Grant For Felons in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, individuals with felony convictions can access various grants and resources to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society through the “Grant for Felons” initiative, which has awarded over $1 million to over 500 individuals since 2020, with 75% completing rehabilitation programs, 60% securing employment within 6 months of release, and a recidivism rate of 20%, significantly lower than the national average, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in providing a second chance for individuals with felony convictions to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
What Are the Government Grants for Felons to Start a Business in Massachusetts?
Government grants for felons to start a business in Massachusetts are available through federal, state, and local initiatives. While most grant programs may not directly target felons, several opportunities can support entrepreneurial ventures, including funding and mentorship. Here are some key options:
1. Federal Programs
Small Business Administration (SBA) Programs
While the SBA itself doesn’t offer direct grants, it provides access to funding and support programs:
- Community Advantage Loans: Up to $250,000 (not a grant but helpful for capital).
- Microloan Program: Loans up to $50,000, with some lenders offering grant support for training and resources.
- PRIME (Program for Investment in Micro-Entrepreneurs): Grants up to $250,000 are available for organizations that assist underserved entrepreneurs, indirectly benefiting felons.
Federal Reentry and Workforce Development Programs
Grants under the Second Chance Act can range from $100,000 to $1 million. These typically fund organizations offering reentry services, including entrepreneurial training.
- State of Massachusetts Programs
Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC)
- Empower Digital Grant Program: Provides up to $5,000 for small businesses to improve their digital presence.
- Grant Assistance for Minority-Owned Businesses: Amounts vary but can range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on the program and funding availability.
Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD)
MOBD doesn’t provide specific grants directly but connects entrepreneurs with local and state funding opportunities, which may range between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on eligibility.
- Local Initiatives and Nonprofits
EforAll (Entrepreneurship for All)
- Grants through their accelerator program typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the competition and funding round.
Local Chambers of Commerce
Small business grant competitions hosted by chambers often provide awards between $2,500 and $10,000.
LISC Boston (Local Initiatives Support Corporation)
- Small Business Relief Grants: Often range from $5,000 to $20,000, focusing on underserved communities.
- Private and Nonprofit Support Programs
The Barred Business Network
This organization helps felons access funding opportunities, often ranging from $500 to $5,000 for microgrants.
Crowdfunding and Microgrant Platforms
- Kiva: Offers crowdfunded microloans up to $15,000, with the possibility of matching grants from local partners.
What are the Educational Grants for Felons in Massachusetts?
| Grant/Program Name | Description | Grant Amount | Eligibility | How to Apply |
|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Provides financial assistance to low-income students for higher education, including felons (except those with drug offenses while receiving aid). | Up to $7,395 per year | Must demonstrate financial need; enroll in an eligible degree or certificate program. | Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov. |
| Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) | Federal grant for low-income undergraduate students. Funds are limited and provided by participating institutions. | $100 to $4,000 per year | Available to Pell Grant recipients with the greatest financial need. | Check with the financial aid office of your college. |
| Massachusetts Gilbert Matching Student Grant Program | State grant for financially needy students attending Massachusetts colleges or universities. | Up to $2,500 per year | Must be a resident of Massachusetts and enrolled in an eligible institution. | Apply through your college’s financial aid office. |
| Massachusetts Part-Time Grant | Assists part-time students with tuition and fees at public colleges in Massachusetts. | Varies based on funding availability. | Must be a Massachusetts resident enrolled part-time at a public college. | Submit FAFSA and contact the college financial aid office. |
| Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Program | Supports incarcerated individuals in accessing Pell Grants to pursue education while in prison. | Amount varies; typically up to $7,395 per year. | Must be incarcerated in a participating institution offering educational programs. | Coordinate with prison education programs. |
| Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grants | Provides funding for vocational training and education to improve employability. | Varies; typically up to $4,000. | Must meet low-income or employment barrier criteria, which can include having a criminal record. | Contact a local career center or MassHire. |
| Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program | Provides financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields like healthcare and technology. | Up to $6,500 per year | Must be a Massachusetts resident enrolled in an eligible program at a public college or university. | Apply through your college’s financial aid office. |
| Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program | Offers funding for training and education for workers affected by job loss due to trade-related factors. | Covers full tuition and fees. | Must qualify as a displaced worker under TAA guidelines, which may include those with barriers like a criminal record. | Apply through your local workforce development office. |
| Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students (SDS) | Federal grant program for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those with criminal records. | Amount varies by institution. | Must be enrolled in an eligible health professions program at a participating school. | Check eligibility with your program’s financial aid office. |
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What Housing Grants are Available for Felons in Massachusetts?
Housing grants for felons in Massachusetts are available through federal, state, and local programs aimed at promoting stable housing and reentry into society. While most grants are not exclusively for felons, many programs focus on assisting low-income individuals, homeless populations, and those with criminal records. Below is an overview of housing assistance options:
- Federal Programs
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this program provides rental assistance to low-income individuals, including felons.
- Grant Amount: Subsidies cover a portion of the rent directly to landlords, based on income and household size.
- Eligibility: Felons must pass a background check (certain offenses may disqualify individuals).
Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program
The ESG program helps homeless individuals or those at risk of homelessness, including felons, by providing:
- Rental Assistance: Short-term and long-term help.
- Grant Amount: Varies by location; funding typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 per household.
- Services Included: Emergency shelters, rapid re-housing, and case management.
Public Housing Programs
HUD also provides affordable housing units managed by local public housing authorities (PHAs).
- Grant Amount: Rent is typically capped at 30% of the household’s income.
- State of Massachusetts Programs
Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)
RAFT offers financial assistance to help households maintain or secure housing.
- Grant Amount: Up to $10,000 per year for eligible households.
- Uses: Rent, security deposits, utility payments, and moving costs.
Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)
This state-funded program offers rental subsidies to low-income households, including felons.
- Grant Amount: Monthly rental vouchers vary based on income and housing costs.
HomeBASE Program
Designed to help families avoid homelessness, Homebase provides financial assistance for housing-related expenses.
- Grant Amount: Up to $20,000 per household.
Department of Correction (DOC) Reentry Services
The DOC in Massachusetts partners with housing organizations to assist felons in securing transitional or permanent housing.
- Grant Amount: Varies; support may include rental payments or housing placement assistance.
- Local and Nonprofit Initiatives
Community Action Agencies (CAAs)
CAAs across Massachusetts offer housing grants and financial assistance to underserved populations, including felons.
- Grant Amount: Typically between $500 and $3,000, depending on the agency.
Pine Street Inn
This nonprofit provides housing, shelter, and support services for formerly incarcerated individuals.
- Grant Amount: Rental assistance and other housing-related support vary by program.
Boston Reentry Initiative (BRI)
Focused on high-risk individuals reentering society, BRI helps with transitional housing and employment services.
- Grant Amount: Depends on available funding and individual needs.
- Private and Faith-Based Organizations
Salvation Army Housing Assistance
The Salvation Army offers rent assistance and transitional housing services.
- Grant Amount: Assistance typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 per household.
St. Vincent de Paul Society
This organization provides emergency financial aid for rent, utilities, and housing stabilization.
- Grant Amount: Varies by location, often $500 to $2,000.
What are the Medical Bill Assistance Programs for Ex-Convicted Felons in Massachusetts?
Ex-convicted felons in Massachusetts can access several medical bill assistance programs to help manage healthcare costs. These programs, offered at federal, state, and nonprofit levels, provide financial support, insurance coverage, and affordable healthcare options.
- Medicaid (MassHealth)
MassHealth, Massachusetts’ Medicaid program, provides free or low-cost health insurance to low-income individuals, including ex-convicted felons.
- Services Covered: Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
- Eligibility: Based on income, household size, and residency in Massachusetts. Felons are eligible as long as they meet the financial criteria.
- Health Safety Net (HSN)
HSN offers financial assistance to low-income individuals, including those with criminal records, who are uninsured or underinsured.
- Services Covered: Emergency care, inpatient and outpatient hospital services, and community health center visits.
- Eligibility: Must be a Massachusetts resident with income below 300% of the federal poverty level.
- Massachusetts ConnectorCare Program
This program provides subsidized health insurance plans to low-income residents, helping cover medical bills for essential healthcare services.
- Services Covered: Preventive care, prescriptions, and specialist visits.
- Eligibility: Available to individuals with an income below 300% of the federal poverty level.
- Federal Programs
a. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid
Felons who are disabled or elderly may qualify for SSI, which automatically provides access to Medicaid for healthcare needs.
- Services Covered: Hospital services, prescription drugs, and physician visits.
b. Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program
For ex-convicted felons living with HIV/AIDS, this program provides comprehensive care, including medication and case management.
- Services Covered: HIV care and treatment, medical case management, and mental health services.
- Local and Nonprofit Programs
a. Community Health Centers
Massachusetts has numerous community health centers that provide affordable or free healthcare services to underserved populations, including ex-convicts.
- Services Covered: Primary care, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
b. The Pine Street Inn
This organization offers health services to formerly incarcerated individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
c. Prisoner Reentry Network
While primarily focused on reentry services, this network connects ex-convicts to healthcare resources and assistance for medical bills.
- Prescription Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Programs like NeedyMeds and GoodRx provide discounts and financial aid for prescription medications, reducing costs for ex-convicts managing chronic conditions or acute illnesses.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Programs like the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership (MBHP) and local recovery centers offer financial aid for mental health and addiction treatment services.
What are the Govt Hardship Grants For Seniors Felons in Massachusetts?
Government hardship grants for senior felons in Massachusetts are designed to provide financial relief and support for basic needs, including housing, healthcare, utilities, and daily living expenses. These programs are available at federal, state, and local levels and are accessible to those who meet eligibility requirements.
1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly financial assistance to low-income seniors, including those with felony records, who are aged 65 or older or disabled.
- Grant Amount: Up to $914/month for individuals and $1,371/month for couples (2024 rates).
- Eligibility: Based on income, assets, and age or disability. Criminal history does not disqualify applicants, except for those currently incarcerated.
- How to Apply: Visit the Social Security Administration or call 1-800-772-1213.
2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP helps low-income households, including seniors and felons, with energy costs.
- Grant Amount: Varies based on income and household size; generally up to $1,500 per heating season in Massachusetts.
- Eligibility: Must meet income guidelines; available to renters and homeowners.
- How to Apply: Apply through local Community Action Programs (CAPs).
3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families, including senior felons.
- Grant Amount: Up to $281/month for individuals; amounts vary based on household size and income.
- Eligibility: Must meet federal poverty guidelines; some drug-related felony convictions may require additional compliance steps.
- How to Apply: Visit Mass.gov SNAP.
4. Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
Section 8 offers rental assistance to low-income individuals, including senior felons, by subsidizing a portion of their rent.
- Grant Amount: Rent subsidies vary based on income and household size.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet income limits and pass a background check (certain offenses may disqualify).
- How to Apply: Contact the Massachusetts Public Housing Authority (PHA).
5. Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG)
The ESG program provides funding for emergency housing and homeless prevention services.
- Grant Amount: Varies by program; typically provides temporary rental assistance and shelter costs.
- Eligibility: Available to low-income individuals and families, including felons, facing homelessness.
- How to Apply: Contact local ESG providers through the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance.
6. MassHealth (Medicaid)
MassHealth provides free or low-cost health insurance to low-income residents, including senior felons.
- Grant Amount: Covers medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions.
- Eligibility: Must meet income and residency requirements.
- How to Apply: Visit MassHealth Enrollment.
7. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
CDBG funds are used for various local initiatives, including housing assistance and utility support for low-income residents, including senior felons.
- Grant Amount: Amounts vary based on community programs and needs.
- Eligibility: Must meet income requirements and participate in community programs funded by CDBG.
- How to Apply: Contact local town or city offices managing CDBG funds.
8. Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral (Clause 41A)
Massachusetts allows seniors to defer property taxes if they meet income criteria.
- Grant Amount: Deferral varies; taxes are postponed until the property is sold.
- Eligibility: Must be 65 or older, a homeowner, and meet income limits.
- How to Apply: Contact your local assessor’s office.
9. State Supplemental Program (SSP)
SSP provides additional financial aid to individuals already receiving SSI benefits in Massachusetts.
- Grant Amount: Varies; supplements federal SSI payments.
- Eligibility: Must qualify for SSI.
- How to Apply: Automatically enrolled if eligible for SSI in Massachusetts.
10. Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund
This program helps individuals, including senior felons, who are struggling to pay utility bills but do not qualify for federal aid.
- Grant Amount: Typically up to $500 per household per heating season.
- Eligibility: Must meet specific income limits.
- How to Apply: Contact local utility providers or visit Good Neighbor Energy Fund.
Conclusion
Grants for felons in Massachusetts provide vital opportunities for financial stability, skill development, and successful reintegration into society. These programs, spanning education, housing, healthcare, and small business support, help overcome barriers that often hinder felons from rebuilding their lives. By leveraging federal and state initiatives like MassHealth, Pell Grants, and housing assistance programs, individuals with criminal records can access resources tailored to their needs. Nonprofit organizations and community-based programs further extend support, ensuring a holistic approach to addressing hardships. For felons in Massachusetts, these grants not only offer a second chance but also serve as a foundation for personal growth and long-term success.
