Felons who live in Connecticut have access to resources if they need help paying their bills. Like other states, there are federal and local programs that they can turn to in times of need. Whether they need help paying the rent, locating affordable housing, paying utility bills, or need cash assistance there are programs they can explore. The grants for felons in Connecticut are helpful during transitional periods.
Grants, unlike loans, do not have to be paid back. If you receive grants to help you with your situation you will not be expected to pay any of the funds back. This means you will be able to get the help you need and just focus on bettering your situation. There are numerous grant programs to consider, so be sure to check them all out to see which ones you will qualify for.
Grants for Felons in Connecticut
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – The state of Connecticut offers the TANF program to help people who need cash assistance. The program is federally funded and open to those who have at least one minor child. Employable-adults who are approved for the program have a 21-month lifetime limit in which they can receive the benefits. In order to qualify for the program, you have to have a low income. In addition to TANF, the state also offers a program called State Supplement Cash Assistance. This program helps individuals with cash assistance that are over the age of 65. It will also help those who are between the aged 18-65, if they are disabled or blind. To apply for the programs, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This is the federal program that used to be referred to as food stamps. This grant program is widely available and is open to felons. Those who are approved will receive an electronic debit-style card, where a grant will be added each month. The card can then be used at the grocery store to pay for food. The amount of monthly benefit you receive, if approved for the program, depends on the number of people in your household. If there is one person in your home then the monthly grant is $194, while a family of four would receive $646 per month. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This federally funded program is designed to help people with their housing needs. The program can help felons find affordable housing, pay for rent, and help people avoid foreclosure. They also help people with weatherization services, which will help you save money on your utility bills. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for HUD programs, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need health insurance or assistance paying for their medical bills may qualify for Medicaid. While it is a federal program it does vary by state. In Connecticut, those who qualify for Medicaid will receive help paying for all types of medical care, including visiting the doctor, hospital stays, prescriptions, dental care, wellness checkups, and more. To qualify for the Medicaid program, you have to have a low income and be citizen or legal resident of the state. To apply, click here.
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This federally funded program will help people pay for their heating bills. Those who are qualified can get help with bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, and weatherization help. The program is available each year from November 1 through April 30. To qualify for the help, you have to meet the income requirements for your household size. This program will also help people with their air conditioning bill in the summer. To apply, click here.
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) – This program will help people pay for their energy bills. In order for felons to qualify for the bill paying assistance they will need to meet the income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. This program is available in every county in Connecticut. To apply, click here.
Lifeline – Felons in Connecticut who need help paying for a phone bill may qualify for the Lifeline program. The program will help those with a low income to obtain a phone at a discounted rate. Many people are able to get the phone service for free. The phone service can be a land line or mobile phone. The mobile phone comes with free monthly data, unlimited texting, and voicemail. To apply for a phone with Lifeline, click here.
Felons in Connecticut who need help paying their bills and having their basic needs met can turn to these programs for help. Also, be sure to check with your local churches, because many of them have programs that will help with paying the bills, providing you with food and transportation vouchers, and more.
