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Education Grants for Single Moms in Tennessee: A Comprehensive Guide

As a single mom in Tennessee, you may face unique challenges when it comes to pursuing higher education. However, there are several grant opportunities designed specifically to support single mothers like you. By taking advantage of these resources, you can achieve your educational goals and improve your family's future.

Federal Grants for Single Moms in Tennessee

Federal Pell Grant

• Eligibility: Low-income undergraduate students pursuing their first degree.
• Award Amount: Up to $7,395 for the 2023-2024 academic year.
• How to Apply: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov.
• Notes: This grant is need-based and does not require repayment.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

• Eligibility: Undergraduate students with exceptional financial need.
• Award Amount: $100 to $4,000 annually.
• How to Apply: Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility.
• Notes: Funds are limited, so early application is recommended.

TEACH Grant

• Eligibility: Students planning to teach in a high-need field in low-income areas.
• Award Amount: Up to $4,000 per year.
• Obligation: Must agree to teach for at least four years after graduation.

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State-Specific Grants and Scholarships in Tennessee

Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA)

• Eligibility: Tennessee residents with financial need.
• Award Amount: Up to $4,000 annually.
• How to Apply: Submit FAFSA early as funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Notes: Priority given to those with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $2,100 or less.

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship

• Eligibility: High school graduates in Tennessee with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or ACT score of 21.
• Award Amount: Up to $2,250 per semester for the first two years; $2,850 for subsequent years.
• How to Apply: Complete FAFSA and maintain eligibility requirements.

Tennessee Reconnect

• Eligibility: Adults aged 25 or older without a college degree.
• Award: Covers tuition costs at eligible Tennessee colleges.
• How to Apply: Visit the Tennessee Reconnect website.
• Notes: Encourages single moms to return to school for degrees or certificates.

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Institutional and Local Scholarships for Single Moms

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Scholarships

• Eligibility: Various scholarships with specific criteria, including financial need and single parenthood.
• Award Amount: Varies.
• How to Apply: Visit cfmt.org for specific scholarships.

Nashville State Community College Foundation Scholarships

• Eligibility: Students enrolled at Nashville State Community College.
• Award Amount: Varies by scholarship.
• How to Apply: Submit a general application through the college's financial aid office.

University of Memphis Finish Line Program

• Eligibility: Students who are close to finishing their degree but face financial challenges.
• Award Amount: Varies.
• How to Apply: Contact the University of Memphis Financial Aid Office.

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Private and National Grants

Raise the Nation Grant

• Eligibility: Single mothers pursuing higher education or repaying student loans.
• Award Amount: Varies.
• How to Apply: Visit raisethenation.org for details.

Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Grant

• Eligibility: Low-income mothers pursuing post-secondary education.
• Award Amount: Up to $5,000 per recipient.
• How to Apply: Applications open annually; visit patsyminkfoundation.org.

Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award

• Eligibility: Women who provide the primary financial support for their families.
• Award Amount: $1,000 to $16,000.
• How to Apply: Visit liveyourdream.org for details

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Employer-Sponsored Programs

Tennessee Promise Employer Partnerships

• Many Tennessee employers offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing higher education. Check with your employer’s HR department for opportunities.

Amazon Career Choice Program

• Eligibility: Employees of Amazon.
• Award: Covers tuition and fees for high-demand fields.
• How to Apply: Contact your local Amazon representative.

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Other Resources for Single Moms

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Programs

• Eligibility: Unemployed or underemployed single mothers.
• Award: Funding for job training and education in high-demand fields.
• How to Apply: Visit your local Tennessee Career Center.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Eligibility: Low-income single mothers in Tennessee.
• Benefits: Can include financial assistance for education-related expenses.
• How to Apply: Visit the Tennessee Department of Human Services website.

 

Additional Tips

• Consult with a Financial Aid Counselor: A counselor can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the complex financial aid process.
• Network with Other Single Moms: Connect with other single mothers who have pursued higher education. They can offer valuable advice and support.
• Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Reach out to your college or university's support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and childcare assistance.

By taking advantage of these grant opportunities and seeking additional support, you can successfully pursue your educational goals and build a brighter future for yourself and your family.

 

Housing Grants for Single Moms in Tennessee

 

Federal Housing Assistance for Single Moms

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

• Eligibility: Low-income families, including single mothers.
• Benefits: Subsidizes a portion of rent based on income.
• How to Apply: Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) via HUD's PHA Locator.
• Notes: Waiting lists may apply, and priority is often given to families with children.

Public Housing Program

• Eligibility: Low-income individuals and families.
• Benefits: Affordable rental housing in properties owned by housing authorities.
• How to Apply: Apply through your local PHA.
• Notes: Rent is typically capped at 30% of household income.

Rural Housing Repair Loans and Grants (Section 504)

• Eligibility: Low-income homeowners in rural areas needing home repairs or modifications.
• Grant Amount: Up to $10,000 (or $40,000 in loans).
• How to Apply: Contact your local USDA Rural Development office or visit USDA.gov.
• Notes: Single moms can use these grants for safety improvements or to remove hazards in their homes.

Continuum of Care (CoC) Program

• Eligibility: Homeless or at-risk individuals, including single mothers.
• Benefits: Grants for transitional housing, permanent housing, or supportive services.
• How to Apply: Reach out to a local CoC agency in Tennessee via HUD's CoC Directory.

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State-Specific Housing Assistance in Tennessee

Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Down Payment Assistance Program

• Eligibility: First-time homebuyers and low-to-moderate-income families.
• Benefits: Up to $6,000 in down payment assistance.
• How to Apply: Work with a THDA-approved lender; details at THDA.org.
• Notes: Can be combined with THDA home loan programs.

THDA Emergency Repair Program

• Eligibility: Low-income homeowners, including single mothers.
• Benefits: Grants for critical repairs to maintain home safety.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted through local agencies partnered with THDA.

Rental Assistance Programs (THDA)

• Eligibility: Low-income renters facing financial difficulties.
• Benefits: Temporary rental subsidies to prevent eviction or secure housing.
• How to Apply: Contact your local housing agency or community action group for guidance.

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Local and Community-Based Housing Programs

Nashville Habitat for Humanity

• Eligibility: Low-income single mothers willing to contribute “sweat equity” toward building their homes.
• Benefits: Affordable homeownership with reduced mortgage payments.
• How to Apply: Visit Habitat for Humanity Nashville to apply.

Memphis Dream Home Program

• Eligibility: Low-income families, including single moms, transitioning to homeownership.
• Benefits: Assistance with home purchase and financial counseling.
• How to Apply: Contact local Memphis housing organizations.

The Family Life Center (Knoxville)

• Eligibility: Single mothers and families facing homelessness.
• Benefits: Temporary shelter, rental assistance, and transitional housing.
• How to Apply: Visit Family Life Center Knoxville.

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Private and National Housing Assistance Programs

Bridge of Hope

• Eligibility: Single mothers experiencing homelessness.
• Benefits: Rental assistance and case management for long-term stability.
• How to Apply: Visit Bridge of Hope for details.

YWCA Transitional Housing Program

• Eligibility: Women, including single mothers, fleeing domestic violence.
• Benefits: Safe housing, counseling, and job assistance.
• How to Apply: Contact the nearest YWCA in Tennessee.

Modest Needs Self-Sufficiency Grants

• Eligibility: Low-income families needing help with rent or housing-related expenses.
• Benefits: One-time grants to cover critical needs.
• How to Apply: Visit ModestNeeds.org.

Salvation Army Housing Assistance

• Eligibility: Single moms and families in financial crisis.
• Benefits: Temporary shelter, rental assistance, or utilities help.
• How to Apply: Reach out to the nearest Salvation Army branch in Tennessee.

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Faith-Based and Charitable Organizations

Room In The Inn (Nashville)

• Eligibility: Homeless single mothers and families.
• Benefits: Emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services.
• How to Apply: Visit Room In The Inn.

Catholic Charities of Tennessee

• Eligibility: Families facing homelessness or housing insecurity.
• Benefits: Rental assistance, financial counseling, and shelter services.
• How to Apply: Contact your local Catholic Charities office.

United Way Housing Programs

• Eligibility: Families in financial hardship.
• Benefits: Assistance with housing costs and referrals to community resources.
• How to Apply: Dial 2-1-1 to connect with United Way services in Tennessee.

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Additional Resources

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Eligibility: Low-income families with children.
• Benefits: Cash assistance for housing and other essential expenses.
• How to Apply: Visit Tennessee Department of Human Services for details.

Housing Counseling Agencies (HUD)

• Services: Free or low-cost advice on renting, buying, or avoiding foreclosure.
• How to Find Help: Search for approved agencies at HUD.gov.

 

 

Childcare Grants in Tennessee

Federal and State-Administered Childcare Grants

Child Care Certificate Program (Tennessee Subsidized Child Care Assistance Program)

• Eligibility: Low-income families; parents must be working, attending school, or participating in an approved training program.
• Benefits: Covers part or all childcare costs for children under age 13 (or 18 for children with special needs).
• How to Apply: Contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) or visit their website.
• Notes: Prioritizes families transitioning from TANF, those in educational programs, and families with special needs children.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Eligibility: Low-income families with children; recipients must meet work or training participation requirements.
• Benefits: May include childcare support as part of broader financial assistance.
• How to Apply: Apply through the TDHS website or local office.
• Notes: Focused on helping single mothers achieve self-sufficiency.

Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)

• Eligibility: Families with low to moderate income needing childcare while working or attending school.
• Benefits: Subsidized childcare costs for eligible families.
• How to Apply: Administered through the TDHS Child Care Certificate Program.

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Local and Community-Based Childcare Assistance

United Way Childcare Assistance Programs

• Eligibility: Varies based on the local United Way chapter.
• Benefits: Subsidized childcare or funding for early childhood programs.
• How to Apply: Contact your local United Way office or visit unitedway.org.

YMCA Childcare Assistance

• Eligibility: Single mothers and families in need of financial assistance for after-school and daycare programs.
• Benefits: Sliding-scale fees for childcare programs at YMCA locations in Tennessee.
• How to Apply: Visit your local YMCA branch or their website.

Nashville Parent Leadership Academy Scholarships

• Eligibility: Low-income families with young children in Davidson County.
• Benefits: Grants or discounts for early childhood education programs.
• How to Apply: Contact the Nashville Parent Leadership Academy for details.

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Education-Specific Childcare Grants

Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) Program

• Eligibility: Low-income parents attending college.
• Benefits: Subsidized childcare expenses while enrolled in higher education.
• How to Apply: Check if your college participates in the CCAMPIS program and apply through the financial aid office.
• Notes: Available at some Tennessee colleges and universities.

Tennessee Reconnect Support

• Eligibility: Adults aged 25 or older returning to school under the Tennessee Reconnect program.
• Benefits: May include referrals for childcare assistance to help parents focus on completing degrees or certificates.
• How to Apply: Visit Tennessee Reconnect for resources.

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Nonprofit and National Programs

Child Care Aware® of America

• Eligibility: Families needing childcare assistance, including military families.
• Benefits: Referral services and potential grants to help cover childcare costs.
• How to Apply: Visit childcareaware.org.

Salvation Army Childcare Assistance

• Eligibility: Low-income single mothers or families in need of support.
• Benefits: Varies by location, including free or subsidized childcare services.
• How to Apply: Contact your local Salvation Army office.

Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)

• Eligibility: Single mothers who are survivors of domestic violence and pursuing higher education.
• Benefits: Provides funding for childcare and other educational-related expenses.
• How to Apply: Visit wispinc.org.

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Employer-Sponsored Childcare Support

Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

• Eligibility: Working parents whose employers offer FSAs.
• Benefits: Use pre-tax dollars to pay for childcare expenses, saving money.
• How to Apply: Check with your employer's HR department.

Employer-Sponsored Childcare Programs

• Examples: Some Tennessee employers partner with local childcare providers or offer onsite childcare facilities.
• How to Apply: Ask your employer about childcare benefits.

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Faith-Based Childcare Assistance

Church-Operated Daycares and Scholarships

• Many churches in Tennessee offer affordable or subsidized childcare services, often with scholarship opportunities for low-income families.
• How to Apply: Contact local churches in your area for availability.

Catholic Charities of Tennessee

• Eligibility: Low-income families in need of childcare assistance.
• Benefits: Subsidies, referrals, and early childhood education programs.
• How to Apply: Visit cctenn.org.

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Specialized Childcare Assistance

Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS)

• Eligibility: Families with children under 3 who have developmental delays or disabilities.
• Benefits: Early intervention services, including subsidized childcare.
• How to Apply: Contact the TEIS office through TDHS.

Head Start and Early Head Start

• Eligibility: Low-income families with children under 5.
• Benefits: Free early education and childcare services.
• How to Apply: Visit benefits.gov or contact local Head Start centers.

 

Business Grants for Single Moms in Tennessee

Federal Business Grants for Single Moms

Grants.gov

• Description: The central hub for federal grant opportunities, including small business grants.
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens, including single mothers, looking to start or grow a business.
• How to Apply: Visit Grants.gov and create an account to browse and apply for grants.
• Notes: Opportunities are competitive and often industry-specific.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

• Description: Supports small businesses involved in research and development with commercialization potential.
• Eligibility: Businesses engaged in technology or science innovation.
• Award Amount: Varies based on project scope.
• How to Apply: Visit SBIR.gov.

Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

• Description: Encourages partnerships between small businesses and research institutions.
• Eligibility: Small businesses in science or tech fields.
• How to Apply: Similar process to SBIR grants, available through SBIR.gov.

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State-Specific Grants and Loans in Tennessee

Launch Tennessee

• Description: A state-wide organization offering funding, mentorship, and resources for entrepreneurs.
• Programs Available:
  • SBIR/STTR matching grants.
  • Microgrants for early-stage startups.
• How to Apply: Visit launchtn.org for specific funding opportunities.

Tennessee Small Business Development Centers (TSBDC)

• Description: Offers guidance and assistance in identifying grant opportunities and writing applications.
• Eligibility: Tennessee residents who are small business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs.
• How to Access: Visit TSBDC.org to find a local center.

Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)

• Description: Supports small businesses in rural areas of Tennessee.
• Eligibility: Businesses in rural areas with fewer than 50 employees.
• How to Apply: Through the USDA Rural Development office. Visit USDA.gov.

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Private and National Grants for Single Moms

Amber Grant for Women

• Description: Monthly grants to women-owned businesses, including a $10,000 annual award.
• Award Amount: $10,000 monthly, with an additional $25,000 annual grant.
• How to Apply: Visit ambergrantsforwomen.com.
• Notes: Single moms are encouraged to apply by sharing their business story and vision.

IFundWomen Universal Grant Program

• Description: A grant marketplace connecting women entrepreneurs with funding opportunities.
• Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs across various industries.
• How to Apply: Create a profile at ifundwomen.com and apply to relevant grants.

Fearless Fund

• Description: Provides grants and investments to women of color entrepreneurs.
• Eligibility: Minority women business owners.
• Award Amount: Varies by program.
• How to Apply: Visit fearless.fund for details.

Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program

• Description: Provides funding, mentorship, and education to women entrepreneurs.
• Award Amount: $5,000 grant and access to business tools.
• How to Apply: Visit toryburchfoundation.org.

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Local Business Grants and Resources in Tennessee

Pathway Lending

• Description: A nonprofit offering grants, loans, and education to small business owners.
• Programs:
  • Small business loans for startups.
  • Energy efficiency grants for small businesses.
• How to Apply: Visit pathwaylending.org.

The Women’s Fund of Greater Chattanooga

• Description: Provides funding for programs that support women, including small business grants.
• How to Apply: Visit their website or contact them directly for details.

Community Foundations

• Description: Local community foundations often have grant opportunities for women and minority entrepreneurs.
• How to Apply: Examples include the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (cfmt.org).

Nashville Entrepreneur Center

• Description: Offers support, mentorship, and access to funding for startups.
• How to Access: Visit entrepreneurcenter.com.

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Additional Resources and Funding Opportunities

Kiva Microloans

• Description: Crowdfunded microloans for small business owners.
• Eligibility: Businesses in need of small funding with community support.
• Award Amount: Up to $15,000 with 0% interest.
• How to Apply: Visit kiva.org.

Crowdfunding Platforms

• Platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo can be excellent tools for single moms to raise funds for their businesses.

DreamBuilder Program

• Description: Free online program for women entrepreneurs that includes access to funding opportunities.
• How to Access: Visit dreambuilder.org.

 

Healthcare Grants for Single Moms in Tennessee

Federal Healthcare Grants and Assistance Programs

Medicaid (TennCare)

• Eligibility: Low-income families, including single mothers and children.
• Benefits: Covers medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and preventive care.
• How to Apply: Visit TennCare Connect or call 1-855-259-0701.

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) – CoverKids

• Eligibility: Children under 19 and pregnant women in low-income households who don’t qualify for Medicaid.
• Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, including dental, vision, and prenatal care.
• How to Apply: Visit CoverKids.

Maternal and Child Health Block Grant (Title V)

• Eligibility: Pregnant women, mothers, and children in need of health services.
• Benefits: Focuses on prenatal care, child health, and preventive services.
• How to Apply: Contact the Tennessee Department of Health’s Maternal and Child Health Division.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

• Eligibility: Low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and children under five.
• Benefits: Provides nutrition education, healthcare referrals, and access to healthy foods.
• How to Apply: Contact your local health department or visit WIC Tennessee.

Title X Family Planning Program

• Eligibility: Low-income individuals seeking family planning and reproductive health services.
• Benefits: Provides birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing, and general health exams.
• How to Apply: Visit your local Title X clinic; find locations through the Office of Population Affairs.

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State-Specific Healthcare Grants and Assistance in Tennessee

Tennessee Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program (TBCCSP)

• Eligibility: Uninsured or underinsured women aged 40-64.
• Benefits: Free screenings for breast and cervical cancer, follow-up care, and treatment assistance.
• How to Apply: Contact your local health department or visit the Tennessee Cancer Screening Program.

Pregnancy Medicaid (Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women)

• Eligibility: Pregnant women in low-income households.
• Benefits: Immediate temporary health coverage for prenatal care.
• How to Apply: Apply through a qualified provider or at TennCare Connect.

Healthy Start Program

• Eligibility: At-risk families with young children, including single mothers.
• Benefits: Provides healthcare referrals, parenting support, and developmental screenings for children.
• How to Apply: Contact the Tennessee Department of Health.

Community Health Access and Navigation in Tennessee (CHANT)

• Eligibility: Families with health or social service needs.
• Benefits: Offers assistance in accessing healthcare, mental health resources, and social services.
• How to Apply: Reach out to your local health department for CHANT services.

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Private Healthcare Assistance Programs

Susan G. Komen Tennessee Breast Cancer Assistance Fund

• Eligibility: Women diagnosed with breast cancer in financial need.
• Benefits: Covers treatment costs, transportation, and living expenses during treatment.
• How to Apply: Visit the Komen Tennessee Affiliate.

UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation

• Eligibility: Families with children under 16 needing medical services not covered by insurance.
• Benefits: Grants up to $5,000 per child annually (maximum $10,000 per lifetime).
• How to Apply: Visit uhccf.org.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance Tennessee

• Eligibility: Individuals with limited prescription drug coverage.
• Benefits: Helps single mothers and families get free or low-cost medications.
• How to Apply: Visit pparx.org.

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Local and Community Healthcare Resources

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

• Eligibility: Uninsured or low-income individuals.
• Benefits: Sliding scale fees for primary care, dental, mental health, and prenatal services.
• How to Apply: Find a clinic near you through FindAHealthCenter.HRSA.gov.

Rural Health Clinics (RHCs)

• Eligibility: Residents in rural areas with limited access to healthcare.
• Benefits: Affordable healthcare services, including immunizations and chronic disease management.
• How to Apply: Locate an RHC in Tennessee via the Tennessee Department of Health.

Good Samaritan Clinics

• Eligibility: Uninsured and low-income individuals.
• Benefits: Free or low-cost medical care, including general checkups and prescription assistance.
• How to Apply: Contact your local Good Samaritan Clinic.

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Mental Health and Counseling Grants for Single Moms

Tennessee Mental Health Block Grant Program

• Eligibility: Individuals with mental health needs, including single mothers.
• Benefits: Offers funding for counseling, therapy, and substance abuse treatment.
• How to Apply: Contact your regional mental health provider or visit TN.gov Mental Health Services.

Postpartum Support International Tennessee

• Eligibility: Single moms experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety.
• Benefits: Free support groups, counseling referrals, and mental health resources.
• How to Apply: Visit Postpartum.net.

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Employer-Sponsored Health Assistance

Amazon's Career Choice Healthcare Programs

• Eligibility: Amazon employees in Tennessee.
• Benefits: Includes healthcare benefits and coverage for essential medical services.
• How to Apply: Check with your employer’s benefits department.

Starbucks Employee Assistance Program

• Eligibility: Single moms employed at Starbucks.
• Benefits: Comprehensive healthcare plans, including mental health counseling.
• How to Apply: Enroll through the Starbucks benefits portal.

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Other Resources

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Eligibility: Low-income single mothers.
• Benefits: Cash assistance that can be used for healthcare needs.
• How to Apply: Visit Tennessee TANF.

National Health Service Corps (NHSC)

• Eligibility: Single mothers pursuing a healthcare career in underserved areas.
• Benefits: Loan repayment assistance and stipends for healthcare education.
• How to Apply: Visit NHSC.HRSA.gov.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tennessee offers a wide array of grants, assistance programs, and resources to support single mothers in their journey toward better healthcare, education, and financial stability. From state-specific initiatives like TennCare and CoverKids to federal opportunities such as Pell Grants and WIC, these programs aim to ease the burdens single moms often face. By taking advantage of these resources, single mothers in Tennessee can access affordable healthcare, pursue higher education, and provide a stable future for their families. Whether you're seeking financial aid for college, health coverage for your children, or support to navigate life's challenges, these programs can be a lifeline, empowering you to achieve your goals and build a brighter tomorrow.

Warning:  This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.