Last Updated on January 31, 2024 by Lori Pace
South Dakota is one of the most affordable states for families. Perhaps it’s because the childcare costs are so low. According to statistics, South Dakota is the fifth-lowest cost state in the United States for childcare. According to statistics, 38.2% of single mothers in South Dakota live in partial poverty. This means that their income is lower than average. South Dakota, in response to this trend, has implemented many projects that aim to help alleviate the hardships faced by single mothers. These programs are designed to help these women become financially independent and productive.
Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF)
This is a temporary financial aid program designed to help families with children under 18 years old. The program will last 60 months (5 years) during the lifetime of the individual who qualifies. The state of South Dakota offers this program that will help and allow single mothers with two or more children to receive up to $615. However, the amount may vary depending on the income of the family and the size of your household. The program requires that qualified individuals work at least 30 hours per week. However, if they have a child younger than six years old, their working time is limited to only 20 hours. To apply, visit their website.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
South Dakota SNAP is aimed at low-income residents of the state. Its main purpose is to provide food aid to families and individuals who cannot afford a nutritious meal. The assistance is intended to help those who are in need until they reach financial stability. The amount that participants receive depends on their household size, income, and monthly expenses. The average monthly benefit for a program participant is $126 per person, and $413 per family with children. Interested individuals can apply online at the website of their local Department of Social Services Office.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
This program was designed to help women, infants, children under 5 years old, and their parents with a special diet. The program offers services such as nutritional education and breastfeeding support. Beneficiaries can also find out where they can get free or low-cost healthcare services near them. You must be certified as nutritionally at risk by a medical professional in order to qualify for this program. Special attention is also given to households that fall below the EFP guidelines by less than 185%. To apply, visit their website.
Medicaid Can Help Single Mothers In South Dakota
The program is designed to assist South Dakotans who are unable to afford medical insurance. Residents of South Dakota with low incomes who qualify must meet certain criteria. Most importantly, the participant must not be employed or earn a very small income. Families who qualify can receive low-cost or free medical care. This includes regular checkups, child health examinations, vision care, and dental care. For more information, visit their website.
Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The program’s name implies that it is to help children who cannot afford a health insurance plan. It does this by providing a free policy. This program covers dental care, immunizations, vision services, hospital stays, doctor’s visits, etc. Children from families earning incomes within the 204% guideline of the FPL are eligible, while single mothers must earn less than $41,700 per year. To apply, visit their website.
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
The program provides financial assistance to families that cannot afford to pay their child’s medical bills while working or attending school. This program pays for healthcare services for children under 13 years of age or those who have special needs. To apply, applicants can visit their website and access the online portal, or they can visit the South Dakota Department of social service Division of Child Care, 910 East Sioux Ave. Pierre SD57501.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is a program that helps South Dakotans with low incomes qualify to pay for their home heating costs. The program helps pay for the cost of electricity, propane, natural gas, and fuel oil used to heat a home.
South Dakotans who have a household income that is below 175% of federal poverty guidelines can apply for this program. They give priority to households that have elderly, disabled, or small children.
Visit your local Department of Social Services to get an application, or call 1-800-233-8503 to have one mailed to you. The deadline for submitting your application is the 31st of March.
Unemployment Insurance
Unemployment Insurance benefits are temporary financial assistance provided to unemployed workers who have no fault of their own until they find another job. If you have recently lost your South Dakota job, you may qualify for unemployment benefits. You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks if you actively search for suitable employment every week you collect benefits.
South Dakota’s unemployment benefits are calculated at approximately 50% of average weekly earnings. The maximum benefit is $466. You can apply online at the Department of Labour and Regulation at any time, 7 days a week. You can also file a claim by phone. Call (605) 626-3179 from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:20 pm (CST).
South Dakota Need-Based Grant Program (SDNBGP)
South Dakota Need-Based Grant Program is a grant program that provides financial aid to South Dakota students who demonstrate exceptional “financial needs” as determined by FAFSA. The awards range from $500 to $2,000 each academic year.
All schools offer SDNBGP. It’s best to check with the Financial Aid Office of your school to find out if SDNBGP is available.
Bottom Line About Help For Single Mothers In South Dakota
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 to help single mothers in the state of South Dakota, visit these articles:
