Last Updated on January 29, 2024 by Lori Pace
Unexpected costs are the reasons why single mothers have trouble paying their bills. In California, agencies and organizations are there to offer single moms and their families free food, rental, and foreclosure assistance, free or low-cost health care, and other programs.
California assistance
Programs for Single Moms
RxFoundation
As a single mother in California, I know that navigating assistance programs can be challenging. Let me break down the RxFoundation’s Prescription Assistance Programs (PAPs) for you. These programs offer a lifeline for those in need by providing free or heavily discounted prescriptions. To get started, you’ll need to pay a one-time fee of $25 and a monthly enrollment fee of $75. These programs work closely with pharmaceutical companies to ensure you can access essential prescription medicines at a fraction of the usual cost. I recommend visiting their official website for comprehensive information, updated eligibility criteria, and contact details.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for Single Mothers
CalFresh Program is California’s SNAP, it’s the same system as the SNAP program. This program can supplement your food budget and allow you to buy more healthy, satisfying nutritious meals. They provide you with an electronic card with monthly benefits to be used to buy food. Check if you are qualified for the program. Call them at 1-877-847-3663 or visit Social Services at your local office.
Cash Assistance
There is a variety of cash assistance programs in California:
- For Low-income, Elderly, Blind, People with Disabilities
- For Immigrants
- California Veterans Cash Benefit (CVCB)
- The General Assistance or General Relief – indigent adults
- In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) – age over 65, disabled, or blind are qualified
Find your local county offices here.
Assistance Dog Special Allowance Program
The Assistance Dog Special Allowance (ADSA) Program gives $50 to people who need a service dog for their disabilities. This monthly allowance is for dog care: food, grooming, and health care. Service dogs are allowed by the Americans with Disabilities Act and the State to accompany their handlers at places where the general public is allowed (taxis, buses, restaurants, theaters, stores, hotels, apartments, and office buildings).
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) for Single Mothers
Having faced financial challenges as a single mother in California, I can share my experience with the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF is a vital resource for families like ours, offering support to those facing financial difficulties and other hardships. It goes beyond just financial aid; they’re dedicated to helping the head of the household find stable employment, promoting financial independence, and even providing assistance for pregnant individuals within the family. For more in-depth information, I recommend exploring their official website, where you can find detailed guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and additional services that can make a significant difference in your journey toward self-sufficiency.
Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
The California Tribal TANF Program’s core purpose is to assist the Indian Tribes of California by providing the funding, tools, and resources necessary for each Tribe or Consortium to administer its own Tribal TANF Program. Discover more about Tribal TANF. Tribal and TANF programs by county.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
The AAA, under the California Department of Aging, has a variety of programs for seniors and adults with disabilities. They serve as a platform for aging issues. Check the Department website to learn more about what they can do for you, and check their list of programs. Contact them at 800-510-2020 for more information. They are always open for volunteers too.
Women, Infants, Children (WIC) for Single Parents
I understand the importance of access to fresh and nutritious food for our families as a single mom who has relied on the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. WIC offers a unique program called the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP). This initiative ensures that participants, particularly those at nutritional risk, can access locally grown, unprocessed fruits and vegetables. For more information, you can visit the official WIC website, where you’ll find detailed insights, local office locations, and eligibility requirements. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact WIC directly at the provided phone numbers, and they’ll be happy to assist you.
Social Security Disability
I have personally navigated the Social Security Disability system in California due to a physical disability and I can attest to the importance of this program. Social Security Disability provides essential benefits for individuals with physical or mental disabilities, offering support when it’s needed most. To apply for benefits, I recommend visiting the official HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) page for detailed instructions. Additionally, you can start the application process by phone, reaching out to the dedicated helplines at 800-772-1213 or 800-325-0778. These numbers connect you to knowledgeable professionals who can guide you through the application.
