There are over 43,000 veterans living in the state of Vermont. Veterans in Vermont, just as in other states, may at times experience financial hardship. This may be a result of being between jobs, or they may not be able to find a job that pays a high enough salary to make ends meet each month. Not knowing how to get all the bills paid each month can be stressful. The good news is that there are grants for veterans in Vermont, and they can be helpful during difficult financial times.
While loans have to be paid back, grants do not. They are essentially considered to be a gift that is given to people who need financial assistance. The most popular grants for veterans in Vermont are funded through government programs. They provide both short and long term assistance, helping people to obtain food, pay rent, get cash assistance, and more.
Types of Grants for Veterans in Vermont
3SquaresVT – The program called 3SquaresVT is the same as the nationwide one called Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program provides food assistance for those in need. Veterans who qualify for the program will receive a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. The grant is electronically added to a debit-style card each month that you can use to pay for groceries. To be eligible for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. The monthly amount you receive depends on your income and number of people in your household, with the average benefit being $235 per month. You can apply in person, online, or by mail. To apply, click here.
Reach Up – The Reach Up cash assistance program in Vermont is similar to the nationwide one called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program provides cash assistance to those in need. The cash grants can be used for living expenses, such as food, clothing, shelter, transportation, etc. To qualify, you have to have a dependent minor child in the home, and meet the low income requirements. There is a five year limit for receiving the cash assistance. They do require most people to participate in work activities to continue receiving the benefit. You can apply in person, online, or by mail. To apply, click here.
Energy Assistance – There are energy grants for veterans in Vermont. They are offered through two sources, including Green Mountain Power and Vermont Gas. The program offered through Green Mountain Power gives those who qualify a 25% discount on their monthly energy bills. The program through Vermont Gas offers those who qualify a 20% discount on their monthly bill. You have to meet the low income requirements to qualify for the programs. They both also offer emergency fuel assistance. You can apply online. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The HUD programs are federally funded, and help people with their housing needs. Veterans who need affordable housing or assistance paying rent may qualify for a HUD program. The programs will help pay rent, avoid foreclosure, obtain necessary home repairs, and locate affordable housing. They can also provide information regarding Section 8 and public housing options in your area. To qualify for HUD programs you have to meet the low income requirements. Those interested in applying must first speak with a HUD counselor in Vermont, who will assess your current financial situation and housing needs. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – Most people feel having a phone is essential, if only for emergency purposes. Yet the monthly bill can be difficult for some veterans. Those who need assistance paying for their phone may qualify for a grant through Lifeline Assistance. Those approved for the program will only have to pay $9.25 per month for their phone, whether it is a land line or cellular one, and the rest is paid each month with a federal grant. To qualify for the program you have to meet the low income requirements. To apply, click here.
The grants for veterans in Vermont can be an important tool to helping people make ends meet, while they strive for self sufficiency. There are no limits to the number of grant programs you can apply for, so it’s a good idea to apply for them all and see which ones you can get assistance from.