Single Parent Grants
Where to Find Help and How to Win It
Being a single parent is tough enough, juggling childcare, bills, work, and emotional responsibilities. But when finances get tight, the search for help can feel overwhelming. That’s why knowing where to find single parent grants, and how to apply effectively, can be a game-changer.
This guide will walk you through real, verified grant opportunities for single parents across the U.S., tips to improve your chances of receiving help, and organizations that support parents just like you.
What Are Single Parent Grants?
Single parent grants are funds given to individuals raising children on their own. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid. These can come from federal or state government programs, nonprofits, or educational institutions and are often designed to help with basic needs like:
- Rent and utilities
- Childcare
- Education and job training
- Food and groceries
- Emergency expenses
Let’s break down where to find these grants, and how to boost your chances of approval.
*While most resources focus on single mothers, single fathers can also qualify for many of the same grants and programs.
National Single Parent Grant Programs
🎓 Pell Grant (U.S. Department of Education)
If you’re a single parent returning to school, the Pell Grant is your first stop.
- Amount: Up to $7,395 per year (2024–2025 school year)
- Apply: https://studentaid.gov
🍼 WIC – Women, Infants, and Children
Provides food, nutrition counseling, and referrals for pregnant or parenting women with children under 5.
- Apply: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic
💸 TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Offers monthly cash assistance, job prep, and childcare help.
- Overview & apply: TANF Resource Page
🏠 LIHEAP – Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Helps cover heating/cooling bills and energy emergencies.
- More info: LIHEAP Guide
🧾 Modest Needs Grants
Short-term grants for working single parents just above poverty level.
- Apply: https://www.modestneeds.org
🍽️ Feeding America
While not a grant, this nationwide network can provide food and grocery support.
- Find a local food bank: https://www.feedingamerica.org
💻 Scholarships for Single Parents
- Soroptimist’s Live Your Dream Award
- Capture the Dream Single Parent Scholarship
- Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation
Tips for Applying for Single Parent Grants
Finding grants is only half the battle. Here are proven ways to increase your chances of being approved:
✅ 1. Get Your Documents Ready
Most grants will ask for:
- Tax returns or proof of income
- ID and Social Security numbers
- Proof of child custody
- School enrollment or job training details
- Bank statements or rent bills
Keep these documents scanned and organized before applying.
✅ 2. Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Even if it’s optional, a compelling story can set you apart. Be honest about your situation and how the grant will help you reach stability.
Example:
“I’m a full-time caregiver to my 3-year-old daughter and trying to return to school part-time to become a nurse. This grant would help me cover childcare costs so I can attend classes consistently.”
✅ 3. Apply Early, Apply Often
Some grants run on a first-come, first-served basis. Others are open only during certain months. Use calendar reminders and apply for multiple opportunities at once.
✅ 4. Follow Instructions Exactly
Many applications get rejected for simple errors, like missing documents or incorrect formatting. Always double-check.
✅ 5. Ask for Letters of Recommendation
If allowed, a short letter from a caseworker, teacher, or employer can boost credibility.
Local Help: Where to Get Help Filling Out Applications
If you’re not sure where to start or need help understanding eligibility rules, these organizations can help:
🔹 United Way
Dial 2-1-1 or visit https://www.211.org to find local grant programs and application help.
🔹 Single Parent Advocate
This nonprofit connects single parents with local services, grants, and job support.
🔹 YWCA
Many chapters provide housing help, financial counseling, and scholarships for single moms and dads.
🔹 Catholic Charities USA
Offers emergency grants, rental aid, and utility assistance.
🔹 Local Family Resource Centers
Many counties have family centers that help with childcare grants, food stamps, and referrals. Use your city or zip code to search “[your city] family resource center.”
Red Flags to Avoid
Unfortunately, scammers often target single parents looking for help. Avoid sites that:
- Ask you to pay to “unlock” a grant
- Guarantee you’ll receive money
- Don’t list a physical address or nonprofit status
- Use Gmail/Yahoo email instead of a domain
Stick with .gov, .org, and reputable directories like Single Parent Bible for safe resources.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Support
If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to start, take a deep breath. You’re already doing something powerful by seeking out help. Whether it’s a $500 food grant or a $7,000 scholarship, single parent grants are real, and they can be the bridge between stress and stability.
Bookmark this guide, revisit it monthly, and keep applying. You’re not alone. You’re not failing. You’re fighting, and help is out there.
With compassion,
Eryndor
Founder, Single Parent Bible
admin@singleparentbible.com
