Grant For Felons in Idaho
In Idaho, various grants are available to support felons in their rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. According to the Idaho Department of Correction, approximately 75% of felons in Idaho are eligible for some form of financial assistance. The Idaho State Board of Education offers the “Second Chance Scholarship” to help felons pursue higher education, with an average award amount of $2,500.
Additionally, the “Idaho Re-entry Program” provides grants of up to $10,000 to help felons with housing, employment, and transportation costs. In 2023, Idaho awarded over $1.5 million in grants to support felons in their rehabilitation journey.
Furthermore, the “Federal Pell Grant” program offers need-based grants of up to $6,495 to felons pursuing higher education, with 52% of Idaho’s felons eligible for this program. These grants aim to reduce recidivism rates and support felons in becoming productive members of society.
What are the Government Grants for Felons to Start a Business in Idaho?
Felons in Idaho seeking to start a business can access various grants and funding opportunities provided by federal, state, and local programs. While there may not be grants exclusively for felons, several programs are inclusive of individuals with criminal records, offering the financial support needed to build a successful business.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Grants
While the SBA does not directly provide grants for starting a business, programs like the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) can provide funding for innovative businesses. SBA-backed Microloans offer up to $50,000 to entrepreneurs, including felons, with a strong business plan and community-focused goals. - Idaho Department of Commerce Grants
The Idaho Gem Grant offers funding for small businesses that contribute to local economic development, particularly in rural areas. Grant amounts vary based on project needs but often range between $5,000 and $50,000, focusing on businesses that create jobs and stimulate the local economy. - Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG)
Administered by the USDA, these grants are designed to support small businesses in rural communities. Felons in Idaho can apply for amounts ranging from $10,000 to $500,000, depending on the project, to cover costs like equipment, marketing, or expansion efforts. - Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Funded by HUD, this program provides grants to businesses that benefit low-income communities or foster local economic development. The grant amounts typically range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the project scope and its alignment with local priorities. - Vocational Rehabilitation and Workforce Training Grants
Idaho’s Workforce Development Council offers funding for skills training and entrepreneurial initiatives that align with workforce needs. These grants, which can range from $1,000 to $10,000, are ideal for felons pursuing small-scale businesses or training for self-employment. - Reentry-Focused Nonprofit Programs
Nonprofits like The Second Chance Alliance sometimes provide microgrants to help felons start businesses. These grants are typically small, up to $5,000, and focus on providing mentorship, financial guidance, and startup assistance.
What are the Educational Grants for Felons in Idaho?
Felons in Idaho seeking education may have access to a variety of educational grants designed to support individuals who face financial and social barriers. These grants are intended to help felons pursue higher education, vocational training, and other educational opportunities. Below is a detailed explanation of available educational grants for felons in Idaho:
| Grant/Program Name | Eligibility | Benefits | Grant Amount / Assistance | Details |
|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, including felons, who demonstrate financial need. | Provides financial assistance for undergraduate education, including tuition, books, and supplies. | Up to $7,395 per year (2024-2025 academic year). | Felons are eligible if they meet financial need and are enrolled in an undergraduate program. |
| Second Chance Pell Grant | Available to incarcerated felons in federal or state prisons who meet Pell Grant eligibility. | Offers funding for eligible incarcerated felons to pursue postsecondary education while serving their sentences. | Up to $7,395 per year (same as Pell Grant). | Allows felons incarcerated in Idaho to access education through Pell Grant funds for eligible programs. |
| Idaho Opportunity Scholarship | Idaho residents enrolling in postsecondary education, including those with a criminal record. | Provides financial assistance to attend college or university in Idaho. | Up to $3,500 per year. | Requires a 2.8 GPA and enrollment at an eligible Idaho institution; available to felons as long as they meet eligibility criteria. |
| Idaho State Grants | Idaho residents attending eligible public universities or colleges. | Offers assistance for tuition and educational expenses for students with financial need. | Varies based on financial need. | Helps low-income felons attend public colleges in Idaho. |
| Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) | U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens with exceptional financial need. | Provides additional funds for college costs to students who demonstrate high financial need. | Up to $4,000 per year. | Aimed at students with significant financial need, including felons, to assist with tuition and fees. |
| Workforce Development Training Fund | Available to felons and other individuals seeking vocational training in high-demand sectors. | Provides funding for training programs and certifications in areas such as healthcare, IT, and skilled trades. | Varies depending on the program. | Supports felons looking to acquire job-specific skills that improve employability in Idaho’s labor market. |
| Idaho Vocational Rehabilitation Services | Available to felons with disabilities or barriers to employment. | Provides support for felons to attend college or vocational schools, focusing on those with disabilities. | Varies depending on individual needs and program. | Helps felons with disabilities obtain education or training in Idaho. |
| Adult Basic Education (ABE) Grants | Adults, including felons, who are working toward a high school diploma or GED. | Provides financial support for adult education to complete high school or obtain a GED. | Covers the cost of classes and materials for GED preparation. | Designed to assist felons who did not finish high school to pursue education, leading to better job opportunities. |
| Idaho State Board of Education Scholarships | Idaho residents, including felons, pursuing postsecondary education. | Provides financial assistance for college, focusing on residents who need help with tuition costs. | Varies depending on financial need. | Available for felons attending accredited Idaho institutions. |
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What are the Housing Grants Available for Felons in Idaho?
Felons in Idaho, like other individuals facing financial or social challenges, may have access to various housing grants and assistance programs designed to help with securing safe and affordable housing. These programs focus on providing financial support for rent, down payments, or home repairs and may help felons transition into stable housing situations. Here’s an overview of the housing grants and resources available for felons in Idaho:
1. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program offers rental assistance to low-income individuals, including felons, to help pay for safe and affordable housing. The voucher covers a portion of the rent based on the individual’s income and family size. While the exact amount varies, Section 8 vouchers typically pay for 70% to 80% of the rent, leaving the tenant to cover the remaining balance. Eligibility depends on income, family size, and criminal background, though past offenses may not necessarily disqualify applicants.
2. Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA)
The Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) provides several programs for low-income individuals, including felons, to assist with affordable housing. IHFA offers rental assistance, homeownership programs, and down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. For rental assistance, the grant amount varies depending on the applicant’s financial need and household size, but IHFA’s programs are generally designed to provide significant relief for those struggling to secure housing due to past convictions or other barriers.
3. Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP)
The Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) offers financial assistance to individuals at risk of homelessness, including felons. This program provides funds to cover rent payments, security deposits, and utility bills. The grant amount can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the individual’s need and circumstances. HPRP aims to keep individuals housed and help them regain stability after experiencing hardship.
4. Veterans Housing Assistance (for Felon Veterans)
Felon veterans may be eligible for Veterans Housing Assistance, including the VA Home Loan Program, which helps veterans purchase homes with no down payment and low interest rates. The VA Home Loan amount varies, but eligible veterans can borrow up to $548,250 for home purchases in Idaho, with the option for higher amounts in certain counties. Additional assistance may be available for veterans facing homelessness or housing instability, including temporary shelter and rent assistance.
5. Idaho Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
The Idaho Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) provides financial assistance to renters struggling to pay rent and utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other financial hardships. The grant amount can cover up to 12 months of rent and utility bills, with a maximum of $2,000 per month in rent assistance, depending on household income and circumstances. This program helps prevent eviction and supports housing stability for individuals, including felons, facing financial difficulties.
6. Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to help low-income residents pay for heating and cooling costs, ensuring that felons and other vulnerable individuals are not at risk of utility shutoff. The grant amount varies based on income and household size, but typically, LIHEAP can provide anywhere from $200 to $1,000 per year to cover energy bills. This assistance helps individuals maintain their housing by covering essential utility costs.
7. Local Nonprofit and Community Organizations
Various local nonprofits and community organizations in Idaho provide emergency rent assistance, temporary housing, and case management services for felons. Organizations such as The Salvation Army and Idaho Legal Aid Services offer grants and services to individuals facing housing instability. While the exact grant amount depends on the organization and the individual’s needs, assistance can cover rent, and deposits, or help find long-term housing solutions. Amounts typically range from $300 to $1,500, depending on the severity of the housing crisis.
What are the Medical Bill Assistance Programs and Grants for Ex-Convicted Felons in Idaho?
Ex-convicted felons in Idaho may face challenges accessing healthcare and managing medical bills. However, several programs and grants are available to help reduce medical costs, offering financial support to individuals with felony convictions who need assistance. Below are the key programs in Idaho that may assist felons with medical expenses:
| Program Name | Eligibility | Benefits | Grant Amount / Assistance | Details |
|---|
| Medicaid (Idaho Health Plan) | Low-income individuals, including felons, who meet income and other eligibility criteria. | Comprehensive health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and mental health services. | No fixed grant amount; covers broad medical expenses. | Felons may need to wait after incarceration before being eligible for coverage. |
| Idaho State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) | Individuals over age 65 or those with disabilities, including felons. | Free counseling and assistance in finding affordable health insurance options. | No direct financial assistance. | Guides individuals in accessing Medicaid, Medicare, and other healthcare options to reduce costs. |
| FamilyWize Prescription Savings Program | Open to all, including felons, with no income restrictions. | Discounts on prescription medications, reducing costs significantly. | Up to 75% off prescription costs. | Savings vary by medication but can range from 10% to 75% at participating pharmacies. |
| Idaho Charity Care Programs | Low-income individuals, including felons, who are unable to pay medical bills. | Financial assistance for medical bills, often reducing or eliminating costs. | Varies by healthcare provider. | Felons can apply directly to providers for assistance, which can cover hospital bills and outpatient care. |
| Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | Low-income households, including felons, may qualify for utility assistance. | Assistance with utility bills, which can free up funds for healthcare. | Up to $1,500 per year. | Helps with utility costs, easing financial burdens so individuals can allocate funds for healthcare. |
| St. Luke’s Health Foundation Financial Assistance Program | Low-income individuals, including felons, receiving care at St. Luke’s Health System. | Reduces medical bills for low-income patients, providing financial relief. | Varies based on income and need. | Felons receiving care at St. Luke’s can apply for financial assistance to reduce healthcare costs. |
| Idaho’s Medical Assistance Programs for Veterans | Felon veterans who meet service and income requirements for the VA Health Care System. | Comprehensive healthcare services including hospital stays, doctor visits, surgery, and mental health care. | Full coverage with minimal to no out-of-pocket costs. | Veterans who are felons may qualify for medical assistance through VA benefits, covering all major services. |
What are the Hardship Grants for Ex-Convicted Felons in Idaho?
Ex-convicted felons in Idaho who are facing financial difficulties may be eligible for various hardship grants and resources designed to provide relief and help them reintegrate into society. These grants focus on offering financial support for housing, employment, education, and other essential needs. Below are some of the key hardship grants and resources available to felons in Idaho:
1. Idaho Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
The Idaho Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) helps individuals who are facing financial hardship and are at risk of eviction due to the inability to pay rent. Felons who are experiencing financial difficulties and are struggling with housing payments can apply for this assistance. The program covers up to 12 months of rent and utility bills, with a maximum of $2,000 per month for rent assistance. It aims to prevent eviction and provide housing stability for those in need.
2. Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to eligible low-income households, including felons, to help pay for heating and cooling costs. This program helps individuals who may be struggling to keep up with utility bills, which could lead to housing instability. The amount of assistance varies, but generally ranges from $200 to $1,000 per year depending on the household’s energy needs and financial situation.
3. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program in Idaho provides financial assistance to low-income families, including those with a felony history, to help cover essential living expenses. TANF can be used to pay for food, shelter, utilities, and other basic needs. The monthly benefits vary based on household size and income, but felons with dependents or facing extreme financial hardship may qualify for this support.
4. Idaho Food Bank Assistance
While not strictly a grant, the Idaho Food Bank offers resources for ex-convicted felons facing hardship. Felons in need can access emergency food supplies to help them through periods of financial instability. The Idaho Food Bank partners with local agencies to provide food distribution across the state, ensuring that those in need have access to essential nutrition. This assistance is available without restrictions on criminal history, making it an important resource for felons facing financial hardship.
5. Workforce Development and Training Funds
The Workforce Development and Training Funds offer financial assistance for felons who are seeking to gain employment through vocational training programs or certifications in high-demand sectors. These funds help individuals who are facing financial challenges in acquiring job-specific skills. While the amount of funding varies, it typically covers tuition, certification fees, and training-related expenses for felons seeking stable employment.
6. Veterans Benefits (for Felon Veterans)
Felons who are veterans may be eligible for Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits designed to assist with housing, healthcare, and other needs. The VA’s Hardship Assistance program helps veterans, including felons, who are experiencing financial hardship and need support with rent, utilities, or medical bills. VA hardship assistance amounts depend on the individual’s circumstances, including their military service, but it can provide significant relief for those who qualify.
7. Idaho Legal Aid Services
Idaho Legal Aid Services provides free or low-cost legal assistance to low-income individuals, including felons, who are facing hardship. These services can help with issues such as eviction, housing disputes, and family law matters. While they do not provide direct financial grants, they can help felons access other forms of hardship assistance and navigate the legal system to ensure they are not unfairly disadvantaged by their criminal record.
8. Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP)
The Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) offers grants to individuals who are at risk of becoming homeless or are already homeless. Ex-felons who are struggling with housing instability can apply for financial assistance to cover rent, utilities, and other expenses related to securing stable housing. The program can provide up to several thousand dollars in financial assistance to help ex-convicts avoid homelessness.
