While countries are rolling out vaccines as fast as possible, COVID-19 has already damaged the global economy in a number of different ways. Besides plummeting stocks and failing businesses, working people everywhere are also struggling.
If you’re a single mom, then life is hard enough without having to worry about global pandemics and quarantines. If times are tougher than normal, know that there are many different resources for single moms that can help you out.
So where can you go, and what do you need to do?
Keep reading to learn about some strategies and resources for moms that can make a big difference in times of trouble.
File for Child Support
Many people don’t think of child support as being able to provide a steady source of income. People who receive it often complain of irregular payments, or in some cases, a lack of payments altogether.
That being said, it’s still important that you file for it.
There are lots of government aid programs that require you to first file for child support if you want to receive them. So, regardless of whether your ex is missing or unable to provide financial support, file child support either way.
Ask the People Around You for Help
Most people have a fear of asking for assistance, but in some cases, it’s necessary. When you’re in need, there’s no shame in turning to the people around you for help.
Friends, family members, and even the right people at work can all assist you in times of need. Make sure that you make it clear that once you’re back on your feet, you’ll have no problem returning the assistance that they gave to you.
If your ex is in the picture, make sure that they help as much as possible. This can be something as simple as watching the kids for a few hours while you work an extra shift.
Visit Food Pantries
The health and wellbeing of you and your kids need to be your priority at all times. If your current financial situation is preventing you from putting food on the table, consider visiting a food pantry.
Food pantries or banks offer staple pieces of food to members of the community. This includes things like pasta, rice, and canned vegetables. Around the holidays, you might even be able to pick up a ham or turkey.
If government aid programs deny you because you earn “too much”, local food pantries might be able to assist you regardless.
Look Into Government Aid Programs
Speaking of government aid programs, there are several that you can consider checking out. It’s worth applying for them even if you don’t think that they’ll be able to help.
TANF, or temporary assistance for needy families, is one of the best resources for moms. Also known as welfare, you need to prove that you’re working to receive TANF payments.
That being said, if you do qualify for it, it can make a big difference. You can also apply more than once, so if you used it in the past, you can always try applying for it again.
Get Your Necessities the Cheapest Way Possible
Aside from your food, you’ll want to get all the other necessities in your life as cheaply as possible. Your priority should be to survive, and if possible, save money.
When you’re not looking after your kids, make sure that you have a source of income. If you don’t have one, search around your community for part-time or full-time jobs that you can get, then send off your applications.
When it comes to buying household items, make sure to shop around to get the best deals and the cheapest items. You can always upgrade once you have a more stable financial situation.
Make a Plan
When survival is all that you’re concerned about, most people don’t have the mental capacity to think about the future. However, long-term planning is the key to improving your current circumstances.
Make sure that you have enough money to make ends meet, but try to set aside a little bit each month. Putting it in a savings account or a stable stock is your best bet, as it will grow in value over time, as well as hold steady with inflation.
You need to persevere through the difficult predicament that you’re in, and a plan can help give you something to work towards.
Stay Positive
It’s not easy to stay positive when one bad thing after another happens and lands you in a difficult spot. It’s easy to become angry, resentful, and even depressed.
While those emotions are all valid, know that there is something to be said for trying your best to stay positive. Even if that means faking it until you make it!
If you’re struggling with addiction, it can be even more difficult to stay upbeat for both yourself and your kid. If you need help, consider reading this message and taking it to heart.
Take Advantage of the Resources for Single Moms You Have Available to You
If you’re a single mom struggling to make ends meet, know that you’re not alone and that there are ways to improve your situation.
Make sure to take advantage of the strategies and resources for single moms laid out in this guide. Remember that asking for help is never easy, but sometimes—it’s necessary!
Did you find these resources for moms helpful? If you did, take a moment to check out the rest of our site. You’ll find many other guides and tips that can help you take control of your life.