What does "lone-parent family" mean?

A lone-parent family is a household with one adult parent living in the home and is in charge. This parent is responsible for any children and is raising them alone. Considered the primary caregiver, this parent is responsible for all the day-to-day concerns.

A lone-parent family could be the result of being named the custodial parent after a divorce or because of the death of a spouse. Lone parents commonly have to carry the load of two parents and seldom have much time to relax. These parents may qualify to receive income support and help in getting back into the workforce.