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Felons who live in Illinois will find that there are numerous programs they can turn to if they are having financial difficulties. The grants for felons in Illinois that are available will help people in need be able to pay for their rent, obtain food, pay utility bills, and even provide them with cash assistance. The programs are largely funded by the federal government, but there are also state and local programs that people can turn to for help.
Grants differ from loans in that they do not have to ever be paid back. They are essentially considered to be a gift to help people pay for things that they need. Felons may be able to qualify for both short and long term grant programs, depending on their financial situation. It’s a good idea to apply for several programs to see which ones you may be approved for.
Grants for Felons in Illinois
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This federally funded program provides cash assistance for those who are approved. The cash grant can be used to pay for living expenses, including food, bills, rent, transportation, and more. To qualify for a TANF grant, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, have a low income, and have a minor child that you are caring for. They also require that you have a plan for becoming self sufficient, and they offer transitional services to help you with those goals. To apply for TANF in Illinois, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is often the biggest expense that people have, and it can be difficult for some people to find affordable housing. The programs through HUD are funded by the federal government, and they aim to help everyone find housing that they can afford. The programs will help people pay rent, avoid foreclosure, and assist with weatherization services. They also own multiple low income housing units, called Section 8, that give people affordable places to live. To qualify for HUD programs, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Felons who need help paying for utility bills may qualify for a grant through LIHEAP. The program helps people by paying for their heating or cooling bill. Each year, applications begin being accepted on October 1. You will have to re-apply for this grant program each year that you need help. To qualify, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal alien. You will have to show proof of income and your social security number, as well as a copy of your heating or cooling bills for the last 30 days. To apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) – Those who need help with obtaining food may qualify for a monthly grant through SNAP. The program was formerly referred to as the food stamp program. If you are approved for the program, you will receive an electronic debit card, where the grant will be added each month. That card can then be used to pay for your groceries at the store, as well as at some farmers markets. You will have to show proof of identity, residence, and provide a social security number for each person on the application. Qualifications include having a low income and being a citizen or legal alien. To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, click here.
General Assistance (GA) – The state of Illinois offers the GA program to provide a wide variety of people with cash assistance. This program is often one that will help people when they are not qualified for other cash assistance programs. You will have to show your proof of income, as well as utility bills. To apply for GA, click here.
Lifeline – Felons who need help paying for a phone may qualify for a free phone through the Lifeline program. This federally funded program will provide those with a low income with a free mobile phone. The phone has free data, texting, and voicemail. To qualify, you have to prove that you have a low income. To learn more about the Lifeline program or apply, click here.
Restore Justice – The Restore Justice program in Illinois offers felon re-entry services to help people transition successfully. The program offers job training and placement, as well as other types of assistance. To learn more about the Restore Justice programs, click here.
Illinois offers grants for felons that can also be found on a local level. Check with local charities and churches to see what programs they offer. Many will help those in need with obtaining food, travel vouchers, clothing, and more. Some will also help with bill paying assistance. The programs at churches are generally open to everyone and they don’t take strict qualification measures.
