Combining parenthood and education can be a daunting adventure for single mums. Both responsibilities are diverse and demand financial stability. However, there are grants in the United States to help single moms navigate the complexity of schooling and parenting. The grant covers tuition, childcare, books and other expenses. As a single mum, you’ll find these grants invaluable whether you pursue a degree or other certifications.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is one of the most prominent grants for students needing financial assistance and single moms. It is unique because it does not require repayment. The grant is accessible to U.S. citizens and other eligible non-citizens. Show financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Also, you must be enrolled in a degree or other certificate program. The Federal Pell Grant opens every 1st of October for applications. The funding amount is up to $7,395 and varies depending on the need. Visit the official website https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell to submit your application.
Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
This grant has recipients of the Federal Pell Grant as its priority. All recipients must qualify for the Pell Grant, have great financial need and be enrolled in a degree or certificate program. The SEOG provides funding to low-income students. SEOG partners with the institution where the student is enrolled. The SEOG too doesn’t need repayment. The funding amount ranges from $100 to $4,000 every year. You can submit your application here https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/fseog.
Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)
The Women’s Independence Scholarship Program provides financial support to women who are victims of abuse from intimate relationships. To be eligible for this grant, the parent must be in custody of at least a child. The application for the WISP grant can be accessed all year round. However, early application is critical to getting awarded a grant. The organisation provides up to $2,000 every semester. The grant covers tuition, books and childcare. Visit https://www.wispinc.org to submit your application.
Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
Most single mothers pursue education or training to achieve financial stability. The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation helps single mums and women in dire need of financial assistance. To be considered for this grant, you or the person you’re assisting to apply for must be at least 17 years old. The organisation provides funding up to $5,000 yearly and welcomes applications from January to August. Submit your application here https://www.patsyminkfoundation.org.
The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund (JRF)
The fund is named after Jeannette Rankin, the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress. JRF provides financial assistance to women 35 years or older. The Jeannette Rankin Fund supports women aspiring for postsecondary education. Over the years, many women have been empowered to break the cycle of poverty through education and self-sufficiency. As I mentioned earlier, the grant targets women who are 35 years or older. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in an accredited degree or certificate program or pursuing vocational training. This grant is open to U.S. citizens or a permanent resident. The foundation provides funding up to $2,000 per year. Visit the official JRF website https://rankinfoundation.org to submit your application.
Education grants for single mums in the U.S. serve as a lifeline to women who combine parenting with education. The grants are for U.S. citizens and eligible permanent residents. Leveraging these grants is important to strike the balance between parenting and education. However, ensure you meet other eligibility criteria before you begin the application. Also, early application is an advantage.