Missouri has few state-based financial assistance programs for parents having children that replace income when mom and/or dad need to stop working. People working in the private sector have fewer options than state government employees do and must fend for themselves.
Missouri does have entitlement programs targeting low-income families that make health insurance coverage more affordable. The same holds true for housing and nutrition.
New parents will find the options for financial assistance during a maternity or family medical leave of absence are very sparse. The state does not provide any paid leave benefits.
On the other hand, several federal regulations do provide unpaid legal job protections for a segment of workers. Pregnant women have special rights, and workers at larger employers can take off 12 weeks without fear of losing their job.
Missouri is one of many states that does not provide short-term disability for non-occupational accidents and illnesses. This means that many new parents miss out on support during maternity leave.
The same holds true for any worker taking an extended work absence due to an off-the-job medical event. Avoid this dilemma by buying a policy at work before becoming sick, hurt, or pregnant.