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In the state of Minnesota there are numerous grant programs that will help felons with meeting their basic needs. The programs have been designed to help people during difficult financial times. Those who need assistance will find that the programs will help people pay their rent, obtain food, get healthcare, pay bills, and more. While most of the programs are designed to provide short term help, there are some that will help for a longer period of time.
Grants differ from loans in that they do not ever have to be paid back. They are considered to be a helpful gift, given to people when they are experiencing financial difficulties. The requirements for each program vary, so be sure to check them out closely. Apply for as many programs as you feel you are qualified for.
Grants for Felons in Minnesota
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program is federally funded and provides food to those who need it. If approved, you will receive an electronic debit card that can be used to purchase groceries at the store. The grant is electronically added to the debit card each month. The amount of your monthly grant depends on the number of people in your household. Qualifications include having a low income, and being a citizen or legal alien. In addition to their monthly grant program, they do also provide emergency food service to those who need immediate help. To apply for SNAP in Minnesota, click here.
General Assistance (GA) – The GA program in Minnesota is similar to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) programs around the nation. Those who are approved will receive a monthly cash grant that can be used to pay for a variety of living expenses, including rent, bills, clothing, food, and transportation. The qualifications include having a very low income, having no more than $10,000 in assets, and be a citizen or legal alien. The amount of the grant that you receive each month depends on the number of people in your household. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This federally funded program will help people locate affordable housing, pay their rent, avoid foreclosure, and obtain weatherization services. They also own housing complexes, called Section 8, which provide people with low cost places to live. To qualify for HUD programs, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal alien. To learn more about the programs or apply, click here.
Energy Assistance Program (EAP) – This program will help people pay for their energy bills. The program is open to both renters and those who own their home. Services that the program provides includes paying energy bills, helping with disconnect notices, energy usage education, and repairing or replacing heating systems that are broken. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To apply, click here.
Medical Assistance (MA) – This program is the same as the national one called Medicaid. It is funded by the federal government, and will help people by paying for their healthcare needs. The program will pay for such healthcare as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and dental care. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and have a low income. To apply, click here.
Lifeline – While having a phone is seen by most people as being essential, it can be difficult for some people to afford the bill. Felons who need help paying for their phone bill may be able to get help through the Lifeline program. In Minnesota, those who are approved for the Lifeline program will receive a discount on their monthly bill. The discount ranges from $7-10 per month. To qualify, you have to have a low income. If you are already receiving grants from one of the other programs listed above, you may be automatically proved for the Lifeline phone bill discount. To apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization helps people in need with a variety of programs. They will help with such things as food, clothing, transportation vouchers, counseling services, and more. They do not usually have strict requirements regarding who can receive the help. To learn more about the services they offer in Minnesota, click here.
In addition to the grants for felons in Minnesota that are listed above, it’s a good idea to check with your local churches. Most churches offer a variety of programs to help people in the community. They will often provide people with food, clothing, transportation vouchers, and bill payment assistance. The programs vary by location, so you have to see what each church in your area costs. Plus, churches do not usually have strict requirements or application processes. The programs, which aim to help people meet their basic needs, are usually available to anyone who says they have a need.
