Felons who live in Texas will find that they have numerous grant programs they can turn to if they are experiencing financial difficulty. The grants that are available are largely made possible by the federal government, but some are funded by local and state agencies. There are grants to help with paying rent, obtaining food, paying utility bills, and more. Whether you need short or long term assistance, there are grant programs you can turn to for help.
Grants differ from loans in that they never have to be paid back. They are considered to be gifts that are given to people during times of need. The grants for felons in Texas help ensure one’s basic needs are being met, while they work at becoming self sufficient. Whether you turn to them to get help finding affordable housing, or to help pay a bill, they are a good resource during difficult times.
Grants for Felons in Texas
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program is funded by the federal government. TANF provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant that can be used on a variety of living expenses. The grant can be used to pay for bills, rent, transportation, or buy groceries. To qualify for the grant you have to have a low income, have at least one minor child you are providing for, and be a citizen or legal alien. The amount you receive is determined by how many people are in your household. The TANF program also provides one-time grants to help people, as well as providing grants for grandparents who are caring for their grandchildren. To apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Formerly known as food stamps, this program provides people with a monthly grant to purchase food. Those who need help buying food may qualify for the grant if they have a low income and they are a citizen or legal alien. If approved, 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 store or farmers market. The amount you receive is determined by the number of people in your household. To apply for SNAP in Texas, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need help paying for medical bills or getting healthcare may qualify for the federally funded program called Medicaid. This program will pay for people to get the healthcare services they need. Medicaid will pay for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, dental work, substance abuse treatment, and more. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal alien, and you have to meet the low income guidelines. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program helps those with a low income by paying one of their heating bills. You need to re-apply each year that you need the assistance. To qualify, you have to not only have a low income, but you have to be the person responsible for the bill. If you get the grant it will be paid directly to the energy provider on your behalf. LIHEAP will also provide weatherization services, which will help to reduce your monthly heating and cooling bills. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program is funded by the federal government and has a mission of ensuring everyone has access to affordable housing. The programs provided by HUD will help to pay rent, avoid foreclosure, purchase a home, and lower your utility bills with weatherization services. To meet the qualifications you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for HUD or learn more, click here.
Lifeline – Those who need help paying for their phone bill may qualify for a free phone through the government-funded program called Lifeline. Those who qualify will receive a free mobile phone that has data, voice, and text capabilities. To qualify, you have to meet the low income guidelines. If you are already receiving SNAP or TANF you may automatically be approved for the free phone. To apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This program provides assistance to those in need throughout the state of Texas. They help by providing food, clothing, and some other services, depending on the location. They do not typically have strict requirements to receive the help. To learn more about the services, click here.
In addition to the above grants for felons in Texas it is a good idea to inquire with your local churches and non-profit organizations. Most provide help to anyone who needs it, without having strict qualification requirements. They often provide hot meals, boxes of food, clothing, transportation vouchers, and more. Reach out to these places in your area and see what type of helpful services they offer to the community.
