Hello everyone!  I am a 37 year old divorced mother of three teens.  I have been physically disabled for 3 years now.  I have a bone desease that hinders my mobility and has brought on arthritis.  I have a total household income (SSA) of $824.00.  I do not receive food stamps because of a "crack" in the system that renders me ineligeble.  My children's father doesn't pay child support because he takes care of the expenses associated with education, clothing, church organizations, personal hygene, out of pocket medical as well as over the counter meds, and transportation.  My children are 17 (boy), 16 (boy) and 14 (girl).  When I became disabled the children's father and I worked out this alternative to child support. My social security payment was so low that I had to do something to ensure my childrens needs (not wants) would be provided.  My ex-husbands child support was $500.00 per month total for all three children.  He spends MORE than $500 per month on his children for the items above.  I have a $540 mortgage, utilities and groceries to pay for my children and myself.  The food stamp program says I am ineligible because I do not collect "Cash" money for my children.  I have explained that they receive the benefit of more than $500 per month. 

I have enrolled in college classes online with my local community college.  Trying to education myself with something that I can do from home that will produce a suppliment to my Social Security income.  I received a pell grant for tuition.  I have a 3.7 GPA.  I am taking computer and core classes. This is my second semester.  I would like to know if anyone knows of any programs, grants, or assistance plans that would help me with other expenses associated with college?  Is there anything out there to help with mortgage payments and utilities?  I don't even have money to buy toilet paper and washing powder.  My grandmother divides hers with me.  I am doing all I can with what little I have.  Please help me find a solution!!!  My email address is downs.samantha@yahoo.com.