A government grant refers to any program that rewards money to help you with an essential expense. While businesses frequently use government grants as a way to fund projects, there are smaller grants available for personal use. For example, you can receive assistance paying for your medical bills, buying food, affording school or getting a house. Each grant has different eligibility requirements, typically based on your income.
Other grants are for larger scale projects, helping with public services, like upgrading a school. The best part about grants is the money does not need to be repaid.
Some of the most common government grants come through assistance programs. These grants are available to all lower income applicants. There are several grants to choose from.
For example, if you are struggling to make ends meet despite working two jobs, there are grants available to help with your living expenses. You can also request financial assistance if your rent recently increased, or if you lost your job and are falling behind on bills. There are even government grants available for smaller services, such as buying groceries or paying for childcare.
Some government grants are available solely based on financial need, while others require you to meet additional requirements. Not all grants are compatible, and you may be disqualified if you are already receiving assistance or previously received funding from a grant.
An important government grant is available for families who are struggling with affording food. There are multiple grants available to not only make food accessible, but ensure you have access to fresh, healthy ingredients. These grants are typically available from either the Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
As of writing, the largest assistance program for purchasing food is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), informally known by the older program name, food stamps. This program provides financial assistance through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Each month, the card is uploaded with funds, which can be used at participating grocery stores or select food sellers to buy groceries. Some other food assistance programs are:
- Women, Infants and Children (WIC). WIC is only available to pregnant and postpartum women, as well as children five years of age and younger. Instead of providing funds directly, the program sends food packages to beneficiaries.
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). CSFP is another program aimed at a specific audience, senior citizens who are at least 60 years of age.
- Free school means. This program provides free lunches at school for lower-income, school aged children.
If you need general assistance, you can apply for a grant through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF directly offers financial assistance, as well as job training and education to help you achieve financial stability. If you need help with child care services, the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) offers grants for daycare and similar services.
