The average American is in debt.  Just listen to the commercials and you pretty much know that the average American is deep in debt.  The debt issue is even tougher on single mothers.  These mothers have a hard time making ends meet.  Contributing to the difficulty is when the father of her children refuses to pay his fair share in raising his children.  At times even going to court will not guarantee payment from the father.  Most single mothers cannot afford court costs to force payment from her children’s father.

Mothers with children usually hold low paying jobs if they are indeed working.  It is very hard to earn enough money to raise children and save for retirement.  Fortunately, the government does have programs that are slated to help single mothers who have the dual role of being a “father” to her children.

If you are a single mother and need help with raising your children, there are many agencies in your area that are there for the express purpose of lightening your load.  You can look online or in the yellow pages for non-profit listings to assist with your housing needs, tuition and even employment.

If you have access to a computer, search online for a community of single mothers with children who have experienced government help.  They will be able to direct you to the appropriate agencies with minimal amount of time spent.  These mothers, or fathers who have custody of their children, have already been through a lot of the footwork and can direct you to the appropriate help without wasting your time which can be directed to other daily necessities.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TAFN) will help single mothers with job training, food stamps as well as financial aid.  Utility companies have programs where heat and electricity expenditures are averaged out, thus providing a monthly bill that does not change.  Some are willing to cut costs if the situation at home is very difficult.

Other help from the government is a Government Grant.  Many of these grants are set aside just for single moms.  Because you will have to fill out numerous forms, make sure your needs and expectations are expressly addressed since there are many grants to choose from.

There are many single mothers who are unaware of the help available from the government or the grants to be had.  Once you have researched these avenues, you can also do something for yourself, taking an active role in supporting your children and yourself.  Many mothers have chosen to watch other people’s children for a certain amount of money.  If you have one child, the added children will help teach your child to get along with other children as well as provide playmates for your child.

Single mothers are not alone in these very difficult economic times.  The government is willing to help when help is needed.  Every member in your family is taken into account and depending how many are needing help, the government will assist you accordingly.