Does anyone know of any financial assistance for a single mom?

Anyone know of any financial assistance for single moms that are full time students?

• I have contacted my local Dept of Human Services & apparently there isn't any help for people that are trying to make thier lives better for themselves & thier kids. I have always been employed / paid taxes & now that I am in a tough situation & need help I can't find any.

• Answer:

  I know exactly what you mean! I was a single mother when I went to college, and now I work in higher ed. I have seen this situation time and time again. Some people can get their rent and electricity paid, in addition to food stamps. Others can get no help at all. There seems to be no rhyme or reason. Try www.fastweb.com . They match your major and even recreational interests up to scholarship and grant monies that are available. Go to administration. Some schools have monies that they do not “advertise.” Tell them your situation and ask for advise. DON’T be shy! You are helping yourself and your children when you ask for this help. My daughter recently discovered that her community college has “hidden” money that helps her with the additional commute expense since gas has gotten so high. Visit the higher ed website of your state if it is available online. If not, contact them by phone or letter. Same for your State Senators and other representatives. Do you have a local Wal-Mart? Sometimes they have scholarship information at the Customer Service Desk. Check with your city and county agencies. Sometimes there is money out there that no one really knows about. Ask your professors! Ask your advisor! Get in touch with other non-traditional students at your school, and ask them. ASK! ASK! ASK! If you or your children are on medication, get online and search your pharmaceutical companies. About a month after I graduated, I found out that I could have gotten my most expensive medicine FREE while I was a student. Some companies have free plans, and others have coupon plans. You can get help there. Ask your doctor if your searches are unsuccessful. No matter what happens, DO NOT GIVE UP! I also had a difficult time getting financial help, but I refused to give up. Many people (including family and friends) told me that I would never be able to finish because I was full-time student, full-time mother, and part-time employee. I am not going to tell you that it was easy. I never threw anything out. If I had 2 teaspoons of corn or green beans left over after a meal, they went in a ziplock bag of veggies for soup. When the bag was full, we had soup or stew. You have to cook lots of big meals that have to be warmed over in the microwave. That saves money, and allows extra study time. I allowed my children one Friday night a month where I either ordered or cooked the “junk food” of their choice. That is an affordable compromise (especially if they choose hot dogs!). Hang in there, and do not give up on your dream! Sometimes assistance comes easily. Other times you have to learn to be resourceful. At the end of the day (or 4 years), everyone is still happy, and you are better able to care for yourself and your children. I did it, and I know YOU can, too!