Grants For Felons in Maryland
In Maryland, various grants are available to support felons in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. According to the Maryland Department of Labor, approximately 3,500 ex-offenders are released from prison each year, and grants play a crucial role in helping them access education, employment, and healthcare. For instance, the Maryland Higher Education Commission offers the “Ex-Offender Scholarship” to eligible felons, with an average award amount of $2,000.
Additionally, the “Maryland Reentry Program” provides grants of up to $50,000 to support housing, employment, and substance abuse treatment for felons. Furthermore, the “Second Chance Act Grant” awarded to Maryland in 2020 totals $1.2 million, aiming to reduce recidivism rates by 25% over the next two years. These grants and programs demonstrate Maryland’s commitment to supporting felons in rebuilding their lives and contributing positively to their communities.
What are the Grants for Convicted Felons to Start a Business in Maryland?
In Maryland, there are several grants and funding opportunities specifically designed to help individuals with felony convictions start their own businesses. These grants support entrepreneurial ambitions by providing financial aid, training, and resources needed to establish and grow a business. Here are some key grants and programs available:
1. Baltimore Small Business Recovery Fund
- Grant Amount: Up to $15,000 for qualifying small businesses
- This fund offers grants and low-interest loans to entrepreneurs in Baltimore, including those with felony convictions, to cover start-up expenses, equipment, and operational costs, focusing on underserved communities.
2. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloans
- Loan Amount: Up to $50,000
- While technically a loan, SBA Microloans are accessible to ex-felons and can be used for initial business expenses, inventory, or supplies. Many SBA microlenders also provide free business training and mentorship to improve entrepreneurs’ chances of success.
3. Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) Small Business Loans
- Loan Amount: Typically up to $35,000 for startup businesses
- Maryland Capital Enterprises provides loans to disadvantaged entrepreneurs, including those with criminal backgrounds. Along with funding, MCE offers business planning, management, and marketing training to support sustainable growth.
4. The Second Chance Act Grant Program
- Grant Amount: Varies based on organization, often between $5,000 – $25,000 for individual entrepreneurial support programs
- This federal grant program funds reentry and business training programs through local organizations, some of which support ex-felons with entrepreneurial ambitions. These organizations may use Second Chance Act grants to offer training, mentorship, and small grants to help felons start businesses.
5. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program
- Funding Support: Varies based on individual need, typically provides resources for training rather than direct funding for business
- This program helps individuals with disabilities, including ex-felons who qualify, gain skills to start their own businesses. It primarily funds vocational training, but in certain cases, may cover limited business start-up expenses.
6. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
- Loan Amount: Varies, typically ranging from $5,000 to $250,000 depending on the CDFI and business needs
- CDFIs, like Enterprise Community Partners and Baltimore Community Lending, provide loans and support specifically for minority, low-income, and underserved entrepreneurs. These funds can be used for start-up capital, business expansion, and other business needs.
What are the Educational Grants for Felons in Maryland?
In Maryland, several educational grants and financial aid programs are available for ex-felons seeking to pursue higher education or vocational training. These grants support access to college, trade schools, or other training programs, helping individuals with felony convictions improve their skills and career prospects. Here are some options:
1. Federal Pell Grants
- Grant Amount: Up to $7,395 per academic year
- Pell Grants are federal grants for low-income individuals, including those with felony convictions (with some restrictions). These grants cover tuition, fees, and educational expenses for eligible students enrolled in degree or vocational programs at accredited institutions.
2. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Grant Amount: $100 to $4,000 per year
- Available to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need, FSEOG grants can supplement Pell Grants for qualifying students. These grants are distributed through participating schools, with priority often given to Pell Grant recipients.
3. Maryland Part-Time Grant Program
- Grant Amount: Varies by institution
- This state-funded program provides financial assistance to Maryland residents enrolled part-time in undergraduate programs. It can be a good fit for ex-felons who may need to study part-time due to work or family responsibilities.
4. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship
- Grant Amount: Up to $5,000 per year
- The Maryland Promise Scholarship provides funding for tuition and mandatory fees at Maryland community colleges. This scholarship is available to recent high school graduates and adult learners, including ex-felons, who meet residency and income requirements.
5. Educational and Vocational Training through the Second Chance Pell Program
- Grant Amount: Varies based on program and institution
- The Second Chance Pell Program allows individuals in correctional facilities to access Pell Grants for educational programs. Some Maryland institutions participate in this initiative, offering courses and credentials to individuals while incarcerated or shortly after release.
6. Job Opportunities Task Force (JOTF) – Project JumpStart
- Program Support: Financial aid for vocational training
- Project JumpStart is a workforce training program offered by the JOTF for low-income individuals, including ex-felons. This program provides tuition-free training in trades like electrical, plumbing, and construction, covering materials, safety equipment, and career placement support.
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What Housing Grants are Available For Felons in Maryland?
In Maryland, several housing grants and assistance programs support individuals with felony convictions, helping them access stable housing and reintegrate into society. Here are key housing grants and assistance programs available for felons in Maryland:
1. Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program
The ESG program offers short-term rental assistance, emergency shelter, and supportive services for those at risk of homelessness, including felons. It’s distributed through local governments and nonprofits, helping cover essential housing expenses and stabilizing housing.
2. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
Maryland’s Section 8 program provides low-income individuals, including eligible ex-felons, with rental assistance in private housing. Voucher amounts are based on income and local rental costs. While certain felony convictions may affect eligibility, most nonviolent offenders qualify.
3. Transitional Housing Assistance through Nonprofits
Several Maryland nonprofits offer transitional housing for ex-felons, providing temporary housing, subsidized rent, and supportive services like employment counseling. Programs such as those from Helping Up Mission help ex-felons transition to permanent housing.
4. Maryland Reentry Housing Program
This state-supported program assists ex-felons with temporary or subsidized housing after incarceration. In partnership with community organizations, it provides housing, job training, and counseling to aid reintegration.
5. Federal Housing Programs through HUD
HUD offers various housing programs for low-income individuals, including ex-felons, who can apply for affordable public housing. Local housing authorities manage screening, allowing some flexibility for certain felony convictions.
6. Supportive Housing Programs (Continuum of Care)
Funded by HUD, Maryland’s Continuum of Care programs offer supportive housing and case management for those facing homelessness, including ex-felons. Services often include job support and mental health resources to promote housing stability.
7. Baltimore City’s Journey Home Program
Journey Home works to combat homelessness in Baltimore, offering housing and reentry support for individuals with criminal records. It collaborates with local agencies to provide stable housing, counseling, and employment resources.
8. Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) with Housing Support
Maryland’s TCA program gives temporary financial assistance for essential expenses, including housing. Felons experiencing financial hardship can use TCA funds toward rent or utilities while seeking employment.
What are the Hardship Grants for Senior Felons in Maryland?
Several hardship grants and assistance programs in Maryland are designed to support senior felons facing financial and health-related challenges. These programs provide funds or essential resources to improve quality of life, covering basic needs like housing, food, and medical care. Here’s an overview of key programs:
1. Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP)
TDAP offers cash assistance to low-income individuals with disabilities who cannot work, including senior felons. Funds help cover living expenses such as food, utilities, and rent. Monthly benefit amounts depend on individual financial need and eligibility.
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal SSI benefits are available to low-income seniors aged 65+ or those with disabilities, including felons. SSI provides a monthly stipend to cover essential needs like housing and medical care. Eligibility is based on income and asset limits.
3. Energy Assistance Programs (MEAP & EUSP)
Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) provide financial help with heating and electric bills, especially useful for seniors on a fixed income. Felons can apply for reduced utility costs to alleviate financial hardship.
4. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP (formerly food stamps) offers food assistance to low-income individuals, including senior felons. Eligible seniors receive monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase groceries, helping ensure access to nutritious food despite financial constraints.
5. Senior Care Services through Maryland Department of Aging
This program provides case management and support services for seniors, including felons, who require assistance with daily living. Services may include meal programs, health services, transportation, and in-home care support, based on individual needs.
Are there Medical Bill Assistance Programs Available for Felons in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland offers several medical bill assistance programs that felons may qualify for, helping to reduce healthcare costs and improve access to essential services. Here are key programs available:
1. Maryland Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid)
Medicaid provides free or low-cost healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, including felons. Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and other essential medical services. Eligibility is based on income, household size, and specific needs.
2. Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)
For felons with children, MCHP offers free or low-cost health insurance for their children and pregnant women. This program provides comprehensive medical care, including preventative services, to ensure children and families have access to healthcare.
3. Primary Adult Care (PAC) Program
PAC is a state-funded program offering basic healthcare to low-income adults who don’t qualify for full Medicaid coverage. Services include primary care, pharmacy, and emergency room coverage, providing relief for adults facing high medical costs.
4. Emergency Financial Assistance Programs
Local nonprofits and charities, such as Catholic Charities of Maryland and the Salvation Army, provide financial assistance for medical bills, prescriptions, and emergency medical costs. These programs are available to individuals facing significant financial hardship, including felons.
5. MedBank Program
MedBank offers free or discounted medications to low-income individuals without insurance coverage for prescriptions. This program assists those who cannot afford necessary medications, helping alleviate the financial burden of ongoing prescriptions.
6. Community Health Clinics and Sliding Scale Services
Community health clinics in Maryland, like those affiliated with Chase Brexton Health Care or Baltimore Medical System, offer healthcare on a sliding scale based on income. These clinics often serve uninsured or underinsured individuals, providing affordable primary and preventative care.
Maryland offers various grants and financial assistance programs that empower felons to rebuild their lives with greater stability and support. From housing and healthcare to education and business start-up funds, these resources are designed to address specific needs and help reduce barriers to reintegration. By connecting with local agencies, nonprofits, and state programs, felons in Maryland can access the support they need to achieve personal and financial independence, making a fresh start and contributing positively to their communities.
