Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Lori Pace
Wyoming has the largest number of mothers who are working and earning low incomes, but also have children under age five. Nearly one-third (80%) of these single mothers take care of their children, and the majority are immigrants. The Wyoming state government has created several programs to help single mothers close the gap.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
The program aims to provide cash assistance to low-income families who reside in the state. The program’s main objective is to assist families that are near the FPL to become self-sufficient. The people who live in Wyoming also know this program as Personal Opportunities With Employment Responsibilities in Wyoming. This program provides financial assistance to Wyoming residents for a period of 24 months (two years). However, according to the law that guides this program, there are exemptions for people with disabilities and those under 60 years old.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
This program aims to help individuals and families that are struggling with the cost of feeding their family. This program’s main goal is to help families, especially single mothers, with their feeding needs. Families who qualify will receive monetary assistance for this purpose. They assess the size of the household as well as income, expenses, and assets to determine eligibility for this program. Families that qualify can receive a maximum of $119 per month. Single individuals and single mothers are entitled to $433.
Medicaid
Medicaid is an insurance program popular in many states of the United States. The program aims to help those who are unable to afford health insurance, probably due to their low income. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities are among those targeted. The scheme is available to children as young as six years old, while pregnant women must earn less than 154% of FPL to qualify. Unfortunately, many low-income adults who do not have children may not be eligible for this program due to limited resources.
KidCare CHIP
Wyoming’s Children Health Insurance Program is the name of this program, which is specifically for children. The main focus of this program is to help children with vision and dental problems. They must be 18 years old. Parents of children who qualify must earn below 200% FPL, and not be eligible for Medicaid.
Child Care Subsidy Program
This program helps families pay medical expenses for their children, whether they are working or in school. This program requires an assessment to determine the size of your family, their gross income, and assets. Subsidy money will be given to qualified families based on their income, medical costs, and the size of the family. It is important to note that this is not a payment, but a subsidy. This means you will have to contribute a portion of the cost of your child’s medical care.
Child And Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
The program provides nutritious meals and snacks to the children as a part of their day-to-day care. The program is designed to help improve the nutritional quality of children who are born to families with low incomes. The majority of participants in the CACFP program are preschoolers aged up to 12 and those living in emergency shelters. If you would like to learn more about the program, please call 307-777-7168.
Wyoming Unemployment Insurance
Unemployment insurance provides temporary benefits for those who lose their jobs without fault. Weekly benefits are paid based on their previous wages, up to a limit of $533. All Wyoming claimants must register on WyomingatWork.com to work. If you fail to comply, your benefits may be delayed or denied.
Wyoming College Access Grant
Wyoming College Access Grant (WCAG) is a “needs-based” grant that Wyoming residents receive when they enroll in college for the very first time. Students who qualify for the federal Pell Grant are given priority. The state will award a total of $1,000 to the 600 most needy students in the state. As funds are limited it is recommended that you file your FAFSA before the deadline of March 1.
Bottom Line About Help For Single Mothers In Wyoming
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 Wyoming, visit these articles:
