Assistance and Grants for Single Moms in South Dakota
The mental and financial toll of raising a child as a single mother can sometimes feel overbearing. Thankfully, there are several state and federal programs that can help alleviate some of the pressures. Here are some of the most important programs for assistance and grants for single moms in South Dakota.
Table of Contents
- Financial Aid / Cash Assistance
- Childcare Assistance
- Food Assistance
- Housing Assistance
- Healthcare Grants
- College Grants
- Final Words
Financial Aid / Cash Assistance
Temporary Assistance For Needy Families
The Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF) provides low-income families with temporary cash assistance that can be used to pay for essential needs such as foods, housing, or childcare. In order to qualify for the program families must meet certain income requirements and adults must be looking for work or currently employed. The cash payment can be deposited into a recipient’s bank accounts, or they can choose to receive a South Dakota Way2Go prepaid debit card which can be used to make purchases at many stores.
Childcare Assistance
Child Care Assistance Program
The Child Care Assistance Program helps families pay for childcare at qualified daycare and childcare centers. In order to qualify for the program, a family can earn a maximum of 209% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2022, this amounts to roughly $3,189 for a family of two. Payments are made directly to the childcare provider. The amount of the benefit is dependent on the number of people in the home and the household income.
Food Assistance
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) was previously known as food stamps. It helps low-income residents pay for food. In order to qualify for SNAP in South Dakota, a family cannot have more than $2,500 in the bank. In addition, a family’s income must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify. SNAP benefits can be used to buy groceries, but cannot be used for household supplies such as soaps and paper products.
School Nutrition Program
The National School Lunch Program provides free or low-cost meals to students that belong to low-income households and attend public or nonprofit private schools. Residents can apply through their school or school district.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides supplemental food assistance to nursing moms, soon-to-be moms, and children. Recipients of the program will receive an EBT card which can be used to purchase foods such as cereal, milk, eggs, and baby food. In addition, the program also provides services for mothers such as counseling and breastfeeding support. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, delivered a baby within the past 6 months, or have a child under 5 are eligible to apply. Women who are current recipients of SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid are given priority into the program.
Housing Assistance
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) helps low-income families pay for rent. Families who qualify for the program can choose where to live, as long as the rental accepts HCV payments. A background check is required in order to be approved by the program. The program covers a portion of the rent. Recipients of the subsidy must cover the remainder of the rent.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
South Dakota’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps cash-strapped families pay for home heating costs. The amount of the grant is based on the number of people in a household and the household’s income. In order to qualify in 2022, a household of 2 can earn a maximum income of $8,710 over 3 months. The LIHEAP payment is not made to the individual recipient, it is instead paid directly to the utility company.
Healthcare Grants
Medicaid
Medicaid provides low-income families with vital healthcare coverage. The program covers primary doctor visits, x-rays, prescription drugs, and all “medically necessary” services. The income threshold for pregnant women to receive Medicaid is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. There are stricter income guidelines for mothers and caregivers who are not pregnant.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is Medicaid for kids up to 19 years old. The program provides coverage for many healthcare services. Children who are under 6 years old and are part of a household that earns up to 182% of the Federal Poverty Level can qualify for the program. For older children (ages 6 to 19), the income limits are stricter.
Head Start
South Dakota Head Start helps families by providing free early education services. Children of low-income families, ages 0 to 5, can attend the qualified preschool of choice where they’ll be taught basic skills to prepare them for school. Head Start schools also provide snacks, breakfast, and lunch for students.
College Grants
Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is a federally funded grant for low-income students who are enrolled in an undergraduate program at a college or university. Students must display exceptional financial needs and cannot have a bachelor’s or graduate degree. The grant can be used to pay for tuition, books, and other school expenses. The grant is not a loan and does not have to be paid back.
Final Words
These programs may help with the costs of housing, utilities, health care, and education. Just keep in mind that there is assistance available for single mothers in South Dakota who are having financial difficulties.
Looking for additional resources? Check out our extensive guide of Assistance and Grants for Single Moms in 2022 for a rundown of programs that are available at a nationwide level for all who qualify.
