Felons in the state of Florida will find that there are several grant programs they can explore if they need help paying the bills. Florida offers federal programs, along with state funded programs, that are aimed at helping those with a low income. The programs will help felons to meet their basic needs while they try to better their situation.
The grants for felons in Florida will help people to pay their rent, pay utility bills, obtain food, get the healthcare they need, and more. Some programs will also provide people with cash assistance that can be used to pay for their living expenses. Be sure to explore each program carefully to see if you meet the qualifications. Some of the programs offer short term assistance, while others offer help on a longer basis. The programs are designed to help people have their basic needs met during financially challenging times.
Grants for Felons in Florida
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – The TANF program is federally funded. The program helps people with a low income by providing them with a monthly cash grant that can be used on their living expenses, including paying rent, for transportation, to buy groceries, and more. In order to qualify for TANF, you have to have at least one minor child in your household. In order to qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and meet the low income requirements. To apply, click here.
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) – Felons who do not meet the TANF requirements and still need cash assistance may qualify for TCA. This program in Florida provides those who qualify with a cash grant to help them with their living expenses. You also have to have a child under the age of 18 in your household in order to qualify. The total lifetime that someone can receive TCA is 48 months. You have to be a resident of Florida, a citizen or legal alien, have a social security number, and have a low income. Some people may be required to participate in work activities. To apply for cash assistance in Florida, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This federal program was formerly referred to as food stamps. The program provides those who qualify with a monthly grant to purchase food. Those who qualify will receive an electronic debit card where funds will be added each month. That debit card can then be used at the grocery store or farmer’s market to pay for food items. To qualify for SNAP in Florida, felons would need to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Felons who need help paying for their utility bills may qualify for a grant through LIHEAP. The program is federally funded and helps people pay for their heating and cooling bills. You may have to apply for the funds up to three times per year in order to keep receiving the grant. To qualify for this utility bill assistance in Florida, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for an energy grant, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need help paying for medical care in Florida may qualify for the federally funded program called Medicaid. Those who qualify will have their healthcare costs paid for, including to visit the doctor, for hospital stays, have dental work, and more. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and prove you have a low income. Some non-citizens are approved to receive Medicaid if they have a medical emergency. To apply for Medicaid in Florida, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is usually the biggest expense someone has, and many people find it difficult to obtain affordable options. The HUD programs are funded by the federal government, and are designed to help those with a low income meet their housing needs. Their programs will help people locate affordable housing, pay their rent, and avoid foreclosure. They also provide weatherization services. HUD also owns many public housing complexes, referred to as Section 8, which provides low cost housing for those who need an affordable place to live. To learn more about the HUD programs in Florida and apply for help, click here.
Florida has numerous grant programs that will help felons who need assistance paying the bills and meeting their basic needs. In addition to the programs listed above, be sure to check with local churches and non-profit organizations. Many of them offer re-entry programs, as well as programs that will provide those in need with food, transportation vouchers, clothing, cash assistance, and more. Most church and non-profit organizations do not have strict requirements about proving your income. The programs are typically open to everyone who says they need help.