Many families living on a low-income often struggle to provide their everyday needs. Families may not be able to provide adequate health care, afford decent and safe housing or pay for the cost of food for themselves and their children. Several federally run programs help low-income families and individuals by subsidizing the cost of their everyday living.
Medical Coverage
The Medicaid program is a federally funded health insurance program. Under Medicaid, recipients can receive a variety of medical services, such as routine doctor's visits, hospital care and nursing home care. They can also receive special needs services such as physical therapy or chemotherapy. To qualify for Medicaid, applicants must fit into a low-income category and have very few personal assets. However, not all low-income individuals qualify for Medicaid. The applicant must also meet medical criteria such as having a disability or being pregnant. Each state sets its qualifications for Medicaid. Individuals can apply through their state's Health and Human Services Department.
Housing Assistance
The housing choice voucher program commissioned by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) helps low-income families afford a home in the private sector, outside the housing assistance communities. Under the program, qualified families will have a portion of their rent paid directly to their landlord. The family can choose any home they wish as long as the landlord accepts housing vouchers and the property meets the sanitary housing conditions set forth by HUD. Each state sets the income limits for the housing vouchers in its area. Applicants can apply at their local Department of Housing and Urban Development office.
Food Assistance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides low-income families with a debit card they can use to purchase food items at a participating grocery store. Any store-bought food items, such as vegetables, meats, cheeses and fruits, qualify for the program. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, an individual can receive up to $200 in benefits and each member of the family can receive another $150 monthly. To qualify, applicants must have limited personal resources and meet low-income standards. For example, the income for a family of four cannot exceed $ 2,389 in gross monthly income, according to the USDA. Families can apply for the program at their local Department of Health and Human Services.
Emergency Cash
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides families with cash they can use to cover the cost of everyday living. Qualified applicants will receive an electronics benefit card they can use to purchase items at a register or to remove cash from an ATM. The TANF program is meant to be an emergency assistance program and only provides help on a short-term basis. While TANF is a federally funded program, each state sets the qualification guidelines and benefit amounts for its residents. Applicants can apply at a Department of Health and Human Services office or the Office of Family Assistance in their state.
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