The state of Washington offers helpful grant programs for felons. The programs will assist felons during difficult financial times. They will help pay rent, purchase food, pay utility bills, and provide a cash grant for those who qualify. With the help of grant programs, felons can get help having their basic needs met while they try to become more self-sufficient. The programs are made possible through funding by the federal, state, and local governments.
While loans have to be paid back, grants do not. Felons who receive grants will not have to worry about ever paying them back. They are considered to be gifts to help during difficult times. You can receive numerous grants at one time, so be sure to apply for all of them that you qualify for. There are both short and long term grant programs for felons in Washington.
Grants for Felons in Washington
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program provides a cash grant for felons who qualify. To qualify for this program, you have to have at least one minor child you are caring for. You also have to be a legal citizen of the state and country. There is also income and asset limitations that have to be met in order to qualify for the cash grant. You cannot have more than $6,000 worth of resources, not including your vehicle. The average grant for a family of three is $569 per month. Some felons may have to participate in a work program to receive the grant. To apply, click here.
Basic Food – In the state of Washington, the nationwide Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is called Basic Food. This program, which used to be known as food stamps, will provide felons with a monthly grant that is used to buy food. Felons who are approved for the program will receive an electronic debit card where the funds are added each month. The card can then be used to pay for food items at the grocery store or farmers market. The amount of grant that you get depends on the number of people in your household. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a legal citizen. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program is federally funded and has a mission of ensuring everyone in the country has their housing needs met. Felons who need help with such things as paying rent, buying a home, avoiding foreclosure, or weatherization services may qualify. HUD also owns low income housing complexes, called Section 8. To learn more about the HUD programs in Washington or to apply, click here.
Medicaid – Felons who need help paying for medical bills may qualify for the federally funded program called Medicaid. This program will pay for such things as emergency care, doctor visits, prescription drugs, dental work, substance abuse treatment, wellness checks, vision care, and more. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien. To apply for Medicaid in Washington, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will help felons pay for one utility bill per year. You will need to re-apply each year that you need the grant. The payment is made directly to the utility provider on your behalf. The grant amount you receive depends on your heating costs and household information. Applications are taken from October 1 through September 30 each year. This program also provides felons with weatherization services, which will help to lower monthly utility bills. To apply, click here.
Lifeline – Felons who are having difficulty paying for their phone may qualify for a free one through the Lifeline program. Lifeline is federally funded and aims to help everyone be able to have a phone. Felons who are approved for the program will receive a free phone that has texting, voice, and data. To qualify, you have to meet the low income guidelines. Felons who are already receiving Food Benefits or another grant may immediately qualify for the free phone. To apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This program will help felons with some of their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and transportation vouchers. They also provide counseling services, household items, childcare, and help felons find affordable housing. The services vary by location. Most programs do not have a strict qualification requirement. To learn more or find a location near you, click here.
In addition to the above grants for felons in Washington, there are other programs offered by local churches and non-profit organizations. Programs vary by place, but some will help with food, clothing, shelter, transportation, and bill paying. Reach out to the local programs to see what is available. Most of them do not have strict requirements regarding who can receive the assistance.
