Massachusetts State Assistance For Single Mothers

Help For Single Moms In Massachusetts

When raising children on your own, sometimes you need a little help. Massachusetts single moms have several state resources they can turn to when they need a little help paying for their day to day expenses.

Childcare - Sometimes as a single mom, it feels as though all of your income is going to pay for quality childcare for your children, leaving nothing behind for you to care for them with. The Income-eligible Child Care Program offers a subsidized childcare option to single moms who are looking for work, in school or training, working, or out on maternity or disability reasons.

Healthcare - When you are responsible for the welfare of children, having access to health insurance is crucial. If your employer does not offer adequate coverage for you or your kids, look into MassHealth. This program offers health care coverage to low and middle-income families. It is a combination of the state’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Food and Supplies – For single moms who are in a period of transition, either in pursuing more education for work, looking for a job, or trying to find a better paying job, Massachusetts offers the Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children program. TAFDC offers cash assistance to use to buy food, supplies, and other household needs. In addition, the state offers the Supplemental Nutritional Program, several food pantries, and WIC to help needy families purchase healthy foods.

Transportation – If you receive MassHealth benefits, you can get transportation to medical appointments through the program’s transportation services. If you need help getting to and from work or school, the Massachusetts mass transit system can help. The reduced fares option (http://www.mbta.com/faresandpasses/) for children and teenagers can make using the mass transit much more affordable.

Rent Assistance – A mortgage or rent payment takes a huge chunk of money from the average family’s budget, and when you are living on one income, this can be nearly impossible. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development offers housing assistance through several programs, including subsidized rental housing, home ownership programs, and public housing options.

College Grants – When you reach a ceiling at your place of employment, the only way to better your position may be to return to school. The cost of a college education is prohibitive for many single mothers in Massachusetts. Under the American Recovery and Reinvesting Act of 2009 the state received some federal funding that can help you pay for your college education through grant money. In addition to exploring these options, talk to the financial aid office at the school of your choice, or research school scholarships for more financial assistance options.