Hello,
Can I ask, have you ever had a job before?
You know you'll need to be financially independent, but I don't think that will happen overnight, especially if you've been a stay at home mum for years.
You could perhaps try and find a part time job, that would be a good start.
Also you could try the following links, there might be some help available for you:
1) Benefits.gov - Virginia
2) Single Mother Guide: Financial Help for Single Mothers in Virginia
Good luck!