Government Loan Grants

I am a full time student and single mom who is iving on a very low income. I am barely making it and all it would take is one major financial catastrophe to ruin me. I was told to look into applying for government or private grants, not just for educational purposes but apparently there are grant programs out there for everything from buying a car or home to starting a new business. I did some research and found that most of the grant programs on-line are scams so I am wondering if there is anyone out there who has received grant money for anything other than school? Can anyone tell me of any legitimate grant programs they are aware of or is this all just an unrealistic dream of receiving free money? Any advice would be helpful! Thanks!