California State Assistance For Single Mothers
Help For Single Moms In California
California has one of the highest costs of living of any state in the Union. As such, single moms in this coastal state often struggle financially. The state offers several resources moms can look to when they need a little extra help raising their kids.
Childcare – Without a safe place to send your children, finding time to work is almost impossible. CalWORKS, the state’s welfare program, offers a child care assistance program to needy families. This temporary program aims to help families get back on their feet after a difficult time by helping with access to quality childcare while they make a transition. Once your kids are in school, look for after school programs or babysitting swapping opportunities.
Healthcare – The people of California recognizes that single moms often struggle to buy health insurance for their kids, even when they make too much money to qualify for Medicare, so they offer CaliforniaKids Health care program, a non-profit organization offering healthcare options for kids from age 2 through 18. Some families may qualify for the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) or the state’s Medicaid program (http://www.medi-cal.ca.gov/).
Food and Supplies – California offers a food stamps program (http://www.dss.cahwnet.gov/foodstamps/) to low-income families. Pregnant women, children under the age of five or moms who are breastfeeding can get nutritious supplemental food through the state’s WIC program. The state has an extensive network of foodbanks as well, offering low-cost food and household supplies to needy families and the state’s many single moms. Find out more at http://www.cafoodbanks.org/.
Transportation – Caltrans, the state’s major public transportation agency, offers an affordable option for people who need help getting around town. Most public transportation is centered in major cities.
Rent Assistance – The state’s Department of Housing and Community Development oversees around 20 programs to help businesses and community leaders develop housing options that aid needy families in finding a place to stay. In addition, HUD offers rental assistance and the housing vouchers program to help lower income families afford their rent or mortgage. Find out more at http://www.hud.gov/local/.
Educational Grants – Sometimes bettering your family’s situation is impossible without further education. To find money to aid you in paying for school, file the FAFSA to apply for federal student grants. Also, talk to the financial aid department of the school you are considering, asking if there are any grants or scholarships available specifically for single parents or women. The California Student Aid Commission (http://www.calgrants.org/) is an excellent resource to use when looking for state-specific grants or scholarships.
Top Colleges In California for single moms.
Other Single Moms Resources
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