Grant For Felons in North Dakota
In North Dakota, individuals with felony convictions can access grants for education, employment, and entrepreneurship through the state’s Second Chance Grant Program. Since its inception, the program has awarded over $1 million in grants, with 75% of recipients reporting successful program completion. Notably, 60% of grant recipients have gone on to find employment, while 20% have started their businesses.
Additionally, the program has seen a recidivism rate of only 10%, significantly lower than the national average. By providing access to education, job training, and entrepreneurial resources, North Dakota’s Second Chance Grant Program is helping individuals with felony convictions reintegrate into society and build positive futures.
What are the govt Hardship Grants For senior Felons in the North Dakota?
Government hardship grants in North Dakota for seniors and felons aim to provide financial assistance for basic needs like housing, utilities, healthcare, education, and other essentials. Here are some key programs and resources available:
1. Energy and Utility Assistance
Programs:
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Provides energy cost assistance for heating and cooling expenses.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Reduces energy costs by improving the energy efficiency of homes, particularly for seniors and low-income households.
How to Apply:
Visit Community Action Partnership of North Dakota or call your local LIHEAP office.
2. Food Assistance
Programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Offers monthly benefits to purchase food for low-income individuals, including felons.
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Targets seniors aged 60+ to provide nutritious food packages.
How to Apply:
Apply through the North Dakota Department of Human Services or local food banks.
3. Education and Job Training Grants
Programs:
- Second Chance Act Grants: Supports reentry services for felons, including job training and education programs.
- Adult Education and Literacy Programs: Offers free classes to improve skills for better employment opportunities.
How to Apply:
Contact North Dakota’s Department of Career and Technical Education or Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI) offices.
4. Cash Assistance
Programs:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Provides temporary financial support for families in crisis, including reentering felons and seniors raising grandchildren.
How to Apply:
Visit your local Human Services Zone office.
Key Steps to Access Assistance:
- Gather Required Documents: Proof of income, identification, and housing/employment history may be required.
- Apply Through Local Offices: Contact Community Action Agencies or respective program offices for detailed guidance.
- Seek Support: Local nonprofits like the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities also offer supplemental hardship assistance.
For personalized help, visit the ND Department of Human Services or dial 2-1-1 for referrals to available resources.
What are the Educational Grants for Felons in North Dakota?
| Grant Name | Grant Amount | Purpose and Details | How to Apply |
|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Up to $7,395 per year (2023-24) | Provides financial aid for undergraduate education. Felons are eligible unless convicted of specific drug offenses. | Complete the FAFSA form at FAFSA.gov. |
| Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) | $100–$4,000 per year | Available for students with exceptional financial need, including eligible felons. | Apply through the FAFSA form and check with your college’s financial aid office. |
| North Dakota State Grant | Up to $1,800 per year | Provides financial assistance to low-income students attending eligible North Dakota colleges. | Complete the FAFSA form and ensure eligibility for state-specific aid. |
| Second Chance Pell Experiment | Varies by institution | Allows incarcerated individuals, including felons, to access Pell Grants for postsecondary education. | Contact participating institutions in North Dakota or the U.S. Department of Education for details. |
| Career and Technical Education (CTE) Scholarships | Up to $6,000 | Supports felons seeking technical or vocational education at eligible North Dakota institutions. | Apply through the ND Department of Career and Technical Education. |
| Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Training Grants | Varies by program | Funds training and education for in-demand careers. Felons can qualify for programs based on individual needs. | Contact Job Service North Dakota or visit Job Service ND. |
| Native American Tuition Waivers and Scholarships | Full or partial tuition coverage | For eligible Native American felons pursuing higher education at tribal or state colleges in North Dakota. | Check with individual colleges offering waivers or visit the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission website. |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Educational Assistance | Varies by need | Supports felons with disabilities pursuing education or training programs to improve employability. | Visit the ND Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. |
| Community Action Partnership Educational Assistance | Varies by funding availability | Offers scholarships or financial aid for low-income individuals, including felons, to pursue education. | Contact the Community Action Partnership of North Dakota (capnd.org). |
| Private and Institutional Grants | Varies | Many colleges and nonprofits offer grants or scholarships for individuals with financial need or unique situations. | Check with local colleges or search online for private scholarships tailored to your field of study or personal circumstances. |
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What Housing Grants are Available for Felons in North Dakota?
Housing grants and programs available for felons in North Dakota aim to provide stable living arrangements and reduce barriers to reintegration into society. Here are some housing assistance options:
1. Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG)
Purpose:
The ESG program, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), helps individuals, including felons, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Services Offered:
- Rental assistance
- Utility payments
- Rapid re-housing support
- Case management and housing stability counseling
How to Apply:
Contact local HUD-approved agencies or visit HUD North Dakota.
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) Programs
NDHFA offers several programs designed to make housing more accessible to low-income individuals, including reentering felons.
Programs:
- Rental Assistance: Provides subsidies to reduce rent costs.
- Affordable Housing Programs: Offers low-income housing options throughout North Dakota.
How to Apply:
Visit NDHFA’s website or call local housing authorities.
- Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
Purpose:
Helps eligible low-income individuals, including felons, afford private rental housing by subsidizing a portion of their rent.
How to Apply:
- Administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in North Dakota.
- Apply through your local PHA. A list of agencies is available on the HUD website.
- Salvation Army Housing Assistance
The Salvation Army in North Dakota offers short-term housing assistance and emergency shelter services for needy individuals, including felons.
Services Include:
- Transitional housing
- Utility payment assistance
- Move-in support
How to Apply:
Visit the nearest Salvation Army branch or contact their North Dakota office.
- Transitional Housing Programs
Several organizations in North Dakota provide transitional housing specifically tailored for individuals reentering society after incarceration.
Examples:
- Oxford House: A network of sober living homes that welcomes individuals seeking a supportive environment post-incarceration.
- Reentry Coalition Programs: Local programs often provide housing assistance to recently released felons.
How to Apply:
Search for local transitional housing options at the Reentry Resource Directory.
- Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Purpose:
CDBG funds are provided to local governments for housing and community development projects. Felons may indirectly benefit through local programs funded by CDBG.
Services Include:
- Home repair or rehabilitation assistance
- Rental housing development
How to Access:
Check with local city or county offices for housing programs funded by CDBG.
- Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing for low-income individuals, including those with criminal records, if they meet income and community participation requirements.
How to Apply:
Visit the Habitat for Humanity North Dakota chapter.
- Faith-Based and Nonprofit Organizations
Examples:
- Catholic Charities: Offers housing counseling and financial assistance.
- Lutheran Social Services: May provide transitional housing support for felons.
How to Access:
Reach out to local nonprofit organizations for eligibility and program details.
- Rural Housing Assistance
Felons living in rural areas of North Dakota may qualify for grants and loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Programs Include:
- Section 504 Home Repair Program: Provides grants for home repairs to very low-income individuals.
- Section 502 Direct Loan Program: Helps low-income individuals purchase or repair homes in rural areas.
How to Apply:
Visit USDA Rural Development.
What are the Medical Bill Assistance Programs for Ex-Convicted Felons in North Dakota?
Medical bill assistance programs for ex-convicted felons in North Dakota focus on ensuring access to affordable healthcare and financial support for medical expenses. Here are some key resources:
- Medicaid
Purpose:
Medicaid provides free or low-cost healthcare to low-income individuals, including ex-felons, who meet eligibility requirements. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and preventive services.
Eligibility:
- Based on income and household size.
- Available for adults, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply:
Visit the North Dakota Medicaid Office or apply online through the HealthCare.gov portal.
- Charity Care Programs at Hospitals
Purpose:
Many North Dakota hospitals offer charity care or financial assistance programs to help individuals, including ex-convicts, manage unpaid medical bills.
Examples:
- Sanford Health Financial Assistance Program
- CHI St. Alexius Health Charity Care
How to Apply:
Contact the hospital’s billing department to inquire about their financial assistance policies and eligibility criteria.
- Health Centers Funded by HRSA
Purpose:
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide healthcare services on a sliding fee scale based on income. These centers do not discriminate based on criminal history.
Services Include:
- Primary care
- Preventive services
- Dental and mental health care
How to Find Centers:
Search for a nearby FQHC at Find a Health Center.
- Prescription Assistance Programs
Purpose:
Help individuals afford prescription medications.
Programs:
- Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA): Matches individuals with programs to reduce or cover medication costs.
- North Dakota Rx Card: Offers discounts on prescription medications for residents, including ex-felons.
How to Apply:
Visit the program websites or speak to your pharmacist about discount options.
- Community Action Agencies
Purpose:
Local agencies may provide assistance with medical bills or connect individuals to resources that can help cover healthcare costs.
Services Include:
- Emergency financial aid for medical expenses
- Referrals to low-cost or free healthcare providers
How to Apply:
Contact Community Action Partnership of North Dakota.
- Indian Health Service (IHS)
Purpose:
For eligible Native American ex-felons, IHS provides comprehensive healthcare services at no cost.
Eligibility:
Must be a member of a federally recognized tribe.
How to Access:
Visit the IHS North Dakota website.
- Veterans Health Administration (VA)
Purpose:
Veterans who are ex-felons may qualify for healthcare benefits through the VA, including help with medical bills.
Services Include:
- Comprehensive medical care
- Mental health services
- Prescription assistance
How to Apply:
Contact the Fargo VA Medical Center or visit VA Healthcare Eligibility.
- Health Insurance Marketplace
Purpose:
Subsidized health insurance plans are available through the Health Insurance Marketplace, offering coverage with reduced premiums for low-income individuals, including ex-felons.
How to Apply:
Enroll during open enrollment or a special enrollment period at HealthCare.gov.
What Are the Government Grants for Felons to Start a Business in North Dakota?
Government grants and programs can help felons in North Dakota start a business by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and resources. While direct grants specifically for felons are limited, several general programs and opportunities are open to individuals who meet eligibility criteria. Here are the key resources:
- Microloan Program (SBA)
Purpose:
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers up to $50,000 microloans for small businesses and startups. Felons are eligible if they meet creditworthiness and business plan requirements.
Services Include:
- Low-interest loans
- Access to business development training and mentorship
How to Apply:
Contact SBA-approved intermediaries in North Dakota. Visit the SBA North Dakota District Office for details.
- Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Purpose:
CDBG funds are allocated to local governments to support community development projects, including small businesses. Some funds may be available to felons starting a business in low-income areas.
Services Include:
- Business development funding
- Infrastructure improvements for businesses
How to Access:
Contact your city or county’s economic development office.
- North Dakota Opportunity Fund
Purpose:
This fund supports small businesses in North Dakota by providing flexible financing options, particularly for underserved populations.
Services Include:
- Low-interest loans
- Assistance for startups and expanding businesses
How to Apply:
Reach out to the North Dakota Opportunity Fund through your local economic development organization.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Business Services
Purpose:
The North Dakota Division of Vocational Rehabilitation helps individuals, including felons, with disabilities or employment challenges, start businesses by offering financial and technical assistance.
Services Include:
- Grants for tools, equipment, or startup costs
- Business training and development resources
How to Apply:
Visit the ND Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
- North Dakota Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
Purpose:
SBDCs provide free business counseling, training, and assistance in accessing funding, including grant opportunities for felons.
Services Include:
- Business plan development
- Access to funding resources
- Networking and mentorship
How to Apply:
Find your local SBDC office at North Dakota SBDC.
- Rural Business Development Grants (USDA)
Purpose:
These grants, offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), support small businesses in rural areas, which may include felon entrepreneurs in North Dakota.
Services Include:
- Funding for business development projects
- Support for infrastructure and training
How to Apply:
Visit USDA Rural Development.
- Reentry-Specific Business Support
Programs:
- Second Chance Act Grant Program: Supports reentry initiatives that include entrepreneurial training for felons.
- Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP): Offers mentorship and business education for ex-convicts (nationwide program).
How to Apply:
Look for North Dakota-specific reentry programs or contact national initiatives.
- Economic Development Agencies
Purpose:
Local economic development agencies in North Dakota offer grants, loans, and support to new entrepreneurs, including those with criminal records.
Examples:
- Bank of North Dakota (BND): Provides financing and resources for new businesses.
- Economic Development Association of North Dakota (EDND): Offers connections to grant and loan opportunities.
How to Access:
Contact local EDND offices or visit the Bank of North Dakota.
- Crowdfunding Grants and Competitions
Some state-sponsored initiatives or competitions provide grants for innovative business ideas. Examples include pitch competitions or grants through public-private partnerships.
Platforms to Explore:
- ND Idea Challenge: Supports entrepreneurial ventures in the state.
How to Apply:
Monitor announcements through North Dakota business development platforms.
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
Purpose:
WIOA offers funding for training and support to help individuals, including felons, become self-employed or start businesses.
Services Include:
- Entrepreneurial training
- Grants for skills development
How to Apply:
Contact your nearest Job Service North Dakota office or visit Job Service ND.
Conclusion
Grants for felons in North Dakota provide vital opportunities to rebuild lives, pursue education, start businesses, and secure stable futures. These programs address financial barriers and support reintegration into society, offering a fresh start for those committed to personal and professional growth. By exploring available resources such as educational grants, business funding, and community assistance, ex-offenders can unlock new pathways to success and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Leveraging these grants is a step toward achieving self-sufficiency and creating a brighter future.
