The U.S. offers single mothers a number of government subsidies and support programs. Programs are designed to help single mothers gain independence and self-sufficiency. They are targeted to mothers whose income falls below certain poverty levels that vary from year to year. Single mothers must qualify individually for various programs that range from food stamps to housing and health care.
Housing
More than 1.2 million families were living in public housing units of some form in September 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Income eligibility requirements must be met to qualify for public housing, which could include apartments, homes and shared living quarters. Documentation that includes tax returns, receipts, income verification and expense records must be delivered to a local HUD field office for application.
Food
Single mothers with resources that total less than $2,000 are eligible for food stamps through the Social Security Administration. Also called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, food stamps are coupons provided to use as payment at participating grocery outlets to buy food. The amount is determined by a calculation that takes into account your expenses, income and number of children. All household members who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families are eligible for food stamps, according to the Food and Nutrition Services.
Living Expenses
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, also referred to as TANF, is operated though states that receive federal money for the purpose of supporting needy families. While families with two parents may be eligible for TANF benefits, single mothers also may apply for the monthly stipend. Individual states set the amount of money they provide. TANF regulations require recipients to look for work, although mothers with children younger than 12 months old are exempt.
Health Care
Medicaid is a program designed for low-income families to receive doctor and hospital care. Prescription coverage, checkups and emergency services are included in the program. Federal funds are provided to states to administer individual programs with varying eligibility requirements. Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements based on income, expenses, available resources and whether the mother is pregnant or not. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, health care coverage may be provided retroactively for three months to eligible recipients.
References
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: HUD's Public Housing
- Social Security Administration: Food Stamps
- Food and Nutrition Services: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Administration for Children & Families: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Medicaid
