Felons who live in Montana will find that there are numerous grant programs they can turn to if they are experiencing financial difficulty. There are programs that will help those in need pay their rent, obtain food, get healthcare assistance, and even provide them with cash assistance. The programs are often funded by the federal government, but there are also some that are funded at the state and local level.
There is no limit to the number of grant programs you can apply for, so it’s a good idea to apply for as many as you qualify for. Some of the programs offer short term assistance, while others offer help for a longer period of time. Unlike loans, grants do not ever have to be paid back. If you receive grants they are considered to be gifts to help people in need. Be sure to check the qualifications for each program, as they all differ.
Grants for Felons in Montana
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Formerly known as food stamps, this program is federally funded and focuses on providing food to those in need. Felons who need help obtaining food may qualify for the SNAP program in Montana. Those who are approved for the program will receive an electronic benefits card, where the grant will be added each month. The card can be used at grocery stores to pay for food items. To qualify for SNAP, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, have a low income, and if you are able-bodied under the age of 59 you will have to register for work. To apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – The TANF program is federally funded and will provide people with a monthly cash grant that can be used on living expenses. The grant can be used to pay for transportation, clothing, food, bills, rent, and more. To qualify for TANF, you have to have at least one minor child you are caring for, be a US citizen or legal alien, provide your social security number, and be a resident of the state. There is a 60-month lifetime limit on how many months you can receive TANF. Felons who violate their parole will not be able to receive TANF. To apply for TANF in Montana, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need help paying for medical care may be able to get assistance through the Medicaid program. The federally funded program pays for the medical needs of those who have a low income. If approved, you can get free dental care, hospital and doctor services, x-rays, rehabilitation care, vision care, and more. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Those who need help paying for their rent or finding affordable housing may qualify for HUD programs. The programs are funded by the federal government and aim to ensure that everyone can find affordable housing. They will help people pay rent, avoid foreclosure, provide weatherization services, and become homeowners. To qualify for HUD programs in Montana, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. HUD also has a Section 8 program, where they own housing complexes where people can live for a minimal monthly fee. To get more information or apply for the grant programs, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Felons who need help paying for their utility bills may qualify for a grant through LIHEAP. The program, which is federally funded, helps people by paying one of their heating bills each year. The energy assistance grant pays for part of the bill, giving the funds directly to the energy provider on your behalf. The program also offers weatherization services, which can be helpful in lowering your monthly energy bills. The program runs from October 1 through April 30 each year. To apply for an energy assistance grant, click here.
Lifeline – Felons who need help paying for a phone may qualify for the Lifeline program. The program aims to ensure that everyone can afford to have a phone. If approved, you will receive a discount on your monthly phone bill. If you already receive help from SNAP or TANF, then you may automatically qualify for a Lifeline grant. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To apply, click here.
In addition to the grants for felons in Montana listed above, it’s a good idea to check with your local churches and non-profit organizations. Many of them offer programs that will help people in need. Some community churches and non-profit organizations will help with paying bills, obtaining food and clothing, transportation vouchers, and more. Plus, many of them do not have strict qualification requirements. They are open to everyone who needs help.
