When I graduated from college, I had a plan. I was determined to be financially responsible—pay off my student loans, avoid debt, and build a solid future. And for a while, that’s exactly what I did. I paid off my student loans within three years and felt like I was finally getting ahead. 

Then I met my ex. 

We were both driven by similar goals—saving for retirement, living within our means, planning for the future. It felt like we were building something strong together. When we decided to start a family, I never imagined how quickly life—and finances—could change. 

Mortgage. Two car payments. Daycare. Unexpected home repairs. The little splurges that added up. Life got expensive fast, and before we knew it, the debt was growing. Still, I thought we could get through it together. 

Then came the divorce. 

And with it, I was left with half the debt but none of the dual income. Now I had to manage everything alone: working full time, raising two boys, co-parenting, keeping up with the house—and somehow, figuring out how to pay for it all on one income. 

It’s been a lot. 

I’m grateful that I no longer have a car payment, but with rent, utilities, daycare, groceries, and gas, there’s rarely anything left over at the end of the month. The debt hasn’t gone away—in fact, it’s grown. And while I’m a nurse and make a decent salary, the truth is: supporting three people on one income is incredibly difficult. 

Sometimes, the hardest part is emotional—watching your kids still believe in Santa and wanting to give them the magic they deserve, while knowing that overspending is what helped land you here in the first place. It’s heartbreaking. Because as a mom, all you want is for your kids to feel safe, loved, and provided for. 

I miss having a partner. Not just financially, but emotionally—someone to share the load. I have the most amazing friends and family who have stepped in more than I could ever ask, and I’m beyond grateful. But at the end of the day, it’s just me. And there are nights I sit alone wondering how I’m going to keep affording this life. 

My oldest starts Kindergarten in August. I’m doing everything I can to stay in this townhome so he doesn’t have to switch schools. It’s yet another pressure weighing on me. I want stability for him—and for his little brother too—but right now, everything feels uncertain. 

I’m doing my best to take things one day at a time. Staying present. Trying not to let the stress consume me. Some days, I feel strong and hopeful. Other days, I feel like I’m drowning. But I keep going. Because I have to. Because they need me to. 

To any other single moms out there who feel like they’re barely hanging on: I see you. You’re not alone. We may not have all the answers, but we’re showing up every single day. And that matters more than we know. 

Resources for Single Moms Facing Financial Hardship 

If you’re in a similar situation and feeling overwhelmed, here are a few resources that may help: 

• Single Moms Planet – singlemomsplanet.org: Support for single mothers including financial assistance and career coaching. 

• Modest Needs – modestneeds.org: Offers short-term financial assistance to low-income workers who are in crisis. 

• 211 United Way – Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org: A free and confidential service that helps people find local resources for rent assistance, utilities, food, and more. 

• Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) – Helps with child care costs for low-income families. 

• National Diaper Bank Network – diaperbanknetwork.org: Helps provide basic necessities like diapers and hygiene products. 

• Local churches, YMCAs, and community centers – Often offer emergency help, food pantries, or free programs for kids. 

A Hopeful Note 

Life isn’t easy right now, and it may not be for a while. But hard doesn’t mean hopeless. Every bill you pay, every meal you cook, every hug you give, every moment you keep going—you’re doing something incredible. 

You are enough. Even when it doesn’t feel like it. 
You are strong. Even when you’re tired. 
And you are not alone. 

One day at a time. That’s all we can do. And that’s more than enough. 

Comment to give support or if you need some support. Everyone can use some support and to know they are not alone in this journey!