Felons who live in South Carolina have numerous programs they can turn to if they need help financially. The programs in place offer grants that can be used to help meet one’s basic needs. The grants that are provided are for such things as paying rent, buying groceries, obtaining healthcare, and more. The grants are often made possible through the federal government, but there are also some that are funded locally and at the state level.
While you have to pay loans back, you do not ever have to pay grants back. They are considered to be gifts that are given to people to help them during difficult times. By receiving grants your basic needs will be met as your try to improve your situation. Every program has different requirements for being approved for the grant, so be sure to read them over carefully. You can receive benefits from more than one program at a time, so apply for all those you feel you are qualified for.
Grants for Felons in South Carolina
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant that can be used on a wide variety of living expenses. The cash you receive can be used for housing, food, paying bills, or transportation. The average monthly cash grant that is given is $207. To qualify for TANF, you have to have a low income, be providing care for at least one minor child, and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for TANF in South Carolina, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) – Felons who need help obtaining food may qualify for a grant through SNAP. This federally funded program was formerly known as food stamps. Those who are approved for SNAP will receive an electronic debit card, where the funds will be added each month. The card can then be used to pay for food at the grocery store and farmers market. They do also provide emergency food assistance for those who need immediate help. The average monthly SNAP grant is $261 in South Carolina. The qualification requirements include having a low income and being a legal citizen. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program is federally funded and has a mission of helping ensure everyone has affordable housing. In addition to helping people pay their rent and avoid foreclosure, they also help people purchase a home. Another service this program provides is weatherization, which will help to reduce your monthly utility bills. To qualify for HUD, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. To get more information or apply, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who are struggling to pay for healthcare or have their medical bills covered may qualify for Medicaid. This is a program run by the federal government that provides people who have a low income with free medical care. Those who are approved will receive free doctor visits, hospital stays, dental work, prescription drugs, substance abuse treatment, and more. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal alien and have a low income. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Those who need help paying for their utility bills may be able to get a grant through LIHEAP. The program helps people by paying one of their heating bills per year. You will need to re-apply every year that you need the assistance. To qualify, you have to have a low income. This program is open to both renters and homeowners. You can also receive weatherization services through LIHEAP, which will help reduce your monthly energy bills. To apply for a utility grant, click here.
Lifeline – Those who have a low income may be able to get a free phone through the government program called Lifeline. If you are approved you will receive a mobile phone that comes with voice, text, and data free of charge. If you are already receiving grants from TANF or SNAP, you may automatically be approved for a free phone through Lifeline. To learn more about the program or apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization offers assistance programs throughout South Carolina. The programs help people by providing food, clothing, shelter, counseling services, and more. They do not usually have strict requirements to receive the assistance. To learn more about the programs, click here.
In addition to the above grants for felons in South Carolina, you should inquire with your local churches and non-profit organizations. They often have helpful programs that will assist people in the community with such things as food, clothing, transportation vouchers, counseling services, and more. They also do not usually have strict requirements about who can receive the help. The programs are typically open to everyone who needs the assistance.
