How to Get a Grant as a Single Mom - Esther
October 18, 2025

How to Get a Grant as a Single Mom: Guidelines to Follow

As a single parent, you often have to handle a lot of different things at once. You’re providing for your children and managing household expenses. You’re also planning for the future. And you’re doing it all on your own.

Financial challenges can feel overwhelming, but there’s good news! There are grants available to help. You don’t have to pay back grants like you do with loans. This makes them an invaluable resource for single mothers who need extra support.

Do you want to know how to get a grant as a single mom? This guide will show you how to do it step by step.

Step 1: Figure out what you need

It’s important to be clear about what kind of aid you need before you start looking for grants. Grants are usually made to meet specific requirements, like:

  • Learning. You can get grants to assist pay for school, books, or job training.
  • Housing: You can get help with your rent, mortgage payments, or down payments on a home.
  • Childcare: There are programs that cover part of the cost of daycare or after-school care.
  • Basic Needs: There are grants that can help with food, health care, and bills.

If you know what’s most important to you, you can limit your search. It will also help you focus on grants that will have the greatest impact on you.

Step 2: Look into the grants that are out there

There are many places where single moms can get grants. The federal government and state initiatives can aid you. A lot of private and nonprofit groups can also aid. Here are some places to begin:

  • Federal grants: You can try Pell Grants for school and TANF if your family is in need. These help single mothers pay for school and other basic needs.
  • Housing Help: The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers housing vouchers. They also help low-income families pay their rent.
  • Childcare Support: You can apply for grants like the Child Care and Development Fund. This can help pay for childcare.
  • Grants from Nonprofits: Many groups give money for school and career growth.

Tip: Go to Grants.gov, the official U.S. government website for federal grants. You can look for and apply for programs that are open online.

Step 3: Check the requirements for eligibility

Each grant has its own set of rules about who can apply. Some grants look at how much money you make. 

Others look at your educational aspirations. Requirements often include:

  • Proof that you are a single parent
  • Proof of income for the household
  • Signing up for a school or training program (for education grants)
  • Living in a certain state or county

Step 4: Get Your Papers Ready

You will need to fill out key forms when you apply for grants. Getting these paperwork ready will help.

  • Identification: a birth certificate, a Social Security number, or a driver’s license
  • Proof of income, like pay stubs or tax returns
  • A lease or mortgage statement is an example of information about housing.
  • Acceptance letters from schools or training programs. This is normal if you’re looking for money for school.

Tip: Create a folder, either in real life or on your computer. You can keep all your papers here.

Step 5: Complete the Application

Once you’ve chosen the grants that are right for you, it’s time to apply. You can fill out an application online. Some single mother resources do need paper forms. Make sure to do the following:

  • Pay close attention to the directions.
  • Make sure to fill out every part
  • Check your information again before you send it in.
  • Be aware of deadlines.

Step 6: Check in

Check your email or grant portal for changes once you send in your application. Some programs could ask for further paperwork or explanations. Following up demonstrates that you are proactive. It also makes sure that your application isn’t missed.

Step 7: Use the Money Wisely

Once you’re approved, you will get the award money right away. You must use the money for what it was meant for. Misusing grant funds can result in penalties. It could even stop you from getting aid in the future.

Before You Leave

Esther Single Mothers Outreach, Inc. believes every mom deserves help. There are tools and support that can help you raise your children with confidence. Our goal is to help single mothers find funds and resources that will change their lives. We’ll be there for you every step of the journey, whether you need aid with housing or basic needs. You can reach us by filling out the form or calling 407-331-6436. Join a community of support that understands your journey.