If you are a single mom, you already know that there are grants for single mothers for college. And, if you are a smart cookie, you will get the right degree.
Grants for Single Mothers for College
You may qualify for grants to pay bills, to buy a home, or to start a business. But, I don’t recommend buying a home or starting a business at this time. No one knows if the housing market is going up or down. And, starting your own business takes a lot of preparation, research, and kaka-luck. However, going back to school to get the right credentials is almost always a good move.
You can find many grants at government sites and in lots of ads; however, you should be aware that some of the online websites are scams. Scams are usually detected when the site asks for money up front or the site guarantees they can get you a grant. Some grants are not aimed specifically at single mothers. They are aimed toward all low-income people. Read the requirements, because grants are often given out based upon age or income.
Grants: Women Helping Women
If you look around you will find interesting grants all over the internet from women who want to help other women. And, you might be the girl who qualifies for their help. Remember that grants don’t need to be paid back but loans do. So, look for grants first and then find student loans to augment them.
SunshineLady.org and WispInc.org
The Sunshine Lady Foundation, Inc. was put together by the sister of Warren Buffett. Doris Buffett is an 82-year-old gal who looks like Doris Day and wants to help people, which is exactly what I would do if I were in her position. There should be more women like Doris Buffet and Melinda Gates.
WISP stands for the Women’s Independence Scholarship Program. This organization helps survivors of partner or spousal abuse (battered women) to get an education so they can be independent and self-sufficient. You can apply, as a full-time or part-time student if you want to attend a:
- State community college
- Four-year state college
- Technical or vocational school
- Private college or university
- Proprietary school (For-profit college, such as online colleges)
They give preference to women who want to attend community colleges. If you have ever been a battered woman (it’s no shame to admit it), and you have young children, check out WISP.
Women’s Opportunity Awards
Women's Opportunity Awards (grants) are given to mothers who are the primary financial supporters (hard-working money earners) for their families, and who are:
- Enrolled in a vocational or skills training program or an undergraduate degree program
- Accepted to a vocational or skills training program or an undergraduate degree program
These awards are not restricted to women in the US, so see if your country is part of the program. My suggestion would be for you to locate someone in your local Soroptimist program (pronounced “sor” and “optimist”) and talk with her in person, by phone, or by email.
College Scholarships for Older Women
If you are older, check into Jeannette Rankin Women's Scholarships are for older women living in acute poverty. If you are female, age 35 or older, and a US Citizen, check into this. I went back to college at 50, you can do it.
Institutional Grants From Colleges
Colleges and universities give out many grants to single moms who are already registered for classes or getting ready to take classes. If you want to find out about these, talk to a vocational counselor at a community college (or a four-year college). Also, continue exploring online. After you talk to a college career counselor, see if you can find better options on your own. Some organizations and schools offer non-tuition help. Many community colleges have daycare. Some schools will help you get a free computer.
If you are serious about getting a good, high paying, high-demand job, read also College Pell Grants for Divorced or Single Moms and Best Jobs for Single Moms and College Info.
Many healthcare jobs are in high demand. If you are older, you should look for a healthcare job that doesn't require heavy lifting. Many hospital jobs are non-clinical in nature.
More Article:
Grants for Single Mothers to Pay Bills: Help From the Government
Christina Gregoire - Christina Gregoire writes about divorce, fashion, and baby boomers. Her forte is explaining complex ideas in simple language.
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