Housing Grants For Felons

As a felon, you’re likely wondering whether you can obtain housing grants. Within this guide, you’ll learn more about the housing grants for convicted felons.

Federal and state governments often offer grants to people in need. However, some people cannot access and use these grants due to things they’ve done in the past. Today, housing is a hotly debated subject since rent and house prices are on the rise and wages are stagnant.

As a result, millions of Americans need assistance paying for housing. In addition to this, America needs access to more affordable housing. It is pertinent for all residents to find suitable housing in safe, convenient locations.

Housing Grants For Felons

Housing Grants For Felons

Recommended: Felon Friendly Apartments

Checking With HUD

First and foremost, you’ll want to check with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. The cabinet department is a vital part of the federal government. The agency was established as a cabinet department in 1965 and incorporated into law thanks to President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society program.

In general, HUD helps people find and pay for suitable housing in their area. Felons should start by talking to the local HUD agency in their area. When doing so, you’ll be able to learn more about the available rental houses for individuals in need.

Programs offered through HUD are usually different than Section 8 housing. Therefore, you’ll need to learn more about your options. Also, don’t forget that the federal government intends these programs to be short-term solutions.

Therefore, it expects residents to eventually obtain suitable employment after Section 8 benefits and move to new residences. Nevertheless, it is a good starting point for people who are desperate to find affordable housing.

The only downside is that HUD’s programs are immensely popular across the country. Therefore, you’re likely going to need to add your name to a waiting list. Depending on the current demand, there is a risk that you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can obtain housing through these programs.

Ultimately, it is wise to speak to a HUD representative in your area as soon as possible. Otherwise, more people are going to jump in line ahead of you.

Also, don’t forget that you will need to qualify for these programs. To do that, your income has to be well below the federal poverty limit. If you meet these qualifications, you may receive a discounted price.

Explore Craigslist

Craigslist

You likely aren’t going to find housing assistance for felons on Craigslist. It is wise to avoid property managers and property management firms because they often do not help felons. Instead, you’ll need to find rentals that are managed by individuals.

Although a property management company may ignore applications from felons, individuals may not. Working with a small landlord increases the likelihood that they’ll skip the background check. If they do, there is a better chance that you’ll get the rental. Still, it is a good idea to tell the landlord more about your history.

Being honest can make a huge difference in the long run. Be open with the landlord. However, you can also remain silent. If they do not ask and do not request a background check, it might be best to say nothing. If they ask, it is wise, to be honest.

Being caught lying will prevent you from getting the position. Craigslist won’t help you obtain rental assistance, but it can help you find affordable rentals in your area. Plus, you’ll be able to work with small landlords that might be happy to rent to ex-felons.

Friends & Housing Assistance For Felons

Are you having difficulty finding a suitable rental in your city? Unfortunately, you may need to seek out alternatives. Sadly, Section 8 application timeframe and governmental grants take a long time. You’ll have to wait weeks or months to get assistance. Most people do not have time to wait. If you fit into this category, you’ll need to obtain assistance as soon as possible.

One of the best ways to do that is by speaking with friends and family members. You might have a few friends or family members who are willing to help. Talk to these individuals and see what they ask. With a little luck, they’ll be happy to help.

Again, you have to understand that this is going to be a temporary solution. You don’t want to depend on your friends forever. Instead, you’ll want to try crashing on their couch or sofa for a few weeks. It is a good idea to help them as much as possible too.

For instance, you can try giving them some money for groceries or help clean their house. Be sure to make yourself useful so you don’t overstay your welcome.

Once you’ve moved in, it is a good idea to begin searching for employment so you can eventually move out and get your own apartment. Nevertheless, this is a good option since most friends will be happy to help.

Talk To Your Parole Officer

Parole Officer

If you’ve recently been released, you’ll likely find yourself working with a parole officer. Remember that this individual is there to help you. It is their responsibility to assist you and help you integrate into society. If you’re experiencing any issues, it would be wise to consult with your parole officer.

There is a good chance that they’ll be able to help. In all likelihood, they’ll have relationships with people in your area. Therefore, they can likely help you find a place to stay.

Parole officers often have information about felon-friendly rentals in their areas. Plus, they can help you sign up for local reentry programs. Talk to your parole officer and tell them what you’re going through. They’ll be happy to help.

If they can’t help, they may know someone who can. Plus, they’ll be able to help you faster than agencies offering housing grants for convicted felons.

Financial Programs For Those In Need

When you need access to a good rental, you’ll want to find one as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you might find yourself on the street.

You don’t want this to happen. Instead, you should take advantage of the federal programs available to you. Some of them will be explored in greater depth below.

(1) Temporary Assistance For Needy Families

First and foremost, you’ll want to learn more about this program. As the name implies, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families grant can help you pay for a suitable rental in your area. The program provided monthly cash assistance to individuals in need.

Thankfully, it includes felons. In addition to this, the grant offers financial assistance for many necessities, including utilities, food, medication, and more. The only downside is that this program isn’t suitable for all felons. You have to provide for a minor child to qualify. If you don’t, you won’t be able to enroll in this program.

You’ll also need to meet the income requirements and be an American citizen or legal alien. Depending on where you live, you may need to partake in a work program. Be sure to check with locals in your state so you can find out what works for you.

(2) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Are you having difficulty paying your utility bills? If so, you should try getting assistance. In some cases, felons might be able to acquire low-income home energy assistance programs.

Once you’ve qualified for the program, the grant will cover one heating bill each year. The money will be given directly to the energy company you’re working with.

Just remember that you’ll need to re-apply each year. Again, you’ll need to meet the income requirements before signing up. If you receive a notice that your energy is going to be shut off, this program can help.

(3) Lifeline

Once you’ve found suitable housing, you may want to sign up for a cellphone. Having a phone when you go out can give you peace of mind. If something happens, you’ll be able to use the phone to get assistance. With that being said, you should learn more about the Lifeline program.

It can help you pay for your phone bill. Depending on where you live, you may get a free phone. Alternatively, you may receive a discount on your monthly bill. If you need assistance, learn more about this program.

(4) SNAP

Don’t forget the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. The program is a good choice for many since it can help you obtain food.

If you have little income and need access to food, the SNAP grant can help. Once you’ve enrolled in the program, you’ll receive money each month so you can purchase food.

The benefits will be added to your electronic debit card so you can use it at your local grocery stores. To qualify, you must have little income and you need to be an American citizen or legal alien.

Summary

Getting housing can be difficult. It is even harder for current felons. Nevertheless, you can find assistance. The federal government offers many grants that can help.

If you’re looking for affordable housing, you should start by talking to your parole officer or a HUD representative in your area.

16 thoughts on “Housing Grants For Felons”

  1. I need some help with housing for felony charges on my record. it’s hard. trying not to be homeless again. any help in the tampa bay area florida would be appreciated .ty. steve

    • Hi Steve! My name is Taleea. I’m a (lowly) advocate. I’m 21, and I live in New Jersey. I’m currently helping individuals through mutual aid. I do my best to connect people with resources they feel they need. If you’re still looking for residence I would love to help search with you.

    • Hi Wendy! My name is Taleea. I’m a (lowly) advocate. I’m 21, and I live in New Jersey. I’m currently helping individuals through mutual aid. I do my best to connect people with resources they feel they need. If your son is still searching for residence I would love to be a partner in the process!

  2. Hi my name is Sandra and I can really use some help with trying to find an apartment or homeowner that will give a second chance to felons in the phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa area trying to readjust back into society is hard and now I find myself at another block in my road.

    • Hi Sandra! My name is Taleea. I’m a (lowly) advocate. I’m 21, and I live in New Jersey. I’m currently helping individuals through mutual aid. I do my best to connect people with resources they feel they need. I hope you have re-adjusted well and found your place in this world. If it turns out that you are still searching for residence, or are in need of another service, I would love to help you.

      • Hi Taleea,
        My fiance and I both have previous drug charges from about 3 years ago and before that. He is a disabled veteran and gets a monthly check from the VA, therefore we can afford to pay rent somewhere but we’re currently having to pay for hotel rooms everyday and haven’t had any luck finding Somerton to rent to us. We are located in Greenville SC currently but we would definitely relocate if need be. Looking for anything at this point. Thanks in advance.

    • Hi Jill! My name is Taleea. I’m a (lowly) advocate. I’m 21, and I live in New Jersey. I’m currently helping individuals through mutual aid. I do my best to connect people with resources they feel they need. I hope you have acquired the help you needed and have been progressing since this post. If you are still looking for residence or any other assistance/service I would love to work with you in doing so.

  3. There is no help for felons, the ones who really want to change their lives don’t stand a chance. DOC sends them out to the wolves and expects them to succeed. I have texted, called and emailed over 200 people in the Denver CO area and with the restrictions and judgmental attitudes it is no wonder that they go back to what they did to go to prison. I really feel sorry for the ones who have no one to even turn to for help, what a sad world that we live in. There would be less recidivism if there were people to help them get on their feet and not put them in shelters and places where they won’t succeed.

  4. Looking for residential help in the Las Vegas, NV area. Been trying to find an affordable apartment/house for rent and been striking out for weeks now. So hard to stay a float with this dark cloud (felony record) hanging over. Been out of trouble for almost 10 years and no violence on record but still getting turned down for residency everywhere I go. Any help would be so highly appreciated. Thank you.

  5. I am in the Manchester Kentucky area,and I have been in Federal prison for 11+ years..non-violent,non-sexual charges…I need ANYKIND,ANYWHERE help that one has to offer??I am willing to go anwhere,do MOST things..I am not a bad lookinging guy,and fit in most places…any advise is welcome..I do not have ANY resources to help me.
    thank you
    Kevin Davis

  6. I have been trying to find an apartment for my brother for months now. But being a sex offender it is extremely hard. Does anyone have any suggestions on where we can find him an apartment that will except him. We live in Wisconsin but trying to find felon friendly apartment is hard. Anyone know of any places we can try applying to.
    Please let us know and appreciate any help or advice anyone can give us.

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