Still, I have to count my blessings. I feel that we live a very comfortable life and I know that there are many single moms that are struggling to make ends meet. Sadly, some will "settle" for the next man that comes along because they are tired of the economic burden of raising a family on one income. The truth of the matter is that child support (if you are lucky enough to actually receive it) does not come anywhere close to supporting a child.
My advice is not to keep running into court in hopes that you will finally get blood out of a rock. Instead, think about whether it is best to just let that go. See if you can't come up with some creative means of supporting your family in a comfortable way. Shared accommodation may be a good option, but if you don't know anyone that you trust it can be very difficult and perhaps even risky.
I do know of a number of single moms who have decided to resurrect the old concept of multi-generation households. This may mean living with both of your parents, but more typically it is just one parent after the other has passed, or quit the marriage.
Single moms and their remaining parent (typically their mom since women, on average, live longer than men) are finding it mutually beneficial to move in with each other. The financial benefits are obvious for all parties. Your mother may enjoy having the company and may want to help you as best she can. After all, it is just a continuation of her traditional role so it isn't too surprising that she may be more open to the idea than you might think. If your mom is widowed, and open to the idea, it can be a great solution for the both of you.
Too many older women find themselves living in isolation, which at times can be frightening and desperately lonely. This type of living arrangement can benefit them and your chldren--(their grandchildren). Grandmas who are retired may well have extra time to spend with children, who benefit from the kind of wisdom that only comes with age. And finally, single moms can benefit both financially and emotionally because of the extra help with all the work of child rearing (e.g., chauffeuring the children around, supervision, etc). Moreover, splitting the household bills and having a shoulder to cry upon can go a long way to reducing the stress level of the entire family.
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