There are nearly 8.5 million people who live in the state of New York. It is also one of the most expensive states in the country to live in. Those who live there, especially if they are in or near New York City, may struggle financially. To be able to make ends meet it is important that they know where they can turn for financial help. The good news is that there are numerous programs that provide financial help for African Americans in New York.
The programs that offer financial help for African Americans in New York are largely funded by the federal government. There are also some that are funded through the state and organizations that want to help people in the community. There is no limit to how many programs you can apply for or receive funds from, so be sure to apply for all those you feel you qualify for. Plus, the financial help that is provided is not considered to be a loan, so it never has to be paid back.
Financial Help for African Americans in New York
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program used to be called food stamps. While the name of the program has changed, the mission remains the same, which is to help people obtain food. Those who are approved for SNAP in New York will receive a debit-style card that can be used each month to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. The amount that you receive will be determined by how many dependents there are in your home. For example, a single person will receive $281 per month, while a family of four will receive $939 per month. There is no limit to how long you can receive financial help from SNAP. As long as you continue to meet the qualification requirements you can continue to receive the assistance. To qualify, you have to have to meet the low income guidelines. To get more information or apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance – This program offers financial help for African Americans in New York by giving cash each month. The cash benefit is to be used to pay for cost of living items, including hygiene products, food, transportation, bills, housing, etc. The amount you receive is determined by how many dependents are in the home. Temporary Assistance is offered to families, for those who need a safety net, and those who need emergency assistance. To be eligible to receive Temporary Assistance, you have to meet the low income guidelines. This program does put limits on how long you can receive the financial assistance. To get more information or apply, click here.
Medicaid – This program provides financial help for African Americans in New York by paying for healthcare expenses. Those who are approved for the program will be able to get free healthcare services, including seeing a doctor, going to the hospital, obtaining prescription drugs, going to the dentist, and more. There is no limit to how long you can receive assistance from the Medicaid program. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. To get more information or apply for Medicaid in New York, click here.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – This program offers financial help for African Americans in New York by paying for utility bills. Those who are struggling financially may be able to get one of their utility bills paid through this program. If it is approved, the funds will be given directly to the energy provider on your behalf. The program is also open to those who need immediate relief due to facing a shutoff. They will help with paying such bills as electricity, natural gas, oil, coal, propane, wood, kerosene, and corn. Eligibility is based on your income, size of household, and primary heating source. To get more information or apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program focuses on providing financial help regarding housing. Those who need help finding affordable housing, paying their rent, or who are facing foreclosure may be able to get help through HUD. They also help pay for weatherization services, which will reduce monthly energy bills, and they will help pay for necessary home repairs. HUD also owns housing units that they will let people live in for free. To qualify for help, you have to have a low income. To get more information or apply, click here.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – This federally funded program provides financial help for African Americans in New York. To qualify for help you have to be pregnant or have a child age five and under, and have a low income. Those who are approved for WIC will receive healthy foods each month. The program will also provide baby formula. The goal is to make sure those women, infants, and children are getting healthy foods. You can pre-apply online, and then if you meet the qualifications you will need to visit a WIC clinic for a check-up to sign up for the program. To get more information, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization is part of a national one that has over 3,000 locations around the country. Those who are struggling financially can reach out to one of the locations near them to get free food, clothing, shelter, bill payment assistance, counseling services, and more. They are affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, but they don’t require those who need help to be religious. They help everyone in the community who needs assistance. To get more information or find a location near you, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization has locations around the country. Many people are familiar with how they ring the bell and have red kettles out, collecting donations, each December. They offer people help by providing free hot meals, bags of food, clothing, transportation vouchers, bill payment assistance, shelters, counseling, case management, and more. They also have thrift stores where they are able to help people obtain small appliances and household goods. To find a location close to you, click here.