There are nearly 28,000 veterans who live in Washington DC. The veterans in Washington DC also tend to experience a higher rate of unemployment than non-veterans do. Whether due to being between jobs or not being able to find a job that pays a high enough salary, many experience financial difficulties. The good news is that there are grants for veterans in Washington DC, and they can be helpful when people are struggling to make ends meet.
While loans have to be paid back, grants do not. They are considered to essentially be a gift to help those in need. Most of the popular grants for veterans in Washington DC are funded by the federal government. They have been designed to help people obtain food, pay rent, pay utility bills, and more. The grant programs are typically all open to those who are citizen or legal immigrants.
Types of Grants for Veterans in Washington DC
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Veterans who need assistance obtaining food may qualify for a monthly grant through SNAP. The program provides those who qualify with a grant each month that can be used to pay for groceries at the store or farmer’s market. To qualify for SNAP, you have to meet the low income requirements, meet the assets limits, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply for SNAP in Washington DC in person or online. To apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Those who need cash assistance to help with living expenses may qualify for help through TANF. The program provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant that can be used on such things as paying rent, buying food, paying for transportation, and more. The amount of the monthly grant is determined by how many people are in your household and what your income level is. Unlike other areas around the country, Washington DC does not have a time limit on how long you can receive a TANF grant. To qualify for TANF, you have to have at least one minor dependent child in the home, be a resident of Washington DC, have a very low income, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply in person or online. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – There are energy grants for veterans in Washington DC. Those who need help paying for their energy bill may qualify for help through LIHEAP. The program will provide a one-time payment of your energy bill if you qualify. The grants range from $250 to $1,800. You can re-apply for the program each year. The program also offers emergency assistance and weatherization services. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. You can apply for an energy grant in Washington DC online. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – There is housing assistance available through HUD programs. The programs have been designed to help people avoid homelessness. The programs will help people to pay rent, avoid foreclosure, and obtain necessary home repairs. They can also help you locate public housing options in your area. To qualify for HUD programs, you have to meet the low income requirements. To begin the application process, you first need to speak with a HUD counselor in Washington DC, who will assess your financial situation and housing needs. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – Having a phone is seen as essential for most people, if only for emergency purposes. Yet it may not be affordable for many people who are struggling to pay their bills each month. Veterans who are seeking an affordable phone option may qualify for the Lifeline Assistance program. Those who qualify only have to pay $9.25 per month for their phone, whether it’s a cellular or land line, and the government pays the rest with a grant each month. To qualify, you need to have a low income. To apply, click here.
The grants for veterans in Washington DC are a helpful resource for those who are struggling financially. They can help you make ends meet, while you strive to become self sufficient again. There are no limits to the number of programs you can apply for, so it’s a good idea to apply for all those you feel you qualify for, and see which ones you may receive assistance from.