Organizations that Help Single Mothers
Complete Guide: Organizations and Programs That Help Single Mothers in 2025
Last updated: August 2025
Main Points
If you’re a single mom needing help right now, here’s what you need to know:
- Government programs like SNAP, WIC, TANF, and Medicaid serve millions of families and are often your first step
- Emergency assistance is available through 211, Crisis Assistance Ministry, and local Community Action Agencies
- Housing help includes Section 8 vouchers, public housing, and emergency rental assistance
- National nonprofits provide everything from financial aid to emotional support
- Local organizations often move faster than federal programs and know your community’s specific needs
- Most programs can be used together – you don’t have to choose just one
If You Need Help Today
Call 211 immediately if you’re facing eviction, utility shutoff, or have no food. Available 24/7 nationwide, 211 connects you to local emergency services.
Emergency Resources That Work Fast
| Program | What It Covers | How Quickly | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency SNAP | Food assistance | 7-10 days | Local SNAP office |
| Crisis Assistance Ministry | Rent, utilities, food | 1-3 days | 211 or local office |
| Salvation Army | Emergency shelter, food, clothing | Same day | Find local center |
| WIC Emergency | Food for pregnant/nursing moms, kids under 5 | Same day appointment | State WIC office |
| Emergency Rental Assistance | Back rent, utilities | 10 business days | Emergency rental assistance locator |
Federal Government Programs
These programs serve millions of families and should be your starting point. Most are available in every state, though specific benefits and application processes vary.
SNAP (Food Stamps)
What it provides: Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card for purchasing food. Average benefit is $187 per person monthly in 2025.
Who qualifies: Household income at or below 130% of federal poverty level (gross income) and 100% of poverty level (net income). If you receive TANF, Medicaid, or SSI, you may automatically qualify.
How to apply: Visit your local SNAP office or apply online through your state’s website. Most states now offer online applications.
Reality check: SNAP applications can take up to 30 days, but emergency SNAP can be processed in 7 days if you have $100 or less in cash and bank accounts.
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
What it provides: Cash assistance for basic needs like rent, utilities, childcare. Each state sets its own benefit amounts and requirements.
Who qualifies: Pregnant women or families with children under 19. Must be U.S. citizen, legal resident, or eligible immigrant. Income limits vary by state.
How to apply: Contact your state TANF office. Applications typically require an interview.
Important note: TANF has work requirements (usually 20-30 hours per week) and time limits (typically 60 months lifetime limit).
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
What it provides: Free healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and referrals to health services. WIC serves about 6.7 million participants monthly, including 41% of all infants in the U.S.
Who qualifies: Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women; infants and children under 5. Income at or below 185% of federal poverty level. If you get SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you automatically qualify income-wise.
How to apply: Find your local WIC clinic. You’ll need a nutrition screening (usually done free at the WIC clinic).
Medicaid
What it provides: Free or low-cost healthcare including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and mental health services.
Who qualifies: Income limits vary by state, but generally households at or below 138% of federal poverty level qualify.
How to apply: Through your state Medicaid office or Healthcare.gov.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance)
What it provides: Help with heating and cooling bills, weatherization, and energy-related home repairs. Emergency assistance available to prevent utility shutoffs.
Who qualifies: Households at or below 150% of federal poverty level.
How to apply: Contact your state LIHEAP office. Priority goes to households with elderly members, young children, or disabled individuals.
Housing Assistance Programs
Housing costs are often a single mother’s biggest expense. These programs can help make housing affordable.
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
What it provides: Vouchers that allow you to rent anywhere the landlord accepts Section 8. You typically pay 30% of your income toward rent.
Reality check: Wait times vary dramatically by location. Urban areas: 2-5 years. Rural areas: 6-12 months. If you’re homeless or fleeing domestic violence, you may qualify for priority status.
How to apply: Contact your local Public Housing Authority.
Public Housing
What it provides: Government-owned apartments where rent is capped at 30% of your income.
How to apply: Same as Section 8 – through your local housing authority.
USDA Rural Housing
What it provides: Subsidized rentals and no-down-payment home loans in eligible rural areas. Often shorter wait times than urban programs.
Who qualifies: Areas outside major metropolitan regions. Income limits up to 80% of area median income.
How to apply: Visit USDA Rural Development website.
Emergency Rental Assistance
What it provides: Help with past-due rent, utilities, and moving costs to prevent eviction.
How to get it: Contact your local Community Action Agency or dial 211. Some programs can provide help within 10 business days.
National Nonprofit Organizations
These organizations operate nationwide and offer various types of support beyond just financial assistance.
Life of a Single Mom
What they do: National nonprofit providing emotional and practical support through support groups, education, and emergency assistance. They’ve helped over 750,000 single moms.
Services include:
- Support groups in churches and communities nationwide
- Single Mom University education program
- Emergency financial assistance for disasters
- Resource connections and networking
Contact: Website | Email: info@thelifeofasinglemom.com
The Single Parent Project
What they do: National nonprofit providing financial relief, educational resources, and mental health support tailored to single parents.
Services include:
- Vehicle assistance program
- Scholarship programs for parents and children
- Extracurricular activity funding
- Community support and advocacy
Contact: Website
Bridge of Hope
What they do: Partners with churches to support families facing homelessness through neighboring relationships and practical assistance.
Services include:
- 18-24 month comprehensive support programs
- Housing assistance and life skills training
- Church-based community support
- Prevention of evictions and foreclosures
Locations: 11 states with expanding presence Contact: Website | Find local office
Feeding America
What they do: Largest hunger-relief organization in the U.S. with over 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries nationwide.
Services include:
- Free food distribution through local food banks
- Mobile food pantries in underserved areas
- School backpack programs
- Senior food programs
Contact: Website | Find local food bank
The Salvation Army
What they do: Comprehensive social services including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and life services for single-parent families.
Services include:
- Emergency shelter and transitional housing
- Food pantries and meal programs
- Utility and rent assistance
- Job placement and counseling services
- Seasonal assistance (Christmas, back-to-school)
Contact: Website | Find local center
Catholic Charities USA
What they do: Network of Catholic organizations providing housing assistance, food programs, immigration services, and mental/physical healthcare.
Services include:
- Emergency financial assistance
- Food pantries and meal programs
- Immigration and refugee services
- Mental health counseling
- Disaster relief services
Contact: Website | Find local office
Regional and Specialized Organizations
Educational Support
Helping Hands for Single Moms
What they do: Assists low-income single moms in college with financial aid and comprehensive support services.
Services include:
- Unrestricted scholarships
- Car repair and AAA towing assistance
- Emergency funds and budget management
- Limited medical and dental care
- Childcare assistance
Locations: Phoenix/Maricopa County, AZ and Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Eligibility: College student with 2.8+ GPA, income at/below 150% of federal poverty level, at least one child under 11, legally single/divorced
Contact:
- Phoenix: Website
- Dallas: Dallas application
Single Moms Planet
What they do: Train over 10,000 single mother households annually with business opportunities and financial education.
Services include:
- Financial education programs
- Business mentorship and development
- Entrepreneurship training
- Poverty cycle intervention
Contact: Website
Regional Support Centers
Single Mom Strong, Inc.
What they do: Sacramento-based nonprofit providing childcare, community support, and enrichment programs.
Services include:
- EmpowerME Preschool & Childcare
- Community building events
- Educational programs and workshops
- Support groups and networking
Location: Sacramento, CA Contact: Website
Moms for Moms NYC
What they do: New York City-based nonprofit supporting single mothers with postpartum and newborn essentials.
Services include:
- Postpartum recovery care packages
- Newborn essentials distribution
- Resource connections and referrals
- Community support networks
Location: New York City Contact: Website
Crisis and Emergency Resources
When you’re facing immediate hardship, these resources can provide rapid assistance.
National Crisis Resources
| Organization | Services | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| 211 | 24/7 crisis helpline connecting to local resources | Dial 2-1-1 |
| Crisis Assistance Ministry | Emergency rent/utility assistance | 211 or local office finder |
| Emergency Food Network | Food distribution and pantry locations | FindHelp.org |
| Community Action Agencies | Comprehensive emergency services | Find local agency |
State-Specific Emergency Programs
Most states offer emergency cash assistance programs separate from TANF. Contact your state’s Department of Social Services for:
- Emergency cash assistance
- Utility shutoff prevention
- Emergency childcare
- Transportation assistance
Emergency Financial Assistance
The Hope Station (Tennessee)
What they do: Temporary crisis relief for single, working mothers in Davidson and Rutherford Counties who make too much to qualify for public assistance.
Services include:
- Emergency grants for rent and utilities
- Resource connections
- Financial empowerment programs
Location: Tennessee (Davidson and Rutherford Counties) Contact: Website
Specialized Support for Diverse Families
LGBTQ+ Single Mothers
Family Equality
What they do: National organization championing LGBTQ+ parenting and family-building through resources, community events, and advocacy.
Services include:
- Legal support and advocacy
- Community building events (Family Week)
- Resource connections and support groups
- Policy advocacy for LGBTQ+ families
Contact: Website
PFLAG
What they do: Nation’s largest organization supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and families.
Services include:
- Support groups for LGBTQ+ parents
- Educational resources and advocacy
- Community connections and networking
- Crisis support and counseling
Contact: Website | Find local chapter through website
Rural Single Mothers
Rural families face unique challenges but also have access to specialized programs.
USDA Rural Development Programs
What they offer: Comprehensive housing, business, and community development programs specifically for rural areas.
Key programs:
- Single Family Housing Direct Loans (no down payment)
- Rural Rental Assistance
- Home Repair Loans and Grants
- Business development programs
Contact: Website | Find local office
Reality check: Rural programs often have shorter wait times than urban equivalents. Some rural communities have no waiting lists for housing assistance.
Rural Health Resources
Rural mothers face higher rates of uninsurance and limited access to maternal healthcare. Key resources include:
- Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS): Federal program improving maternal care access in rural communities across 11 states
- Community Health Centers: Federally qualified health centers providing affordable healthcare regardless of insurance status
- Telehealth services: Expanding access to maternal and mental healthcare
Native American Single Mothers
Tribal Housing Programs
What they offer: Culturally appropriate housing solutions through Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHE) and Indian Housing Block Grant funding.
Services include:
- Affordable housing on tribal lands
- Home rehabilitation and repair
- Homeownership assistance
- Culturally sensitive support services
Contact: Contact your tribal housing authority directly
Indian Health Service
What they offer: Healthcare services for enrolled tribal members and their families.
Services include:
- Maternal and child health services
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care and wellness programs
- Community health programs
Single Fathers
While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar challenges and can access many of the same resources.
The Single Parent Project
Serves all single parents regardless of gender, providing financial relief, educational resources, and community support.
Fathers & Families Support Center
What they do: St. Louis-based organization supporting responsible fatherhood through comprehensive programs.
Services include:
- Family Formation Program (6-week intensive program)
- Employment development and mentoring
- Support groups (Fathers’ Rap)
- Trauma-informed services
Contact: Website
National Resources for Single Fathers
Since 1960, single-father households have increased from less than 300,000 to more than 2.6 million. These dads need access to the same assistance programs available to single mothers.
Key programs:
- All federal programs (SNAP, TANF, WIC, Medicaid) serve single fathers
- Housing assistance programs include single-father families
- Educational support and job training programs
- Mental health and parenting support services
Application Tips and Strategies
Required Documents (Keep These Ready)
- Identification: Driver’s license or state ID
- Social Security cards for you and your children
- Birth certificates for all family members
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, unemployment benefits, child support
- Bank statements from the last 3 months
- Rent receipts or lease agreement
- Utility bills
- Medical records (for disability-related programs)
Application Strategy
- Start with SNAP and Medicaid – These are often the fastest to process and provide immediate relief
- Apply for multiple programs simultaneously – Most programs complement rather than conflict with each other
- Get on waiting lists immediately – Even if you don’t need housing help right now, apply for Section 8 because wait times are long
- Document everything – Keep copies of all applications and correspondence
- Follow up regularly – Call to check on application status if you haven’t heard back within stated timeframes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until crisis hits – Apply before you’re desperate
- Not reporting income changes – This can affect benefits and may result in overpayment issues
- Missing renewal deadlines – Most programs require regular renewal
- Not exploring local options – Local nonprofits and churches often provide faster assistance than federal programs
Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)
About Eligibility and Benefits
Q: Can I receive multiple types of assistance at the same time? A: Yes, most programs are designed to work together. You can receive SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and housing assistance simultaneously. Each program has its own eligibility requirements.
Q: Will getting assistance affect my immigration status? A: Most assistance programs require legal residency, but emergency medical care, WIC, and some emergency services are available regardless of status. Consult with a legal aid organization for guidance specific to your situation.
Q: What if I work but still can’t make ends meet? A: Many programs are designed for working families. Programs like The Hope Station specifically serve “working single mothers who make too much to qualify for public assistance” but still struggle financially.
Q: How long does it take to get approved for benefits? A: SNAP: Up to 30 days (7 days for emergency), WIC: Same-day appointment if eligible, TANF: Varies by state but typically 30-45 days, Section 8: 6 months to 5+ years depending on location.
About Application Process
Q: What if I get denied for benefits? A: You have the right to request a fair hearing for most programs. Appeal deadlines are typically 60-90 days from the decision notice. Don’t wait – appeal immediately if you believe the decision was wrong.
Q: Can I apply online for most programs? A: Many programs now offer online applications, especially SNAP and Medicaid. However, some still require in-person interviews or appointments.
Q: What if I don’t have all the required documents? A: Apply anyway. Most agencies will work with you to obtain missing documents. Don’t let missing paperwork prevent you from starting the application process.
About Specific Situations
Q: I’m pregnant and have no income. What can I do immediately? A: Apply for emergency SNAP (can be processed in 7 days), visit a WIC clinic immediately (you can get same-day services if eligible), apply for emergency Medicaid, and contact 211 for local emergency assistance.
Q: I’m being evicted. What emergency help is available? A: Contact Emergency Rental Assistance programs, which can provide help within 10 business days. Also reach out to your local Community Action Agency and Crisis Assistance Ministry. Dial 211 for immediate local resources.
Q: My utilities are being shut off. What can I do? A: LIHEAP provides emergency utility assistance to prevent shutoffs, available year-round for crisis situations. Contact your state LIHEAP office immediately.
Q: I want to go back to school but can’t afford childcare. Are there programs that help? A: Yes, many states offer childcare assistance for students. Programs like Helping Hands for Single Moms provide comprehensive support including childcare assistance for college students. Also look into campus childcare centers, which often offer reduced rates.
About Long-term Planning
Q: How can I transition off assistance programs? A: Benefits typically reduce gradually as income increases, not cut off immediately. Programs have “transition” policies to encourage work. Focus on education, job training, and building emergency savings while receiving benefits.
Q: What if I need help but make slightly too much to qualify for programs? A: Look into local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and community programs that often have more flexible income requirements. Organizations like The Hope Station specifically serve families in this “gap” situation.
Resources Directory
National Hotlines and Websites
- 211: Dial 2-1-1 (24/7 nationwide crisis and resource line)
- Benefits.gov: www.benefits.gov (find all federal programs you may qualify for)
- FindHelp.org: www.findhelp.org (comprehensive local resource finder)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Federal Program Directories
- SNAP State Directory: fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory
- WIC State Agencies: fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-contacts
- TANF State Programs: acf.gov/ofa/programs/tanf
- Public Housing Authorities: hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
- LIHEAP State Contacts: acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap/contacts
Nonprofit Organization Quick Reference
| Organization | Primary Services | Coverage Area | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Life of a Single Mom | Support groups, education, emergency aid | National | thelifeofasinglemom.com |
| The Single Parent Project | Financial relief, education, community support | National | singleparentproject.org |
| Bridge of Hope | Housing assistance, life skills | 11 states | bridgeofhopeinc.org |
| Salvation Army | Emergency services, housing, food | National | salvationarmyusa.org |
| Catholic Charities | Multiple services, immigration help | National | catholiccharitiesusa.org |
| Feeding America | Food assistance | National | feedingamerica.org |
Important Warnings and Reality Checks
About Scams
- The government does not give grants to individuals for personal expenses like housing or food. Beware of advertisements promising government cash grants for single moms
- Legitimate programs never ask for upfront fees or personal financial information over the phone
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is – research any organization thoroughly before providing personal information
About Wait Times and Expectations
- Housing assistance wait times are real and significant. In urban areas, you might wait 2-5 years for Section 8 vouchers
- Emergency assistance is truly for emergencies – don’t wait until crisis hits to apply for regular benefits
- Some programs have limited funding and may stop accepting applications during the year
About Program Limitations
- TANF has lifetime limits (typically 60 months) and work requirements that vary by state
- Benefits are not designed to provide a comfortable lifestyle – they’re meant to meet basic needs while you work toward independence
- Income reporting is required and strictly monitored – unreported income can result in benefit loss and repayment requirements
Disclaimer
Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal, state, and local policy updates. The information in this guide is current as of August 2025 but should always be verified directly with the relevant agency or organization before applying.
Contact information and program availability may vary by location. Always check with local offices for the most current information and to confirm program availability in your area.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Individual circumstances vary, and you should consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.
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 guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, USDA, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.
Information compiled from official U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, USDA, HUD, and verified nonprofit 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.
