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Grants for Single Mothers in West Virginia

West 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 WV PATH – you can get benefits within 1-3 days if eligible
  3. Contact local food banks – Call your local Community Action Agency or visit Feeding America’s food bank locator

Main Points

According to recent data, eligible families of three with no income may receive up to $542 each month through West Virginia’s TANF program (WV WORKS). However, the reality is that government assistance programs provide basic support rather than comprehensive solutions.

What you need to know:

  • Government programs exist – SNAP, WV WORKS (TANF), Medicaid, and WIC provide basic support
  • Emergency help is available – You can apply for multiple programs through WV PATH
  • Educational grants are limited but real – The WV Higher Education Grant provides up to $3,300 annually for college
  • Income limits are strict – Medicaid eligibility is limited to 138% of poverty level ($21,597 annually for single adult in 2025)
  • Time limits apply – Most assistance programs have work requirements and time limits

Reality Check: West Virginia’s benefit amounts are among the lower levels nationally, and most programs require you to work, attend school, or participate in job training.

Government Benefits and Assistance Programs

WV WORKS (Cash Assistance)

WV WORKS is West Virginia’s TANF Program that provides monthly cash assistance to eligible families. It is based on the goals of assisting families near the poverty level to become self-sufficient. This program provides temporary financial help while you work toward independence.

Current benefit amounts:

Family Size Maximum Monthly Benefit
1 person $223
2 people $376
3 people $542
4 people $659

Who qualifies:

  • Families with children under 19 (or under 20 if in school)
  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Must live in West Virginia
  • Must have assets under $2,000 (excluding home and one vehicle)
  • Must participate in work activities (Jobs Program) unless exempt

Income limits (130% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,697 $20,370
2 people $2,291 $27,490
3 people $2,885 $34,610
4 people $3,479 $41,730

How to apply:

  • Online: WV PATH portal
  • Phone: Contact local Department of Human Services office
  • In person: Visit your local DHS office

Reality Check: WV WORKS has a 60-month lifetime limit and requires participation in work activities. The benefit amounts are designed to supplement, not replace, income.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

West Virginia has expanded eligibility beyond the standard federal SNAP eligibility requirements, with a gross income limit of 200% of the federal poverty level. Unlike many states, West Virginia has no asset limit for most households.

Maximum monthly benefits (October 2024 – September 2025):

Household Size Maximum Monthly SNAP
1 person $292
2 people $536
3 people $768
4 people $975

Income limits (200% of Federal Poverty Level):

Family Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $2,510 $30,120
2 people $3,408 $40,890
3 people $4,304 $51,660
4 people $5,200 $62,430

How to apply:

  • Online: WV PATH
  • Phone: Call 1-877-716-1212
  • In person: Local DHS office

Emergency SNAP: If you have less than $150 monthly income and $100 or less in bank accounts, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 1-3 days.

Reality Check: Since July 1, 2023, West Virginia has implemented statewide work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18-52. These individuals must work 20 hours per week or participate in training programs.

Medicaid (Healthcare Coverage)

West Virginia expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act starting January 1, 2014. Adults aged 19-64 are eligible with household income up to 138% of the poverty level.

Income limits (138% of Federal Poverty Level):

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 screenings
  • Maternity care

How to apply:

  • Online: WV PATH
  • Phone: 1-877-716-1212
  • In person: Local DHS office

WV CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance)

West Virginia CHIP (WVCHIP) provides health coverage to uninsured children whose families earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford private coverage. WVCHIP is free for most families with incomes below 305% of the poverty guidelines.

Who qualifies:

  • Children 18 and under
  • Family income between 138% and 305% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Not eligible for Medicaid
  • U.S. citizens or qualified legal residents

How to apply:

  • Online: WV PATH
  • Phone: 1-877-716-1212

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

The gross income limit for WIC is 185% of the federal poverty level. If your household is already enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, your household may be automatically income-eligible.

Who qualifies:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Income at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level

Benefits include:

  • Specific healthy foods (milk, eggs, cereal, produce, etc.)
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support
  • Referrals to health and social services

How to apply:

Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)

West Virginia LIEAP helps eligible low-income households with the cost of home heating during winter and cooling during summer, often through direct payments to utility companies on their behalf. Eligible households may receive a one-time credit of up to $866.

Who qualifies:

  • Income at or below 60% of State Median Income
  • Responsible for paying heating/cooling costs
  • Priority given to elderly, disabled, and households with children

How to apply:

Child Care Assistance Program

West Virginia’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides financial aid to working parents or, in some cases, parents attending school, to cover the costs of child care.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum hours required)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Income requirements based on federal poverty guidelines
  • Must have children under 13 (or under 19 if disabled)

How to apply:

  • Phone: (800) 585-1603
  • Online: Contact local Child Care Resource & Referral Center
  • In person: Local DHS office

Real Educational Grants and Scholarships

Unlike government assistance programs, these are actual grants – money you don’t have to repay.

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant is the largest federal grant program, providing need-based assistance to undergraduate students. For 2024-2025, grants range from $600 to $7,395 per year.

Who qualifies:

  • Undergraduate students seeking first degree
  • U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
  • Demonstrated financial need through FAFSA

How to apply:

  1. Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  2. Submit by your school’s deadline (often March 1)
  3. School will include Pell Grant in your financial aid package

West Virginia Higher Education Grant

The West Virginia Higher Education Grant is a need-based financial aid program designed to ensure West Virginia students with financial need are given an opportunity to pursue post-secondary education. Currently, the maximum grant amount is $3,300 per academic year.

Who qualifies:

  • U.S. citizen and West Virginia resident
  • Demonstrated financial need (determined by FAFSA)
  • Enrolled full-time in degree-seeking program
  • Attending accredited West Virginia institution
  • Working toward Associate or first Bachelor’s degree

How to apply:

  1. Complete FAFSA by April 15
  2. No separate application required
  3. Contact College Foundation of West Virginia at (877) 987-7664

WV Invests Grant

The WV Invests Grant is a state-funded grant program that pays toward the full cost of basic tuition and mandatory fees for select certificate and associate degree programs at a West Virginia public two- or four-year institution. Priority is given to programs in high-demand fields, such as information technology or healthcare.

What it covers:

  • Full tuition and mandatory fees (last-dollar program)
  • Available for specific high-demand career programs
  • Certificate and associate degree programs

Requirements:

  • Must commit to living in West Virginia for specified time after graduation
  • Enrollment in approved high-demand program

How to apply:

  • Contact your school’s financial aid office
  • Visit WV Invests website for current programs

Higher Education Adult Part-Time Student Grant

The Higher Education Adult Part-Time Student Grant Program was developed to encourage adult students to return to school on a part time basis. This grant is renewable for up to nine years of part time study.

Who qualifies:

  • Adult students (typically 25+)
  • West Virginia resident for 12+ months
  • Enrolled part-time at public WV college/university
  • Financial need as determined by FAFSA

Benefits:

  • Grant amounts are specific to the individual student application, and are determined by the actual educational costs. The maximum grant amount can potentially cover all tuition and related fees

Child Support Services

Don’t overlook this important source of income. West Virginia’s Division of Child Support Services helps single mothers get support from the other parent.

What they provide:

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

How to apply:

  • Online: Contact local Child Support office
  • Phone: Your local Department of Human Services
  • Cost: $25 application fee (waived for TANF recipients)

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

Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Housing Choice Vouchers help very low-income families afford decent, safe housing in the private market.

Income limits (30% of Area Median Income):

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person Varies by county
2 people Varies by county
3 people Varies by county
4 people Varies by county

How to apply:

  • Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  • Find local authorities through HUD’s website

Reality Check: Most housing authorities have waiting lists of 1-3 years. Apply as soon as possible.

Emergency Rental Assistance

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

Available through:

  • Local Community Action Agencies
  • Salvation Army
  • Churches and faith-based organizations
  • Local nonprofits

How to find:

  • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
  • Contact your local Community Action Agency

Support for Diverse Families

Single Fathers

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

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • WV WORKS (cash assistance) – same requirements
  • Medicaid – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance – same eligibility requirements
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All West Virginia state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination.

Support organizations:

  • Fairness West Virginia: (304) 340-3170
  • PFLAG Charleston: Contact through national PFLAG website
  • Local support groups: Call 2-1-1 for resources

Legal protections:

  • West Virginia law prohibits discrimination in public accommodations
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs

Native American Families

Tribal assistance available:

  • Some tribes may operate their own assistance programs
  • Indian Health Service healthcare for enrolled tribal members
  • Contact your tribal government for specific programs

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Special considerations:

  • May qualify for “child-only” TANF benefits
  • Income limits may be more favorable
  • Kinship care support available through DHS

Contact: Local Department of Human Services for kinship care services

Rural Single Mother Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

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

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some WIC offices offer home visits
  • Telehealth: Medicaid covers telehealth appointments
  • 2-1-1: Essential for finding local resources
  • Transportation assistance: Available through some Community Action Agencies

Resources by Region

Northern West Virginia

Main cities: Morgantown, Martinsburg, Wheeling

Key resources:

  • WVU Medicine: (304) 598-4000
  • Community Action of Harrison County: (304) 623-5188
  • Mountaineer Food Bank: (304) 363-4188

Central West Virginia

Main cities: Charleston, Beckley, Lewisburg

Key resources:

  • Charleston Area Medical Center: (304) 388-5432
  • Kanawha Valley Community Action: (304) 340-3501
  • Covenant House: (304) 340-3676

Southern West Virginia

Main cities: Huntington, Parkersburg, Princeton

Key resources:

  • Marshall University Medical Center: (304) 691-1000
  • Community Action of Lawrence County: (304) 638-4188
  • River Valley Child Development Services: (304) 525-5426

Eastern West Virginia

Main cities: Martinsburg, Charles Town, Shepherdstown

Key resources:

  • Jefferson County Community Ministries: (304) 725-8102
  • Eastern Panhandle Community Action Corp: (304) 267-8304

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 ($4,304/month for family of 3)
  • Medicaid: Up to 138% of poverty level ($3,064/month for family of 3)
  • Childcare assistance: Available for working parents

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

  • SNAP: 1-30 days (1-3 days if emergency)
  • WV WORKS: Up to 45 days
  • Medicaid: Usually 30 days or less
  • Housing vouchers: Often 1-3 year waiting lists

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial within 30 days. Contact your local legal aid office for help with appeals.

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! WV PATH allows you to apply for SNAP, WV WORKS, and Medicaid with one application.

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

  • Never repay: SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, LIEAP
  • Educational grants: May have requirements like staying in West Virginia after graduation
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported changes, you may need to repay the difference

Q: What if I have a criminal record? A: You can still qualify for most programs:

  • SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, housing assistance are available
  • Some drug-related felony convictions may affect TANF eligibility
  • Contact local legal aid for guidance on your specific situation

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

  • All state programs provide free interpreters
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments
  • WV PATH portal may have translation features

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

  • Pell Grants and WV Higher Education Grant available
  • WV WORKS work requirement can include education/training
  • Childcare assistance available for parents in approved programs

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Scams to Avoid

Grant scams:

  • Red flag: Requests upfront fees for “guaranteed grants”
  • Reality: Legitimate government programs never charge application fees (except $25 for child support)

Benefits card scams:

  • Red flag: Calls asking for your EBT card number or PIN
  • Reality: DHS will never call asking for your card information

Program Warnings

Time limits:

  • WV WORKS has 60-month lifetime limit
  • Work requirements apply to most programs
  • Benefits are designed to be temporary

Income limits are strict:

  • Small increases in income can eliminate eligibility
  • Report income changes immediately to avoid overpayments

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • 2-1-1: Find local food pantries
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at WV PATH

Housing crisis:

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Local Community Action Agencies: Emergency assistance

Utilities shut-off:

  • LIEAP Emergency: Contact local Community Action Program
  • Utility company hardship programs: Call your provider directly

Medical emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Emergency Medicaid: Available for emergency conditions

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • West Virginia Crisis Hotline: 1-800-HELP (4357)

Domestic violence:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (304) 965-3552

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7)
  • WV PATH (benefits application): wvpath.wv.gov
  • Department of Human Services: Contact local office
  • WIC Program: Local clinic appointments required

Application and benefits:

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • Legal Aid of West Virginia: (866) 255-4370
  • West Virginia State Bar Lawyer Referral: (304) 558-2456

Benefits advocacy:

  • West Virginia Advocates: (304) 346-0847
  • Local Community Action Agencies: Case management services

Educational Resources

College and financial aid:

  • College Foundation of West Virginia: (877) 987-7664
  • Federal Student Aid: studentaid.gov
  • FAFSA help: 1-800-433-3243

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

Information compiled from official West Virginia Department of Human Services, College Foundation of West Virginia, USDA, and HHS 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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