I'm sorry to hear about your health concerns. That can be scary especially w/ a young child. Something you should know is that ALOT of us can't afford health insurance even if both husband and wife are working. You can apply for medicaid, and if you make over a certain ammount then you pay a "shared cost." It could be 2 or 3 thousand,depends on what your income is, and they will pick up the rest. It's fair because if you were buying health insurance you would pay way more than that anyway. And should you really expect the state to pay your way completely? I don't think so, but that's just how I feel. If you do get the shared cost benefit then you can make payments on your part. That's better than not knowing, or waiting too long and not being able to fix whatever may be wrong with you. Your child is seperate with medicaid. And if she does not qualify, they do have the Florida Healthy kids program or Kid Care that is inexpensive too. Just remember, you are asking for thier help. They are going to ask you ALOT of personal questions. Bank accounts, value of your cars,home, paycheck stubs. So be prepared to give up ALOT of personal info...
It sounds like "the father" is a man with integrity. You say he's providing above and beyond. Why would you just marry him for the insurance? (He sounds like a good guy.) Is that the image of "marriage" that you want to show your daughter? You're very lucky to have a guy that is as responsable as he is. (thank him daily.) Alot of women aren't so lucky, I know a few, and some are married. I'm not trying to sound mean, but it sounds like he is doing alot. You guys just have an income problem. Is there any work you can do from home? Or in the evenings when he is home? House cleaning or watching someone else's kid? Don't be too proud to take odd jobs, it's not forever. We do what we can to benefit our kids. A little bit of money is better than none. And every bit helps!
I'm also confused (like the other women who responded) about why child enforcement would be involved with this? Are you an illegal immigrant? What else is going on???
Dealing w/ Medicaid is really no fun. You can definately expect to sit there for 3 hours waiting to see a doctor even with an appointment. But if you're broke and asking for help, you have to deal with it. That's the way it goes.
The very best advice I ever recieved was from another Mom on this web site. Check out DaveRamsey.com ! Get yourself on a written monthly budget and stick to it! There is always extra money we spend that isn't accounted for. Listen to his radio program for a few days (820am 2-4pm) and you'll hear stories where people overcome much worse financial situations than yours. It inspires you to do more and better. You may even hear someone ask a question similar to your. 6 months ago I was freaking out about money too, but I started Ramsey's Baby step program, and budget, and we're on a much better path.
Sorry this is long but I hope some of this is helpful to you.