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Grants for Single Mothers in Virginia

Virginia 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 CommonHelp Virginia – you can get benefits within 1-3 days if you qualify
  3. Contact local food banks – St. Mary’s Food Bank serves multiple Virginia locations

Main Points

According to the Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia offers comprehensive assistance for single mothers through 25+ programs. Emergency help is available within 1-3 days for food assistance, and various programs provide cash assistance, healthcare, childcare support, and educational opportunities.

What you need to know:

  • Emergency help is available – You can get food assistance within days and utility help within weeks
  • Real grants exist – Programs like WomenRise provide comprehensive support including childcare assistance for education
  • Tax credits provide major help – EITC and Child Tax Credit can provide thousands annually
  • Long-term support matters – Education and job training programs can change your family’s future
  • The system is complex – But this guide breaks it down step by step

Reality Check: Some programs have waiting lists or strict requirements. Apply for multiple programs and don’t get discouraged if the first one doesn’t work out.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

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

Cash Assistance (Virginia’s TANF Program)

According to Virginia Department of Social Services, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides monthly cash payments to eligible families with children.

How the program works:

  • Provides temporary cash assistance to help families meet basic needs
  • Participants must participate in VIEW (Virginia Initiative for Employment not Welfare) program
  • Includes job training, education, and work-related support services
  • Time limits apply – generally limited to 24 months with VIEW participation, 60 months lifetime maximum

Basic eligibility requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
  • Must have children under 18 (or under 19 if in school)
  • Must meet income and asset requirements
  • Must live in Virginia

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at CommonHelp Virginia
  2. Call (855) 635-4370 for phone application
  3. Visit your local Department of Social Services office
  4. Download and mail paper application

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

Emergency options available:

  • Diversionary Assistance (DA): One-time short-term aid to prevent need for ongoing TANF
  • Emergency Assistance (EA): Help for families facing natural disasters, fires, or eviction

Reality Check: According to the Virginia Poverty Law Center, Virginia’s TANF benefit amounts are among the lowest in the nation. The program is designed as temporary assistance while you work toward self-sufficiency.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to Virginia Department of Social Services, SNAP provides monthly food benefits to eligible low-income families through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.

Current benefit amounts and income limits (October 2024 – September 2025):

Household Size Maximum Monthly Benefit Monthly Income Limit (200% FPL)
1 person $292 $2,510
2 people $536 $3,407
3 people $768 $4,303
4 people $975 $5,200

Who qualifies:

  • Virginia residents with income up to 200% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Most households must meet both gross and net income limits
  • No asset limit in Virginia for most households

How to apply:

  • Online: CommonHelp Virginia
  • Phone: (833) 522-5582
  • In person: Local Department of Social Services office

Emergency SNAP: If you qualify for expedited service, you can get benefits within 1-3 days if you have very low income and resources.

Virginia SUN Bucks: According to Virginia SUN Bucks, eligible school-age children receive a one-time $120 benefit in 2025 for summer groceries.

Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)

According to the LIHEAP Clearinghouse, Virginia’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps with utility bills.

Current benefit amounts (2025):

Program Type Minimum Benefit Maximum Benefit
Heating Assistance $198 $703
Cooling Assistance $50 $700
Winter Crisis – $4,200

Income eligibility: Household income must not exceed 150% of Federal Poverty Level

Program dates:

  • Heating: October 8 – November 8
  • Cooling: June 15 – August 15
  • Winter Crisis: November 1 – March 17

How to apply:

  1. Online: CommonHelp Virginia
  2. Phone: (855) 635-4370
  3. Visit local Department of Social Services office

Reality Check: Funding is limited and available first-come, first-served. Apply early when the program opens.

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

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

Medicaid and FAMIS

According to Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia’s Medicaid program provides comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Medicaid income limits:

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

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including mammograms and cancer screenings
  • Pregnancy and postpartum care

FAMIS (for children): Children under 19 can get coverage with family income up to 205% of Federal Poverty Level ($5,268/month for family of 3).

How to apply:

  • Online: CommonHelp Virginia
  • Phone: (855) 242-8282
  • Visit local Department of Social Services office

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

According to Virginia Department of Health, WIC provides nutrition assistance to pregnant women and children under 5.

Who qualifies:

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

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with nutritious foods
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Find local WIC office at Virginia WIC
  • Call (800) 292-3999 for information
  • Apply in person (phone interviews not available)

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Child Care Subsidy Program

According to Virginia Department of Social Services, the Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible families pay for childcare costs.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum requirements apply)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income up to 250% of Federal Poverty Level ($5,411/month for family of 3)

How much you pay:

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

Approved providers:

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

How to apply:

  • Online: CommonHelp Virginia
  • Phone: (855) 635-4370
  • Visit local Department of Social Services office

Processing time: 30-45 days if all documents provided

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Full-day or part-day options
  • 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
  • Parenting education

Income requirements:

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

How to apply:

Educational Grants That Change Lives

These are true grants – money you never have to pay back. They can help you build a career and achieve financial independence.

Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG)

According to the Virginia State Council of Higher Education, VTAG helps Virginia residents attend private colleges and universities.

Award amounts (2025-26):

  • Undergraduate students: Up to $2,800 annually
  • Graduate students: Up to $1,300 annually
  • Special higher amounts for Hampton and Virginia Union Universities

Eligibility requirements:

  • Virginia resident for at least one year
  • Enrolled full-time at eligible private Virginia institution
  • Pursuing eligible degree (not religious training)
  • U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
  • Males must comply with Selective Service registration

How to apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
  2. Apply to participating Virginia private colleges
  3. Institution automatically considers you for VTAG

WomenRise (Richmond Area)

According to United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg, WomenRise provides comprehensive support for single mothers pursuing education.

What they provide:

  • Financial assistance for childcare costs
  • Support during post-secondary education or training
  • Access to Women United community for mentoring
  • Connection to United Way network resources

Eligibility requirements:

  • Must be single mother
  • Enrolled or planning to enroll in education/training program (minimum 4 weeks)
  • Program must result in degree or credential
  • Must reside in United Way service area (Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Hopewell, New Kent, Petersburg, Prince George, Powhatan, Richmond)

Application period: April 15 – May 15, 2025 for 2025-2026 academic year

Contact: womenrise@yourunitedway.org

Forward Foundation (Richmond Area)

According to Forward Foundation, this organization provides comprehensive support for single parents experiencing financial hardship.

What they provide:

  • Subsidized childcare assistance
  • Educational services and support
  • Financial planning assistance
  • Life skills training
  • Mentoring program (12-18 month program)

Who qualifies:

  • Single parents experiencing financial hardship
  • Those earning too much for state assistance but still struggling
  • Must be willing to participate in full program

Services included:

  • Case management and goal setting
  • Financial literacy education
  • Career planning assistance
  • Emergency assistance when available

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges for single mothers.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

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

How it works:

  • You find your own rental housing
  • Voucher pays portion of rent directly to landlord
  • You pay 30% of your income toward rent
  • Can move anywhere that accepts vouchers

Income limits vary by area:

  • Must be at or below 50% of area median income
  • Priority for families at or below 30% of area median income
  • Contact local housing authority for specific limits

How to apply:

  • Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  • Norfolk: Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (757) 623-1111
  • Richmond: Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (804) 780-4200
  • Virginia Beach: Virginia Beach Housing and Neighborhood Development (757) 385-2600

Reality Check: Most housing authorities have waiting lists of 1-3 years. Apply as soon as possible and to multiple authorities if eligible.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Several programs can help if you’re behind on rent or facing eviction.

Virginia Rent Relief Program:

  • Contact local Community Action Program offices
  • Assistance with rent arrears, utilities, and moving costs
  • Must demonstrate risk of homelessness or housing instability

Local assistance:

  • Contact 2-1-1 for local emergency rental programs
  • Many nonprofits provide one-time emergency assistance
  • Churches and faith-based organizations often have emergency funds

Child Support Enforcement

Don’t overlook this important source of financial support.

Virginia Division of Child Support Enforcement

What they provide:

  • Locate absent parents using state and federal databases
  • Establish paternity through genetic testing
  • Establish and modify support orders
  • Collect and distribute support payments
  • Enforce support orders through wage garnishment

Who qualifies:

  • Any parent or caregiver who has custody of a child
  • No income requirements
  • Available regardless of marital status

How to apply:

Costs:

  • $25 application fee for families not receiving TANF
  • Fee waived for TANF recipients

Reality Check: Even if the other parent doesn’t have a job now, establishing support orders helps when their situation changes.

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

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

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • TANF (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • Medicaid (healthcare) – 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 Virginia state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination. Additional resources:

Support organizations:

  • Equality Virginia: (804) 643-4816
  • Side by Side LGBT Center (Richmond): (804) 977-2273
  • LGBT Life Center (Norfolk): (757) 640-0929

Legal protections:

  • Virginia law prohibits discrimination in state programs based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs

Tribal and Native American Families

Resources available:

  • Virginia has state-recognized tribes eligible for certain programs
  • Monacan Indian Nation: (434) 946-0389
  • Pamunkey Indian Tribe: (804) 843-4792
  • Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe: (804) 769-0260

Note: Contact your tribal government for specific programs and eligibility requirements.

Rural Virginia Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

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

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some programs offer mobile or outreach services
  • Telehealth: Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources
  • Community Action Programs: Serve rural areas throughout Virginia

Resources by Region

Northern Virginia

Educational Programs:

  • Northern Virginia Community College: Financial aid office for education programs
  • George Mason University: Student parent resources

Emergency Assistance:

  • Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services: (703) 324-7500
  • Arlington Department of Human Services: (703) 228-1300

Central Virginia (Richmond Area)

Education Programs:

  • WomenRise: Contact United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg
  • Forward Foundation: (804) 977-2273
  • Virginia Commonwealth University: Student parent support services

Emergency Assistance:

  • Henrico County Social Services: (804) 501-4131
  • Richmond Department of Social Services: (804) 646-7000

Hampton Roads (Norfolk/Virginia Beach Area)

Education Programs:

  • Tidewater Community College: Student support services
  • Old Dominion University: Single parent support groups

Emergency Assistance:

  • Norfolk Department of Human Services: (757) 664-7000
  • Virginia Beach Department of Human Services: (757) 385-3000

Rural Areas

Statewide Rural Resources:

  • Virginia’s Community Action Partnership: Serves rural communities statewide
  • Virginia Cooperative Extension: Educational programs and resources
  • Rural Health Clinics: Contact Virginia Department of Health

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Immediate Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for Emergency SNAP at CommonHelp Virginia
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources in your area
  3. Contact local food banks for emergency food assistance

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for Medicaid – same application as SNAP 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills – many have hardship programs 6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on SNAP application if no response within 3 days 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support Programs

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for Cash Assistance (TANF) through CommonHelp
  2. Apply for LIHEAP energy assistance
  3. Contact child support services: 1-800-468-8894

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Research Head Start programs for children 3-5 6. Contact local food banks for ongoing support

Week 3: Housing and Long-term Planning

Day 15-17:

  1. Apply for Section 8 housing vouchers with local housing authority
  2. Contact emergency rental assistance if facing eviction
  3. Research educational grant opportunities

Day 18-21: 4. Complete FAFSA for educational grants at studentaid.gov 5. Contact community colleges about programs and support services 6. Apply for additional local emergency assistance programs

Week 4: Education and Career Development

Day 22-24:

  1. Research WomenRise or Forward Foundation if in service areas
  2. Contact local universities about single parent support services
  3. Look into job training programs through Virginia Employment Commission

Day 25-28: 4. Apply to educational support programs 5. Follow up on all pending applications 6. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits and requirements

Documents You Need

Keep copies of these documents ready for all applications:

Personal identification:

  • Virginia 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, phone)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

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

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify based on income limits. Many programs are specifically designed to help working families afford basics like food and childcare.

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: Most programs don’t exclude people with criminal records, though some restrictions may apply for certain felonies. You can still qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance, WIC, and most other programs.

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

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-3 days if emergency)
  • TANF: 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: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! CommonHelp allows you to apply for SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid with one application. You can also apply for other programs separately at the same time.

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial within 30 days. Contact Virginia Poverty Law Center at (804) 782-9430 for help with appeals.

Q: Do I have to pay anything back? A: Most programs don’t require repayment. Grants and benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, and tax credits never need to be repaid. Educational grants may have requirements like staying in Virginia after graduation.

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

  • Emergency Medicaid for emergency medical care
  • WIC in some areas
  • Food banks (most don’t require documentation)
  • Emergency assistance from nonprofits

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

  • Mobile services available for some programs
  • Telehealth covered by Medicaid
  • 2-1-1 especially important for finding local resources
  • Community Action Programs serve rural areas

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

  • Department of Social Services offices provide in-person help
  • 2-1-1 can connect you with local navigators
  • Virginia Poverty Law Center: (804) 782-9430
  • Local Community Action Programs

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

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • CommonHelp website available in multiple languages
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments

Important Phone Numbers and Resources

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7)
  • Virginia Department of Social Services: (804) 726-7000
  • CommonHelp Customer Service: (855) 635-4370
  • Medicaid Customer Service: (855) 242-8282

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/TANF/Medicaid applications: CommonHelp Virginia
  • Child support services: 1-800-468-8894
  • WIC program: (800) 292-3999
  • Head Start locator: (866) 763-6481

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

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

Legal and advocacy help:

  • Virginia Poverty Law Center: (804) 782-9430
  • Legal Aid Justice Center: (434) 977-0553
  • Virginia Legal Aid Society: (866) 534-5243

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

  • Virginia State Council of Higher Education: schev.edu
  • Federal Student Aid: studentaid.gov
  • FAFSA help: 1-800-433-3243

Useful websites:

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

Information compiled from official Virginia Department of Social Services, USDA, HHS, and Virginia State Council 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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