There are nearly 364,000 veterans who call the state of Wisconsin home. Veterans living in Wisconsin may find that they experience difficult financial times once in a while. This may happen due to being between jobs, or because they are unable to find a job that pays a high enough salary to keep pace with the rising cost of living. The good news is that there are grants for veterans in Wisconsin, and they can be helpful during times of need.
Grants, unlike loans, never have to be paid back. The most popular grant programs in Wisconsin are funded by the federal government, and they essentially consider the funds to be a gift. They are given to those who do not have enough money to make ends meet and need financial help. The grant programs will help people to pay rent, buy groceries, pay their heating bill, and more.
Types of Grants for Veterans in Wisconsin
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Veterans in Wisconsin who need housing assistance may qualify for help through HUD programs. The HUD programs will help those who qualify to pay rent, avoid foreclosure, obtain necessary home repairs, and locate affordable housing. HUD can also help you locate Section 8 and public housing options in your area. To qualify for the assistance, you have to meet the low income requirements. The application process with HUD starts with speaking with one of their counselors, who will assess your current financial situation and housing needs. To apply, click here.
Food Share – The Food Share program in Wisconsin is the same as the national one called Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program provides those who qualify with a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. The amount of your monthly grant is determined by how many people are in your household that will be covered by the grant, and what your income level is. To be eligible for Food Share in Wisconsin, you have to meet the low income requirements, be a citizen or legal immigrant, and participate in an interview with the agency. You may also be required to show proof of identity. You can apply in person or online. To apply, click here.
Wisconsin Works (W-2) – The Wisconsin Works (W-2) program is the same as the nationwide one called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The program provides cash assistance to those who qualify. The monthly cash grant can be used for living expenses, such as paying rent, buying food, paying utility bills, and more. To qualify for the program, you have to have at least one minor dependent child in your home, and participate in work programs. Some people may qualify for transportation assistance to make it to the work programs. You can apply online or in person. To apply, click here.
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) – There are energy grants for veterans in Wisconsin. Those who need help paying for their energy bill may qualify for a grant through WHEAP. The program will make a one-time payment of your energy bill, which is paid directly to the energy provider, and your account is credited. The heating season is October 1 through May 15. They also provide one-time electric bill assistance, emergency assistance, and heating unit repair assistance. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements. You can re-apply for the grant each year. You can apply in person or online. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – Veterans who would like to have a phone, but feel it’s not affordable may qualify for a grant through the Lifeline Assistance program. Those who are approved for the program only have to pay $9.25 per month for their phone bill, whether it’s a cellular or land line. The balance is paid each month with a federal grant. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To apply, click here.
Veterans who need help paying the bills may experience a lot of stress. The grants for veterans in Wisconsin can be helpful in making ends meet during difficult financial times. There is no limit to the number of grants you can apply for or receive funds from, so it’s a good idea to contact them all and see what you can qualify for.