Grants for felons in Missouri
Grants for felons in Missouri provide vital financial assistance to help individuals with a criminal record rebuild their lives and re-enter society successfully. These grants can be used for various purposes, such as education, housing, business start-ups, and other essential needs.
Several government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations offer programs specifically designed to support felons in overcoming barriers to employment, housing, and financial stability. By tapping into these resources, ex-offenders in Missouri can receive much-needed support to improve their economic standing, gain new skills, and contribute positively to their communities.
Can a felon own a business in Missouri?
Yes, a felon can own a business in Missouri. However, there are certain restrictions and considerations to keep in mind:
- Occupational licenses: Certain industries, such as healthcare, finance, and education, may require occupational licenses that felons may be ineligible for.
- Professional certifications: Some certifications, like law or accounting, may be denied to felons.
- Business licenses: Felons can obtain business licenses, but may face scrutiny or restrictions in certain industries.
- Federal contracts: Felons may be ineligible for federal contracts or grants.
- Industry-specific regulations: Certain industries, like firearms or childcare, may have specific rules or restrictions for felons.
To overcome these challenges, felons can consider:
- Seeking legal advice to understand specific restrictions and requirements.
- Choosing a compatible industry that doesn’t have strict licensing or certification requirements.
- Obtaining necessary permits and licenses to operate a business.
- Building a strong business plan to demonstrate credibility and responsibility.
- Seeking support from organizations that help ex-offenders start businesses, such as the Missouri Small Business Development Center or the Prison Entrepreneurship Program.
Additionally, Missouri has programs such as the Missouri Department of Corrections Offender Workforce Development Program, which provides training and support for offenders to develop job skills and start businesses.
What are the Small Business Grants for Felons in Missouri?
Here are some small business grants for felons in Missouri:
Rise Up, Get Started Grant Program
This program is offered by Determination, Incorporated, a nonprofit organization based in Kansas City, Missouri. This grant provides a $750 grant after completing a year-long program where you’ll receive coaching, mentoring and community support.
Georgetown Pivot Program
This is a full-time, one-year program designed to help formerly incarcerated individuals develop the skills to succeed in a business and professional environment. Over the course of the program, participants will attend classes, receive an internship placement and get the opportunity to develop their own business idea.
The Transform Business Grant
This grant is open to business owners in systemically oppressed groups, including formerly incarcerated people. In addition to $1,000 microgrant, recipients will also be awarded a customized, year-long business strategy and development program.
LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurial Academy
This program is run by LEAP, a nonprofit organization based in Florida that works with previously incarcerated women and helps them as they transition back into society. This program teaches business skills to its participants. Over a three-month period, students attend classes twice per week, and at the conclusion of the program, they pitch a business plan to a panel of entrepreneurs for an opportunity to win cash prizes.
Amber Grant
Although not designated exclusively for previously incarcerated individuals, the Amber Grant is another great funding option for women entrepreneurs. The nonprofit organization WomensNet offers several grant opportunities to businesses that are at least 50% women-owned, including the $10,000 monthly Amber Grant and the $25,000 annual Amber Grant.
NASE Growth Grant
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) provides growth grants of up to $4,000 to small businesses on a quarterly basis. To be eligible for one of these grants, however, you must be a NASE member.
Latest Grants in USA States
What cash assistance programs or grants are available for ex-felons in Missouri?
Here are some cash assistance programs and grants available for ex-felons in Missouri:
Federal Government Grants
The largest grants available to the public come from the federal government. Their website, (link unavailable), is the gateway to these funds. The purpose of these grants is to fund ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy.
US Small Business Administration Grants
The US Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a number of different funding programs. As with all federal grant programs, there is a lot of red tape and hoops to jump through. For this reason, the SBA has created a “Learning Center” to help guide you through the process of getting qualified for a grant.
Go Fund Me
GoFundMe is an excellent for getting free money for just about any good reason. They welcome people from all walks of life to start funding campaigns, including felons.
KickStarter
KickStarter is an awesome crowd-funding platform that allows anyone to raise money for their business, product or idea.
Are there Medical Bill Assistance Programs Available for Felons in Missouri?
Yes, there are medical bill assistance programs available for felons in Missouri. Here are a few options:
1. Nonprofit Hospital Financial Assistance:
- Amount: Varies (typically 10%-50% of medical bills)
- Benefits: Reduced medical bills, waived fees, and flexible payment plans
- Eligibility: Low-income individuals, uninsured, or underinsured patients
- Application: Contact nonprofit hospitals in Missouri, such as University Health or Truman Medical Center
2. University Health Financial Assistance Program:
- Amount: Up to 100% of medical bills
- Benefits: Free or discounted care for emergency or medically necessary services
- Eligibility: Uninsured or underinsured patients with limited income
- Application: Contact University Health directly
3. Missouri Healthnet:
- Amount: Varies (premium subsidies and cost-sharing reductions)
- Benefits: Affordable health insurance, access to medical services, and prescription drug coverage
- Eligibility: Low-income individuals and families
- Application: Apply through the Missouri Healthnet website or contact a certified application counselor
4. Hill-Burton Act
- Amount: Varies (typically 10%-50% of medical bills)
- Benefits: Reduced medical bills, waived fees, and flexible payment plans
- Eligibility: Low-income individuals, uninsured, or underinsured patients
- Application: Contact participating hospitals in Missouri
5. Consumer Assistance Program (CAP)
- Amount: Varies (assistance with premium payments and cost-sharing)
- Benefits: Help navigating the appeals process, resolving billing issues, and accessing affordable healthcare
- Eligibility: Missouri residents with private health insurance
- Application: Contact the Missouri Department of Insurance or apply online
What are the Educational Grants for Felons in Missouri?
Federal Pell Grants
These grants are available to anyone who qualifies and can be used to attend an approved college or trade school. The maximum award for the 2019-2020 school year was $6,195.
A+ Scholarship Program
This merit-based scholarship provides funds to graduates of A+ designated high schools who attend participating public community colleges or vocational/technical schools.
Access Missouri Grant Program
This need-based program provides predictable and portable awards to help students attend the school of their choice.
Advanced Placement Incentive Grant
This nonrenewable grant encourages high school students to take and score well on Advanced Placement tests in mathematics and science.
Bright Flight Scholarship Program
This merit-based program encourages top-ranked high school seniors to attend approved Missouri postsecondary schools.
Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment Scholarship
This scholarship covers tuition and fees for high school students taking dual credit or dual enrollment courses from a Missouri college or university.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Program
This nationwide program aims to improve workforce skills, help displaced workers find employment, and reduce welfare dependency. It provides training and education programs to those who are “basic skills deficient.”
Grants offered by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
These grants are available to Missouri residents and include the A+ Scholarship Program, Access Missouri Grant Program, Advanced Placement Incentive Grant, Bright Flight Scholarship Program, Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment Scholarship, and Fast Track Incentive Grant.
How can felons get assistance with paying their electric bills in Missouri?
Felons in Missouri can get assistance with paying their electric bills through several programs and resources:
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): This federal program helps low-income individuals, including felons, with energy costs. It provides financial assistance to cover electric bills. To qualify, applicants must meet income requirements. You can apply through the Missouri Department of Social Services.
- Energy Assistance Programs from Utility Companies: Many utility companies in Missouri, like Ameren Missouri and Evergy, offer payment plans, budget billing, or financial aid to customers struggling with bills. Felons can contact their utility provider to explore these options.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Several local and national charities provide assistance with utility bills. Organizations like The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and Community Action Agencies offer emergency financial assistance that may help felons pay their electric bills.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): This program helps low-income households reduce energy costs by improving home energy efficiency. While it doesn’t directly pay bills, it can lower future costs by weatherproofing homes. This is available to felons who meet income guidelines.
- Payment Plans or Extensions: Many utility companies in Missouri allow customers to negotiate payment plans or request bill extensions if they’re facing financial hardship. Felons can reach out to their utility company to inquire about these options.
By exploring these programs and contacting local community resources, felons can receive the help they need to manage their electric bills.
