Grants and Financial Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas (2025)

Last Updated on June 13, 2025 by Rachel

Key Takeaways

Arkansas has limited but essential support programs: The state offers some of the nation’s lowest cash benefits ($204/month for a family of three) but provides crucial assistance across multiple areas
One application covers most programs: Apply through Access Arkansas for SNAP, TEA (cash assistance), and Medicaid
Timing is critical for some programs: LIHEAP applications open January-April and July-September with limited funding that runs out quickly
Benefits are modest but can be combined: A family of three might receive up to $768/month in SNAP, $204/month in TEA, and up to $475/year in utility assistance
Educational support offers the best long-term path: Programs like Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund provide up to $1,600 per semester plus wraparound support

Single Mothers in Arkansas

Arkansas has a poverty rate of 15.7%, with 22% of children living in poverty compared to 17% nationwide. More than 19% of Arkansas children experience food insecurity, tied with Oklahoma for the second worst in the country. For single mothers, these statistics translate to daily struggles between paying rent or buying groceries, choosing between car repairs or medical bills.

The basic cost of living in Arkansas is $18,000 per year for a single adult, significantly higher than the Federal Poverty Line estimate of $12,000. This gap means that even families receiving assistance often fall short of meeting their actual needs.

Emergency Cash Assistance (TEA – Transitional Employment Assistance)

Arkansas has the lowest monthly benefit levels for TANF in the country, at $204 per month for a family of three with no income. While this amount is small, it provides crucial emergency funding during the most difficult times.

The Hard Reality About TEA

The law limits the receipt of TEA benefits to no more than 12 months, unless otherwise transitioned into Arkansas Work Pays. This makes Arkansas one of the most restrictive states for cash assistance. You can reapply for additional periods, but this program is designed as very short-term help.

Who Qualifies

Single mothers with children under 18
Family is considered “needy” when their countable income is less than $223 a month (this applies to all family sizes)
Assets under $3,000
Must be U.S. citizen or legal resident
Must participate in work activities (20-30 hours per week depending on family size)

Application Process

Apply through Access Arkansas
Visit your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office
Applications are processed within 30 days
Must complete drug screening questionnaire

Reality Check: The work requirements are challenging for mothers attending school or with young children. Childcare assistance exists but has waiting lists. The $204 monthly benefit covers only basic necessities for a few days.

Food Assistance (SNAP)

SNAP provides the most substantial help for Arkansas families. The maximum benefit for a family of three is $768 per month. Even families with some income receive partial benefits based on their net income after deductions.

Income Limits and Benefits

There is no gross income limit in Arkansas for households with a household member who is 60 or older or has a disability. For other families, gross income must be at or below 130% of the poverty level.

Application Timeline

Apply through Access Arkansas
Processing typically takes 30 days
For help with applications, call Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance at 833-762-7275 (Spanish speaking operator available)
Benefits load monthly on an EBT card

Reality Check: While there are minimum and maximum SNAP benefit amounts, in general $100 more in net income = $30 less in benefits. Most families don’t receive the maximum amount. SNAP significantly helps but requires careful budgeting and meal planning.

Utility Assistance (LIHEAP)

Arkansas LIHEAP provides heating assistance with a $50 minimum and $475 maximum, cooling assistance with a $50 minimum and $287 maximum, and crisis assistance up to $500 maximum for both winter and summer.

The Challenge with LIHEAP

LIHEAP applications are accepted through community-based organizations on a first-come, first served basis typically from January to April 30 and from July to September 30 of each year. Funding is extremely limited and often runs out within weeks of opening.

How to Apply

Contact your local Community Action Agency (CAA)
Find your local agency through the CAA Service Network Territories web page
Apply immediately when the application period opens
Some customers can apply online at GETLIHEAP.com

Reality Check: About 45% of Entergy Arkansas customers are considered low-income households, meaning their total income is less than $40,000 annually. Competition for LIHEAP funding is fierce. Apply on the first day applications open if possible.

Nutrition Support for Mothers and Young Children (WIC)

WIC provides monthly food packages specifically designed for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5. Foods include milk, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula.

Who Qualifies

Pregnant women
Breastfeeding mothers (until baby turns 1)
Postpartum women (up to 6 months)
Children under 5
If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or TEA, you’re automatically income-eligible for WIC

Application Process

Visit your local WIC clinic with:

ID for each person applying
Proof of address and income
Recent medical records or get screened at the clinic

Reality Check: WIC provides specific healthy foods but less flexibility than SNAP. The nutrition education and breastfeeding support are valuable, but you’ll still need other food assistance for a complete grocery budget.

Educational Opportunities and Scholarships

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF)

This is one of the most valuable programs for single mothers seeking long-term stability. Scholarships are up to $1,600 per semester and can be used for everyday expenses, including groceries, gas and child care while you are going to school.

Eligibility Requirements:

Live in Arkansas or Bowie County, TX; be legally single/divorced/widowed; have physical custody (50% or more) of at least one dependent child
Have low to moderate income, typically not more than 250% of federal poverty guidelines
Have high school diploma or GED
Be enrolled in degree/certificate program

Application Process:

Applications accepted three times per year; Fall 2025 applications due August 1 through September 1, 2025
Apply at aspsf.org
Last year, the ASPSF awarded over 800 scholarships

Reality Check: This program provides not just money but ongoing support throughout your education. However, competition is strong and you must maintain good grades and program participation.

Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) Programs

Arkansas Future Grant (ArFuture): Covers tuition and fees for STEM and high-demand certificate/associate degree programs
Academic Challenge Scholarship: Available regardless of academic status
Apply through scholarships.adhe.edu

Healthcare Coverage

AHCCCS (Arkansas Medicaid)

Arkansas expanded Medicaid covers:

Pregnant women and children
Parents with dependent children
Low-income adults without children (through the Arkansas Works program)

ARKids First

Arkansas’s children’s health insurance program provides comprehensive coverage including:

Well-child checkups
Dental care
Eye exams
Emergency services

Apply through Access Arkansas or call 1-888-474-8275

Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Managed by local public housing authorities with years-long waiting lists. When applications open, apply immediately through your local housing authority.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Some counties offer emergency help with rent and utilities, but funding is extremely limited and varies by location.

Reality Check: Housing assistance has the longest waits of any program. Start applications immediately and have multiple backup plans. Consider shared housing or staying with family while on waiting lists.

Food Banks and Emergency Assistance

Arkansas Food Bank Network: Provides emergency food boxes and mobile pantries

No income requirements
Find locations through 2-1-1 or arhungeralliance.org

The Salvation Army: Offers emergency assistance including:

Utility bill help
Rent assistance
Food pantries
Temporary shelter

Catholic Charities of Arkansas: Provides various assistance programs including emergency financial help and case management services.

Application Strategy That Actually Works

Start with the Foundation Programs

Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and ARKids First through Access Arkansas first. These provide the basic safety net while you work on other applications.

Time Your Applications Strategically

LIHEAP: Mark your calendar for January 6 and July 7 – apply the first day
ASPSF: Applications due August 1-September 1 for Fall semester
Emergency assistance: Apply when you have specific crisis documentation

Gather Documents First

Social Security cards for everyone
Birth certificates for children
Pay stubs from last 30 days (or unemployment/TANF/disability letters)
Rent receipts or lease
Utility bills
Bank statements
Pregnancy verification (if applicable)

Follow Up Consistently

Programs lose paperwork and miss deadlines. Call weekly to check status and provide additional documents immediately when requested.

Common Challenges and Real Solutions

Challenge: Income Too High for Some Programs, Too Low for Stability

Solution: Arkansas has some of the most restrictive income limits in the nation. Apply anyway – limits change and emergency assistance may be available even if regular programs aren’t.

Challenge: Transportation to Appointments

Solution: Ask about phone interviews, use public transit where available, or arrange carpools with other participants. Some offices offer gas vouchers for appointments.

Challenge: Childcare During Appointments and Work Requirements

Solution: Many offices allow children during appointments. Ask about exemptions for mothers with children under 6. Look into childcare assistance programs through DHS.

Challenge: Work Requirements vs. Education Goals

Solution: Many education programs count toward work requirements. Discuss your educational goals with your caseworker to see what qualifies.

Realistic Timelines and Expectations

SNAP: 30 days processing, benefits available within days of approval
TEA: 30 days processing, very limited duration (12 months maximum)
Medicaid/ARKids: Usually 30-45 days
LIHEAP: 2-4 weeks if funding available (often runs out quickly)
Housing assistance: 2-5 year waiting lists
ASPSF scholarships: 4-6 weeks after application deadline

What the Numbers Really Mean

A single mother with two children (family of three) in Arkansas might receive:

TEA: $204/month (if eligible, maximum 12 months)
SNAP: $400-768/month depending on income
LIHEAP: $287-475/year for utilities
Medicaid/ARKids: Full healthcare coverage

Total potential monthly assistance: $600-970/month plus healthcare Reality: Most families receive partial benefits and must supplement with work, family help, or charity.

Regional Differences in Arkansas

Central Arkansas (Little Rock area)

More program options and shorter wait times
Better public transportation
More educational opportunities

Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville/Bentonville)

Higher cost of living but more job opportunities
Active Single Parent Scholarship Fund chapter
Good healthcare access

Rural Counties

Limited local services requiring travel to larger towns
Fewer job opportunities but lower housing costs
May have additional rural-specific assistance programs

Building Long-Term Stability

Education and Skills Training

Approximately 85% of Arkansans ages 25 or older finished high school compared to 88.9% nationwide; 24.3% have a bachelor’s degree compared to 33.7% in the U.S.
Community college programs with financial aid
Technical certification programs
Online courses for flexible scheduling

Employment Support

Arkansas Division of Workforce Services
Career Centers in larger cities
Work-study programs that count toward TEA requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I receive multiple types of assistance at the same time?

A: Yes. You can receive SNAP, TEA, Medicaid, WIC, and LIHEAP simultaneously if you qualify for each. These programs are designed to work together, though income from TEA may affect SNAP benefit amounts.

Q: What happens if my income changes while receiving benefits?

A: You must report income changes within 10 days. Your benefits may increase, decrease, or stay the same. Not reporting changes can result in overpayments you’ll need to repay.

Q: How long can I receive benefits in Arkansas?

A: It varies significantly:

SNAP: No time limit if you have children under 18
TEA: 12 months maximum (can reapply in hardship situations)
WIC: Until children turn 5
Medicaid: As long as you remain eligible
LIHEAP: Once per program year (winter and summer)

Q: What if I’m denied benefits?

A: You have the right to appeal. Request a fair hearing within 90 days of the denial letter. You can represent yourself or get help from legal aid organizations. Continue your appeal even if it seems hopeless – decisions are sometimes overturned.

Q: Can I work while receiving benefits?

A: Yes, working is encouraged and may actually increase some benefits due to earned income deductions. TEA requires work activities, and SNAP has work requirements for certain adults without children.

Q: What if I don’t have all the required documents?

A: Apply anyway. Caseworkers can help you obtain missing documents. Never let missing paperwork delay your application – you can provide additional documents after applying.

Q: Are undocumented immigrants eligible?

A: Most programs require legal status, but emergency services may be available. Children who are U.S. citizens can receive benefits regardless of parents’ status.

Q: How do I know if I’m receiving the right benefit amount?

A: Your approval letter should explain your benefit calculation. If you think it’s wrong, contact your caseworker immediately. Keep all income documentation to verify calculations.

Q: What counts as income in Arkansas?

A: All income counts including wages, unemployment, child support, Social Security, disability benefits, and help from family. Some deductions are allowed for work expenses, childcare, and medical costs.

Q: Can I go to school while receiving benefits?

A: Yes. Education often counts toward work requirements for TEA. SNAP has some restrictions for college students, but exceptions exist for parents. Always inform your caseworker about educational plans.

Q: What happens in true emergencies?

A: Arkansas has emergency assistance available:

Emergency SNAP (7-day processing for dire situations)
Crisis LIHEAP for utility shutoff
Emergency Medicaid for pregnant women and children
Local charity organizations for immediate help

Q: Why are Arkansas benefits so low compared to other states?

A: Arkansas has yet to remove family cap policies and provides some of the lowest benefit levels in the nation. This reflects state policy choices about public assistance. Focus on combining multiple programs and pursuing education for long-term improvement.

Remember: These programs exist because society recognizes the challenges single mothers face. Using assistance isn’t a sign of failure – it’s taking advantage of available resources while you work toward stability and independence for yourself and your children.

This guide was last updated June 2025. Program details and benefit amounts change regularly. Always verify current information with official sources before making decisions.

Need immediate help? Call 2-1-1 from any phone for information about local resources and emergency assistance.