Grants and Assistance for Single Moms in Utah
The mental and financial stress of raising a child as a single mother can sometimes feel overbearing. Thankfully there are several federal and state programs that can help ease the burden. Here are some of the most important programs for assistance and grants for single moms in Utah.
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 (TANF)
The Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF) helps low-income families by issuing cash payments that can be used for food, housing, childcare, and other purposes. In order to qualify for TANF in Idaho, a family’s income must not exceed 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. In addition, families must be working or seeking work in order to receive this benefit.
Childcare Assistance
Child Care Assistance
The Child Care Assistance Program helps needy families pay for childcare and after-school programs. The income limit for the Child Care Assistance program in Idaho is 85% of the State median income. Families can choose a participating childcare center to enroll their child and the payment will be sent directly to the provider.
Food Assistance
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps low-income families buy food. The amount of assistance received depends on the number of people in the household and the household’s income. Recipients of SNAP receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that can be used at many grocery stores and farmers’ markets in the state.
National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
The National School Lunch Program is a meal program that offers students in public and non-profit private schools free or reduced-price meals. Children from households that earn at or below 130% of the federal poverty limit can qualify for free meals.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Idaho helps pregnant women, mothers who are breastfeeding, and children receive additional food and nutrition. Families can use the WIC card they are given to buy approved foods like veggies, cereal, dairy, eggs, baby food, and more. The program also helps mothers with postpartum counseling and breastfeeding services. In order to qualify for WIC in Utah, a household of 2 can have a household income of $33,874 or less in 2022.
Housing Assistance
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
Low-income families and people with disabilities may get help paying for housing via the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV). The program was previously named Section 8. Before a family can join the HCV program, they must go through a background check.
Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) Program
The Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) Program offers low-income families financial aid to assist with the cost of energy bills. The program can help cover expenses for gas, oil, electricity, and other utilities. To qualify for HEAT, a family’s income must be at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.
Healthcare Grants
Medicaid
Medicaid, a federally-funded healthcare program, is available to families earning less than 138 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Medicaid covers a wide range of essential medical services, including as doctor visits, prescription medications, yearly physicals, eye exams, x-rays, and other diagnostic testing.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a government health insurance program for children and young adults up to the age of 19. Families who earn too much to be covered by Medicaid but still need assistance might turn to this program since it has greater income restrictions than Medicaid. There may be a minimal monthly copayment of $10 to $15 for families. CHIP covers many of the same basic medical requirements as Medicaid including prescription drugs, medical provider visits, hospital stays, and more.
Head Start
Head Start offers free daycare for children aged 0 to 5. Families that qualify may enroll their children in any participating childcare facility in the state. The daycare facilities provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks to youngsters and help them learn fundamental skills so they are ready for school.
College Grants
Utah Centennial Opportunity Program For Education (UCOPE)
Students in Utah who are enrolled in public colleges or universities are eligible for the Utah Centennial Opportunity Program For Education award. Candidates must fulfill specific income limits in order to qualify. The program helps cover the cost of textbooks, tuition, and other educational expenses. The UCOPE grant has a maximum payout of $5,000 each school year and a minimum payment of $300 every year. The grant does not have to be repaid.
Pell Grant
The federal Pell Grant is available to students who are enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited institution or university. Students who qualify for a Pell Grant must demonstrate financial need. School fees, textbooks, and other educational expenditures may be covered by the award.
Final Words
These programs can provide critical financial support for a variety of expenses, including housing, utilities, medical care, and education bills. Keep in mind that if you are a single mother in Utah who is having trouble making ends meet, there is assistance available.
