Last Updated on January 31, 2024 by Lori Pace
California is known for being a “fashion state”. Perhaps Hollywood is there, and maybe because it has everything: Its people, its beaches, and its vibe. There are many single mothers in America with the same financial difficulties as the rest of America, and there is no shortage of them. California offers several programs that help single mothers in need. California has many agencies that offer food, rental assistance, foreclosure assistance, low-cost or free health care, prescriptions, and other programs to help single mothers. Most benefits require recipients to have a low income or be in financial distress.
Rx Foundation
Rx Foundation is a Prescription Advocacy Organization that receives discounted or free prescriptions for its members via Prescription Assistance Programs (PAPs). The Foundation is part of hundreds upon hundreds of free prescription programs that offer a fraction of what it costs to purchase prescription medication from name brands. RxF works in partnership with your doctor and pharmaceutical companies to provide you with the prescription medication you need at a fraction of the price.
Prescription Assistance Program
California residents have the right to access statewide Prescription Assistance Programs (PAP) for their families. The pharmacy coupon card can be used to save up to 75% on prescription medication at any California pharmacy, including CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens. The app can be downloaded and taken to the pharmacy along with your prescription.
- Everyone is welcome to take part
- There are no restrictions on eligibility
- No applications
- No need to provide personal information
- Discounts are available for both brand and generic medicines
- HIPAA compliant
- No expiration
California Rx Card proudly supports Children’s Miracle Network. Every time a prescription using this coupon is filled, a donation will be made directly to the local CMN hospital.
Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
California Tribal TANF Program’s core purpose is to support the Indian Tribes of California. It provides the resources, funding, tools, and resources that each Tribe or Consortium needs to run its Tribal TANF Program. Tribal TANF programs were created to:
- Assistance for families in need so that children can be taken care of in their own homes, or in the homes and homes of relatives.
- Encourage job preparation, work, marriage, and end dependency on government benefits for parents who are financially unable to support themselves.
- Reduce the number of pregnancies outside of the marriage and set annual numerical goals to prevent and reduce these pregnancies.
The service area, service population, time limits, eligibility criteria, benefits and services, work activities, and eligibility criteria can all be defined by tribes. Tribal TANF Programs aim to meet the needs of Native American communities and preserve their culture.
Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
The CSBG program aims to assist low-income single mothers and individuals with self-sufficiency. The program provides shelter, food, and healthcare for low-income individuals who have immediate life needs.
Homeowner Assistance Program
Single moms who are eligible for the Homeowner Assistance program receive a once-a-year payment from California. California homeowners can receive $472.60 in assistance. To receive assistance, individuals must meet income requirements, and be at least 62 years old, blind, or disabled. Call 800-338-0505 for more information.
California Renter Assistance Program
With the help of the renters’ program, qualified families and single mothers may receive one payment or grant each year from the State of California. The maximum amount of assistance a claimant can receive is $347.50. Call 800-569-4287 for more information about rental assistance.
Mortgage and Foreclosure Help
California offers single mothers a program that can help them prevent foreclosure. These resources can help people get assistance with mortgages. You can reach the Department of Housing and Urban Development by calling 800-569-4287.
Child Care Assistance Programs In California
Single moms often need help caring for their children, especially if they’re not able to do so alone. California’s Child Care Assistance program provides subsidized childcare services to eligible single mothers. It includes CalWORKs, Alternate payment, and Child Protective Services. CalWORKs provides assistance for families who are transitioning off welfare assistance or cash aid. The Alternate Payment program can help with child support while the parents are working, attending school, college, seeking work, or looking for permanent housing in California. Child Protective Services will provide childcare for children living in a home that is unsafe or neglectful. Call 213-240-5900 for more information.
San Francisco Working Families Credit
San Francisco also offers the Working Families Credit (WFC). It’s a local version of the federal EITC. It’s available to working families who have children and are residents of San Francisco. WFC applicants who are verified by the city as eligible (using IRS data) receive credit from San Francisco. It is equal to a portion of their federal EITC, up to $250 per family.
The WFC is not available to applicants who have never received it before due to the limited funding. You are not eligible to apply if you have received the Working Families Credit before.
Questions about WFC?
Call (415) 557-6284
Cal-Learn
Cal-Learn is mandatory for pregnant or parenting teens who receive CalWORKs under 19 years old to graduate high school or the equivalent. When the student graduates high school or passes the GED exam or gets passing grades on a school report card, they will receive incentives ranging in the range of $100 to $500.
Assistance may also be available in the form of transportation, child care, and education expenses. Parents of teens who are pregnant or parenting may apply for Cal-Learn at any county welfare office.
Bottom Line About Help For Single Mothers In California
There is a big variety to choose from when it comes to asking for assistance. The federal government and nonprofits work hard to support the community they are in, the best that they can. To learn more about other assistance offered in the state of California, visit these articles:
