There are a few things that the state of Pennsylvania is known for, including being home of the world-famous company Hershey’s. It’s also known as the place where American democracy was born. The state is home to nearly 13 million people, and at times there are some people who may struggle financially. When this happens it is important that people know where to get financial help for African Americans in Pennsylvania.
The good news is there are numerous programs that provide financial help for African Americans in Pennsylvania. They are made possible by a combination of funding provided by the federal government, state government, and there are some organizations that provide help to those in the community.
Anyone who receives help through these programs will not have to pay it back, because it’s not considered loan. The financial help provided is considered to be a gift to help those in the community who are struggling financially. Whether the financial struggle is due to being between jobs, divorce, or injury or illness, it’s good to know there are programs that will help ensure your basic needs are being met during that time.
Financial Help for African Americans in Pennsylvania
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program offers financial help for African Americans who are struggling to obtain food. Those who are approved for SNAP will be able to get free food each month. There is no limit to how long you can receive the assistance. As long as you continue to qualify for the help you can receive it. Once approved, you will receive a debit-style card that has the funds added each month electronically. The card can be used to pay for groceries at the farmer’s market and store. You can apply for this program online or in person. The amount of the monthly benefit will be determined by how many dependents there are in the family. For example, a family of three would get $740 per month. To get more information or apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program provides a monthly cash benefit to those who qualify. The cash benefit can be used to pay for the cost of a variety of living expenses, including housing, transportation, food, paying bills, etc. The amount that you receive is determined by how many dependents are in the household. To qualify for TANF in Pennsylvania, you have to have a low income, be a citizen or legal non-citizen, and have at least one minor child you are providing for. There is a limit of 60 months on how long you can receive help through this program. To get more information or apply, click here.
Medicaid – This program provides financial assistance for African Americans in Pennsylvania in the form of medical care. Those who are qualified for the program will be able to receive free medical care. The program will allow those who are approved to be able to get such services as hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, dental visits, eye doctor care, and prescription drugs free of charge. To qualify for the program, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through the Medicaid program. As long as you continue to meet the qualifications for the program you can continue to receive assistance. To get more information or apply for Medicaid in Pennsylvania, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program focuses on helping people pay their utility bills. Those who are approved for the program will have their bill paid for, with the funds being given directly to the utility provider on the person’s behalf. To qualify for the program you have to be the person responsible for paying the bill and you have to have low income. You will need to re-apply for this program each year that you need the help paying the bill. To get more information or apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Those who need help finding affordable housing in Pennsylvania, need help paying their rent, or who are facing foreclosure may be able to get help through HUD. This federally funded program will help people with their housing issues. They also provide free weatherization services, which helps to reduce your monthly utility bills, and they will help pay for some necessary home repair bills. Additionally, they own housing units that they will allow people to live in for free. To qualify for help through HUD, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information, click here.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – This program focuses on providing those who qualify with free healthy foods and baby formula. To qualify for the program, you have to have a low income, be considered nutritionally at risk, and be pregnant or have at least one child age five and under. If you are approved, you will be able to go to the grocery store each month and get free healthy foods. To apply, you have to visit a WIC clinic near you. To find a location, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization offers over 3,000 locations around the country. Each location offers helpful programs to meet the needs of those in the community who need assistance. Some of the programs they provide include offering free food, clothing, and shelter. Reach out to a location near you to see what services they offer. To find a location, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization has locations around the country, offering free services to help people in the community. They offer financial help for African Americans in Oregon in the form of free hot meals, bags of food, clothing, counseling, shelters, and more. Many people recognize them when they see their red kettles collecting donations each December. To get help through this organization you have to reach out to one of the locations near you. To find a location, click here.