There are approximately 371,000 veterans living in the state of Maryland. The state also has one of the highest costs of living. Some veterans in Maryland may find it difficult to pay the bills or experience periods of financial difficulty. When this happens it can be a stressful time for those involved. The good news is there are grants for veterans in Maryland, and they can be effective at helping people make ends meet.
Unlike loans, the federal grants that are given to help people with low incomes are not ever expected to be paid back. They are essentially gifts that are given to people to help them get back on their feet and become self sufficient. Most grants are given to people on a short term basis, while a few others are given on a long term basis. The combination of short and long term grants can greatly help veterans be able to pay their bills.
Types of Grants for Veterans in Maryland
Food Supplement Program (FSP) – The Food Supplement Program in Maryland is essentially the same as the nationwide program called Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program provides those who qualify with a grant each month that is used to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. To qualify for FSP, you have to meet the low income requirements, and have an interview. They do also provide emergency food assistance for those who need immediate assistance. You can apply for FSP online or by mailing the application in. To apply, click here.
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) – This program is Maryland’s version of the nationwide program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program will provide cash grants to help those in need. The grants can be used to pay for a variety of living expenses, including transportation, food, rent, clothing, and more. To qualify for the program, you have to have a low income, participate in work activities, comply with substance abuse rules, and comply with child support. You also need to have a dependent child who is age 18 or under. You can apply for TCA online or at your local social services office. To apply, click here.
Energy Assistance – There are energy grants for veterans in Maryland, which will help pay for heating bills. The Energy Assistance program is offered through the Office of Home Energy. The program year runs from July through the following June, and you have to re-apply for the program each year. To qualify for the Energy Assistance grant you will need to show proof of residency, your identification, a social security card for each person in the house, and provide your household income information. You also need to provide a copy of your most recent energy bill. You can apply by mail or online. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Veterans who need help paying for their rent or housing may qualify for assistance through HUD. The programs through HUD are funded by the federal government. They will help people to pay their rent, avoid foreclosure, obtain necessary home repairs, and locate affordable housing. They can also help people find public housing options in their area. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal immigrant. Those interested in obtaining HUD assistance in Maryland should first call one of their counselors, who will assess your current situation and housing needs. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – Veterans in Maryland who feel they cannot afford to have a phone may want to apply for the Lifeline Assistance program. The program is federally funded, and provides a grant to help people pay for their phone bill each month. Those who are approved will only need to pay $9.25 per month for their phone, whether it is a land line or cellular one. The rest of the bill will be paid with the monthly grant. To apply, click here.
Not having enough money to pay your bills can be a scary and stressful time. There are grants for veterans in Maryland that will help with this situation. The grants will provide the funds you need to help pay your bills on your way to becoming self sufficient again. There is no limit to how many of the grants you can apply for.