Why Do Government Assistance Programs Exist?
Most government programs were started as a safety net for low-income people. By ensuring basic needs are met, those in need can focus on their growth and development to eventually get off government assistance and live enjoyable, productive lives on their own. The federal government often offers funding for such programs, while states are in charge of administering them. While there are tons of assistance programs and resources out there to help you get or stay on your feet, here are the most popular ones.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Although this program formally changed its name to SNAP, many still call it food stamps. Regardless of the name, the objective is the same: To ensure low-income families put food on the table, so they do not starve.
Qualify for SNAP by making below a certain income for your household size, and you will get an EBT card that will be loaded with funds each month so you can purchase essentials at the grocery store. Think of SNAP as a long-term solution to food insecurity that can ensure you never go hungry.
Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
While SNAP gives you monthly funds to buy groceries with your EBT card, WIC offers food, vouchers, education, and more for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women and young children up to age five. Due to its restrictions, WIC isn’t really considered a long-term solution to food insecurity. It can give you nutritional essentials when you or your very young children need them, however, so you don’t go without.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
If you have heard of Section 8 before, you are familiar with what the Housing Choice Voucher Program does. Why? Because they are different names for the same thing. With Section 8, you will not have to pay more than 30 percent of your income towards rent, allowing you to save for other bills while enjoying safe housing. In some cases, you can even use your Section 8 voucher to purchase a home to stop renting altogether.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Rent isn’t the only housing-related expense you need to worry about when living on a limited income, as utilities can be quite costly too. With LIHEAP, you can get your heating and cooling costs covered to make your utility bills much more manageable.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Many consider Internet an essential utility nowadays since we need to get online to do so many things. With the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can get high-speed Internet for free if you qualify and pair it with a low-cost provider or at least a $30 monthly discount.
Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF)
If you are strapped for cash, TANF can give you money for a limited time until you become self-sufficient. And while the cash benefits are great when you are barely getting by, these benefits of TANF may be even better: Child care and job training.