There are numerous grant programs in Rhode Island for those who feel they need assistance paying the bills. The grants that are available are largely federally funded, but some are paid for through the state and local governments. Felons who are having financial difficulties may qualify for programs that will help pay for rent, provide food, pay medical bills, and more. There are both short and long term programs available to explore.
Being able to have your basic needs met while you are trying to get back on your feet is crucial. The grants for felons in Rhode Island will help meet basic needs, while people work at becoming self sufficient. The good thing about grants, too, is that they never have to be paid back. Unlike loans, which have to be paid back, grants are considered gifts to help people during difficult financial times. Be sure to check the qualification requirements for each one, because they are all different.
Grants for Felons in Rhode Island
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Those who need help with meeting their housing needs may be able to get assistance through the HUD program. HUD is federally funded and has a mission of trying to help people meet their housing needs. Some of the ways HUD helps people include paying rent, avoiding foreclosure, purchasing a home, and providing weatherization services. The weatherization services will help lower your utility bills each month. HUD also owns numerous housing complexes, called Section 8, where people can live for a small monthly fee. To qualify for HUD programs, you have to have a low income and be a legal citizen. To learn more about HUD in Rhode Island, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program used to be known as food stamps. It is a federally funded program that provides people with help purchasing food. If approved for the monthly grant, you will receive an electronic debit card where the funds will be added each month. The card can then be used to purchase food at the farmers market or grocery store. The amount of your monthly grant is determined by the number of people in your household. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for SNAP in Rhode Island, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need help paying for their medical bills may qualify for help through Medicaid. The federally funded program will help those with a low income by providing them with free healthcare. If you are approved, you will get free doctor visits, emergency care, prescription drugs, substance abuse treatment, dental work, and more. To qualify for the Medicaid program, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply, click here.
Rhode Island Works Program Cash Assistance – This program is the same as the nation one called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program provides those who qualify with cash assistance. To qualify, you have to have at least one minor child you are caring for. Those who receive this grant will also have access to a job training program, and you will receive transportation vouchers to help look for employment. You also have to be a citizen or legal alien to qualify. To apply for cash assistance in Rhode Island, 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 federally funded program provides those who qualify with a grant that is used to pay for one utility bill. The grant is paid directly to the energy provider on your behalf. The program will also provide crisis assistance for those who have received a shutoff notice, and weatherization services to help reduce your monthly bill. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To apply for a grant through LIHEAP in Rhode Island, click here.
Lifeline – Those who find it difficult to afford paying for a phone may qualify for a free one through the federally funded Lifeline program. The program will provide those who have a low income with a free mobile phone that has voice, text, and data. If you are already receiving TANF or SNAP then you may automatically qualify for a free Lifeline phone. To learn more or apply, click here.
In addition to the above grants for felons in Rhode Island you have other options to consider. Many local churches and non-profit organizations have programs in place to help those in the community. The programs will provide such things as hot meals, boxes of food, bill paying assistance, clothing, transportation vouchers, counseling services, and more. Most of these programs do not have strict qualification requirements. They are open to everyone who needs the help.
