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15 Helpful Grants For Single Moms In New Jersey

Itishree Parmar
April 23, 2024
15 Helpful Grants For Single Moms In New Jersey

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Life as a single mother in New Jersey can be a challenging journey, marked by resilience and determination.

Juggling responsibilities, managing finances, and providing for your family can often feel overwhelming. 

However, amidst these challenges, there are numerous grants and assistance programs available to support single moms in New Jersey. 

These programs aim to provide financial aid, healthcare assistance, childcare support, and more. Let’s explore some of these vital resources.

15 Grants For Single Moms In New Jersey (NJ)

Here you can find the list of grants for single moms in New Jersey (NJ):-

1. New Jersey Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC)

The NJEITC supplements the federal EITC, offering tax credits to low-income working residents. It aims to reduce tax burdens and provide refunds to eligible individuals.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be eligible for the federal EITC.
  • File a New Jersey Gross Income Tax Resident Return (Form NJ-1040) using Federal 1040 information.
  • Worked in New Jersey and earned income during the tax year.
  • Meet income requirements based on family size.

How To Apply:

  • Complete and file a New Jersey Gross Income Tax Resident Return (Form NJ-1040).
  • Provide information from your Federal 1040.
  • Use tax software or consult a tax professional for assistance.
  • Receive NJEITC as part of your tax refund, if eligible.

2. New Jersey SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

SNAP provides food assistance to low-income families in NJ, helping them purchase groceries and maintain a balanced diet.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Gross income must be within 185% of the federal poverty level.
  • Use MyNJHelps for pre-screening eligibility.
  • Receive benefits through the “Families First” card upon approval.
  • Certain households with elderly or disabled members may have higher income limits.
  • Meet citizenship and residency requirements

How To Apply:

  • Pre-screen eligibility using MyNJHelps.
  • Gather required documents such as income statements and identification.
  • Apply online or in person at your County Welfare Agency.
  • Attend an interview to determine eligibility.
  • Receive benefits through the “Families First” card upon approval.

Source: Singlemotherguide.com

3. WorkFirst New Jersey (NJ TANF)

WorkFirst NJ provides time-limited cash assistance to poor families in NJ, aiming to help them become self-sufficient through employment and education.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must have children under age 18.
  • Meet income and asset requirements.
  • Participate in work-related activities or job training.
  • Exceptions for elderly, disabled persons, and children under 18.
  • Eligibility determined based on family size and income.

How To Apply:

  • Apply online at MyNJHelps or in person at your County Welfare Agency.
  • Complete and submit required forms and documents.
  • Attend an interview to assess eligibility and discuss work activities.
  • Receive cash assistance and access to WorkFirst services if approved.

4. New Jersey FamilyCare

NJ FamilyCare offers affordable health insurance to eligible residents, covering adults aged 19-64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Adults aged 19-64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level.
  • Children aged 0-18 with coverage up to 355% of the poverty level.
  • Meet citizenship and residency requirements.
  • Provide necessary documentation and information.

How To Apply:

  • Visit NJFamilyCare or call 1-800-701-0710 to apply online or track your application status.
  • Fill out the application form with accurate information.
  • Submit required documents such as proof of income, residency, and citizenship.
  • Await approval and receive health insurance coverage upon eligibility verification.

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5. New Jersey Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP)

CCSP helps income-eligible parents in NJ pay for child care while working, attending school, or participating in job training.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Gross monthly income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
  • Employed full time (minimum 30 hours per week) or enrolled in a school/training program (minimum 20 hours per week).
  • Children up to age 13 or children with special needs up to age 19.
  • Meet state residency and documentation requirements.

How To Apply:

  • Complete, sign, and submit an application to your County Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency.
  • Provide income verification, employment/school details, and household information.
  • Attend an interview and provide any additional requested information.
  • Receive child care subsidy benefits if eligible, helping cover the cost of child care services.

6. Transitional Child Care

Transitional Child Care extends child care benefits for up to 24 months after leaving WorkFirst NJ, helping parents maintain employment or education.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Previously participated in WorkFirst NJ.
  • Meet income guidelines.
  • Responsible for paying part of child care costs (co-pay).
  • Children up to age 13 or children with special needs up to age 19.
  • Provide required documentation and information.

How To Apply:

  • Contact 1-800-332-9227 for more information about Transitional Child Care.
  • Submit an application with the necessary documents to the designated agency.
  • Attend any required interviews or meetings.
  • Pay the designated co-pay amount for child care services.
  • Receive extended child care benefits if eligible, supporting your family’s needs.

7. NJ Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program (Charity Care)

Charity Care offers free or reduced-cost hospital care to low-income individuals and families in NJ who lack full health care coverage.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Household income below 200% of the federal poverty level.
  • Assets not exceeding a specified limit.
  • Apply for Charity Care at the hospital where services are received.
  • Meet residency and other program-specific requirements.

How To Apply:

  • Apply for Charity Care at the hospital’s business office where services are received.
  • Provide income and asset information, residency proof, and any required documents.
  • Wait for Charity Care determination and receive free or reduced-cost hospital care if eligible.
  • Contact 1-866-588-5696 for more information or assistance with the application process.

8. New Jersey Special Program For Women, Infants, And Children (WIC)

WIC provides nutrition assistance to New Jersey families at risk for poor nutrition and health problems, offering healthy foods and nutrition education.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Household income equal to or less than 185% of the poverty level.
  • Pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5.
  • Meet state residency requirements.
  • Provide proof of income, residency, and identification.

How To Apply:

  • Contact your local WIC agency or clinic to schedule an appointment.
  • Attend the appointment and bring required documents such as income statements and identification.
  • Complete a WIC application form and provide necessary information.
  • Receive WIC benefits if eligible, including special checks or vouchers for healthy foods.

9. New Jersey Housing Choice Voucher Program

While currently closed, the NJ Section 8 program subsidizes rent for low-income residents, ensuring they have affordable housing options.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Meet income limits set by the county of residence.
  • Provide proof of residency and other required documentation.
  • Prioritize veterans, homeless individuals, domestic violence survivors, and people with disabilities.
  • Participate in the random lottery system for selection.

How To Apply:

  • Monitor DCA’s website for open enrollment periods.
  • Submit pre-applications online during the enrollment period at WaitlistCheck.
  • Verify income and residency eligibility.
  • Await selection through the lottery system and placement on the waiting list.

10. New Jersey Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps very low-income households in NJ with utility bills, ensuring they can stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Responsible for home heating or cooling costs.
  • Gross income not exceeding 200% of the federal poverty level.
  • Priority consideration for households with elderly, disabled, or young children.
  • Provide required income and utility bill information.

How To Apply:

  • Download and complete the Home Energy/USF/Weatherization Program Application.
  • Submit the application to your local Community Action Agency.
  • Apply online through the DCAid Service Portal.
  • Contact 1-800-510-3102 for assistance or additional information.

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11. New Jersey Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

LIHWAP offers emergency assistance to low-income households in NJ facing water bill disconnections or imminent threats, prioritizing vulnerable groups.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income at or below 60% of NJ’s median income.
  • Priority given to households with elderly, disabled, or young children.
  • Automatically eligible for LIHWAP if already receiving LIHEAP benefits.
  • Provide proof of water bill payment and residency.

How To Apply:

  • Submit an application through the DCAid application portal.
  • Call 1-800-510-3102 for assistance or guidance.
  • Provide necessary documentation and information.
  • Await approval and receive assistance toward water bill payments.

12. New Jersey SHARES

New Jersey SHARES provides energy assistance to households that don’t qualify for LIHEAP but meet income and temporary financial need criteria.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income exceeds LIHEAP limits but is below 400% of the federal poverty level.
  • Demonstrate temporary financial need.
  • Make a good-faith payment of $100 or more within 90 days of applying.
  • Provide income and financial information.

How To Apply:

  • Call toll-free 1-866-657-4273 to apply for New Jersey SHARES.
  • Verify income eligibility and financial need.
  • Make a good-faith payment as required.
  • Receive grants for gas and electric services if approved.

13. New Jersey Unemployment Insurance (UI)

NJ UI provides temporary cash benefits to eligible individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own, helping them during periods of unemployment.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Meet work and earnings requirements.
  • Available for work and actively seeking employment.
  • File an initial claim online or by phone.
  • Provide necessary employment and income information.

How To Apply:

  • File an initial claim online at myunemployment or by phone.
  • Provide accurate employment and income details.
  • Wait for claim approval and determination of benefits.
  • Certify weekly to continue receiving benefits while unemployed.

14. New Jersey Family Leave Insurance (FLI) Program

FLI provides paid leave benefits for employees in NJ who need time off to bond with a newborn or care for a seriously ill family member.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Employed in NJ and contributing to the FLI fund.
  • Meet work and earnings requirements.
  • Submit a claim for FLI benefits during a qualifying event.
  • Provide necessary documentation and information.

How To Apply:

  • Apply for FLI benefits online through the NJFLI website.
  • Provide details about your employment and qualifying event.
  • Submit required documents such as medical certification or birth/adoption paperwork.
  • Await approval and receive FLI benefits during your leave period.

15. Tuition Aid Grant (TAG)

TAG is a financial aid program in NJ that provides grants to eligible undergraduate students, helping them cover tuition costs at approved colleges.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • New Jersey resident attending an approved college or university.
  • Meet income and need-based requirements.
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

How To Apply:

  • Complete the FAFSA form to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid.
  • Review eligibility requirements for TAG on the NJ Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) website.
  • Submit any additional documents or information required by HESAA.
  • Receive notification of TAG award if eligible, applied directly to tuition costs.

Conclusion

New Jersey has lots of programs to help single moms and families who need support. 

These programs give things like money for school, help with healthcare, and assistance with finding a home. 

Applying for these programs is easy and can make life better by giving a sense of security and hope for the future. 

New Jersey cares about its people and wants everyone to be happy and successful!

Apply now and start building a brighter future today!

Itishree is a passionate creative writer who has developed a keen interest in personal finance through her own experiences with financial challenges. Through her engaging storytelling, she empowers others to embark on their journey to financial freedom. With her expertise in making and saving money, she is dedicated to exploring innovative strategies to increase income and save effectively. Her love for continuous learning fuels her pursuit of knowledge, as she immerses herself in thought-provoking books to gain fresh insights, which she eagerly shares with others.

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