There are numerous grants for felons in Louisiana. Those who need financial assistance will find that they may be able to get help with paying their rent, getting free healthcare, obtaining food, and more. There are programs that will also help with paying utility bills. There is no limit to how many programs you can apply for, so it’s a good idea to apply for all of them you feel you qualify for.
Grants are essentially gifts that are given to people to help them during times of need. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back. When people are having a difficult financial time, the grants will help them pay for the living expenses, and tide them over until they have more money. Some grants are federally funded, while others are funded by the state governments or are locally funded.
Grants for Felons in Louisiana
Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) – Felons who need help obtaining food may qualify for a monthly grant through SNAP. The program is federally funded, and provides people the ability to purchase food each month. Those who are approved will receive an electronic debit style card. The grant will be added to the card each month, and then the person can use the card to pay for their groceries at the store. To qualify for SNAP in Louisiana, you have to meet the low income requirements, not have assets of more than $2,250, and be a citizen or legal alien. Plus, all able-bodied adults will have to register for work in order to be approved. To qualify, click here.
Family Independence Temporary Assistance (FITAP) – This program provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant. The cash can be used to pay for a wide variety of living expenses, including housing, food, clothing, paying bills, or transportation. To qualify for the program, you have to have at least one minor child that you are caring for, meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal alien. The amount of grant you receive depends on how many people are in your household. If you have two people in your household, for example, you will receive a monthly grant of $188. To apply, click here.
Kinship Care Subsidy Program (KCSP) – This program is for minor children who are living with a family member, rather their parent. The cash assistance that they will receive each month is $222 per eligible child. The funds can be used to help pay for living expenses for the child. To qualify, you will have to show that the child has been immunized. Plus, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and be a resident of Louisiana. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Felons who need help paying for their energy bill may qualify for a grant through LIHEAP. The program will pay for one utility bill per year. You will have to re-apply for the program every year that you need assistance. To qualify, you must be the one responsible for paying the utility bill, and have an active heating and cooling account. You will also have to meet low income requirements. The program is open for heating from November 15 through March 15, for cooling from April 1 through September 30, and for crisis assistance from October 1 through September 30. To apply for a LIHEAP grant in Louisiana, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is often the most expensive thing for people to pay for. Felons who need help paying for housing in Louisiana may qualify for help through HUD. The federally funded programs will help people pay for their rent, avoid foreclosure, and find affordable housing. They also own housing units, called Section 8, which those with a low income can live in. HUD also provides weatherization services for those who want to save money on their monthly utilities. To qualify for HUD programs, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for HUD, click here.
Lifeline – Having a phone is essential for most people, but it can be costly, too. Felons who cannot afford a phone may qualify for one through the Lifeline program. The federally funded program will give those who qualify a free phone. The phone comes with free data, unlimited texting, and voicemail. To qualify, you have to prove that you have a low income. To apply, click here.
In addition to the programs listed above, be sure to check with your local churches. Many churches offer programs that will help with food, clothing, transportation vouchers, and even some bill paying assistance. Plus, most churches do not have strict requirements for receiving the grants. Some community churches and organizations also offer reentry services for felons..
