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Grants for Single Mothers in Minnesota

Minnesota 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 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Apply for Emergency SNAP at MNbenefits.mn.gov – you can get benefits within 7 days if you qualify for expedited service
  3. Contact your local food shelf at HungerSolutions.org for emergency food assistance

Main Points

Single mothers in Minnesota face real financial challenges. According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, a single, nonworking caregiver with two children who meets all program requirements can receive $1,189 per month in combined cash and food benefits through MFIP. However, the state also recognizes that work pays – families are better off financially when working, with special income rules that let you keep more of your benefits while you earn money.

What you need to know:

  • Emergency help is available – You can get SNAP benefits within 7 days in crisis situations
  • Work actually pays – Minnesota’s programs are designed so you’re better off working while receiving benefits
  • Healthcare is available – Medical Assistance covers families earning up to 138% of federal poverty level ($44,367 for a family of four)
  • Educational support exists – The Student Parent Support Initiative provides grants up to $250,000 to colleges supporting parent students
  • Long-term help matters – Many programs include job training and education components

Reality Check: Minnesota has some of the most comprehensive benefits in the nation, but programs have waiting lists and complex requirements. Apply for multiple programs and don’t get discouraged by initial denials – you have appeal rights.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

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

Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)

According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, MFIP is Minnesota’s version of TANF that helps families with children meet their basic needs while helping caregivers move to financial stability through work. Most families start with the Diversionary Work Program (DWP) before enrolling in MFIP.

Current benefit amounts:

Income calculation (the good news):

  • First $65 you earn each month doesn’t count toward income limits
  • After that, only half of your remaining earnings count
  • Example: If you earn $1,000/month, only $468 counts toward program limits

Asset limits:

Important time limit:

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at MNbenefits.mn.gov
  2. Submit Combined Application Form to your county office
  3. Complete required interview (phone or in-person)
  4. Processing takes up to 30 days

Contact: Your local county human services office or call statewide at (651) 431-2670

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, SNAP helps Minnesotans with low incomes get the food they need for nutritious meals. The program provides extra support to stretch your food budget and is not meant to cover all groceries a family needs.

Income limits (200% of Federal Poverty Level for most households):

Household Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual 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

Source: SNAP Income Limits

Maximum benefit amounts (2025):

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

Special rules in Minnesota:

Expedited SNAP:

How to apply:

Medical Assistance (MA) – Minnesota’s Medicaid

According to Minnesota’s Department of Human Services, Medical Assistance provides health care coverage for people with low income, including families with children, pregnant women, and adults without children.

Income limits (138% of Federal Poverty Level for adults):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,801 $21,597
2 people $2,433 $29,180
3 people $3,064 $36,763
4 people $3,696 $44,346

Source: DB101 Minnesota

Higher income limits for families:

What’s covered:

  • Doctor visits and specialists
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health services
  • Hospital and emergency care
  • Preventive care including annual exams
  • Dental care for children

No asset limits for income-based Medical Assistance

How to apply:

Educational Grants and Scholarships

These programs provide money you never have to pay back for education and training.

Student Parent Support Initiative (SPSI)

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education funds this initiative to support parenting students by providing grants up to $250,000 per year to colleges. The program aims to bridge the opportunity gap by increasing access to crucial resources like childcare, mental health supports, and stable housing for student parents.

What colleges can provide through SPSI funding:

  • Childcare assistance and early education access
  • Mental health support services
  • Housing stability assistance
  • Academic support specifically for parents
  • Financial assistance for basic needs

Current participating schools include:

  • College of St. Scholastica
  • St. Catherine University (serving single moms in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester)
  • Multiple other Minnesota colleges

How it helps you: Contact the financial aid office at your college to ask about student parent support programs funded through SPSI.

Minnesota State Grant

According to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, State Grants help students from low- and moderate-income families pay for educational expenses at eligible Minnesota colleges or universities.

Key details:

Requirements:

  • Be Minnesota resident
  • Be at least 17 or high school graduate
  • Not be in default on student loans
  • Not be more than 30 days behind on child support

How to apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA at StudentAid.gov
  2. Apply by the 30th day of the term (new rule for 2025-2026)
  3. Your school automatically considers you for State Grant

Campus-Specific Scholarships for Single Parents

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education maintains a list of campus-based resources for student parents. Many Minnesota colleges offer specific scholarships for single mothers:

Examples include:

  • Alexandria Technical College: Kathy Pfeffer Honorary Scholarship ($250 for single parents)
  • Augsburg College: Parent Grant (discount for parenting students)
  • Central Lakes College: Multiple scholarships for single moms, including Mary Barr Memorial Scholarship for nursing students
  • Dakota County Technical College: Peggy Rasmussen King Memorial Scholarship (special consideration for single mothers)
  • Dunwoody College: Women in Technical Careers scholarship ($1,500/year childcare stipend)

How to find more: Contact your college’s financial aid office and ask specifically about scholarships for single parents or non-traditional students.

Real Grants for Single Mothers

Beyond government programs, several organizations provide actual grants specifically for single mothers in Minnesota.

Federal Grants Available to Minnesota Residents

Federal Pell Grant:

  • Up to $7,395 per year for undergraduate education (2024-2025)
  • Based on financial need determined by FAFSA
  • Does not need to be repaid
  • Available at all accredited colleges

Federal TEACH Grant:

  • Up to $4,000 per year for students planning to teach
  • Requires 4-year teaching commitment in high-need schools
  • Converts to loan if teaching obligation not met

Private Foundation Grants

While specific private foundation grants for Minnesota single mothers are limited and often have small applicant pools, here are legitimate options:

Local Community Foundation Grants: Many Minnesota community foundations offer emergency assistance grants. Contact:

  • Greater Twin Cities United Way: (651) 291-8255
  • Local community foundations in your county
  • Religious organizations and churches

Professional Organization Scholarships: If you’re pursuing specific careers, look for:

  • Nursing scholarships through Minnesota Nurses Association
  • Teaching scholarships through Minnesota Education Association
  • Business scholarships through local chambers of commerce

Reality Check on “Grants”: Be wary of any organization that charges fees for grant applications or guarantees grants. Legitimate grants never require upfront payments. Most assistance comes through the government programs listed in this guide rather than private grants.

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is often the biggest challenge for single mothers.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

According to HB101 Minnesota, the Section 8 housing choice voucher program helps people with low income pay for privately owned rental housing. Most voucher recipients pay 30-40% of their income toward rent and utilities.

Income limits (varies by area, generally 50% of median income):

Household Size Annual Income Limit (Twin Cities area)
1 person $31,200
2 people $35,650
3 people $40,100
4 people $44,500

Source: Affordable Housing Hub

How to apply:

  • Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA)
  • Apply to multiple PHAs – most have waiting lists
  • Twin Cities metro: Check HousingLink for waiting list status
  • Greater Minnesota: Contact your county housing authority

Reality Check: Most housing authorities have waiting lists of 1-2 years or longer. Apply as soon as possible to multiple authorities.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Several Minnesota programs help prevent eviction:

Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP):

  • Administered by Minnesota Housing
  • Helps households earning up to 200% of federal poverty guidelines
  • Covers rent, utilities, security deposits, and moving costs
  • Contact regional providers in your county

Local Emergency Assistance:

  • Contact your county social services for emergency rent help
  • Many counties have one-time assistance programs
  • Call 2-1-1 for local emergency assistance programs

Salvation Army and Faith-Based Housing Help

Minnesota Salvation Army programs offer various housing assistance including:

  • Security deposit assistance for families moving from temporary housing
  • First month’s rent assistance
  • Utility assistance for families with shut-off notices

Contact your local Salvation Army office for current programs and requirements.

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

WIC provides nutrition assistance to pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5.

Who qualifies:

  • Income at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level (same as SNAP)
  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Must be at “nutritional risk” (determined by health screening)

Automatic qualification if you receive:

  • Medical Assistance (MA)
  • MFIP
  • SNAP

What WIC provides:

  • Monthly food packages (milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables)
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and other services

Contact: Minnesota WIC at (800) 657-3942

MinnesotaCare

For families who don’t qualify for Medical Assistance but still need affordable healthcare:

Income limits: Generally 200-275% of federal poverty level depending on household composition Monthly premiums: Based on income and family size Coverage: Similar to Medical Assistance but with small copays

Contact: MNsure at 1-855-366-7873

Childcare Help While You Work or Study

DES Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Minnesota’s CCAP helps eligible families pay for childcare while parents work or attend school.

Who qualifies:

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

What you pay:

  • Co-payments based on income (typically $1-200+ per month)
  • Lower-income families pay less
  • Payments made directly to childcare provider

Approved providers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • Some relative care arrangements
  • Before/after school programs

How to apply: Contact your county human services office or apply through MNbenefits.mn.gov

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

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

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

Available programs:

  • MFIP (cash assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • SNAP (food assistance) – same income limits and benefits
  • Medical Assistance – 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

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All Minnesota state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination. Additional resources:

Support organizations:

  • OutFront Minnesota: (612) 822-0127
  • Twin Cities Pride: (612) 255-3260
  • Duluth LGBTQ+ Community: Local support groups

Legal protections:

  • Minnesota law prohibits discrimination in state programs based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs
  • Name change and gender marker assistance available through county courts

Tribal-Specific Resources

Tribal TANF programs: Many Minnesota tribes operate their own TANF programs with different rules:

  • Red Lake Nation: Tribal TANF program separate from state
  • White Earth Nation: Tribal assistance programs
  • Mille Lacs Band: Community services available
  • Leech Lake Band: Tribal TANF and support services

Note: You cannot receive both state and tribal TANF simultaneously

Indian Health Service:

  • Healthcare for enrolled tribal members
  • Available regardless of income
  • Contact your tribal health clinic

Contact your tribal government for specific programs and eligibility requirements.

Rural Minnesota Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer service providers
  • Longer travel distances to offices
  • Limited internet access

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some WIC offices offer home visits
  • Telehealth: Medical Assistance covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Community Action Programs: Serve rural counties with various assistance

Resources by Region

Twin Cities Metro Area (Minneapolis-St. Paul)

Emergency assistance:

  • Hennepin County: (612) 348-2552
  • Ramsey County: (651) 266-4444
  • Second Harvest Heartland: (651) 484-5117

Housing authorities:

  • Minneapolis Public Housing Authority: (612) 342-1400
  • St. Paul Public Housing Agency: (651) 266-6300
  • Metro HRA: (651) 602-1000

Greater Minnesota

Duluth Area:

  • St. Louis County: (218) 726-2101
  • CHUM Food Shelf: (218) 720-6521

Rochester Area:

  • Olmsted County: (507) 328-7500
  • Channel One Food Shelf: (507) 287-2350

St. Cloud Area:

  • Stearns County: (320) 656-6000
  • Anna Marie’s Alliance: (320) 253-6900

Rural Resources:

  • Contact your county social services office
  • Call 2-1-1 for local assistance programs
  • Check with Community Action Programs in your area

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP at MNbenefits.mn.gov
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources
  3. Contact local food shelf through HungerSolutions.org

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for Medical Assistance (same application as SNAP) 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills 6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on applications if no response 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for MFIP through MNbenefits.mn.gov
  2. Contact child support services if applicable
  3. Research local emergency assistance programs

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Contact housing authorities for Section 8 applications 6. Look into additional local food banks

Week 3: Housing and Long-term Planning

Day 15-17:

  1. Apply to multiple housing authorities for Section 8
  2. Contact FHPAP providers for rental assistance
  3. Research emergency housing options

Day 18-21: 4. Complete FAFSA for educational financial aid 5. Contact colleges about student parent support programs 6. Apply for additional local assistance programs

Week 4: Education and Appeals

Day 22-24:

  1. Research college programs and scholarships for single parents
  2. Contact financial aid offices at schools you’re interested in
  3. Look into job training programs

Day 25-28: 4. Follow up on all pending applications 5. File appeals if denied (you have 30 days) 6. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits

Documents You Need

Keep copies ready for all applications:

Personal identification:

  • Minnesota driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or mortgage statement
  • Rent receipts for last 3 months
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months
  • Vehicle registration and insurance
  • Medical bills and expenses
  • Court orders (custody, child support)

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Most denials can be resolved.

Common Denial Reasons

  • Missing information: Incomplete applications or missing documents
  • Income miscalculation: Often due to errors in how income is counted
  • Processing errors: Agency mistakes or lost documents
  • Timing issues: Missing deadlines or interviews

Your Appeal Rights

  • 30-day deadline: Request appeal within 30 days of denial
  • Free process: No cost to appeal decisions
  • Continued benefits: May keep current benefits during appeal (if already receiving)
  • Fair hearing: Right to present your case

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Legal Aid: (651) 642-1904
  • Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services: (507) 387-5588
  • Legal Rights Center: (612) 465-9733

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Minnesota’s programs are designed so you’re better off working:

  • SNAP: Up to 200% of poverty level ($51,640/year for family of 3)
  • Medical Assistance: Up to 138% of poverty level for adults, much higher for children
  • MFIP: First $65 earned doesn’t count, then only half of remaining income counts

Q: How long do applications take? A: Processing times vary:

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (7 days for emergency)
  • MFIP: Up to 30 days
  • Medical Assistance: Usually 30 days
  • Housing vouchers: 1-3+ years due to waiting lists

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: Most programs are still available:

  • SNAP, Medical Assistance, housing assistance are available
  • MFIP may have restrictions for drug felonies within 10 years
  • Each case is reviewed individually

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! MNbenefits.mn.gov allows you to apply for SNAP, MFIP, and Medical Assistance with one application.

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

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • MNbenefits.mn.gov available in multiple languages
  • Request interpreter when calling or visiting offices

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

  • Never repay: SNAP, Medical Assistance, WIC, educational grants
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported changes, you may need to repay the difference
  • MFIP: Generally doesn’t require repayment unless fraud is involved

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

  • Emergency Medical Assistance: Emergency medical care only
  • WIC: Available regardless of immigration status in some areas
  • Food shelves: Most don’t require documentation
  • Call 2-1-1 for guidance on available options

Q: What if I live in rural Minnesota? A: Rural residents have additional challenges but options exist:

  • Mobile services available for some programs
  • Telehealth covered by Medical Assistance
  • Community Action Programs serve rural areas
  • 2-1-1 essential for finding local resources

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Scams to Avoid

Grant scams:

  • Red flag: Requests upfront fees for “guaranteed grants”
  • Reality: Legitimate government programs never charge fees
  • Action: Report to Minnesota Attorney General: (651) 296-3353

Benefits card scams:

  • Red flag: Calls asking for your EBT card number or PIN
  • Reality: Government agencies will never call requesting card information
  • Action: Never give card information over phone

Program Warnings

MFIP time limits:

  • 60-month lifetime limit for most families
  • Extensions available but limited
  • Plan for transition to self-sufficiency

Waiting lists reality:

  • Section 8 housing: Often 1-3+ year waits
  • Childcare assistance: Waiting lists in some areas
  • Apply early to multiple programs

Income reporting:

  • Must report changes within 10 days
  • Failure to report can result in overpayments
  • Keep records of all reported changes

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • 2-1-1: Find local food shelves and soup kitchens
  • HungerSolutions.org: Statewide food shelf locator
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at MNbenefits.mn.gov

Housing emergency:

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Your county social services: Emergency assistance programs
  • Salvation Army: (612) 746-3648

Utilities shut-off:

  • Your utility company: Ask about payment plans and hardship programs
  • Local Community Action Programs: Energy assistance
  • 2-1-1: Local utility assistance programs

Health emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Emergency Medical Assistance: Available regardless of immigration status
  • Community health centers: Sliding fee scale care

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • Minnesota Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255

Domestic violence:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Day One Crisis Hotline: 1-866-223-1111
  • Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women: (651) 646-6177

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7)
  • MNbenefits: Apply online at MNbenefits.mn.gov
  • Minnesota Department of Human Services: (651) 431-2670
  • Child Support: 1-800-657-3954

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/MFIP/Medical Assistance: MNbenefits.mn.gov
  • MNsure (health insurance): 1-855-366-7873
  • WIC: (800) 657-3942
  • Childcare assistance: Your county social services

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

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

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • Legal Aid: (651) 642-1904
  • Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services: (507) 387-5588
  • Volunteer Lawyers Network: (612) 752-6677

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

Useful Websites

Government portals:

Resource finders:

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 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 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 Minnesota guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Minnesota Department of Human Services, Minnesota Department of Children Youth and Families, USDA, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Minnesota Department of Human Services, Minnesota Department of Children Youth and Families, USDA, HHS, and Minnesota Office of Higher Education 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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