A huge chunk of single parents who have custody of their children do not get child support. That is a fact. Even among those who do, many do not get nearly enough to help make those ends meet. While the word “welfare” carries with it a negative connotation, there are many government assistance programs that can benefit a single parent.
You may not think of things like federal financial aid for school or Head Start programs as government assistance. There may also be community or city programs that you are able to access as a single parent that don’t have the stigma or the “feel” of a government welfare program. Of course, there are things like food stamps and Medicaid available for those who have need and qualify, but there are many other programs and services too.
For many single parents, it isn’t necessarily big, over-all government assistance that can make a difference. Things like free or reduced-price school lunches, or a child care reimbursement or stipend can be huge to a single parent on a tight budget. It is important for parents to get to know what resources are available and what sort of restrictions, expectations, liabilities, and benefits are associated with these benefits. It may be possible to take advantage of a little help while continuing to work toward complete self-sufficiency.
For starters, contact your state Department of Human Services and look into Aid for Families with Dependent Children. A good caseworker can help you evaluate what sort of programs are available for your single parent family and how you can best benefit or how you can access services at a level that is helpful and comfortable for you. Don’t overlook community resources like child care, food banks, job training, and other services that may not require a long-term commitment, but can give you temporary help when you need it.
Also: When Will the Ends Meet?
Government Grants for the Single Parent
Financial Assistance for the Single Parent