Oregon has many programs in place that will help people who are experiencing financial difficulties. Felons who need help paying their bills should apply for the grant programs to see if they can be approved for the assistance. The grant programs that are in place will help to pay rent, buy food, pay utility bills, and provide people with cash each month. There are both short and long term programs that will help during difficult times.
Grants differ from loans in that they never have to be paid back. If you receive grants during difficult financial times they are considered gifts to help you get things on back on track. You can take comfort in knowing your basic needs are being met, while you are working toward being self sufficient. The grant for felons in Oregon all have different qualification requirements, so be sure to check them closely to see which ones you should apply for.
Grants for Felons in Oregon
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This federally funded program was formerly known as food stamps. Those who need help obtaining food each month may qualify for a grant through SNAP. If you qualify, you will receive an electronic debit card, where the grant funds will be added each month. You can use the card to pay for your food items at the store or farmers market. The amount you receive each month will be determined by how many people live in your household. To qualify for SNAP in Oregon, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Felons who care for at least one minor child may qualify for a monthly cash grant through TANF. The program provides people with cash grants that can be used to pay for a variety of living expenses. The funds can be used on such things as rent, food, transportation, paying bills, and more. The amount of money you receive is determined by the number of people in your household. The maximum amount that is given is $506 per month. Qualifications include having a low income and being a legal resident. To apply, click here.
Medicaid – Those who are having difficulty paying for healthcare may be able to get assistance through the Medicaid program. The federally funded program will provide those with a low income with free healthcare, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, vision and dental care, and more. Medicaid provides low income people with a way to receive the healthcare they need, without having to pay for it. To qualify, you have to have to meet the income requirements and be a legal resident. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program is federally funded and aims to ensure that everyone has affordable housing. There are several programs that HUD offers, including helping to pay rent, avoid foreclosure, purchase a home, and receive weatherization services. HUD also owns several housing units, called Section 8, where they let people live for a low fee. To qualify for the programs you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To learn more about HUD in Oregon or apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Plan (LIHEAP) – This program is federally funded and helps people pay for one utility bill per year. You will need to re-apply each year that you need the assistance. If you are approved the grant will be paid directly to the energy provider on your behalf. The qualification for receiving the grant is that you meet the low income guidelines. This program will also provide people with weatherization services, which will help to reduce monthly heating and cooling bills. To apply, click here.
Lifeline – If you have a low income you may be able to receive a free phone through the Lifeline program. This program is funded by the federal government. If you are approved you will get a free mobile phone that offers voice, text, and data. To qualify, you have to meet the income guidelines. Those who are already receiving TANF or SNAP may automatically be approved for a Lifeline phone. To apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization offers programs throughout Oregon aimed at helping those who need assistance. The community programs they offer help by providing food, clothing, and counseling services. To learn more about the programs, click here.
In addition to the above grants for felons in Oregon, contact your local churches and non-profit organizations. There are many that have social programs that help those in their community. The programs they offer will often provide hot meals, boxes of food, bill paying assistance, transportation vouchers, referrals to other helpful programs, and more. Plus, these programs typically do not have strict qualification requirements. They are open to those who have a financial need.
