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Georgia has numerous grant programs for felons who need financial assistance. The programs have been designed to help those with a low income be able to have their basic needs met. Felons may be able to receive help with paying their rent, obtaining food, getting free healthcare, and be able to get help to pay their utility bills. There are grant programs in Georgia that are funded by the federal government, as well as though funded by the state.
When deciding which grant programs to apply for, it is important to consider the qualification requirements for each one. Every program requires something different, and they all vary in how long you may receive the grant. Some programs provide short term grants, while others offer grants for a longer period of time.
Grants for Felons in Georgia
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Felons who need cash assistance may qualify for the TANF program in Georgia. The program provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant that does not need to be paid back. The grant can be used for living expenses, such as paying for rent, food, clothing, bills, etc. To qualify for the program, you have to have at least one minor child you are caring for, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and you will have to show that you have a low income. Every person in the home will have to provide their social security number in order for the household to receive the TANF grants. There is a lifetime limit of 48 months for receiving TANF grants, and you may be required to participate in a work training program. To apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This federally funded program used to be referred to as food stamps. It provides those who qualify with a monthly grant that they can use to purchase food. If you are approved you will receive an electronic debit card, where the funds will be added each month. The card can then be used to purchase food at the grocery stores and farmer’s markets. This program is open to individuals as well as families. To qualify, you will have to participate in a phone interview. You also have to meet the low income requirements. To apply for SNAP in Georgia, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is federally funded. It has been designed to help people with a low income be able to pay their energy bills. The applications for the program are accepted from November 1 through April 30 each year. In addition to helping people pay for their energy bills, the program also provides emergency assistance for those who have shut-off notices, and they also provide weatherization services. 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) – Felons who need assistance with housing may qualify for programs offered through HUD. These are federally funded programs that are open to those who have a low income, and are citizens or legal aliens. HUD programs will help people pay their rent, locate affordable housing, avoid foreclosure, and obtain weatherization services. HUD also has a program, called Section 8, where they own housing complexes, which provides low cost housing for those in need. To learn more about HUD programs in Georgia, click here.
Medicaid – Those who need help paying for medical care may qualify for the Medicaid program in Georgia. This is part of a national program, which is open to everyone who has a low income, and is a citizen or legal alien. Those who are approved for the program will be able to have their healthcare expenses paid for, including to visit a doctor, stay in a hospital, get dental work, and obtain prescription drugs. To apply, click here.
Lifeline – Felons who need help paying for their phone bill may qualify for a grant through the Lifeline program. Those who are approved for the program only have to pay $9.25 per month for their mobile phone. To qualify for the phone bill grant, you have to have a low income. If you are already receiving grants from one of the other federal programs, such as SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you may be automatically approved. To apply, click here.
Re-Entry Partnership Housing (RPH) – The state of Georgia offers a re-entry program for felons. This program has been designed to help people back on their feet, providing those who qualify with housing assistance. The program gives a grant of $1,800 for three months of assistance to help felons. To learn more about the program, click here.
In addition to these programs listed above, be sure to check with your local churches and non-profit charities. They often offer helpful programs that give people food, clothing, cash, transportation vouchers, and more.
