South Carolina Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff State Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Audience: single mothers living anywhere in South Carolina

This guide gives you fast, accurate ways to get mental health help now, plus step‑by‑step paths to ongoing care, costs, eligibility rules, and local contacts statewide. Every claim and number links to an official source so you don’t have to chase answers.

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• If you’re in a mental health crisis right now, call or text 988 for free, 24/7 help. South Carolina’s 988 calls are answered in‑state and can connect you to local care. Learn how 988 works in SC. (988sc.org)
• Need a team to come to you? Call the South Carolina Department of Mental Health’s Mobile Crisis line 1‑833‑364‑2274 (24/7). A clinician will assess by phone and can come to you anywhere in the state. SCDMH Mobile Crisis. (scdmh.org)
• Pregnant or within 12 months after birth and need specialized support? Call MUSC’s Mom’s IMPACTT at 843‑792‑MOMS (6667) (M‑F, 8–5). They return calls within about 30 minutes during hours and connect you to maternal mental health care statewide. Mom’s IMPACTT. (muschealth.org)
• Prefer text for pregnancy/postpartum help 24/7? Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) for free counseling and referrals. HRSA Hotline details. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Want same‑week outpatient care with sliding‑fee options? Call a Community Mental Health Center near you (state network covers all 46 counties). Find your center and call directly (phone list below) or use Mobile Crisis for after‑hours help. SCDMH Centers. (scdmh.org)
• Need Medicaid coverage (or help applying) for therapy and meds? Apply online for Healthy Connections (SC Medicaid) or call (888) 549‑0820. For free application help in English/Spanish, call SC Thrive at (800) 726‑8774. Apply/How to get help. (scdhhs.gov)

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What makes this guide different (how we beat the top search results)

Most search results list hotlines or general advice. Here, you get:

• exact SC Medicaid income limits (2025) for parents, kids, and pregnant moms
• direct phone numbers for every state mental health center
• how to get a crisis team to you today
• maternal mental health programs with real contacts
• costs and copays (including SC Medicaid’s current “no copay” policy)
• clear steps, documents, and realistic timelines

We built this around official state and federal sources so you can act fast without wading through vague pages. (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.gov, scdmh.org, muschealth.org)

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Start here: fastest ways to get care today

1) Use 988 and Mobile Crisis (free, 24/7)

• Call or text 988 for immediate, confidential support. Counselors listen, de‑escalate, and connect you with local resources. In South Carolina, Mental Health America of Greenville County helps answer 988, so you’re talking to trained in‑state responders. SC 988. (988sc.org)
• If you or your child needs in‑person help, call SCDMH Mobile Crisis: 1‑833‑364‑2274. A clinician triages by phone and can dispatch a team. This service is for adults and children, statewide, 24/7. Mobile Crisis program. (scdmh.org)

Reality check: You may wait on hold briefly during peak times, and in‑person response depends on distance and safety conditions. If danger is immediate, call 911 and say it is a mental health emergency so responders can adjust their approach. SCDHEC Suicide Prevention page. (scdhec.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try 988 again (call, text, or chat) and ask for a safety plan while you wait. Or call your local Community Mental Health Center during business hours for a same‑week intake. Center phone list below. (scdmh.org)

2) If you’re pregnant or postpartum (within 12 months): get specialized help

• Call Mom’s IMPACTT: 843‑792‑6667 (M‑F, 8–5). They triage and connect you to maternal mental health care anywhere in SC (telehealth or in‑person), and support your current OB/pediatric team. Mom’s IMPACTT. (muschealth.org)
• Call or text the federal Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA 24/7 for real‑time counseling and referrals (English/Spanish; interpreters available for 60+ languages). HRSA FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• SC Medicaid covers pregnant women up to the income limits below and continues coverage for 12 months after birth. Apply now if you’re uninsured. SCDHHS Pregnant Women & Infants. (scdhhs.gov)

Reality check: Specialty perinatal appointments can book out, especially in rural areas. Ask for a telehealth option and to be placed on a cancellation list. If symptoms are severe (e.g., thoughts of harm), call 988 or 1‑833‑364‑2274 now. (988sc.org, scdmh.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your OB, pediatrician, or primary care to refer you and request “urgent” access. If you hit barriers, call Mom’s IMPACTT again and ask for a care coordinator follow‑up. (muschealth.org)

3) Ongoing care: get into a Community Mental Health Center (CMHC)

South Carolina runs a statewide CMHC network covering all 46 counties. Services include assessment, therapy, psychiatry, school‑based care, and crisis work. No one is denied because they can’t pay; fees are based on ability to pay. Center directory and policy; state law on sliding fees; [SC Code §44‑15‑80]. (scdmh.org, scstatehouse.gov)

Reality check: First visits are usually scheduled during business hours. Bring ID, insurance (if any), income proof, and custody papers if you’re bringing a child. If you can’t make a daytime slot, ask for evening hours or telehealth. (scdmh.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call an FQHC near you (federally qualified health center) for integrated primary care + behavioral health with sliding fees (examples and numbers below). Or ask your Medicaid plan for an in‑network teletherapy option. (lrmcenter.com, fetterhealthcare.org, myrhc.org, newhorizonfhs.org, hope-health.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save/share)

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Crisis lines and when to use which

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Who qualifies for SC Medicaid that covers mental health care (2025)

SC Healthy Connections Medicaid pays for outpatient therapy, psychiatry, inpatient care when needed, and—since Oct. 2024—added Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) for children and adults. Most members now have no copays. Apply online or by phone. (scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.gov)

Key benefits update: SCDHHS removed cost‑sharing (copays) for all Medicaid members effective July 1, 2024. That means $0 copays for covered services under Healthy Connections. SCDHHS public notice. (scdhhs.gov)

How to apply fast:

• Apply online (best) or call (888) 549‑0820. If you need help, call SC Thrive at (800) 726‑8774. You can also apply in person at county eligibility offices or many hospitals/FQHCs. Getting Started. (scdhhs.gov)
• If you’re pregnant, ask about getting care while your application is processing. SCDHHS notes you may be able to receive medical care while you wait—call the Member Contact Center for guidance. Getting Started. (scdhhs.gov)

Choosing a Medicaid plan (MCO): Most members choose a health plan (Absolute Total Care, Healthy Blue, Humana Healthy Horizons, Molina, or First Choice by Select Health). Compare plans and doctors at SCChoices.com. (scdhhs.gov, scchoices.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over the Medicaid income limits, shop subsidized plans at HealthCare.gov. All Marketplace plans must cover mental health and substance use services as essential health benefits. Open Enrollment usually runs Nov 1 – Jan 15 each year (special enrollment applies after major life changes). HealthCare.gov coverage and benefits; SC DOI enrollment window, SC Department of Insurance ACA page. (healthcare.gov, doi.sc.gov)

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Maternal and postpartum mental health (statewide)

• MUSC Women’s Reproductive Behavioral Health offers specialized perinatal psychiatry and therapy (including FDA‑approved treatments like brexanolone for postpartum depression where appropriate). Use the Mom’s IMPACTT line to connect. MUSC Women’s Reproductive Behavioral Health. (muschealth.org)
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is 24/7: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA. It’s free, confidential, and has English/Spanish counselors with interpreters in 60+ languages. HRSA FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Postpartum Support International – South Carolina can connect you with local support groups, peer mentors, and perinatal‑trained providers. Start at PSI‑SC. PSI‑SC. (psichapters.com)

Reality check: Transportation, childcare, and time off work are real barriers. Ask for telehealth visits; many programs have video appointments. If cost is a barrier, ask about sliding‑fee clinics (FQHCs; examples below). (muschealth.org, lrmcenter.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach a perinatal specialist quickly, ask your OB or pediatrician to start treatment while Mom’s IMPACTT lines up specialty care. For a crisis, use 988 or 1‑833‑364‑2274 immediately. (muschealth.org, 988sc.org, scdmh.org)

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Mental health care for your child (school‑based and after‑school)

• South Carolina places mental health counselors in hundreds of schools. SCDHHS and SCDMH report the number of school‑based counselors roughly doubled since 2022; by Sept. 2023 there were about 1,209 counselors, with improved ratios and more schools served. SCDHHS press release. (scdhhs.gov)
• SCDMH’s School Mental Health Services operates in approximately 700–800 schools statewide each year. Ask your school counselor for a referral. SCDMH SMHS. (scdmh.org)
• If a school can’t coordinate quickly, call your local CMHC or your child’s Medicaid/CHIP plan for an in‑network therapist. Children up to 208% FPL can qualify for Partners for Healthy Children (CHIP/Medicaid). SCDHHS PHC limits. (scdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school about on‑site telehealth options (many districts connect to MUSC School‑Based Telehealth). Or call CMHC Mobile Crisis for urgent needs after hours. MUSC School‑Based Telehealth overview. (muschealth.org)

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Where to go for care if you’re uninsured or under‑insured

• Community Mental Health Centers (state‑run). By law, no one is denied due to inability to pay; fee schedules are based on ability to pay. Call your center for intake times and what to bring. SC Code §44‑15‑80; SCDMH directory, Center phone list. (scstatehouse.gov, scdmh.org)
• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) with behavioral health. Examples (not exhaustive):
  • Little River Medical Center (Horry): 843‑663‑8000 – integrated behavioral health; sliding fee available. LRMC Behavioral Health. (lrmcenter.com)
  • Fetter Health Care Network (Charleston area): 843‑722‑4112 – behavioral health and telehealth at multiple sites. Fetter BH. (fetterhealthcare.org)
  • ReGenesis Health Care (Spartanburg/Upstate): 864‑582‑2411 – behavioral health center and multiple clinics. ReGenesis locations. (myrhc.org)
  • New Horizon Family Health Services (Greenville area): 864‑729‑8330 – primary care with behavioral health; sliding fees. NHFHS. (newhorizonfhs.org)
  • HopeHealth (Pee Dee/Midlands/Lowcountry): central line 843‑667‑9414; multiple clinics with behavioral health. HopeHealth Behavioral Health. (hope-health.org)

Example costs: One SC FQHC’s 2024 sliding fee showed behavioral health copays from $0–$20 depending on income and family size (actual fees vary by clinic and year; ask your site for its current schedule). CareSouth Carolina Sliding Fee. (caresouth-carolina.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for telehealth, evening hours, or a payment plan. If you’re denied for Medicaid, keep the denial letter—some clinics use it to qualify you for discounts. If you need help finding a low‑cost clinic, call SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774). (scthrive.org)

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Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) — phone list by region

These 16 centers (plus clinics) cover all 46 counties. For after‑hours crises, call 1‑833‑364‑2274. SCDMH phone directory. (scdmh.org)

Tip: If the main line is busy, leave a voicemail and follow up by calling again within the hour. For evenings/weekends, use 1‑833‑364‑2274. (scdmh.org)

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How much will care cost?

• SC Medicaid: $0 copays for covered services since July 1, 2024. Your plan may still require prior authorization for some services. SCDHHS cost‑sharing update. (scdhhs.gov)
• CMHCs: Sliding‑fee policies mean you won’t be turned away for inability to pay; bring proof of income to set your rate. SC Code §44‑15‑80. (scstatehouse.gov)
• FQHCs: Many have mental health copays from $0–$20 at the lowest income levels (varies by clinic). Ask the front desk for the current behavioral health sliding‑fee table. Example schedule (CareSouth Carolina). (caresouth-carolina.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about charity care, payment plans, or switching to telehealth (often cheaper). If you lose Medicaid, call your plan right away—some members qualify for a grace period or help moving to a Marketplace plan. SCDHHS Where to Go for Help. (scdhhs.gov)

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If substance use is part of the picture

• The state Office of Substance Use Services (formerly DAODAS) oversees free/low‑cost treatment through local providers in all counties. Call (803) 896‑5555 or use their provider map. OSUS (DAODAS) site. (daodas.sc.gov)
• DHEC + OSUS point to Mobile Crisis 1‑833‑364‑2274 and an online self‑check mental health screener that connects you to counselors: hope.connectsyou.org. DHEC/DAODAS release. (scdhec.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 988 and ask for a warm handoff to local treatment. For pregnancy/postpartum substance use, call Mom’s IMPACTT (843‑792‑6667) for perinatal‑informed options. (muschealth.org)

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Domestic and sexual violence services (mental health + safety)

If abuse is present, mental health care must happen alongside safety planning.

• SCCADVASA (state coalition) lists local shelters and counseling programs by county and links to 24/7 national hotlines. Start here to find your local program. SCCADVASA Get Help. (sccadvasa.org)
• DSS keeps a statewide list of local domestic violence programs with hotline numbers (e.g., Sistercare in the Midlands, Safe Harbor in the Upstate, My Sister’s House in the Lowcountry). DSS Help for Victims. (dss.sc.gov)
• Crime Victim Services (AG’s Office) can help with compensation and referrals: 1‑800‑213‑5652. SC Attorney General Crime Victim Services. (scag.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you cannot safely call, use a friend’s phone or a library computer in “private/incognito” mode (SCCADVASA has safety browsing tips). In immediate danger, call 911. SCCADVASA contact page notes. (sccadvasa.org)

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Documents you’ll need (Application Checklist)

Bring copies (paper or clear phone photos). Having these ready avoids delays.

• Photo ID (you and any teen age 16+)
• Social Security numbers (or proof of application) for each household member
• Proof of address (recent mail, lease, or shelter letter)
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, child support, unemployment, award letters)
• Insurance cards (if any)
• Pregnancy proof (if applying for pregnancy coverage)
• Custody or guardianship papers (for child services)
• Recent medical bills (if asking about bill help)

Source: SCDHHS “Getting Started” checklist. Call (888) 549‑0820 or SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774) if you’re unsure. (scdhhs.gov, scthrive.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid (learned from on‑the‑ground cases)

• Waiting for a perfect time. If you’re not sure where to start, call 988 or your local CMHC—intake staff will sort out next steps.
• Missing calls. Providers often call from blocked or unfamiliar numbers; pick up or set voicemail to accept messages and return them the same day.
• Skipping income proof. Sliding‑fee discounts and Medicaid decisions depend on it. If you have no income, ask how to complete a “zero income” statement.
• Not asking for telehealth. Many clinics will see you by video during naptime, lunch, or after bedtime.
• Forgetting language access. Tell the clinic you need an interpreter. SCDMH has a free language line: 1‑805‑360‑3326 PIN 81767494. (scdmh.org)

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Timelines (what’s realistic)

• Today: Crisis support via 988 or Mobile Crisis 1‑833‑364‑2274. (988sc.org, scdmh.org)
• 1–7 days: Most CMHCs can schedule an intake within a few business days; ask for cancellations and telehealth. CMHC system overview. (scdmh.org)
• Medicaid application: SCDHHS processes applications; pregnant applicants may receive care while waiting—call (888) 549‑0820 to discuss. (scdhhs.gov)

Tip: If you’re stuck on a waitlist, ask for brief check‑ins, group sessions, or a case manager while you wait. If symptoms worsen, use 988 or Mobile Crisis to escalate. (988sc.org, scdmh.org)

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Insurance rights that help you (quick overview)

• Marketplace plans must cover mental health and substance use services as Essential Health Benefits. HealthCare.gov: covered benefits. (healthcare.gov)
• Federal parity rules require most health plans that cover mental health to treat it no more restrictively than medical/surgical care (copays, visit limits, prior auth, etc.). New federal rules strengthen these protections in 2025/2026. If you think your plan is ignoring parity, appeal. U.S. Dept. of Labor MHPAEA pages; CMS parity overview, CMS MHPAEA. (dol.gov, cms.gov)
• Medicaid plans in SC follow parity requirements and now cover IOP and PHP (psychiatric) levels of care. SCDHHS IOP/PHP coverage notice. (scdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your plan and ask for a supervisor; mention “parity” and ask for the plan’s written “comparative analysis” for any non‑quantitative limits (like narrow networks). If needed, file a complaint with the SC Department of Insurance for commercial plans. SC DOI ACA page. (doi.sc.gov)

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Local organizations and support (statewide picks)

• NAMI South Carolina: Free education classes (Family‑to‑Family), support groups, and an information line (800) 788‑5131. NAMI SC contact and support groups, Support groups page. (namisc.org)
• PSI South Carolina (Postpartum Support International – SC): State chapter helping connect you to perinatal support groups and trained providers. PSI‑SC. (psichapters.com)
• FQHC behavioral health (examples above): LRMC (Horry), Fetter (Charleston tri‑county), ReGenesis (Spartanburg), New Horizon (Greenville), HopeHealth (Pee Dee/Midlands/Lowcountry). Sliding‑fee; integrated care. (lrmcenter.com, fetterhealthcare.org, myrhc.org, newhorizonfhs.org, hope-health.org)
• State Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS): referrals to local treatment providers in every county. (803) 896‑5555. OSUS/DAODAS. (daodas.sc.gov)
• Domestic Violence programs (by county): DSS list with local hotlines; SCCADVASA map. DSS DV programs, SCCADVASA Get Help. (dss.sc.gov, sccadvasa.org)

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Diverse Communities: targeted tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • Use 988 anytime; if you prefer LGBTQ‑affirming crisis support, call The Trevor Project 1‑866‑488‑7386 (listed by SCDMH). SCDMH 988 resources. (osp.scdmh.org)
  • Ask clinics if they have gender‑affirming training and policies; many FQHCs and CMHCs provide inclusive care.
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
  • Ask for ADA accommodations (longer appointment times, telehealth, accessible entrances).
  • Children may qualify for Partners for Healthy Children (CHIP/Medicaid). SCDHHS PHC. (scdhhs.gov)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Use 988 and say “Veteran” or press the veterans option to reach trained responders. 988 serves veterans and can connect locally. SCDHEC suicide prevention page notes veterans option. (scdhec.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms
  • Ask for free interpreter services. SCDMH’s language line is 1‑805‑360‑3326 PIN 81767494. SCDMH page notice. (scdmh.org)
  • If you have questions about eligibility, call SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774) for application help in English/Spanish. (scthrive.org)
• Tribal citizens
  • Use your local CMHC or FQHC for services close to home while confirming any tribal benefits you may have. Mobile Crisis and 988 are available statewide regardless of tribal affiliation. Mobile Crisis; 988, SC 988. (scdmh.org, 988sc.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access
  • Ask for video visits; MUSC’s Telehealth network supports behavioral health across rural clinics and schools. MUSC Telehealth/Alliance. (muschealth.org)
• Single fathers (raising children alone)
  • Every resource in this guide applies equally. If a clinic is labeled “women’s,” ask for a male caregiver referral or use your CMHC/FQHC listed above.
• Language access
  • Bring a trusted adult if you want support, but clinics should provide professional interpreters (don’t use minors as interpreters). SCDMH has free language services statewide. 1‑805‑360‑3326, PIN 81767494. SCDMH page notice. (scdmh.org)

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Real‑world examples (what this can look like)

• Greenville mom: Called 1‑833‑364‑2274 on a Sunday evening when panic spikes hit; a clinician talked her through breathing and safety, and the CMHC called Monday to schedule therapy by telehealth that week. She used CHIP for her child’s follow‑up at school. Mobile Crisis; SMHS, School MH overview. (scdmh.org)
• Beaufort postpartum mom: Left a message with Mom’s IMPACTT mid‑morning; got a callback within business hours and was linked to a local therapist using her Medicaid pregnancy coverage (which lasts 12 months after birth). Mom’s IMPACTT, SCDHHS pregnant coverage. (muschealth.org, scdhhs.gov)
• Horry County mom without insurance: Booked with Little River Medical Center’s behavioral health via sliding fees and used school‑based telehealth for her teen’s anxiety. LRMC Behavioral Health, MUSC School Telehealth. (lrmcenter.com, muschealth.org)

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“If this door doesn’t open, try this” (Plan B at the end of each section)

• Crisis lines busy → try text/chat 988 or call Mobile Crisis directly (1‑833‑364‑2274). (988sc.org, scdmh.org)
• CMHC intake delayed → call an FQHC for behavioral health and ask for telehealth; ask the CMHC to add you to cancellation lists. (lrmcenter.com)
• Medicaid denial → re‑screen with SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774) and price subsidized Marketplace plans at HealthCare.gov (all cover mental health). (scthrive.org, healthcare.gov)
• No childcare → request telehealth or ask about clinics with evening hours; some FQHCs offer extended hours. Examples: LRMC hours. (lrmcenter.com)
• Language barrier → request an interpreter (SCDMH language line 1‑805‑360‑3326, PIN 81767494). (scdmh.org)

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Quick tables to keep handy

A) Maternal mental health at a glance

B) Kids’ mental health in schools

C) Medicaid and low‑cost care — key facts

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Regional notes (urban vs. rural)

• Urban (Greenville, Columbia, Charleston): More provider options but higher demand—book early and ask multiple clinics. Use CMHC + FQHC networks to widen choices. Center directory. (scdmh.org)
• Rural (Lowcountry, Pee Dee, Midlands, Upstate counties): Telehealth is your friend; MUSC Telehealth and CMHCs regularly use video visits to cut travel times. MUSC Telehealth. (muschealth.org)
• Coastal and hurricane season: If storms disrupt services, Mobile Crisis 1‑833‑364‑2274 and 988 remain reachable by phone/text even when clinics are closed. (scdmh.org, 988sc.org)

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Frequently Asked Questions (South Carolina‑specific)

1. Is Mobile Crisis only for people who are suicidal?
   No. They also help with severe anxiety, panic, postpartum distress, psychosis concerns, or a child’s behavioral crisis. Call 1‑833‑364‑2274. SCDMH Mobile Crisis. (scdmh.org)
2. Will I be charged if Mobile Crisis comes to my home?
   Assessment and stabilization are provided by SCDMH; any follow‑up care may bill insurance or use sliding fees. Ask the clinician about billing and financial assistance. SCDMH Mobile Crisis program info. (scdmh.org)
3. Can I get therapy by video from home?
   Yes. CMHCs, FQHCs, and hospital systems offer telehealth. Ask for video visits to cut travel and childcare barriers. MUSC Telehealth. (muschealth.org)
4. My child needs help at school. Who do I talk to first?
   Start with the school counselor and ask about the school’s mental health therapist. Many SC schools have on‑site clinicians or telehealth. SCDMH SMHS. (scdmh.org)
5. I don’t have insurance. Can I still be seen?
   Yes. State law says CMHCs cannot deny due to inability to pay; they use sliding‑fee scales. Many FQHCs also offer low fees. SC Code §44‑15‑80; LRMC example, LRMC. (scstatehouse.gov, lrmcenter.com)
6. How do I know if my plan must cover mental health?
   Marketplace plans must cover mental health and substance use treatment. Parity rules apply widely; if your plan covers mental health, it can’t be stricter than medical/surgical benefits. HealthCare.gov benefits; DOL parity pages, DOL MHPAEA. (healthcare.gov, dol.gov)
7. How fast will Medicaid decide my application?
   Timelines vary. SCDHHS notes pregnant applicants may get care while waiting—call (888) 549‑0820 for guidance on your case. SCDHHS Getting Started. (scdhhs.gov)
8. Are there copays for Medicaid mental health visits in SC?
   No—SCDHHS eliminated member cost‑sharing for all Medicaid members starting July 1, 2024. SCDHHS cost‑sharing notice. (scdhhs.gov)
9. Can I get a higher level of outpatient care than weekly therapy?
   Yes. As of Oct. 1, 2024, Medicaid covers IOP and PHP (psychiatric) for eligible children and adults. Ask your plan or clinic. SCDHHS IOP/PHP. (scdhhs.gov)
10. I need help in Spanish or another language.
    Tell the clinic. SCDMH offers free language assistance via 1‑805‑360‑3326 (PIN 81767494). SCDMH notice. (scdmh.org)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID and proof of address
• Social Security numbers (or application receipts)
• Last 30 days of income or “zero income” statement
• Current insurance info (if any)
• Pregnancy verification (if applicable)
• Custody/guardianship documents for children
• Any recent medical bills

What SCDHHS asks for when you apply. If you want one‑on‑one help, call SC Thrive (800‑726‑8774). (scdhhs.gov, scthrive.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Mental Health, South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (Healthy Connections Medicaid), SCDHEC, USDA/HHS, and established nonprofits (NAMI, Postpartum Support International, MUSC Health, FQHCs).

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program details, income limits, and phone numbers can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or call. We link to official pages so you can check the latest.
• This information is educational and not legal, medical, or case‑specific advice.
• Site safety: We do not ask for your SSN or benefits account info. If anyone contacts you claiming to be from our site and asks for personal data, do not respond—report it to us at info@asinglemother.org and to the agency listed above (e.g., SCDHHS warns against phishing calls). (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Stay safe, take the next small step, and use the numbers above. The sooner you call, the sooner you can get matched to care that fits your life.

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🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Carolina

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery