA) Grant

  • Amount: $400 to $3,000 per year
  • Requirements: Similar to GA Grant but less restrictive income requirements
  • Process: Automatic consideration when you file FAFSA

How to apply for both:

  1. Complete FAFSA by deadlines
  2. Apply to Maryland colleges
  3. College financial aid office will automatically consider you

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Maryland Child Care Subsidy (CCS)

The CCS program helps working families and students pay for childcare.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum hours vary)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income limits vary by family size and county

Types of care covered:

  • Formal care: Licensed childcare centers and family daycare homes
  • Informal care: Care by relatives or approved providers
  • Before/after school programs

How much you pay:

  • Co-payments based on family income
  • Lower income families pay less
  • Payments made directly to childcare provider

How to apply:

  • Contact local Child Care Resource and Referral agency
  • Applications processed through local social services offices
  • Processing time: 30-45 days

Reality Check: Waiting lists are common in many areas. Apply as early as possible, even before you start work or school.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Meals and snacks included
  • Health and dental screenings
  • Family support services

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

  • Childcare for infants and toddlers
  • Home visiting programs
  • Pregnant women services

Income requirements:

  • Family income at or below 130% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Automatic qualification for families receiving TCA, SNAP, or SSI

How to apply:

  • Contact Maryland Head Start Association at 1-866-763-6481
  • Find local programs through their website
  • Applications typically open in spring for fall enrollment

Real Grants for Single Mothers

Beyond government assistance, several organizations provide actual grants (not loans) specifically for single mothers in Maryland.

Private and Nonprofit Grants

The Women’s Foundation for Maryland

  • Provides various grants and scholarships for women’s education and career development
  • Focus on economic empowerment
  • Contact through their website for current grant opportunities

Local Community Foundations

  • Baltimore Community Foundation: Offers various grants and scholarships
  • Community Foundation of Frederick County: Provides educational and emergency assistance grants
  • United Way chapters across Maryland offer emergency assistance grants

Faith-Based Organizations

  • Catholic Charities of Maryland: Emergency assistance grants
  • Salvation Army chapters: Utility, rent, and emergency assistance
  • Local churches often have discretionary funds for emergency help

Educational Grants from Colleges

  • Many Maryland colleges offer specific scholarships for single mothers
  • Community College of Baltimore County: Single mother scholarships available
  • Anne Arundel Community College: Emergency assistance and scholarships
  • Montgomery College: Various need-based grants and emergency funds

Reality Check: Most private grants are small ($500-$2,000) and highly competitive. They’re best used for emergency situations or to supplement other assistance. Always verify legitimacy – never pay fees to apply for grants.

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges for single mothers. Maryland offers several programs that can help.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

According to HUD, the Housing Choice Voucher program helps very low-income families afford decent, safe housing.

Income limits (30% of Area Median Income):

Household Size Maximum Annual Income (Baltimore Metro)
1 person $23,850
2 people $27,250
3 people $30,650
4 people $34,050

How the program works:

  • You find your own rental housing
  • Housing authority inspects unit for safety
  • You pay 30% of income toward rent
  • Program pays remainder to landlord

Major housing authorities in Maryland:

  • Baltimore City: Housing Authority of Baltimore City
  • Baltimore County: Baltimore County Office of Housing
  • Prince George’s County: Prince George’s County Housing Authority
  • Montgomery County: Housing Opportunities Commission

Reality Check: According to Affordable Housing Online, waiting lists in Maryland average 38 months. Most major housing authorities have closed waiting lists due to overwhelming demand. Check frequently for openings.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Baltimore City Emergency Rental Assistance

  • Helps with rent arrears, utilities, and moving costs
  • Must be at risk of homelessness or facing financial hardship
  • Apply through Baltimore City government

Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

  • Statewide program for rental assistance
  • Covers rent, utilities, and housing-related expenses
  • Available through local community action agencies

Local Emergency Assistance

  • 2-1-1 Maryland: Connects to local emergency rental programs
  • Salvation Army: Emergency assistance for rent and utilities
  • Local churches and nonprofits: Often have emergency funds

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

All programs in this guide also serve single fathers raising children alone:

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • TCA (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • Medicaid – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance – Section 8 and emergency rental help
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Additional resources:

  • National Fatherhood Initiative: Resources for single fathers
  • Local support groups: Contact 2-1-1 for father-specific groups

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All Maryland state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination. Maryland law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in state programs.

Support organizations:

  • Equality Maryland: (410) 269-7990
  • FreeState Justice: Legal advocacy for LGBTQ+ families
  • PFLAG Maryland: Support for LGBTQ+ families and allies

Legal protections:

  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs
  • Name change and gender marker assistance available through courts
  • Anti-discrimination protections in housing and employment

Tribal and Native American Families

Maryland has a small Native American population, but resources are available:

Federal resources:

  • Bureau of Indian Affairs: Some services for recognized tribal members
  • Indian Health Service: Healthcare for enrolled tribal members (if applicable)
  • Native American contact: Baltimore American Indian Center

State recognition:

  • Maryland recognizes three tribes: Piscataway Indian Nation, Piscataway Conoy Tribe, and Accohannock Indian Tribe
  • Contact tribal headquarters for specific assistance programs

Rural Single Mother Families with Limited Access

Additional challenges in rural areas:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer travel distances to offices
  • Internet connectivity issues

Rural-specific resources:

  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Mobile outreach programs: Some agencies provide services in rural areas
  • Telehealth: Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • USDA Rural Development: Housing and utility assistance programs
  • Maryland Food Bank: Mobile food pantries serve rural areas

Transportation assistance:

  • Medical transportation: Available through some Medicaid plans
  • Volunteer driver programs: Contact local senior centers and churches
  • Gas voucher programs: Available through some community action agencies

Resources by Region

Baltimore City and County

Emergency Services:

  • Baltimore City Health Department: (410) 396-4398
  • Baltimore County Department of Social Services: (410) 887-3600
  • Mayor’s Office of Human Services: (410) 396-2273

Food Assistance:

  • Maryland Food Bank: (410) 635-1234
  • Our Daily Bread: (410) 243-0414
  • Paul’s Place: (410) 625-0775

Housing:

  • Housing Authority of Baltimore City: (410) 396-3232
  • Baltimore County Office of Housing: (410) 887-3234

Montgomery County

Services:

  • Montgomery County DHHS: (240) 777-4275
  • Interfaith Works: (301) 762-8682 (emergency assistance)

Prince George’s County

Services:

  • Prince George’s County DSS: (301) 909-7000
  • Prince George’s County Health Department: (301) 856-7100

Frederick County

Services:

  • Frederick County DSS: (301) 600-1755
  • Frederick County Housing Authority: (301) 600-3560

Southern Maryland (Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s)

Services:

  • Tri-County Community Action: (301) 863-3404
  • Southern Maryland Food Bank: (301) 932-6854

Eastern Shore

Services:

  • Lower Shore Community Action: (410) 749-1142
  • Mid Shore Community Action: (410) 822-5015

Western Maryland

Services:

  • Allegany County DSS: (301) 784-7000
  • Washington County DSS: (301) 791-3000

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify:

  • SNAP: Up to 200% of poverty level ($4,303/month for family of 3)
  • Medicaid: Up to 138% of poverty level for adults, 211% for children
  • Childcare assistance: Available for working parents
  • Energy assistance: Up to 60% of state median income

Q: How long do applications take to process? A: Processing times vary by program:

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (7 days if emergency)
  • TCA: Up to 45 days
  • Medicaid: Usually 30 days or less
  • Housing vouchers: Months to years due to waiting lists
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial within 90 days (30 days for some programs). Common reasons for denial include missing documents or income calculation errors. Contact Maryland Legal Aid at (800) 999-8904 for help with appeals.

Q: Do I have to pay anything back? A: Most programs don’t require repayment:

  • Never repay: SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, energy assistance, most grants
  • Educational grants: Sometimes have requirements like staying in Maryland after graduation
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported income changes, you may need to repay the difference

Q: Can undocumented immigrants get help? A: Some programs are available:

  • Emergency Medicaid: Emergency medical care only
  • WIC: Available regardless of immigration status
  • Food banks: Most don’t require documentation
  • Emergency assistance: Many nonprofits provide help regardless of status
  • Children: U.S. citizen children can receive benefits even if parents are undocumented

Q: What if my English is limited? A: Language assistance is available:

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • Many applications available in Spanish
  • Call 1-800-332-6347 for assistance in Spanish
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments

Q: Can I get help paying for school while receiving benefits? A: Yes, education is encouraged:

  • Jeremiah Program: Covers tuition, childcare, and living expenses
  • Pell Grants: Federal education funding (apply via FAFSA)
  • Maryland state grants: Up to $22,100 per year
  • TCA work requirement: Education/training counts as work activity
  • Childcare assistance: Available for parents in approved education programs

Q: What if I live in a rural area? A: Rural residents have options but may face challenges:

  • 2-1-1 is especially important for finding local resources
  • Mobile food pantries serve rural areas
  • Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • Some programs have special provisions for rural residents
  • Transportation assistance may be available through local agencies

Q: How do I get help filling out applications? A: Free application assistance available:

  • Local DSS offices: Staff provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1: Can connect you with local navigators
  • Maryland Legal Aid: (800) 999-8904
  • Community action agencies: Case managers often help with applications
  • Maryland Health Connection: Certified application counselors available

Appeals Process Step-by-Step

If you’re denied benefits, don’t give up. You have the right to appeal, and many denials can be overturned.

Step 1: Request Appeal (Within 90 Days)

How to request:

  • Online: Through the same portal where you applied
  • Phone: Call the number on your denial letter
  • In writing: Send letter to address on denial notice
  • In person: Visit local DSS office

What to include:

  • Your name and case number
  • Date of denial decision
  • Specific reasons you disagree
  • Any new information or documents

Step 2: Prepare for Your Hearing

Gather evidence:

  • Copy of original application
  • All documents you submitted
  • Denial letter with reasons
  • New documents that support your case

Understand the issues:

  • Review denial reasons carefully
  • Identify what needs to be proven
  • Prepare simple explanation of your situation

Step 3: Attend Your Hearing

What to expect:

  • Usually by phone (can request in-person)
  • Informal proceedings – no strict court rules
  • You can bring representative or advocate
  • Hearing usually lasts 30-60 minutes

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Maryland Legal Aid: (800) 999-8904
  • Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland: (410) 837-9379
  • Legal Aid Bureau: (410) 951-7777

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled and verified using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Maryland guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Health Connection, Maryland Higher Education Commission, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Health Connection, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and HUD sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

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