Assistance and Grants for Single Moms in Idaho
Raising a child as a single mom can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finances. Thankfully, there are several state and federal programs that can help. Here are some of the most important programs for assistance and grants for single moms in Idaho.
Table of Contents
- Financial Aid / Cash Assistance
- Childcare Assistance
- Food Assistance
- Housing Assistance
- Healthcare Grants
- Medicaid
- College Grants
- Final Words
Financial Aid / Cash Assistance
Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI)
Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) helps low-income families by providing cash assistance to help pay for basic needs like food, housing, and utilities. Families must meet strict income limits in order to qualify. As of 2022, the program pays eligible families a maximum amount of $309 per month for up to 24 months.
Childcare Assistance
Idaho Child Care Program
The Idaho Child Care Program provides child care assistance for low-income families with children under 13 years old. The program can help pay for the cost of child care at licensed daycare centers, before and after school programs, and more. In order to qualify for the program, you must be working, attending school, or participating in job training. The amount of assistance received depends on several factors including household income, age of the child, and type of child care.
Food Assistance
Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income families by providing a cash benefits (EBT) card which can be used to purchase groceries and food. In order to qualify for Idaho SNAP, you must be an Idaho resident and meet strict income limits. In addition, as of 2022, applicants must have a net worth under $5,000 in order to qualify (this includes cash in the bank, stocks, property vehicles, and more).
National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
The National School Lunch Program provides free or low-cost meals to children who are enrolled in public or nonprofit private schools. In order to qualify for subsidized school lunches in Idaho, a family of two must earn under $33,874.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Idaho Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides supplemental food and nutrition assistance to pregnant mothers, breastfeeding mothers, and children. Families can use the provided WIC card to purchase approved groceries such as vegetables, cereal, milk, eggs, baby food, and more. The program also provides counseling and breastfeeding support for mothers.
Housing Assistance
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (aka Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, provides rental vouchers that low-income families can use to pay rent. The program is administered in 34 out of 44 Idaho counties. In order to qualify, families must meet certain income limits. Due to high demand, the program typically has a waiting list of 6 months or more so it’s important that families who are seeking this benefit apply as soon as possible.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income families pay for utilities including heat, electricity, gas, and more. Families must meet certain income limits in order to qualify. In order to receive LIHEAP assistance, you can apply directly with your utility provider or with a local Community Action Agency in Idaho.
Healthcare Grants
Medicaid
Families with income under 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are eligible to receive Medicaid, a federally-funded healthcare program. Medicaid provides basic healthcare coverage which includes doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, annual checkups, vision services, x-rays, lab tests, and more.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health coverage to children under 19 years old. The program has higher income limits than Medicaid, so it’s a good option for those who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but are still in need of help. Families may be required to pay a small monthly copay of $10 to $15 per month. Like Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program covers many basic medical needs including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, checkups, dental and vision care, and more.
Head Start
Head Start provides free childcare for kids ages 0-5 years old. Families who qualify for the program can enroll their children at any participating childcare center across the state. The childcare centers serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and help teach children basic skills so they are ready for school.
College Grants
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) provides up to $4,000 to college students pursuing an undergraduate degree. In order to qualify, students must be able to demonstrate a need for financial assistance. In addition, students may not be in default on any other student loan and must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.
The Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is another federally-funded grant program that provides financial aid to students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree at a college or university. In order to qualify for the Pell Grant, students must meet certain academic and financial need requirements. The grant can be used to cover the costs of school fees, books, and other school-related expenses.
Final Words
If you are a single mom that’s struggling to manage work, parenting, and household finances, remember that there is help available. The programs listed in this article can provide much-needed financial assistance for single moms in Idaho who are looking for help.
