Low-income adults can find help with housing, food, energy costs and health care throughout the U.S. Private and religious organizations, as well as state, federal and local government agencies, offer assistance programs that enable those with low-income to meet financial needs and maintain a healthy standard of living. Programs typically have eligibility requirements, which can include income and asset limits, work obligations and citizenship or residency requirements.
Housing Choice Vouchers Program
Formerly known as the Section 8 Program, the federal Housing Choice Vouchers Program helps elderly, disabled and low-income people to afford housing. Administered by local public housing agencies, the program provides assistance to pay rent for homes, apartments or townhouses. Not required to live in public housing projects, participants can often remain in their current residence. The program pays a subsidy directly to a landlord, and the participant must pay the remaining rental cost. Eligibility depends on family size, annual income, and citizenship or immigration status. Low-income adults interested in Housing Choice Vouchers Program assistance can apply at their local PHA or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development office.
Medicaid
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides health care services for low-income, blind, disabled and pregnant people. Participant rules and eligibility requirements vary, depending on the state, and can require copayments for certain medical services. Eligibility typically includes income and asset limits and can require U.S. citizenship or legal alien residency. Additional requirements and limitations can include real property ownership and age. Benefits provided by the Medicaid program can pay for doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, specialist services and emergency care, according to Medicare. Low-income adults who wish to apply for Medicaid benefits can contact their local social services agency.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The federal government funds the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which state and local agencies administer. The LIHEAP helps participants pay for energy bills, provides aid during an energy crisis or provides assistance to weatherize a home. Eligibility requirements include income limits, which can vary depending on the state. The LIHEAP provides assistance in all U.S. states, Washington, D.C., five U.S. territories, as well as to members of federally recognized American Indian tribes. The LIHEAP works in association with the National Energy Assistance Referral program, which can provide information to households interested in assistance. Local social services agencies can often direct residents to participating LIHEAP administrators.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides food benefits to low-income individuals and families. SNAP provides participants with a monthly food allowance, which they receive on a benefits card. The card works similar to a credit or debit card, which participants can use to make purchases at participating supermarkets, farmers markets and convenience stores. Eligibility requires households to meet income levels and adult participants can face work requirements. Low-income adults in need of food assistance can contact the SNAP office in their community.
Tags: Assistance Program, Low-income adults, Choice Vouchers, Choice Vouchers Program, Energy Assistance
