What financial resources are available for pregnant women in Maryland?

If you’re pregnant and have financial concerns, there are many resources available to you right here in our community. At PSC Carroll County we work closely with other agencies and organizations which provide a wide variety of services. Our extensive network allows us to provide information about and referrals to programs that will help our clients in their unique circumstances. It is our privilege to help pregnant women find the support they need to meet their daily needs and also to improve their lives.

Resources for Pregnant Women in Immediate Crisis

If you are in crisis and have immediate and critical needs, there are many options in our community.   Emergency housing can be obtained by contacting Human Services Program in Westminster, MD. HSP has a variety of housing options including a safe haven, women and children’s shelter and intact family shelter. They may also be able to help with meals, and housing transition services as you establish a more long-term solution.

If you are concerned about locating free or low-cost food, you have many choices in Carroll County.  The Rescue Mission in Westminster has several wonderful options including a food pantry. There are also multiple locations which provide hot meals. Other essential items such as clothing, paper products, and household goods, can be found by checking this list of assistance near Westminster, MD.  For personalized help, schedule an appointment with PSC.  A member of our staff can compile a list of resources based on information that you provide and which most closely matches your specific needs.

PSC offers some material resources for your baby such as diapers, blankets, formula, and wipes. We also offer support and assistance for mom and dad including: maternity clothing, delivery after care and personal care items, parenting classes and general support.  Contact us to learn more.

State Assistance for Pregnant Women

There are many state assistance programs that are designed to help you during your pregnancy. Contact the Carroll County Health Department or the Department of Human Services (MDHS) to learn more. One beneficial program is WIC, Women, Infants, and Children. WIC provides a stipend for groceries and access to fresh, nutritious food for mother and baby. WIC can be a lifeline for many mothers and young children, ensuring they have the proper nutrition they need during critical stages of development.

Maryland offers additional resources aimed at alleviating financial strain and promoting stability. These include:

●       Cash Assistance: Provides financial support to eligible individuals and families to help cover basic living expenses.

●       Health Care Coverage: Ensures access to essential health services through Medicaid and other health care programs, offering peace of mind in times of illness or injury.

●       Emergency Relief for Housing and Utilities: Helps during emergencies such as eviction or utility shutoffs, helping to keep families housed and safe.

●       Child Care Assistance: Supports working parents by helping cover the costs of childcare, enabling them to maintain employment and support their families.

●       Disability Assistance: Provides financial support and resources to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can lead dignified and independent lives.

●       Food Assistance: In addition to WIC, other food assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) help ensure that families can put nutritious meals on the table, regardless of economic circumstances.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility for these programs often depends on income level, family size, and specific circumstances. The application process is designed to be accessible, with online portals and local MDHS offices ready to assist applicants in navigating the requirements. It’s also noteworthy that individuals enrolled in more than six credit hours at educational institutions within the state may qualify for certain benefits.

Navigating the System

Applying for government assistance can feel overwhelming, but resources are available to help guide you through the process. Local MDHS offices have dedicated staff who can provide personalized assistance and answer questions about eligibility criteria and required documentation. Additionally, community organizations and non-profits often partner with state agencies to offer support services and ensure that those in need receive the help they deserve.

Long-Term Financial Solutions

The ideal solution for financial stability is finding meaningful work that pays a respectable wage and then living within your means, which means not spending more than you earn.  If you find work that you love, or at least work that you can tolerate, it’s a lot easier to maintain motivation. Finding work that is a good fit for you can be done by exploring your passions and your gifts. If you need help deciding what type of work is best for you, consider taking a career aptitude test. This test will recommend careers that might be a good fit for you.

Living within your means and sticking to a budget is another key component to financial stability. Many people find this to be very difficult. Some suggestions for controlling spending include: shop at stores that sell within your price range, limit your online spending, and regularly monitor your bank account. Personal finance management and budget advice is easily found online but there are also options available within our community.

Child Support

Your child has two parents. Even if you were never married, you are not legally obligated to bear the full financial responsibility of raising your child alone. This is especially true if you’re in a difficult financial situation. If only one parent is living with the child, the other parent can be legally required to contribute financially to support that child. Child support, which can be obtained through a legal process, could be an option available to you. 

How do I emotionally process financial hardship through pregnancy?

Financial instability can be extremely stressful.  This stress can be greatly increased with pregnancy and motherhood. PSC can help you understand the options and support available to help ease your financial concerns. There are many agencies, programs and organizations able to provide support in our community. Contact  PSC Carroll County today to learn more.