Families across the country are struggling to make ends meet. According to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau, the poverty rate was 11.4 percent. With the rising cost of living and wages staying the same, it’s no wonder many people are turning to government programs for help.
However, while many federal agencies offer assistance, not all of them are well-known or easy to access. Below are the government programs that can help improve the lives of families in need.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP helps provide nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families. Its goal is to reduce hunger and food insecurity by supplying recipients with access to healthy food.
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SNAP benefits can be used to purchase food items at participating grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other retail locations. Recipients can also buy seeds and plants, so they can grow their food.
To be eligible for SNAP, households must meet certain income and resource criteria. As of 2021, the federal rules require a general household income of 130 percent or lower than the poverty line. This limitation ensures that only those who genuinely need assistance are receiving it.
Families can improve their health and well-being by taking advantage of government programs like SNAP. So, if you or someone you know is struggling to afford food, don’t hesitate to apply for this significant benefit.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
CHIP is a state and federal partnership that provides low-cost health insurance to children whose families earn money that does not qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private health insurance.
CHIP covers doctor visits, immunizations, prescriptions, dental care, hospitalizations, and more. And in some states, CHIP covers pregnant women too. This program ensures that all children have access to quality health care.
Each state has different requirements for qualification, but the general rule is that children must be under the age of 18 and a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen.
No child should go without health insurance, so if you think your family might qualify for CHIP, be sure to look into it. This program has helped countless children and families receive the care they need.
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loan
An FHA loan is a mortgage benefit the federal government provides that helps make homeownership more affordable for low- and moderate-income families.
FHA loans are available to first-time homebuyers and repeat buyers alike. And, unlike traditional mortgages, FHA loans only require a 3.5 percent down payment. It makes homeownership more attainable for those who might not otherwise be able to afford it. To qualify for an FHA loan, borrowers must have a steady income, good credit history, and enough savings for a down payment.
Owning a home is a significant milestone, and the FHA loan program can help make it happen. If you’re considering buying a home, applying for an FHA loan will be a smart move.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is federally-funded assistance helping low-income households to pay for energy services such as heating and cooling, weatherization, and energy crisis assistance. It also offers a one-time payment to eligible families during winter to help with energy costs.
However, LIHEAP assistance is not available to everyone. It requires a household income not exceeding the 150 percent poverty line or 60 percent of the state median income, whichever is greater.
If you need help paying your energy bills, LIHEAP may be able to assist you. Be sure to check the program’s requirements and see if you qualify. Doing so could help you keep your home warm this winter.
No Child Left Behind Title I Grants
With the No Child Left Behind program, the federal government provides funding to schools, so they can improve the education of students from low-income families. The goal is to help struggling students meet state academic standards and strengthen their knowledge.
Schools receive Title I funding based on the number of low-income students enrolled. The money can be used for various purposes, such as hiring teachers, providing professional development, and purchasing materials.
If you have children in school, ask the principal if the school receives Title I funding. If so, your children may be receiving extra help to succeed academically. And that’s something all parents can feel good about.
The United States government offers many programs to help improve the lives of its citizens. A wide range of benefits is available, from assistance with food and housing to health care and energy bills. So, if you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek government assistance. It could make all the difference.
