Food Stamps

• The food stamp program in Pennsylvania is known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Participants are required to fill out an application and must fall within the specified income limits. As of June 2011, the maximum monthly income for a single person household was $1,444.
  
  

Cash Assistance

• Cash assistance programs offered by the Pennsylvania welfare system are designed to be short-term solutions, helping people move toward independence. While most of these programs are geared toward pregnant women and families with children, there is an option for single women without children. The General Assistance program accepts applications from those who are not eligible for the other programs, provided that applicants meet other eligibility requirements. This program, for example, can offer financial assistance to women who are victims of domestic abuse or those who need income while going through an approved drug or alcohol rehabilitation program.
  
  

Health Care

• Medical assistance is offered in Pennsylvania through the Medicaid program. Eligible individuals can apply for this benefit online or at a county assistance office. In addition to Medicaid, the state also offers some pharmaceutical benefits, mental health services, AIDS/HIV services, transportation and translation assistance for doctor's visits. The variety of medical options available in Pennsylvania will depend on each individual's unique situation; for detailed information, visit the Department of Public Welfare site found in the Resources section.
  
  

Family Planning

• Family planning services are offered in clinics around the state. With a range of options for both men and women, the clinics provide free (or for a small fee) counseling; screening and testing for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, cancer and other diseases; gynecological exams; and contraceptives.